The region's most inspiring women were celebrated on Saturday evening with the announcement of the 2026 International Women's Day (IWD) Award winners.
Part of this year's IWD celebrations and Cairns' sesquicentennial milestone, Council's annual Awards acknowledge leaders who have made a significant impact on the community.
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the event highlights how fortunate the region was to be home to women who lead with integrity, compassion and vision.
"I am incredibly proud of the role women play in shaping our community and strengthening our region," Cr Eden said.
"Behind every strong community are those who lead, volunteer, mentor and advocate for others. These awards give us the opportunity to publicly recognise their contribution and thank them for the difference they make every day.
"These awards are not only about recognising achievement, but they're also about creating visibility. When young women see leaders who they can identify with and who come from their own communities, it reinforces that anything is possible."
The 2026 Cairns Regional Council International Women's Day Award recipients are:
Woman of the Year (25 years and over) – Sr Faye Kelly
Sister Faye has served the community for more than 50 years, including over two decades at St Joseph's School as its final Mercy Principal.
She has led as an educator, spiritual guide and advocate, supporting people on society's margins through hospital visits, home care and pastoral leadership.
Her lifelong ministry reflects unwavering compassion, humility and dedicated service to the Cairns' community.
Woman of the Year (25 years and over) (Highly Commended) – Christine Norman
Christine has been a leader in the Babinda community for more than 40 years.
At Babinda Boxing Club, she helped establish women's boxing classes, creating a safe and empowering space in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
Through Babinda Basketball and extensive community governance, fundraising and advocacy, she has mentored young women and strengthened community wellbeing.
Young Woman of the Year (24 years and under) – Summer Adams
At just 12, Summer has already made a meaningful impact through leadership and community service.
She founded Summer Spirit in 2024, creating handmade products that have raised more than $5,000 for wildlife and community organisations, including Cairns Domestic Violence Service and Ruth's Women's Shelter.
A former School Captain and Female Sportsperson of the Year, she also received her school's Spirit Award for outstanding character.
Young Woman of the Year (24 years and under) (Highly Commended) – Ella Fisher
At 17, Ella has already led an inclusive football program for primary students, including those with disability.
Delivered across five schools in 2024-25, the program has engaged more than 200 students, including 30 with disability, building skills and participation in sport.
An active school leader and mentor, she encourages girls to participate in sport while pursuing her own goal of a career in medicine.
Women's Recognition Award – Caitlin Sands
Caitlin has dedicated more than a decade to developing the dance skills of Indigenous youth in the Cairns community.
Since 2015, she has trained and supported local dancers to perform at major sporting and music events while mentoring young people and supporting local families.
A state school teacher since 2018, she combines education and dance to create opportunities for Indigenous youth.
The Cairns International Women's Day Awards have a proud history of recognising outstanding local women for more than three decades, dating back to 1991 under the former Cairns City Council.
