Soroptimist International of Launceston

Awarded for service to community, advocacy and inclusion; education; environment; health; human rights; prevention of family violence; volunteering

Founded: 4 October 1949

Entered on roll: 2023

"Working together to lead change"

As part of a global organisation, Soroptimist International of Launceston has exemplified women partnering with other organisations to lead change, advocate for human rights and empower women and girls.

Soroptimist International of Launceston has a tradition of strong female leadership and service since 4 October 1949.

During the early years, the Club focused on services for older people, including funding citizens’ cottages in Newstead, an elderly citizens’ club at Invermay, and a nursing home at Norwood.

With no low-cost accommodation for regional patients to attend outpatient services in Launceston, the Soroptimists partnered other local organisations in 1982, to open and maintain Spurr Wing accommodation services. The Soroptimists’ support of Spurr Wing has continued for 40 years.

The Club supports parents through pregnancy, childbirth, and parenthood. By partnering with other organisations, the Soroptimists provided 100 premature baby care packs to the Launceston General Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. In 2019 and 2021, Soroptimists volunteered at the All About Babies Expo.

The Club advocates and fundraises for increased awareness and research into Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection, a little-known and potentially fatal cardiac condition experienced by otherwise healthy middle-aged women.

Since 1993, the Soroptimists have assisted over 30 women to study at the University of Tasmania through the annual Dame Marjorie Parker Scholarship, named in honour of a former Club member. Internationally, the Club has provided in-kind and financial support to members of the Taveuni Empowerment of Women group, in Fiji.

Over the years, the Soroptimists have supported Magnolia Place, Launceston’s Women’s Shelter, through in-kind and cash donations for 15 new units.

In 2021, after consulting the Launceston City Mission, the Soroptimists provided 20 backpacks filled with warm clothing and coats to distribute to homeless women.

The Club also leads and participates in local environment projects.