Two women from Gunnedah Shire Council have been recognised for their leadership and contributions to local government at the 2026 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government.
Gunnedah Shire Mayor Colleen Fuller OAM received an Excellence in Councillor Leadership Award, recognising her work representing and supporting the local community.
Gunnedah Shire Council’s Director Corporate Services, Kelly Stidworthy, was also highly commended in the Woman of Distinction category.
The recognition came as a record 188 nominations were received for this year’s awards, with two-thirds submitted by rural and regional councils.
Now in their 19th year, the awards celebrate the achievements of women working at all levels of local government, from frontline staff and trainees to senior executives, councillors and mayors.
A total of 19 awards and commendations were presented at a ceremony at NSW Parliament House, jointly hosted by Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig and Minister for Women Jodie Harrison.
Mr Hoenig said the strong representation from regional NSW highlighted the important contribution women were making to their communities.
“A good council depends on good people. After 31 years as a mayor, I saw that firsthand.
“Today we’re recognising women who work across local government to deliver services, lead council teams and represent their communities. It’s work that makes a real difference in people’s everyday lives.
“I’m particularly pleased that so many nominations have come from country NSW. Congratulations to all the award recipients and everyone who was nominated.”
Other regional recipients included Orange City Councillor Marea Ruddy, who received an Emerging Councillor Leadership Award, and Goulburn Mulwaree Council’s Sarah Ainsworth, who received a Woman of Distinction Award.
MidCoast Council’s Tracey Hamer was also highly commended in the Breaking Barriers category.
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the awards celebrated women’s achievements while highlighting the need for greater female representation in local government.
“These Awards recognise the outstanding contributions women are making in local government and the positive impact they have on communities across NSW. They celebrate leaders, innovators and changemakers who are helping shape a stronger future for our councils and communities.
“Unfortunately, women still face barriers to running for office, and while female representation is increasing, there is still some way to go.
“By celebrating the achievements of these outstanding women, we hope to inspire more people to consider a career in local government and follow their example in serving their communities.
“Every woman recognised today is helping create pathways for the next generation of leaders to step forward, contribute and succeed in local government.”
The awards aim to encourage more women to pursue careers and leadership roles in local government, particularly in regional communities where councils play an important role in delivering essential services.
Further information is available through the NSW Office of Local Government.
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