Do you know a local woman who should be recognised for their contribution to our community?

Member for Maitland, Jenny Aitchison MP, needs your help and is calling for nominations for the Maitland 2026 NSW Local Woman of the Year award.

The NSW Local Woman of the Year award recognises a woman for her outstanding contribution to the local community as a businesswoman, role model, volunteer, leader or mentor and one woman from each electorate across NSW receives the award.

The award is about recognising every day, women of all ages, professions and backgrounds across Maitland making immense and valuable contributions to our community, of which Maitland has many.

The 2025 recipient was 102-year-old Joan Palmer in recognition of her significant work to support the Maitland and the broader Hunter community over decades in education, Legacy, Maitland Repertory Society and Maitland Golf Club.

The 2024 recipient Evelyn Stonham, who was also recently named a NSW Hidden Treasure, was recognised for her commitment to Maitland Junior Football Club, the Newcastle Jets and NNSW Football and for inspiring woman in sport.

All nominees for the 2026 Maitland’s NSW Local Woman of the Year award will be invited to a special event hosted by Ms Aitchison and the Woman's Network Hunter to be held on 27th February 2025 for International Women’s Day. The winner will also be invited to the NSW Woman of the Year Awards Ceremony at the ICC Sydney on 5th March, 2026.

Nominate a local woman below: