NEPAL is a long way from the mid-century sets of The Doctor Blake Mysteries.
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But since visiting the South Asian country a few years ago, actor Anna McGahan – who plays feisty journalist Rose Anderson in the Ballarat-based hit TV show – has become deeply passionate about empowering women and putting a stop to human trafficking.
Next week, McGahan will stop by Ballarat once more – not in her role as a 1950s reporter, but as an ambassador.
The actor, who rose to prominence playing prostitute Nellie Cameron in Underbelly: Razor, will speak at the Delacombe Salvation Army and advocate for a new Nepal project enabling trafficked women to learn new skills and complete apprenticeships.
Delacombe Salvation Army minister Debbie Serojales said McGahan was a passionate supporter of the Salvos and the Make It Happen project in Nepal.
“We are thrilled to have Anna coming on board this year, she is passionate about empowering women and after a visit to Nepal a few years ago, she believes in this cause and wants to help see these women and children have opportunity for a safer future,” Major Serojales said.
“Every two years, the Salvation Army has an international project … where they raise money to help disadvantaged women and children around the world.
“The project aims to prevent the trafficking of young girls and women living in the city of Kathmandu and the high risk areas of Gholdhap and Dorumba.”
Major Serojales said the Salvation Army would establish a social enterprise by opening a cafe and beauty spa in Nepal where young women would receive education and training, and have the opportunity to complete an apprenticeship.
The goal is to raise $160,000 over two years – with the tally currently standing at $101,000.
Human trafficking is a prevalent issue in Nepal, particularly in instances where vulnerable women are tricked into working across the border into India, only to become sex or labour slaves.
An Afternoon with Anna McGahan on July 16 will include a high tea and also feature artist Zoe Trollop. The event starts at 2pm at Delacombe Salvation Army, corner Greenhalghs Road and Warrina Drive.
Tickets are $25 per person. To purchase, phone Major Serojales on 0459 600 915.
