The South West Aboriginal Women's Collective (SWAWC) has wrapped up its second Roundtable on Wardandi Boodja, bringing together over 100 Aboriginal women from Bunbury, Manjimup, Collie, Busselton and surrounding towns for two powerful days of dialogue, connection, and collective action. Building on the success of the inaugural Roundtable in January, which launched the Collective, this second gathering showed the momentum and determination of Aboriginal women to shape a strong and united regional voice.
From yarning circles to leadership panels, women shared stories, built connections, and strengthened pathways for change. Some of the key priorities identified include advocating to the WA Government to fund a new women's refuge in the South West and calling for equity in education funding, with girls' school programs resourced at the same level as boys' programs. In addition, the Roundtable celebrated the addition of the Remarkable Aboriginal Women in the South West, a project developed to recognise the matriarchs and trailblazers who have come before. Two women were recognised at the roundtable, Phyllis McGuire and Gloria Khan.
Phyllis McGuire's daughter and roundtable participant Michelle Munns reflected on its importance: This history is so important. Recognising our matriarchs and trailblazers ensures their strength and legacy continue to guide us. They paved the way for the opportunities we are building today, and it's up to us to honour them by continuing this work for our daughters and granddaughters. We need to remember, honour and respect our women who have laid the path for our future, and never forget the significance it has made to our Community."
SWAWC Chairperson Michelle Woosnam said the Roundtable reflects the collective promise to future generations: "The work that we do is all voluntary. It really does come from the heart. Some of the women said that it comes from wanting their grandchildren not to be experiencing the same things we are experiencing in this lifetime. We have made a promise to our children and grandchildren that we are going to make change."
In just one year, SWAWC has grown from its first Roundtable to representing Aboriginal women on the world stage at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) and his now strengthening its local and regional networks. The Collective has also been invited to the Kimberley Roundtable in October, a gathering of 12 Aboriginal women's collectives from across the country.
Participant Gaye Eacott from Manjimup hopes the collective continues to engage women from towns across the region: "I am hopeful that our Collective continues to grow and more women from Manjimup become part of this group. I hope that it nurtures young leaders, strengthens community ties, and ensures every Aboriginal woman feels seen, heard, and empowered." Sherri Zacher from Metricup spoke about the importance of women coming together to learn from each other: "Being able to come together in a culturally secure space and hear from our Elders, young people and women from all over the region does not happen often. This gave us the time to draw on the strength and wisdom."
About SWAWC
The South West Aboriginal Women's Collective is a grassroots, community led movement ensuring Aboriginal women across the region are empowered to shape decisions that affect their lives and futures. Grounded in the Wiyi Yani U Thangani Change Agenda and Ways of Working, SWAWC is committed to strengthening leadership, building pathways for youth, and amplifying Aboriginal women's voices in regional, state, and national forums.
