The Network was honoured last Friday night to host the 2017 Maitland Local Woman of the Year Presentation Dinner at local venue, The Whistler.

Surrounded by various influences within our community, Jenny Aitchison MP, Member for Maitland presented and named Ms Naomi Rees of the Maitland Neighbourhood Centre as this year’s Maitland Local Woman of the Year for her continued and tireless efforts within the community through her long efforts and works with some of the most disadvantaged within our local area.

Ms Rees was thankful for the recognition but very quick to point out a long list of people and organisations within the area that without their input, the Neighbourhood Centre and Ms Rees herself would not be able to achieve and assist others in the manner that they are able.

Also in attendance and recognised on the evening was local Michelle Viola who has been most recently recognised for her tireless and ongoing efforts in local government through her work at Dungog Council.

A wonderful evening which brought out a number of influencers within our LGA, like Ms Vicki Woods, former Deputy Mayor. Councillor Loretta Baker, also former Deputy Lord Mayor and representing the Mayor’s office on this occasion, Former Local Maitland Woman of Year recipient, Yvette Cavanagh and Federal Member,  Meryl Swanson MP, first female Member for Paterson. Alongside these incredible leaders, sat leaders and role models of our latest generation coming forth, Maitland Showgirl Miranda O’Brien.

Congratulations to Naomi Rees and our continued thanks to those who attended and supported the event.

The Network continues to support and advocate for recognition of Women in our Community at (at) all levels of Leadership and Governance

Have a look at some of our former Award Recipients here: Maitland Woman of the Year Awards

images courtesy of Leeca Higgins