Nominations open for Monica Hayes Award

NOMINATIONS are now open for the 2024 Monica Hayes Award, which recognises women making a difference and inspiring others in their community.

The award honours the life of feminist, activist and community leader Monica Hayes, who passed away in 2016 after her battle with motor neurone disease (MND).

Mrs Hayes was a volunteer at local primary schools, Bellarine Community Health and worked closely with the Portarlington Community Association.

Before her time in Portarlington, she was the mayor of the City of Essendon and the chair of the Western Region Commission.

She was the inaugural recipient of the City of Greater Geelong Women in Community Life Award in 2016.

Voting committee member and close friend Jenni Wills said the award would focus on success in the areas of social, cultural, environmental, economic or in political life.

“It can be in any sort of activity that really promotes wellbeing for others, particularly for girls and women.

“Monica was very involved in local groups and became president of many.

“There was no self-aggrandisement about Monica, she was very humble and very dedicated in everything she did.

“Importantly she encouraged others to participate and lead. She was a very well-respected member of our community.

“This award is a great way to honour her legacy.”

The 2024 award will be presented on March 7 at an International Women’s Day luncheon at the Portarlington Golf Club.

Community nomination forms are available at the Bendigo Bank in Portarlington, General Store in Indented Head, Community Space at St Leonards and Springdale Neighbourhood House in Drysdale.

For more information, phone Jenni Wills on 5259 2032.