The contribution of women across the Macleay was recognised on Wednesday, March 8, with International Women's Day celebrations held in Kempsey.
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Live music, busy stalls and a barbecue contributed to the lively atmosphere at a packed Kempsey Pensioner Hall where the Women of the Macleay awards were held.
Seven outstanding women were nominated for the title of Young Woman of the Macleay (for entrants up to 25 years old) and for the Woman of the Macleay Award.
Among a field of standouts, Melville High School student Corazon Garcia-Kttola was named Young Woman of the Macleay, with judges unable to pick an individual for the Woman of the Macleay, instead awarding it to dual winners Leonie Duroux and Hayley Hoskins.
Corazon was recognised for her work in her school community, including with her high school's coffee club, which helps provide food and drink for other students.
Her commitment often sees her arrive at school 45 minutes early, and is just one part of her busy involvement with the school.
Leonie Duroux was awarded for her work as a domestic violence specialist court support worker in Kempsey.
Leonie ensures that women and children impacted by domestic violence are supported through the court system in a culturally aware manner.
Hayley Hoskins was recognised for her work with Baylins Gift, an organisation committed to providing support to the young people on the Macleay in the area of mental health and well-being, and self acceptance, with June Wilson calling the organisation “a lighthouse for those in need of support”.
They were part of an outstanding list of nominees, which included Macleay women Virginia Mena, Paula Skinner, Betty Green and Sammi Fatnowna.
Kempsey Family Support Services auspices the International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations and its executive officer, June Wilson, said the women who were nominated came from a range of backgrounds and local communities.
“These women have selflessly given up their time and energy in the community, giving above and beyond,” June said.
June said that each year the nomination process unearths more women doing great work for the Macleay community.
