Nominations Open for 2025 Shepparton Women's Award

The Award, an initiative of the Greater Shepparton Women's Charter Advisory Committee, recognises women whose stories, contributions and actions have inspired and encouraged others to reach their goals, through embracing diversity and making a difference on gender equality.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, encouraged residents to consider nominating a deserving woman in our community.

"We are surrounded by incredible women who make a real difference in Greater Shepparton every single day. Their efforts, whether big or small, help shape our community and inspire those around them," he said.

"Nominating someone is a wonderful way to say thank you and to share their story with others. I encourage everyone to think about the women who make an impact in your life and take a moment to put forward a nomination."

The Greater Shepparton Women's Charter Advisory Committee are a group of passionate women whose guiding principles are gender equity, encouraging diversity in representation and participation and women's active citizenship.

Chair of the Committee, Councillor Sam Spinks, said the Award highlights the depth and diversity of women in the local community.

"This is about acknowledging the women who drive change, lift those around them, and make Greater Shepparton a better place for all. Every day, women in our community lead with compassion, create new opportunities and support others and it's important that we recognise them," she said.

"I encourage everyone to take a moment to think about the women who inspire them, whether at work, at home or in the wider community, and put forward a nomination."

Chelsea Sofra was named the 2024 Women's Award recipient in recognition of her outstanding commitment to the community and significant contributions to women across the region, including:

• Leading trauma-informed services and managing GVCASA at Goulburn Valley Health, supporting people across Greater Shepparton, Moira, Mitchell, Strathbogie and Murrindindi.
• Building and supporting cohesive teams to help vulnerable community members access vital services and counselling.
• Serving as the inaugural Chair of the Sexual Assault Services Victoria (SASVIC) Lead Prevention Practitioners Community of Practice.
• Playing a key role in the 2018 and 2019 Cultural Leadership Program for Indigenous students, partnering with headspace, local council, Elders and Rumbalara to co-design, coordinate and evaluate leadership and mentoring opportunities for First Nations young people.
• Leading on the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) for headspace from 2017–2019, and being named a top four finalist for the 2017/18 Victorian Young Achievers Awards.

The 2025 Women's Award will be presented in partnership with the Soroptimists International of Shepparton Inc at an event on Sunday 14 September 2025.

Tap here to view the nomination forms and get more information about the Greater Shepparton Women's Award.

Nominations close at 4.00pm on Friday 1 August 2025.