Community & Policy | March 2025
Regional Runways Inc. has announced the continuation of its partnership with Geelong Regional Libraries, with a series of community programs set to run through to 2027. The partnership, made possible through the Multicultural Grassroots Initiative grant by the Department of Home Affairs, will bring inclusive, community-led events to women across the Geelong region — with a particular focus on migrant and refugee women’s empowerment, social cohesion, and cultural inclusion.
The first event under this renewed partnership launches just in time for International Women’s Day. Carry What Matters — a mindful creative wellness workshop — will be held on Saturday 14 March at Belmont Library, from 1:00pm to 3:30pm. Entry is free and no bookings are required.
Facilitated by Benett from Creative Wellness Haven, participants will transform a blank canvas tote bag into a personal symbol of what they choose to carry forward — their strength, their culture, their sense of belonging.
For Regional Runways, the significance runs deeper than craft. In policy terms, social cohesion is often discussed in the abstract — but it is built in moments like these: a room full of women from different backgrounds, creating together, seen and supported.
“Libraries are one of the most democratic public spaces we have,” said Catherine, Chairperson of Regional Runways Inc. “Partnering with Geelong Regional Libraries means we can reach women where they already feel welcome — and that matters enormously.”
With programming confirmed through to 2027, this partnership signals a sustained, strategic investment in grassroots inclusion. Watch this space.
Free event. No bookings required. Belmont Library, Saturday 14 March, 1:00pm–3:30pm. More info: https://events.grlc.vic.gov.au/event/15944692
