Local government leaders have opened a major conference for women at councils across NSW as part of a unique welcome ceremony in Blacktown City.
About 130 delegates attending the Australian Local Government Women's Association (ALGWA) NSW Annual Conference were greeted by civic leaders and curious animals at Sydney Zoo at Eastern Creek on Thursday night.
Delegates enjoyed networking and reptile encounters ahead of a dynamic program supporting women's professional development over the next two days at The Colebee function venue at Doonside.
MC Sandra Sully will host a program of speakers including Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig, Blacktown City Woman of the Year Elfa Moraitakis and LinkedIn expert Lucy Bingle.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting was pleased Council was hosting the event and acknowledged ALGWA NSW Secretary and Blacktown City Councillor Julie Griffiths for her role in securing the conference.
"Blacktown is a large, growing and diverse city, and we're proud to host this conference and support women in local government," he said.
"It's important we continue to support women across local government and bring leaders together like this."
This support is reflected locally after two Council staff won Ministers' Awards for Women in Local Government in 2025, Director of City Living Vanessa Parkes and Senior Coordinator Environmental Health Jessica Speechly.
ALGWA NSW President Cr Penny Pedersen said the conference underscored the commitment to supporting women in leadership roles and fostering strong connections.
"We are proud to host a program that champions gender equity, inclusive governance and professional development," Cr Pedersen said.
"This conference is an opportunity to share knowledge, celebrate achievements and foster the confidence of women leaders across New South Wales."
The program includes delegates visiting some of Council's award-winning services, including the Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre, Blacktown Exercise and Sports Technology Hub and the picturesque Nurragingy Reserve.
Council is hosting the conference in partnership with the Australian Local Government Women's Association NSW, Local Government NSW and Vision Super.
This is the first time Council has hosted the state conference. It hosted the Australian Local Government Women's Association national conference in 2019.
