Ballarat greats to be honoured

THE achievements of more exceptional community members will be highlighted next year through the Zonta Club of Ballarat’s annual Great Women awards process.

With nominations from the public now open, Zonta Club of Ballarat Board Director, Val Sarah said the honour is a chance to celebrate a diverse range of worthy, committed women of “all ages, backgrounds and life experiences.

“We’re looking to showcase the achievements of local women, and it could be in a variety of fields such as health, education, law, finance, business, trade, the arts, sport, and of course, the volunteer sector,” she said.

With the simple criteria that nominees were born, educated or have worked in Ballarat, and have made a significant contribution to its community, Ms Sarah said some honourees have been young women, and even posthumous.

So far, 189 women have been recognised as Ballarat’s Great Women since 2008, and at least three expressions of interest have been made already for 2020.

“It’s really exciting to realise that there are so many women who have made their mark in Ballarat very quietly, with no fuss whatsoever, but have really made a difference to the fabric of our community,” Ms Sarah said.

Nominations close on Monday, 2 December. Queries and nominations can be directed to Val Sarah on 5332 4824, or to the club via email at [email protected].

Nomination forms will be provided upon expression of interest. Those putting their peers forward to be honoured are encouraged to let their nominee know, get them to fill out a nomination form and supply a headshot photo.

Most nominees go on to be honoured at the official dinner. Next year, this will be held on Thursday, 26 March where each recipient will speak for three minutes, and be presented with a certificate and yellow Zonta rose.