STORYTELLING, connection and community support will take centre stage in Salamander Bay on Tuesday 25 February 2026, from 12pm to 2pm, at Tynan Wines in support of Women’s Healing Sanctuary.
Readers Retreat bookshop is hosting a fundraising Author’s Luncheon, bringing together book lovers and community members to raise vital funds for women experiencing grief, trauma and crisis.
The luncheon will feature Sharalyn Drayton, Founder of Women’s Healing Sanctuary and author of the memoir Finding Tomorrow.
“This luncheon is about more than sharing a book — it is about creating hope,” Ms Drayton said.
“Every ticket sold helps a woman in distress access a place of safety, compassion and healing at a time when she needs it most.”
Readers Retreat founder Alison Rogers said the event reflects a shared commitment to meaningful community connection and support.
“Readers Retreat is proud to partner with Women’s Healing Sanctuary,” Ms Rogers said.
“Sharalyn’s story is deeply moving, and this luncheon offers our local community a beautiful way to connect through literature while directly supporting women who are doing it tough.”
A finalist in the 2025 Able Golden Book Awards, the book shares Ms Drayton’s deeply personal journey through profound loss to healing, forgiveness and transformation.
It’s a journey that ultimately inspired the creation of Women’s Healing Sanctuary as a place of refuge, compassion and hope.
The event includes a welcome beverage, two-course lunch, an author presentation, a signed copy of Finding Tomorrow, and a complimentary raffle ticket.
Tickets are priced at $65, with numbers strictly limited.
All profits from the luncheon will support the Women’s Healing Sanctuary Angel Sponsorship Program.
The program provides short-term restorative accommodation and meals for women who may not otherwise be able to afford care and support during times of crisis.
In addition to the luncheon, a special raffle is giving the wider community an opportunity to support the cause, even if they are unable to attend the event.
The major prize is a two-night stay at Women’s Healing Sanctuary, including all meals, valued at $550.
The prize offers the winner the chance to experience the nurturing and restorative environment created to support rest, reflection and renewal.
Proceeds from the raffle will also go directly towards the Angel Sponsorship Program, helping women in distress access healing support when they need it most.
Raffle tickets are available online via Raffletix, while bookings for the Author’s Luncheon can be made through Readers Retreat.
By Jacie WHITFIELD
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