The charismatic medical professional — most well known for her Dr Feelgood radio and television shows — talked about serious topics like health, domestic violence and self love at the International Women’s Day lunch last week in a way that kept her audience of 160 both captivated and laughing.
A large focus of Dr Cockburn’s advice was to love yourself and look after yourself — to put yourself before your family and friends.
In the the final part of her address, Dr Cockburn revealed her near-death experience after suffering an embolism (a clot which affected her lungs and breathing) and then her own avoidance of a subsequent battle with diabetes.
Dr Cockburn was then invited on a panel which also included Deniliquin High School teacher and Channel4Change founder Brenda Norman and Murray Irrigation executive general manager business services Suni Campbell.
Each was quizzed by Edward River Council Deputy Mayor Pat Fogarty, with each promoting the need for women to guide and support other women in their goals and dreams.
Deniliquin Business Chamber president Paula Rutter said she was ‘‘blown away’’ by the whole event.
‘‘Walking into the golf club and seeing it full was amazing, my hat goes off to the Edward River Council and Janet Renehan and Michelle Sienna from chamber, and everyone else who was involved in making this event happen for another year,’’ Mrs Rutter said.
‘‘I have not had any negative responses, only positive feedback which is always desirable.
‘‘Looking around at the event, everyone seemed to be enjoying it. It was a great afternoon with excellent food surrounded by community members and businesses.’’
The theme for International Women’s Day in 2019 was ‘a balance for better’, which promoted a need to forge a more gender-balanced world.
■Those suffering from domestic or family violence can seek support through 1800RESPECT (1800737732), which is a 24 hour, national sexual assault and family and domestic violence counselling line, or Lifeline on 131114. In an emergency, please phone 000.