Former NSW Police sergeant, Samantha Barlow, will share her remarkable story of resilience and survival at the International Women's Day 10-year celebration at Port Macquarie's Sails Resort on Sunday, March 8.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
In 2009, Sam was brutally attacked and left for dead in a park on her way to work as a policewoman in Kings Cross. Doctors were unsure if Sam would survive, and yet after a miraculous recovery, Sam returned to duty just 22 months after the attack.
HBWN president Kelly King said the International Women's Day committee wanted to showcase a local heroine as guest speaker at the 10th anniversary event and Sam Barlow was an obvious choice.
"Sam's inspirational survival is featured in the book Sam co-authored with her husband Laurence, Left for Dead - A True Story of Resilience and Courage. She has appeared on 60 Minutes and has shared her motivational story of hope at numerous professional corporate speaking engagements," Mrs King said.
"Guests at the International Women's Day event will hear stories of strength from Sam's personal experience that have led to her being recognised with many awards including the Australasian Council of Women in Policing Bravery Award, the Pride of Australia Medal for Heroism 2011 and the Fitness First New You Award, as well as being named a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow in 2012."
Since Sam and her family moved to the region six years ago, she has become actively involved with the community including the Port Macquarie Ironman and the Port Macquarie Surf Life Saving Club. After growing up in a family of real estate professionals in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, Sam has embarked on a successful career as a licensed real estate agent with Laing+Simmons Port Macquarie.
Mrs King said guests at the event would also have the opportunity to reflect on the achievements of a decade of Hastings Heroine award winners, and relax with an afternoon of cocktails, canapes and live music.
"This event is not just for women. We are encouraging women and men to come along and acknowledge the progress that has been made and what more can be done in terms of gender equality, pay parity and women's rights across the globe," Mrs King said.
The local International Women's Day event is hosted by the Hastings Business Women's Network, Leslie Williams MP and the IWD Committee, with funds raised going to Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services.
Event tickets are now on sale at www.hbwn.com.au/events
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE.
If you value local journalism, continue to support us and consider taking out a subscription. CLICK HERE for a 30-day free trial.