Inspirational and talented women from across NSW councils have been recognised for their accomplishments at the prestigious Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government.
Now in their 16th year, the annual awards recognise the invaluable contribution and achievements of women in the local government sector who are helping increase the participation and advancement of women and breaking down gender stereotypes.
After receiving a record number of nominations this year, the winners were celebrated at a ceremony at Parliament House co-hosted by Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig and Minister for Women Jodie Harrison.
Upper Hunter Shire Council’s trainee engineer in works delivery, Jenna Dowell was named the Regional Young Achiever at the awards a move which thrilled the Shire.
“Jenna’s story at Council is one that epitomises growth and commitment. She initially joined us as an Admin Trainee for Infrastructure Services,” Upper Hunter general manager Greg McDonald said.
“Her exemplary contributions during her traineeship did not go unnoticed. Jenna later applied for, and was successfully appointed to, her current role as a trainee engineer. Currently, she’s diligently working towards completing her engineering degree.
“Jenna embodies the very essence of operational excellence that we strive for at Upper Hunter Shire Council. Her journey from an Admin Trainee to a trainee engineer is a testament to her dedication and work ethic. She has not just met our expectations but has consistently exceeded them.”
According to Mayor Maurice Collison her achievements reach beyond just the operational aspects. Jenna has also proven to be an instrumental figure in the community, inspiring those around her to aim high and contribute positively to local projects.
“Jenna is more than just an employee at council; she’s a community builder,” the mayor said.
“Her work resonates in every corner of Upper Hunter Shire, making it a better place to live, work, and play. We couldn’t be prouder to have her as part of our team.”
The winners of the 2023 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government are:
Alternative Pathways Award – Metro
Mary Boustani – ICT Systems Engineer
Inner West Council
Alternative Pathways Award – Regional/Rural
Rachael Abberton – Senior Water and Sewer Planning Engineer
MidCoast Council
Champion of Change Award – Metro
Ben Taylor – Chief Executive Officer
Wollondilly Shire Council
Champion of Change Award – Regional/Rural
Melissa Maccallum – Manager, Building and Environment
Orange City Council
Elected Representative Award – Metro
Councillor Judy Hannan MP
Wollondilly Shire Council
Elected Representative Award – Regional/Rural
Councillor Sarah Ndiaye
Byron Shire Council
Employment Diversity Award – Metro
Inner West Council
Employment Diversity Award – Regional/Rural
Armidale Regional Council
Woman of Distinction Award – Metro (shared)
Renee Traynor – Team Leader Diversity and Inclusion
Canterbury-Bankstown Council
Liz Murphy – Manager, Community Recovery
Hawkesbury City Council
Woman of Distinction Award – Regional/Rural (shared)
Lucy Kinsley PSM – Regional Library Manager (Richmond Tweed Regional Library)
Lismore City Council
Helen Plummer – Manager Asset Management
Lake Macquarie City Council
Young Achievers Award – Metro
Keira Grundy – Art Gallery Trainee
Mosman Municipal Council
Young Achievers Award – Regional/Rural
Jenna Dowell – Trainee Engineer
Upper Hunter Shire Council
Councillor Lilliane Brady OAM Award
Councillor Darriea Turley AM, Local Government NSW President
Broken Hill City Council
