Sydney International Women's Day High Tea 2026

When: March 1, 2026

Where: Sydney, Australia

REGISTER

Join us on Sunday, 1 March 2026, at Rydges World Square, Sydney, for the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Foundation's International Women's Day High Tea - an elegant celebration of empowerment, legacy, and the vital contribution of women to the nursing profession.

Event Details:
Sunday 1st of March 2026
11:30 am - 4:00 pm
Rydges World Square
389 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000

Phone: (02) 8268 1888

In proud alignment with the International Women’s Day 2026 theme, “Give to Gain,” this special event will bring together supporters and leaders who are passionate about strengthening the future of nursing.

The High Tea will raise essential funds for the Bullwinkel Scholars Program, a flagship initiative of the ACN Foundation. The program provides leadership development, education, and support to Australian nurses, with a strong focus on those working in rural, remote, military, and First Nations communities.

Guests will enjoy a sophisticated High Tea experience in the heart of Sydney, complemented by inspiring speakers, thought-provoking conversations, and meaningful networking opportunities. The afternoon will also feature fundraising activities, including auctions and raffles, all dedicated to empowering the next generation of nurse leaders.

By attending, you are not only celebrating the extraordinary impact of women in healthcare—you are actively investing in the future of nursing through life-changing leadership and education opportunities.

Master of Ceremonies - Rebecca Davis
Rebecca is an award-winning actor and Executive Producer for THEATRE 180. She is widely acclaimed for her portrayal of Lieutenant Colonel Vivian Bullwinkel in the nationally touring production 21 Hearts. Through this powerful "cine-play," Rebecca has been instrumental in raising awareness and funds for the ACN Foundation’s Bullwinkel Project. Her work directly supports the Scholars Program, honoring the legacy of the 21 nurses lost at Bangka Island by empowering the next generation of nursing leaders.

Our Panel:
Adjunct Professor Kathryn Zeitz FACN, Australian College of Nursing (ACN) CEO
Kathryn is the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) and the ACN Foundation. A distinguished nursing leader, she brings extensive experience in clinical governance, health leadership, and strategic policy. Throughout her career, Kathryn has championed the nursing profession, focusing on workforce sustainability and excellence in patient care. Her academic and professional contributions, including her Fellowship with ACN, underscore her commitment to advancing nursing leadership and education across Australia.

Morgan Houston - Senior Business Relationship Manager, HESTA, Board Member, Women in Super
Morgan brings a unique perspective shaped by her career journey across the USA and Australia, where she has established herself as a strategic leader in purpose-driven business and advocacy for gender equity in finance. In her role at HESTA, Morgan leads strategic partnerships across the health and community services sectors. Her work contributes to the financial empowerment and well-being of professionals in these fields, aligning with HESTA’s member-first approach, strong focus on gender equity, and leadership in responsible investment. As a Board Member for Women in Super, Morgan helps drive advocacy and initiatives that support gender equity in superannuation, known for her mission-driven approach and the ability to build lasting, values-aligned relationships - creating space for progress and measurable outcomes that benefit members and communities alike.

Donna Ciccia, Co-Founder & Director - Endometriosis Australia
Donna is a leading Australian advocate for women's health. With over two decades of experience in the sector, Donna has tirelessly worked to increase awareness, provide support, and drive research for endometriosis, a condition affecting millions. Her advocacy extends to broader health issues, collaborating with health organisations and government bodies to secure better healthcare policies. A devoted mother and wife, Donna's efforts have garnered numerous awards, solidifying her legacy as a changemaker and champion for women's health and well-being in Australia.

Marrianne McGhee MACN, Founder - ScrubUp
Marianne is a 2025 Bullwinkel Scholar and a participant in the Nurse Executive Leadership Program. An innovative leader, Marrianne founded ScrubUp to integrate cutting-edge technology into clinical practice, enhancing patient outcomes and operational efficiency. A dedicated advocate for nurse education, she believes that empowered nurses are vital to healthcare success. Through this scholarship, Marrianne is committed to driving meaningful change and uniting the profession to foster excellence in the Australian healthcare system.

The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Foundation provides access, through funding, to support initiatives that enhance, develop and recognise contributions made by Australian nurses that will improve the health of the Australian community and secure nursing history.

We collaborate with the community to raise funds in support of such initiatives that focus on research, policy development and advocacy, education and scholarship.

The ACN Foundation’s mission is delivered through the following pillars with objectives being:

Nurse Leadership – Developing nurse leaders
Research – Uncovering best practice
Education & Scholarships – Acknowledgement and reward
Advocacy & Policy Development – Action for health outcomes
History – Curating nurse history
We're here to support nurses... the backbone of the health care system.

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