General News
19 June, 2026
Strength, Stories and Community
A perfect winter’s day at Cave Hill Creek provided the perfect backdrop for the launch of Dean Morris’ latest book, The Strength of Women, on Sunday, June 14. Over 200 people gathered to celebrate the project, creating an afternoon filled with inspiration, reflection and connection.
Adding to the significance of the event, many of the local women featured in the book were in attendance, giving guests the opportunity to meet those whose stories help bring the publication to life.
MC Rob Pelletier opened the afternoon by reflecting on the importance of The Strength of Women and how it complements Dean Morris’ previous publication, The Weight of Men.
He spoke of the value of sharing personal stories and recognising the often-unseen strength that exists within communities.
The first guest speaker was Julz Sanders, who grew up in Beaufort and has a deep understanding of the women who help shape rural communities. Speaking with warmth and insight, she reflected on the women who have influenced her throughout her life and career.
“When people think of strength, they often imagine someone confident, outspoken, or fearless,” she said.
“Often, the strongest women I have met are not the loudest people in the room. Their strength is quieter.”
Mr Morris then spoke about the inspiration behind the book, explaining that while he was responsible for the photographs, it was the honesty and vulnerability of the women who shared their stories that made the project truly special.
“If one person picks it up and reads something that helps them feel less alone, then this book has done something important,” he said.
“If one person is having a hard time and reads about someone else’s life, and it gives them even a small amount of hope, then this book is priceless.”
The keynote address was delivered by Carol Cooke, a multi-award-winning athlete whose achievements include three Paralympic gold medals, a silver medal and nine World Championship cycling titles.
Rather than focusing solely on her own accomplishments, Carol spoke about the women who had shaped her life and family, sharing stories of resilience, support and determination.
She noted that many of those women would never have described themselves as strong, believing they were simply doing what needed to be done. Yet their influence and quiet courage left a lasting impact on those around them.
Her message echoed the themes raised throughout the afternoon and reinforced a central thread running through the book: that strength often reveals itself not through grand gestures, but through everyday acts of kindness, perseverance and care.
The afternoon concluded with a spirited auction of a special edition of The Strength of Women, with Chris and Cheryl Johnston placing the winning bid of $725.
Their generous support provided a fitting finale to a day that celebrated storytelling, community and the remarkable women whose experiences are captured within the pages of the book.
The book is not only a celebration of women and their stories, but also a fundraiser for the local community.
Proceeds from book sales will provide $8,000 each to the Beaufort branch of the Country Women's Association of Victoria and Beaufort and Skipton Health Service, delivering a total of $16,000 to support their valuable work.
Books are available to purchase at the Beaufort Library, Beaufort Newsagents or by contacting Rochelle on 0407 352 875.
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