Nominations Open for the NSW Woman of the Year Awards 2015

Nominations are now open for the NSW Woman of the Year Awards for 2015. Now in its fourth year, the Woman of the Year Awards formally recognises the outstanding contributions of women in NSW in four categories, including the The Premier’s Award for Woman of the Year.

Last year’s winner of the Premier’s Award for Woman of the Year, Turia Pitt from Narrawallee (near Ulladulla), is a Mining Engineer who not only carved out a successful career in a traditionally male-dominated industry, but became an inspiration to people everywhere with her “Never, Never, Never Give up,” attitude as a burns survivor. In 2011, Turia was one of four marathon runners trapped in a remote gorge in the Kimberley region when bushfires swept through the area. She suffered deep burns to more than 60 percent of her body, but Turia refused to be limited by her injuries.

The Premier’s Award for Woman of the Year recognises NSW women who have excelled in their chosen career, field or passion. The Woman of the Year is an exceptional achiever who has made a significant contribution to NSW and whose accomplishments make them a strong role model for other women.

The A.H. Beard’s Community Hero Award celebrates heroes and/or volunteers who have made outstanding contributions to the community. These women are positive role models who inspire others to also contribute to their community.

Last year’s winner, Faten El Dana OAM, is the president of the Muslim Women’s welfare of Australia. She is also very active in the community as an ambassador for migrant women.

The Harvey Norman’s Young Woman of the Year Award celebrates women aged 18 to 30 years who have excelled in their career or made a significant contribution to their community. 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.

Last year’s winner, Lakshmi Logathassan, who at just 18 years of age, “dedicates her time to developing and implementing projects that provide access to education, and promote the values of equality and a fair-go for all.”

For the 2015 Awards, an additional category will be open for nominations. The REX airlines’ 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.

If you know an inspirational woman who is accomplishing amazing things and deserves acknowledgement, nominate her for the NSW Woman of the Year Awards 2015. Nominations close at midnight (AEDT) on 18 December 2014 and can lodged online at the Women NSW website: http://www.women.nsw.gov.au/women_of_the_year_awards

Judges will consider the nominees’ achievements in 2014, as well as their past achievements and ongoing contribution to the NSW community. For more information see the awards selection criteria and terms and conditions.