Local Woman of the Year 2027

NSW Local Woman of the Year Awards 2027

Do you know a woman making a real difference in our community?

Nominations are now open for the 2027 NSW Local Woman of the Year Awards. This is a great opportunity to recognise women whose dedication, leadership and service have made a positive impact within the electorate.

Whether through volunteering, community leadership, education, health, sport, the arts, business or advocacy, we encourage nominations of women who help make our community a better place.

Who can be nominated?

Nominees must:

Be aged 18 years or older
Live in or have made a significant contribution to the local community
Consent to being nominated

One Local Woman of the Year will be selected to represent our electorate.

Award Recognition

The successful nominee will receive:

An invitation to attend the NSW Women of the Year Awards Ceremony at the International Convention Centre Sydney on Thursday, 4 March 2027
A framed certificate signed by the Premier, the Minister for Women and the local Member of Parliament
Recognition on the NSW Women of the Year Honour Roll
Consideration for the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll (where eligible)

Key Dates

Date	Milestone
2 July 2026	Nominations open
30 October 2026	Nominations close (11:59 pm)
4 March 2027	NSW Women of the Year Awards Ceremony
8 March 2027	International Women's Day

Submit a Nomination

Nominations are submitted securely through the NSW Government's online nomination portal.

Nomination Deadline: 11:59 pm, 30 October 2026

Local Women of the Year - Riverstone Honour Roll

Krianne Doherty - 2024

Krianne volunteers her spare time to keep the community safe at the Schofields Rural Fire Brigade. Krianne’s dedication and commitment to her community saw her become the crew’s first female senior deputy captain. Speaking to the crew at the brigade, they described her as a leader who gives up many of her weekends to assist with training up firefighters across the district. On weekends, Krianne transforms into a drill sergeant of compassion, training the next generation of firefighters across the district. She doesn’t just teach the skills associated with the job, she imparts her courage, resilience, and community spirit in every rookie she meets. When I presented her with the award and we spoke about the importance of the keeping the RFS properly resourced, it was clear that her mind was on community over accolades. Thank you Krianne for your service and congratulations on becoming Riverstone Local Woman of the year for 2024.

Belinda Mckinlay - 2025

Belinda is the driving force behind Schofields Crusaders JRLC and works tirelessly for Penrith Junior Rugby League. Her passion extends beyond her own club; she is a mentor, a leader, and a constant source of support for those around her. When I shared that families in our community were struggling to afford Christmas, Bel sprang into action. Within days, through her extensive network, she delivered a carload of toys to North West Community Services, bringing joy to those in need. As Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said this morning: "You can’t be what you can’t see, and you all are paving the way forward for women and girls with your strength, resilience, and achievements." Congratulations, Bel! Your commitment to our community is truly inspiring and deeply appreciated.

Leanne Leach - 2026

Leanne is a true community champion, dedicating decades of service to supporting and strengthening the Riverstone community. Through her leadership, mentorship and volunteer work, she has helped bring people together, build confidence in young people and inspire generations of locals to get involved and give back.

Many in the community know Leanne through her long-standing involvement with Riverstone Netball Club, where she has spent more than 50 years as a player, coach, umpire, mentor and leader. Her commitment to the club has helped create a welcoming and supportive environment for countless young players and families.

Even after the event, a very humble Leanne said “It was absolutely wonderful and to be present in a room full of wonderful women in their own right was amazing. Thank you for giving me such a wonderful opportunity.”