Lights off, chins up: Great Debate powers on amid black-out

The Grampians Health event posed the question – Are Men from Mars and Women from Venus, or is that just an excuse? 

Although stormy weather quashed plans for a smoke machine and disco lighting, social worker June Spencer (AKA ‘Judge Junie’) forged ahead with battery-operated spotlights. 

“It actually created a really nice atmosphere, where people sat close together and connected at their tables,” Ms Spencer said. 

“I overheard a lot of conversations about relationships and gender roles and societal change, which was absolutely our hope for the night. 

“The debate aside, it was wonderful to get people out of the house to socialise and have a laugh.” 

Amid arguments about evolution, the effects of World Wars and women’s reproductive skills, opposing speakers competed in a chin-up challenge and distributed bribes to the audience. 

Neither side was convincing enough to sway the crowd, with teams receiving an equal number of votes. 

Ms Spencer, who donned a judge’s wig and struggled to keep proceedings in line with her gavel, embraced the humour. 

“It was a very funny exploration of some very serious topics, which is what we need sometimes,” she said. 

“We were never going to put an end to this age-old debate, but I think everyone left with some new insight to reflect on.” 

The event also presented an opportunity to promote local services, including Grampians Health Edenhope’s social worker and free Rural Outreach mental health services. 

“The reality is, relationship conflict has a devastating effect on people and we are here to assist,” Ms Spencer said. 

Grampians Health thanks the Edenhope Lions Club for sponsoring venue hire and supper; and to Edenhope Golf Club volunteers for friendly service in difficult conditions. 

Audience feedback: 

“It was a thought-provoking look at men and women and our relationships, making us question some of those things we accept as normal” – Cath McDonald 

“I don’t go out at night, but I made an exception for this and I’ve been talking about it ever since” – Merilyn Simpson 

“The discussion brought Edenhope out of the 1960s and into the 21st century; and it’s about time we got there.” – ‘Anonymous 80-year-old man’ 

“We all needed a good laugh and we got It, which was just the best thing” – Toni Cormack 

For more information about social worker and Rural Outreach services, contact the HUB: 5585 9830.