Women volunteers recognised

SEVENTY-FOUR women from regional, rural and remote New South Wales have earned a place on the 2024 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll for their volunteer work.

The NSW Government initiative, launched during National Volunteer Week, highlights the contribution of women who give their time to support community sport, emergency services, fundraising, education and more.

Minister for Women and Minister for Volunteering Jodie Harrison said the program celebrates those whose work often goes unseen.

“Thank you to the inspirational women who selflessly volunteer their time in our regional, rural and remote communities. You truly are the glue that connects us,” she said.

“Your efforts do not go unnoticed. The Hidden Treasures program is our way of shining the light on your immense contributions and elevates the otherwise unseen work you are doing to drive social connection, strengthen and build resilience in regional communities.”

One of this year’s honourees is Ellen Crepaz from Port Macquarie, whose work has helped shape conversations around homelessness and mental health across the Mid North Coast.

Despite ongoing health challenges, Crepaz has turned adversity into action, founding the platform Mid North Coast EaTs to support small businesses, spotlight local talent and advocate for those doing it tough.

She has raised funds and awareness for local charities, launched the EaTs Soul Savour Festival, and created a strong sense of community among her 20,000 social media followers.

“I never imagined my path would lead here. Helping others gave me purpose in my darkest moments, and to now be honoured for that is incredibly humbling,” she said.

The program is coordinated by the NSW Rural Women’s Network. Recipients receive a certificate, digital badge and their story is published online and in a printed booklet.

More than 1300 women have been included on the Honour Roll since it began 15 years ago.

Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said regional volunteers helped fill gaps in essential services.

“Women who volunteer in regional communities play a particularly important role in strengthening local networks, and supporting essential services, which often lack the resources of the same services in the city,” she said.

“National Volunteer Week is a time to acknowledge and celebrate the vital efforts of the more than 4.3 million volunteers across NSW.”

Nominations for the 2025 Honour Roll are now open.