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Gallery | Strong coffee, stronger women at Shepparton’s IWD breakfast

By Taylah Baker and Megan Fisher

Mar 11, 2026

Croissants and coffee were on the menu for Kate Smith, Carolynne Frost and Olive Fisher. Photo by Megan Fisher

The clink of coffee cups and the scent of fresh pastries set the tone for a morning that proved both uplifting and deeply moving.

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Soroptimist International of Shepparton marked International Women’s Day early with a breakfast at Parklake Shepparton on Thursday, March 5, drawing 180 guests for a gathering filled with laughter, a few quiet tears and strong community spirit.

The highlight of the morning was guest speaker Marli Kelly, who shared her powerful story of resilience.

Diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis in 2018, Ms Kelly said the disease had taken large parts of her identity.

But she refused to let it define her.

After being forced to retire from a media role due to her condition, she established Marli Kelly Designs and channelled her creativity into arts and crafts workshops that inspire others.

Her message to the audience was simple but powerful: when life throws curveballs, sometimes the only option is to pivot.

The morning also celebrated local leadership, with Liz Arcus announced as the City of Greater Shepparton’s Woman of the Year for 2026.

With so many women worth celebrating, News photographer Megan Fisher captured a room brimming with inspiration.