Submissions for the NSW Independent Bushfire Inquiry are now open. The Inquiry will travel to bushfire affected communities to meet with and hear directly from people who have been impacted. The schedule for community visits will be posted online when confirmed, and the inquiry will inform local communities ahead of all visits to ensure it reaches as many people as possible. For details regarding how to make submissions to the Inquiry, please visit: nsw.gov.au/improving-nsw/projects-and-initiatives/make-a-submission-to-the-bushfire-inquiry/.

Decade celebrating women in the Hastings

The contribution of women to the Port Macquarie Hastings community will be honoured at the annual International Women's Day Garden Party at Sails Resort by Rydges, on Sunday, March 8, from 3pm until 6pm. This year is the 10th International Women's Day event I have co-hosted with the Hastings Business Women's Network and the IWD Committee. We look forward to everyone enjoying an afternoon of cocktails, canapes and live music as we look back on a decade of celebrating local women.

We strongly encourage men to come along, as we all have a part to play in ensuring equality in our community. The event will reflect on past global themes: #pressforparity, #neveralone and #balanceforbetter and will honour the 10 years of Hastings Heroines award winners. We will celebrate all those who have been recognised for their efforts in striving for gender equality, supporting women and inspiring young girls.

The annual International Women's Day events have so far raised more than $84,000 for the local women and children's crisis accommodation run by Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services. Funds have contributed towards much-needed renovations of the bathrooms, kitchen, bedrooms, children's play spaces, landscaping and outdoor areas at Galbaan House to make it more welcoming for women and children leaving domestic violence situations and at risk of homelessness. Event tickets are on sale at hbwn.com.au/events.