A new book that celebrates the lives, stories and contributions of older women in Ballarat has been launched.
Ballarat has proudly become the latest city to host #TheBiscuitTin Project, with the official book launch of Older Women's Recipes for Respect Ballarat held at the Eureka Centre on Tuesday.
Using the iconic biscuit tin as a symbol of the important nurturing role of women across cultures and generations, the book shares the stories of 10 inspiring Ballarat women exploring what respect means to them as well as celebrating their contributions and their important place in our community.
The women responded to a community wide invitation, to join a workshop held in June to help shape the Older Women's Recipes for Respect Ballarat book, from a local Ballarat perspective.
The workshop provided a meaningful opportunity to explore historical inequalities, reflect on how older women are represented in popular culture, and engage in thoughtful discussions about what respect - and disrespect - looks like in everyday life.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said production of the book and launch event was a reminder of the vital role older women play in shaping Ballarat.
"This project is about so much more than recipes, it's about recognising the love, resilience and contribution of older women in our community," she said.
"As a city, we are committed to tackling ageism and building a culture of respect for all, including older people, which makes the stories in this book so important.
"The book reminds us that older women are leaders, carers, creators, and changemakers. They hold our histories, shape our futures, and deserve to be seen, heard, and valued."
Ballarat Community Health CEO Sean Duffy praised the women who contributed to the book.
"We are deeply grateful to the women who have courageously shared their stories - and to all those who are working to amplify their voices," he said.
"The fight against ageism, elder abuse and gender inequality is a community effort. And it starts with respect. It starts with empathy. It starts with recognising the immense value that older women bring to our lives, and to our society.
"Let us continue to listen, to learn, and to build a future where every woman, at every stage of life, feels seen, heard, and truly valued."
#TheBiscuitTin Project in Ballarat was led by the City of Ballarat in partnership with Ballarat Community Health and supported by the Victorian Government.
It correlates directly to the City of Ballarat's Ageing Well in Ballarat Strategy 2022-2026, which sets out a vision for Ballarat as a place where older people can live healthy, fulfilling and connected lives.
#TheBiscuitTin Project was developed by nationwide charity Celebrate Ageing and is supported locally through the City of Ballarat's Ageing Well program. It aims to challenge stereotypes about ageing and create spaces where older people are respected and their contributions are acknowledged and celebrated.
