Local women share and learn at IWD event

Marni Hietbrink, Ellen Adams, Brianna Short, Professor Gal Winter, Dr Mandana Arshi. Jenni Jackson, Kylie Long, Christine Connor

10th Mar 2026

Nearly 100 women gathered at the Guyra Showground Pavilion on Sunday, March 8, for an informative and empowering International Women’s Day event hosted by the Country Women’s Association of NSW Guyra Evening Branch.
Titled “It’s Not Just You,” the event focused on perimenopause and menopause, bringing together eight health professionals to share knowledge, practical advice and reassurance about a stage of life many women experience but often feel unprepared for.
The day began with Armidale-based medical practitioner Dr Mandana Arshi from Lummier Health, who used humour and relatable examples to help normalise the perimenopause experience before outlining how hormonal changes can affect both the body and brain. Guyra pharmacist Jenni Jackson followed with an overview of pharmaceutical options, discussing medications and treatment pathways available to women. Together, the pair highlighted that Menopausal Hormone Therapy can be a safe and effective option for many women when appropriately prescribed and started at the right time.
Mental health and relationships were also key themes. Local psychologist Marni Hietbrink spoke about the emotional and psychological changes that can accompany menopause, reassuring women that feelings such as anxiety, mood changes and disrupted sleep are common as the brain adapts to reduced oestrogen levels. Sex and relationship therapist Kylie Long then discussed how hormonal changes can influence desire and intimacy, sharing practical strategies to help couples maintain connection during this transition.
Physical wellbeing formed another focus of the program. Exercise physiologist Ellen Adams, founder of Moveology in Glen Innes, highlighted the importance of strength, impact and sprint interval training to maintain muscle, bone and heart health. Pelvic floor physiotherapist Bri Short from Physigro addressed common pelvic health concerns such as incontinence and prolapse, reminding attendees that while these issues are common, they are not something women have to simply tolerate.
Nutrition and preventative health rounded out the program. Associate Professor Gal Winter of the University of New England emphasised the importance of dietary diversity and adequate protein to support gut, brain and overall health, while Belinda Hook from BreastScreen NSW encouraged women to prioritise regular breast screening.
The day was facilitated by Christine Connor from HealthWISE and received very positive feedback, with one participant jokingly asking when a similar event might be organised for their husbands.
The CWA Guyra Evening Branch thanked Armidale Regional Council for supporting the event, along with councillor Eli Imad for helping bring the day together.
If you missed the event but would like to know more about this topic, please feel free to join the FREE Virtual Women’s Health Session being held this Wednesday 11th March from 6pm - 8pm at GALA. Please register your seat at https://www.stickytickets.com.au/UTM0AJ

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Local women share and learn at IWD event

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