CALL FOR NOMINATIONS – HELP SHINE A LIGHT ON OUR HIDDEN TREASURES

Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson is encouraging locals to nominate inspiring women and girls from across the region for the 2025 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll, which recognises the invaluable contribution of female volunteers in rural, regional and remote communities.

Since 2010, the Honour Roll has celebrated more than 1,300 women and girls who give their time, skills and energy to help others through volunteering — from sporting clubs and emergency services, to schools, community halls, and charities.

“This is a fantastic way to give our local volunteers the recognition they truly deserve,” Mr Williamson said.

“In every corner of the Clarence electorate, women and girls are making a powerful difference — often quietly and without fanfare. Hidden Treasures is about shining a light on those behind-the-scenes heroes who help keep our communities strong, connected and supported.”

Nominations are open to women and girls of all ages and backgrounds. Anyone can nominate a deserving individual, and women over the age of 18 can also self-nominate. This is a non-competitive program, and all eligible nominees are included in the digital Honour Roll.

Two local women who featured in the 2024 Honour Roll include 2024 Clarence Electorate Local Woman of the Year, Cheryl Dimmock of Iluka, recognised for her instrumental role in founding Iluka Community Organising Planning for Emergencies (ICOPE) — a grassroots group focused on strengthening local emergency preparedness and community resilience, andMelinda McLennan of Casino, whose tireless volunteer work in maternal mental health advocacy has had lasting impact across Northern NSW and beyond.

Mr Williamson caught up with Melinda earlier this week in Casino to congratulate and thank her for her contributions.

“Melinda founded The Nurtured Village Hampers in the Northern Rivers and has supported over 80 local families, led a major campaign for a Mother & Baby Unit in the region, and contributed to national organisations and inquiries focused on perinatal wellbeing,” Mr Williamson said.

“Both Melinda and Cheryl are shining examples of some of the ‘hidden treasures’ in our community, and I congratulate them both on this well-deserved recognition.”

Nominations for the 2025 Honour Roll are now open and close Wednesday, 31 December 2025.  To nominate a Hidden Treasure or for more information, visit: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/about-us/rural-support/hidden-treasures