Minister for Women Di Farmer has urged Queenslanders to ensure women feature prominently in nominations for this year's Queensland Greats Awards.
Ms Farmer said women were integral to shaping and developing Queensland, and as Minister for Women she wanted their vital contribution recognised.
With nominations for the awards closing on 22 February, Ms Farmer said it was important for women to be well represented among nominees.
"Queensland has grown and prospered thanks to the efforts of many – both men and women, obviously," Ms Farmer said.
"Sometimes, though, the roles and involvement of women are such that their indispensable contribution to our State can be under-recognised and under-appreciated.
"So, where there are opportunities to recognise people for their contribution, it's important that women are placed front and centre.
"There are many women out there doing marvellous things – remarkable women who deserve recognition for their outstanding achievements.
"The Queensland Greats Awards are a good opportunity to acknowledge and pay tribute to these women.
"Last year 40% of nominations were women.
"I reckon there are just as many outstanding Queensland women as there are outstanding Queensland men.
"Let's get that figure up to 50% this year – get nominating!"
Last year's recipients included Indigenous leader and academic Henrietta Marrie and community sector leader Gail Ker, while previous women recipients include artist Margaret Olley, actor Deborah Mailman, hospital administrator Sister Angela Mary Doyle and former Brisbane Lord Mayor Sallyanne Atkinson.
Professor Adèle Green, awarded in 2014, has been at the forefront of combating skin cancer and melanoma for more than 20 years.
"Receiving a Queensland Greats Award was a tremendous honour that paid tribute to my many colleagues and their passion to improve the health of all Queenslanders through helping to prevent cancer," Professor Green said.
"So if there is a Queenslander you think has made a lasting impact on our state, definitely nominate them for a Queensland Greats Award," she said.
To date, close to 100 individuals and 14 institutions have been recognised through the awards, which commenced in 2001.
