One year of Jacaranda Women’s Hub 

Celebrations for Jacaranda Women's Hub 1st Birthday with Bayside Women's Shelter Chair and Founder, Dr Christina Curry (center) and General Manager Sallianne Faulkner (far right)

Jacaranda Women’s Hub celebrated its first birthday on May 20th, marking a year of connection, growth and support for women and families in our local community.

The hub was originally made possible through proceeds from Sydney Airport’s 2023 Lost Property Auction alongside support from Bayside Council and has since become a welcoming environment for women to come together, build networks and develop new skills. 

In its first year, Jacaranda Women’s Hub has delivered 137 sessions across many activities such as sewing groups, Mums & Bubs playgroup, Women’s Circle and a dedicated DFV support group, alongside practical assistance provided in partnership with Kingsford Legal Centre, Services Australia and Service NSW. This has included more than 100 counselling sessions, as well as access to technology support through Sydney Airport’s donation of laptops to help women connect, learn and access essential services. 

Sydney Airport Group Executive - People & Corporate Affairs, Kristen Sweeney, said the hub is a powerful example of what can be achieved when business and community work together.

“By investing in initiatives like Jacaranda Women’s Hub and continuing to support vital local services, we’re committed to making a positive difference in the lives of women and families in our area.”

True to its ethos of local women supporting local women, the Hub has also brought the community together through special events including Christmas, International Women’s Day, Day of Persons with Disabilities and Harmony Week to celebrate, connect and belong. 

Jacaranda Women’s Hub Coordinator, Vicki Johnston, said the milestone was a meaningful moment for the community, reflecting on the strength and support the space has fostered over the past year.

“The Jacaranda Women’s Hub is such a safe and protective space built by women for women. We are delighted to celebrate its first Birthday with our wonderful supporters.”

Joining in the celebrations last week were Attorney General and State Member for Maroubra, Hon. Michael Daley, Dr Christina Curry Bayside Women’s Chair and Founder, Cr Dylan Parker Mayor for Randwick, Cr Clare Willington Dep Mayor for Randwick, Cr Keri Spooner Dep Mayor for Waverly and the Hon. Matthew Thistlethwaite MP Federal Member for Kingsford Smith.

The Hub has created a vibrant and welcoming space for women from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, life stages and experiences, including women living with disabilities and those Impacted by domestic and family violence.

Women who attend the Hub’s regular programs say it has become a meaningful space for connection, support and belonging.

"Being part of this beautiful and genuine Jacaranda community is a priceless gift. It’s wonderful to feel the care, and that we matter."

As Jacaranda Women’s Hub enters its second year, participation continues to grow, enabling more women to engage, connect and build meaningful relationships across the community.

Bayside Women’s Shelter General Manager, Sallianne Faulkner, said the Hub is a powerful example of community-led support in action.

"The Jacaranda Women’s Hub is an activities Hub for local women, supported by local women. The Hub was first imagined by the community and we have proudly been able to bring it to life with the support of Sydney Airport. We are very grateful that Sydney Airport is on our journey of empowering local women in Bayside and other local areas."

As part of this partnership, the airport runs an annual donation drive during Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Awareness Month in May, where staff collect essential items for the shelter. Donations from 2025’s haul included non-perishable food, hygiene products, school supplies, baby goods, grocery store vouchers and cash donations.

These combined contributions are helping local women and children take the next steps toward safety, stability, and long-term wellbeing.