Reflecting on the Woman who inspired the Zetta Florence Institution this International Women’s Day.
Zetta Florence (Pictured Left)
The Story of Zetta Florence: A Journey of Perseverance and Inspiration
Born and raised in an isolated farming community in northern Tasmania, Zetta was a woman of resilience and tenacity, living through two World Wars. In World War 1, Zetta tragically lost her first husband. Between the world wars and throughout the depression, Zetta, now a young widow, raised her two children as a single mother. In the midst of these challenging times, Zetta met her second husband, who during World War 2 left and served in the Middle East for five years, returning with significant shrapnel injuries. During his five-year absence, Zetta single-handedly ran a sheep farm, a tremendous responsibility that she undertook with courage and resilience. This involved shearing sheep and feeding shearers her home-made bread, home-grown vegetables and mutton raised on her farm, all whilst raising four children.
Zetta is a powerful reminder that women are the backbone of communities, demonstrating fearlessness, strength and stoicism while always upholding a tender heart, generosity and kindness in everything they do. Despite living a humble and difficult life, Zetta was loving, loyal and kind to everyone, regardless of race, social position or background. Zetta wholeheartedly embraced the concept of inclusion, acceptance, community and kindness in everything she did, and is the reason why Zetta Florence was named after her when founded 35 years ago.