SAVE THE DATE – Tuesday 18 March 2025 9.00 am – 11.30 am at the Hub in Winchelsea. Come and share in the celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) as we March Forward together.
Michelle Stocks, a well known community member has worked tirelessly over many years to support the development of Winchelsea.
“My family moved here when I was in Grade 5, I attended the local consolidated school until year 9 and travelled to school in Geelong to complete my secondary schooling, studying, as many girls did, secretarial studies which led me to my first job in the office at Goold College on a scholarship for twelve months,” said Michelle.
Michelle married local Michael Stocks, had daughter Ash and son Adam and purchased a house when interest rates were at an all time high of 17.5%. Taking whatever work was available locally, often working evenings and weekends with the support of Michael, family and friends for child care while the children were young.
Then started a 30 year involvement with Hesse Rural Health progressing from casual kitchen and cleaning work to administration and payroll. Michelle went on to become a Board member of Hesse Rural Health for nine years and is now Executive Officer with Corangamite Financial Services, our local Community Bank.
“I have been fortunate to have a great supportive family. Growing up in a small community meant you were involved in everything the kids were involved in. Being part of the community gave you support and encouragement, but I found I needed to know more which led me to undertaking the Surf Coast Shires Casurina Program and a Community Leadership Program with the Committee for Geelong. It was a great opportunity to extend my knowledge and confidence to take on more leadership roles. I am a current Board Director on the APCO Foundation – which is all about spreading kindness to community organisations and individuals who find themselves in a crisis situation, we have assisted so many groups and families to get through the toughest of times.
Michelle encourages anyone who gets the opportunity to participate in a Leadership Program to give it a go and consider how you can contribute to the local community.
A local Women’s Business Network will be a catalyst for promotion of a range of information, training and advice.
“Many women quietly work behind the scenes, women need to know how we can promote ourselves, our businesses and community. If we don’t have access to information, advice or resources how can we promote each other? All too often women don’t stand up and shout about themselves. I urge women to come and celebrate International Women’s Day and put their hand up to be a part of an exciting new initiative for Winchelsea, the formation of a Business Network,” continues Michelle.
“The event being held on Tuesday 18 March 2025 is proudly supported by the Community Bank, Winchelsea & District, Growing Winchelsea and the Surf Coast Shire.
We are keen to hear what you are looking for in a business network, what are your training and development needs so come along and celebrate International Women’s Day with us,” concludes Michelle Stocks
Photo: Michelle Stocks,
Executive Officer, Corangamite Financial Services