One of our most beloved signature events is returning to the Surf Coast – HER Story.
Winner of the Event of the Year at the Torquay Commerce Awards, this inspiring afternoon brings together incredible women to share powerful stories while supporting Art of the Minds, a non-profit charity dedicated to reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness through communication, creativity, and community connection.
This year’s lineup includes Louise Larkin, CEO and Founder of Friend in Me, a Victorian charity dedicated to creating a more inclusive world for children and young people living with disability, neurodivergence, and sensory challenges.
Joining Louise is Emma Land, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Counsellor, who will explore the power of sharing stories and making meaning from personal narratives.
We are also pleased to welcome Dr Frances D’Arcy-Tehan and Elizabeth Packett from Tender Funerals, who will share insights into their work in the not-for-profit funeral sector and discuss the important role of death doulas in supporting individuals and families through end-of-life journeys.
Finally, we are thrilled to announce Simangaliso Nyoni, speaker, facilitator and founder of IMpande. Born in Zimbabwe and having lived in Australia for the past 22 years, she has spent 17 years working alongside individuals, families and communities across the mental health and social services sectors. Passionate about wellbeing, culture, belonging and community, Simangaliso creates spaces where people feel seen, heard and understood. Her personal and professional journey has been shaped by migration, identity, grief, resilience, faith and a deep commitment to healing and growth.
This year we are thrilled to have Coastal Nectar joining us, leading a beeswax candle-making workshop.
The afternoon will also feature a poetry introduction by Annie Mullen-Walsh from Lowercase Poetry and live illustrations by Sarah Darby, with musicians to be announced soon.
Enjoy our raffle, Coastal Nectar workshop, live illustrations, music by RIORDAN and Karina, and plenty of community connection throughout the afternoon.
Date: Sunday 18th October 2026
Time: 1pm - 4pm
Location: The Sands Torquay
Address: 2 Sands Blvd, Torquay
Tickets: $60 and include an arrival drink, canapés, and entertainment
Dress code: Wear something you feel gorgeous in!
Don’t miss this empowering and uplifting community event.
