A morning tea hosted by mayor Colleen Fuller brought together women from across the community to celebrate International Women’s Day on Monday.

Held at The Smithurst Theatre, the event organised by Gunnedah Shire Council recognised the achievements and contributions of women from a range of backgrounds.

Guests heard from Jan Commins, who spoke about Australia’s female history from a military perspective and the changing roles of women over time.

Local businesswoman Taylah Hudson also addressed the gathering, sharing her experiences balancing life as a wife and mother while running her own business.

Attendees received gift bags provided by Beyond Bank Australia and Commonwealth Bank of Australia, while local artist Fonda Shae gifted postcards featuring her artwork of sunflowers, cotton and wattle alongside verses from poems by Dorothea Mackellar.