The search has begun for the 2027 Clarence Electorate Local Woman of the Year, with State Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson calling on the community to help find her.
For the first time since becoming the Member for Clarence, Mr Williamson is opening the process up to public nominations, inviting people from across the Clarence and Richmond valleys to put forward an inspiring local woman for consideration.
“Across the Clarence electorate there are countless women who quietly give their time, energy and expertise to make our communities stronger, more connected and better places to live,” Mr Williamson said.
“The Local Woman of the Year Award is about recognising one outstanding woman each year, but it also shines a light on the many remarkable women who make a difference in our communities every day.
“In previous years I’ve selected the recipient based on the incredible work I’ve seen across the electorate, but this year I wanted to open the process up and give the community the opportunity to tell me about the amazing women who inspire them.”
Mr Williamson said he did not want any deserving woman to be missed simply because their story had not yet reached him.
“I know there are many women making an extraordinary contribution behind the scenes, and I don’t want anyone to be overlooked simply because I haven’t had the opportunity to meet them or learn about their story,” Mr Williamson said.
“By putting forward a nomination, you’re helping ensure these incredible women receive the recognition they deserve.”
Since being elected in 2023, Mr Williamson has recognised Cheryl Dimmock of Iluka, Emma Crethar of Broadwater and Michelle Cowan of Grafton as the Clarence Electorate’s Local Woman of the Year.
“Each of these incredible women has made an outstanding contribution to our community in their own unique way, and I know there are many more deserving women whose stories are waiting to be told,” Mr Williamson said.
The Local Woman of the Year Awards run alongside the statewide NSW Women of the Year Awards, giving every Member of Parliament the chance to recognise one outstanding woman from their electorate each year. Nominees can come from any walk of life, including community service, education, health, emergency services, business, sport, the arts, the environment or volunteering.
“I encourage sporting clubs, community organisations, businesses, schools and members of the public to think about the women who inspire them and take the time to submit a nomination,” Mr Williamson said.
Nominations for the 2027 Clarence Electorate Local Woman of the Year close Friday, 9 October, and can be made at richiewilliamson.com.au.
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