Just days remain to nominate women who have made outstanding contributions or inspired others for the honour of Blacktown City Woman of the Year.
Nominations are open until midnight on Thursday 12 February and Blacktown City Council will recognise finalists as part of its International Women's Day breakfast on 9 March.
Mayor Brad Bunting encouraged people to nominate a woman who deserves recognition.
"I have met many women who do so much to help others and do not get the plaudits they deserve," he said.
"These women don't expect or ask for credit, but that should not stop us from showing how much we value them.
"The Blacktown City Woman of the Year award is one way we can say thank you and honour them with an accolade they have earned."
People can nominate a woman they know via blacktown.nsw.gov.au/iwd. The webpage contains awards criteria.
Oakhurst nurse Melissa Katoa was the 2025 recipient. She has volunteered her expertise to help single mothers and domestic violence victims.
Melissa has also used her involvement in church and the Pacific Islander community to assist women to live independently.
Council announces the Blacktown City Woman of the Year as part of celebrations in the week of International Women's Day (8 March).
Communities around the world on International Women's Day honour women's contributions and advocate for gender equality.
Council's breakfast on 9 March includes a guest speaker (to be announced) and is a great opportunity to meet and learn from like-minded women. The event is regularly booked out.
Council has celebrated its Women of the Year awards since 2008 as part of a wide-ranging program to encourage women and girls to achieve their dreams.
This includes working closely with social services groups to ensure safety and support, ongoing consultation with the Women's Advisory Committee, and the annual Women's Forum.
