Four Inspiring Sunshine Coast Women have been recognised as Award Winners at a glittering Gala Dinner thanks to local MP Fiona Simpson and a host of local companies.
The Sunshine Coast Inspiring Women Awards was founded by Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson to honour the many exceptional women who make a difference in our local community.
Awards Patron and Founder Fiona Simpson MP today announced the winners of the inaugural Sunshine Coast Inspiring Women Awards.
The winners are:
Berenice Pembleton, Community Leadership Award Winner – sponsored by Think Money.
A Sunshine Coast Speech Pathologist since 1979 and Acting Director at the Children’s Therapy Centre, Berenice has raised funds and worked tirelessly to provide a place for local children with disabilities to improve their communication skills.
Susan Stanley, Community Volunteer Award Winner – sponsored by White’s IGA.
Serving as a volunteer in the field of disability sport for 22 years, Sue was recognised as the 2013 Sunshine Coast Sports Volunteer of the Year and a Finalist in the Queensland Sport Volunteer of the Year.
Brigette Seymour, Young Leader Award Winner – sponsored by Suncoast Christian College.
A passionate advocate for females and youth within surf lifesaving and an active member of Alexandra Headland Surf Lifesaving Club for 15 years, Brigette is involved in all facets of the Club as patrol captain, female liaison officer and cadet officer.
Bertha Jansen, Carer Award – sponsored by Sundale.
At age 91, Bertha has cared for her severely disabled son for over 35 years and she also cared for her husband with dementia for two years. Bertha was instrumental in the establishment of the Graceville Centre in Nambour to support people with mental health illness from 1969-1976.
Ms Simpson said that the judges found selecting the winners from over 100 nominees had been a difficult job.
“It’s amazing to see so many women who are dedicated to serving others as carers, volunteers and leaders in the community,” Ms Simpson said.
“The Sunshine Coast is blessed to have such a dynamic group of women who are dedicated to investing into others and strengthening our local community.
