General News
11 February, 2022
DAY TO RECOGNISE inspirational women – International Women’s Day MARCH 8TH
THESE are the winners of 2021 Cairns International Women’s Day Awards:
WOMAN OF THE YEAR – Mary McGuiness
Mary has been a volunteer with the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation since her first Cardiac Challenge in 2014. A midwife and birth suite nurse unit manager at Cairns Hospital, she continues to actively promote the Cardiac Challenge and, in 2019, took on the added role of a pack leader. Mary also volunteers with Meals on Wheels, is a member of She Spokes riding group, and is a fundraiser for the annual Ride for Isabel event.
YOUNG WOMAN OF THE YEAR – Amy Cooper
A Year 11 student at Redlynch State College, Amy, who is legally blind, constantly demonstrates that a disability is not a barrier to success. At just 16, she has already competed at the Australian Judo Championships, participates in rowing, is a gifted singer and pianist who performs publicly, and is an award-winning writer. Amy is also a school leader who demonstrates determination, courage and kindness.
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT – Rachel Broad
Rachel is an active member of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Committee at Woree State High School and has participated in JCU’s Cairns South Community Champions program. The Woree teacher is a strong role model for young women, has been instrumental in running numerous Indigenous events, coaches AFL, and nurtures positive connections within the school and the community. Rachel planned to use the scholarship to expand the reach of her Girls’ Group, which she established at Woree State High School, intending to help young Indigenous women. The scholarship allowed Rachel to purchase equipment and engage additional mentors to enhance the outcomes for participants.
Don’t miss the results of the 2022 International Woman’s Day awards. Presented in Cairns Local News Friday, March 11.
CAIRNS Regional Council is looking for the region’s most inspirational women. Nominations are open for the 2022 Cairns International Women’s Day Awards, with winners announced at a special breakfast event at the Hilton Cairns on Tuesday, March 8.
Mayor Bob Manning said the day was a chance to thank women in the community who have made a difference in the lives of others.
“International Women’s Day highlights the accomplishments of women and the steps being taken toward equality across the globe,” Cr Manning said.
“On a local level, we look to this special day to appreciate the achievements of women within our community.
“We are looking for nominations for women from all walks of life who have contributed to community, life, sport, welfare or the arts.”
The award categories are:
• Cairns Regional Council’s Woman of the Year award (open).
• Young Woman of the Year award (under 25 years old).
• Council’s $2000 Scholarship for a local woman to access learning and networking opportunities to benefit her career or other endeavours.
Cairns Councillor Kristy Vallely said the day was an opportunity to recognise the contribution of local women and highlight the need for gender equality.
“This year’s theme, #Break- TheBias, is about working together for women’s equality and discarding social prejudice that can hamper these efforts,” Cr Vallely said.
“We want a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination, which celebrates diversity and inclusivity, where differences are valued and celebrated.”
Recipient of the 2021 Cairns Regional Council Woman of the Year award, Mary McGuinness, said it was an honour to be recognised on International Women’s Day.
“Being given the honour of being awarded the CRC Woman of the Year was the highest thrill,” she said.
“I like to think I contribute to my community, but I would never have said that I deserved such an honour.
“I would say for any little thing I do for my community, the rewards to myself are far greater.
“I would encourage anybody to get out there and get working and enjoy the rewards.”
This year’s awards breakfast has been themed pink and purple, with prizes available on the day for best dressed.
Tickets to the awards breakfast are limited, but those unable to attend will be able to watch a livestream via Council’s Facebook page.
Attendees must be fully vaccinated in line with Queensland Government COVID-safe restrictions.
Tickets are $42 each, which includes breakfast and complimentary donut wall and mimosa courtesy of Hilton Cairns, and will be available from Ticketlink (www.ticketlink.com.au) from February 14.
Nomination forms are available from any branch of Cairns Libraries or Customer Service Centres or online at www.cairns. qld.gov.au.
Nominations close Tuesday, March 1.
