A table of care

Now, all proceeds are directed to the GV Health Foundation and earmarked to support women’s oncology services at GV Health, ensuring every dollar raised has a direct impact on local women and their families.

Ladies Who Lunch co-chair Amy De Paola said they were incredibly proud of how far the event has come in such a short time.

“That first year was a whirlwind, there is so much behind-the-scenes work involved in bringing an event like this to life, and starting from scratch was a mammoth task,” Amy said.

“We were blown away by the community’s response, raising $111,000 at our very first event in 2023.

“It showed us just how passionate our region is about ensuring we have access to quality cancer care close to home.”

The Ladies Who Lunch Committee has been building on that momentum ever since, and Sunday, October 26, is shaping up to be their biggest and best event yet.

With one in two Australians likely to be diagnosed with cancer by age 85, the event brings together individuals, businesses, and organisations wanting to support local women through their cancer journey.

It’s a celebration of the power of collective action and the difference a community can make when it comes together.

Ladies Who Lunch Committee member and GV Health Oncology breast care nurse Melissa Gilmour said for many women undergoing cancer treatment, travelling to Melbourne or larger centres adds significant stress and financial strain, and in some cases, it can impact whether patients are able to complete their treatment.

“By funding equipment, services, and support programs locally, Ladies Who Lunch helps ensure women can access quality care close to home, surrounded by their support networks,” Melissa said.

Every dollar raised directly benefits women and families, while also providing dedicated health professionals with the resources and tools they need to deliver the best possible care.

With more than 650 attendees, the event also generates retail spending at local businesses.

Through stronger connections between sponsors, supporters, and attendees, Ladies Who Lunch co-chair Raathika Raj said it demonstrated the value and power of giving where you live.

“By coming together, we’re not only raising funds, but also strengthening our community,” Raathika said.

“That’s something everyone can feel proud to be part of.”

A big focus for this year’s event is helping to fund a dedicated oncology social worker at GV Health, a new role that will provide ongoing emotional and mental health support for women and their families from the moment of diagnosis right through treatment and recovery.

“This is an initiative our committee is especially excited about,” Raathika said.

“Creating this position has required us to demonstrate that Ladies Who Lunch can fund the role sustainably, and reaching this point is a real testament to the committee’s commitment, passion, and hard work.”

For many on the committee, this journey is personal, with several members having experienced cancer themselves or supported loved ones through it.

They understand just how tough the journey can be.

That’s why they are so passionate about what they do — because they want women undergoing treatment, and their families, to know that their community cares.

“If something as simple as providing a gift card to cover groceries or petrol, or ensuring timely access to someone who can offer emotional support, can help ease even a little of that stress, then we know we’re making a difference,” Amy said.

Beyond fundraising, the Ladies Who Lunch event is about building connection — between friends, families, colleagues, and businesses — while also raising awareness of women’s health and the impact of cancer in the region.

Those who attend, along with the broader community who support the event, are part of the collective effort to show women and their families that they are not alone.

“We’re creating a space where generosity, compassion, and community spirit come together to make a real difference,” Raathika said.

Previous events have funded a SOZO machine, now based in GV Health’s Oncology Department, which allows for early detection and treatment of lymphedema, a common side effect of cancer treatment.

Patients can now have these measurements done in-house during regular oncology appointments, making care more convenient and enabling early intervention, which can significantly improve outcomes.

Funds have also contributed to the purchase of a Paxman scalp cooling machine, helping patients reduce hair loss during chemotherapy.

Ladies Who Lunch will continue to support initiatives like these, ensuring women in the Goulburn Valley have access to the care, comfort, and support they need — close to home — while bringing the community together to create a lasting impact.