About the Program

Bass Coast Shire Council have been shortlisted for the Victorian Women's Public Art Program which will fund six new public artworks to honour women‘s contributions to Victoria. The Program aims to address the under-representation of women and their achievements by public artworks in Victoria. To do this, the Program will commission six new public artworks, inspired by the contributions, achievements and stories of Victorian women. Bass Coast Shire Council submitted the story of Agnes Chambers, Agnes Doig and the Wonthaggi Miners Women's Auxiliary, and we are 1 of 13 stories shortlisted.

Voting is now closed. Thank you to all who voted for Bass Coast Shire Council!

Victoria Women's Art Project

We are one of 13 shortlisted projects.

Our story

Agnes Chambers, Agnes Doig and the Wonthaggi Miners Women's Auxiliary

The Auxiliary founding members were a group of striking miners’ wives, led by Secretary Agnes Chambers and Agnes Doig.

WMWA was a trailblazing collective that delivered an amazing legacy for the district but also played a nationally significant role in the union and strike movements. They advocated for women’s rights, and in doing so, they demonstrated the political clout and influence women could have on public opinion and changing government policy.

Started in Wonthaggi in 1934 during a five-month coal miners’ strike, the WMWA was the first women's auxiliary of a mining union. Its initial purpose was to raise funds and provide support for the miners who went on strike over decreased pay and poor working conditions.

After the strike, the women continued to fundraise and fought for women’s amenities in the area. They educated women on mining and political issues. They lobbied for a maternity wing at the Miners’ Hospital, a restroom for mothers and a kindergarten and public library.

Image of the miners strike

Source: Bass Coast Shire Council

Timeline

  • Timeline item 1 - complete

    Community Consultation

    14 November - 8 December 2024

    Through Engage Victoria

  • Timeline item 2 - incomplete

    Minister announces six funded projects

    Early 2025