Women from across the Illawarra were recgonised for the selfless and caring work they do in their communities.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The women were awarded at the NSW Women of the Year breakfast ceremony on Thursday, on the eve of International Women's Day.
Illawarra MPs nominated the ladies and presented them with their awards.
Nesrin Salem was named Wollongong's Woman of the Year, Shellharbour MP Anna Watson recognised Helen Jessup, Susan Wallis was awarded the Keira Woman of the Year and Heathcote MP Lee Evans presented Dianne Weatherall with her award.
Mrs Salem is a founding member and event coordinator with the Sisters Cancer Support Group based in Wollongong.
"I feel honoured to be recognised because the group is a great cause," she said.
"I want to accept the award on behalf of the group organisers and the women who attend the group sessions."
The not-for-profit organisation hosts monthly sessions for women from multicultural backgrounds after their cancer treatment. The ladies are taught how to improve their wellbeing, exercise and nutrition.
Eight women founded the group in 2014 and all volunteer to run the sessions.
Mrs Salem said she became involved with the group after moving to Wollongong from Canada and she wanted to feel a sense of community in her new country.
"I helped establish the group because cancer hits close to my home," Mrs Salem said. "Nearly every family has been touched by cancer and we hope the group raises more awareness about how to get support."
"The group also gives companionship to the women because they can talk about their experiences."
Wollongong MP Paul Scully said Mrs Salem and the organising members did an "incredible job" providing support to members in the community who often did not seek out support after their treatments.
"There was a gap in support that needed to be filled," he said.
"Wollongong has some incredible stories of women who support and fight for other women."
Ms Jessup has beaten breast cancer twice and has since dedicated her life to helping and supporting other people with cancer whilst also calling for additional public lymphoedema services in the Illawarra.
In 2016, Ms Jessup coordinated the Illawarra Breast Cancer Resource Project, which resulted in the publication of an Illawarra Breast Cancer Resource Directory.
“Helen is an incredible woman, advocate and citizen," Ms Watson said. "Her dedication to support those around her, and improve the lives of people diagnosed with breast cancer, other cancers, or lymphoedema in the Illawarra is truly remarkable.”
Ms Wallis is a vocal advocate for disability services and MP Ryan Park said she was an "all round amazing, strong woman".
Ms Weatherall was recognised for her extensive contribution to the community for 46 years including her active role as the Sutherland Shire Lioness Club president.
“I am honored to receive this award, it was an extremely inspiring morning hearing from like-minded people serving their community and I thank Mr Evans for attending the breakfast with my husband and myself," Mrs Weatherall said.
Kiama MP Gareth Ward has not yet announced Kiama's woman of the year.
