Ebonnie Whan is someone we’d affectionately describe as a ‘doer’. She’s a wife, Mum-of-two, primary school teacher and has countless side-hustles from cocktail-making to podcasting. In fact, it’s pretty hard to keep up with all her hidden talents. She’s also delightful company and lots of fun. There’s not much this Narrabri girl can’t do (or won’t at least try)! If you ask Ebonnie, she’d say she’s ‘far from perfect' but we reckon she’s pretty bloody awesome, especially when you consider all the challenges, struggles and hurdles she’s had to face in the last 12 months.

Ebonnie’s not only had to overcome her own health issues, she’s also had to deal with sadness and loss. Last year, Ebonnie’s best friend Dr Alexandra Tapp sadly died of a drug overdose. Alexandra has been described as a bright young vet with a promising career. We all know best friends are beyond special, and we really can’t imagine the pain of losing a best mate. But Ebonnie and Alexandra’s family have turned tragedy into a campaign for positive change. Alexandra’s sister Virginia has set-up an online support group for survivors of sexual abuse and assault. And Ebonnie has also somehow found the strength, and time, to start a podcast that shines a light on resilient Aussie bush women. The podcast is named after her bestie – it’s called Conversations for Ally.

The podcast has started many tough, but important conversations about different battles country women endure and how they've conquered them.

In this episode, we’d like to play you Ebonnie’s inspiring speech from the Narrabri Shire Council’s International Women’s Day breakfast so you can hear, in her own words, how she stepped out of her comfort zone and chose to challenge. We were lucky enough to MC the IWD event so thought we'd put this special episode together for you. We reckon Ebonnie totally wow-ed the crowd with her courage, shout-out to good husbands everywhere and messages of kindness, empathy and compassion.

If you or someone you know needs help please call Lifeline 13 11 14 or 1800 RESPECT 1800 737 732.