Praise for six award winners

By Lauren White, Macleay Argus, 20 March 2013

SHINE for Kids' Barbara Cohen is not pictured.

Six local women's invaluable contributions to our region were recognised at the Women of the Macleay awards on Friday.

The third annual awards were part of International Women's Day celebrations organised by the Kempsey Domestic Violence Monitoring Committee (KDVMC).

About 80 women attended the event, held at the Pensioners Hall on Clyde St.

The 2013 recognition award recipients were:

Roslyn Mosley – A local Dunghutti woman, Roslyn is passionate about improving the literacy of children in the Macleay. Roslyn has worked for the Dalaigur Preschool for more than 15 years and has travelled extensively to remote parts of the country, promoting the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation.

Barbara Cohen – A Dunghutti woman, Barbara is a coordinator with the SHINE for Kids program which operates at the Mid North Coast Correctional Centre. The organisation supports children and their families who have been affected by parents involved in the criminal justice system.
Barbara is a strong role model for indigenous women in the Macleay.

Jan Hill – If you shop at the IGA in Kempsey on Fridays, Saturdays or Mondays then there is a high chance you know Jan. In her spare time, Jan sells raffle tickets for the IGA Community Chest as well as for Parklands Cottage, where she has been a volunteer for more than 11 years. Jan is known for her generous spirit and always putting others first.

Michelle Fisher – As the coordinator of the Kempsey Air Force CAdet unit, Michelle is devoted to the development of education and skills in our local youth. Michelle also works with Mid Coast Connect where she is actively involved in bringing schools, businesses and other organisations together in order to develop valuable educational programs for the youth.

Sheila Scott – Raised in Ireland and a Kempsey resident since 1992, since her arrival Sheila has been heavily involved with the U3A as well as bridge and book clubs. She is a strong advocate for U3A and is described by friends and family as an inspiring and caring woman.

This year's Woman of the Macleay award recipient was Mavis Symonds.

Mavis was recognised for her work as the coordinator of the South Kempsey Family Community Centre. She was the driving force behind the Roof Over Our Heads project which launched an educational film at the beginning of the year in a bid to reduce homelessness AUstralia wide.
In an emotional speech, Mrs Symonds said she was humbled to receive the award and that her work was a reflection of her love of the Macleay.

"The Aboriginal community and the friendships I've made have probably been the backbone of what I've done" she said.

"I'm just so grateful. This award is about recognising what the community has done with me, because I couldn't have done it without them."

KDVMC chairwoman June Wilson said each of the women was dedicated to improving the lives of others. "Mavis like all of the women who have received awards, understate what they have accomplished," she said.

"They are all very inspirational women and should be proud.

"Let's keep this event going and make it bigger and brighter every year."

Women were entertained throughout the day with activities including guest speakers, live entertainment, and displays of art and photography.