Nominations are now open for the 2015 NSW Women of the Year Awards. This is a fantastic way for our communities to recognise the inspirational women in our lives and nominate them for an award.
The awards recognise and showcase inspirational women from all walks of life who have paved the way for women in NSW, particularly the younger generation. Women can be nominated for an award in one of four categories:
– The NSW Premier’s Award for Woman of the Year: The Premier’s Award recognises NSW women who have excelled in their chosen career, field or passion – exceptional achievers who have made a significant contribution to NSW and whose accomplishments make them a strong role model for other women.
– Community Hero Award: The Community Hero Award celebrates heroes and/or volunteers who have made outstanding contributions to the community – positive role models who inspire others to contribute to the community too.
– Young Woman of the Year Award: This award celebrates women aged 18 to 30 years who have excelled in their career or made a significant contribution to their community. Proudly sponsored by Harvey Norman, the Young Woman of the Year is someone who has shown drive, determination and motivation in her chosen field and is a positive role model for other young women.
– Regional Woman of the Year Award: Offered for the first time in 2015, the Regional Woman of the Year Award celebrates women from regional NSW who have made significant achievements or contributions in areas that are important to regional or rural communities.
State Member for Cessnock Clayton Barr said he was a great supporter of the awards, but was disappointed there was such a short time frame for nominations.
“My office only received the letter about this on the 5th, and the nominations close on the 18th. Weekly newspaper deadlines mean people will only know the nominations are open a day and a half before they close, at the busiest time of year. This is unbelievably frustrating as I’ve asked for greater notice every year. You would have thought they’d want as many people to know about the awards as possible, but clearly not. I sincerely hope this does not prevent somebody very worthy being nominated.”
Nominations close at midnight on Thursday 18 December 2014. The winners will be announced at a reception on Wednesday 4 March 2014 at Parliament House, just prior to International Women’s Day. More information can be found at www.women.nsw.gov.au.