CLARENCE VALLEY’S JENNY WORRELL NAMED FINALIST FOR TITLE OF NSW REGIONAL WOMAN OF THE YEAR

Clarence Nationals State MP for Clarence Richie Williamson has welcomed the news that Grafton’s Jenny Worrell has been named a finalist for title of NSW Regional Woman of the Year at the NSW Women of the Year Awards, describing the recognition as a proud and historic moment for the Clarence Valley.

Mr Williamson said it is believed to be the first time a Clarence Valley resident has been named a finalist in this prestigious category, which recognises outstanding women living in regional NSW who inspire and strengthen their communities.

“Jenny Worrell is incredibly deserving of this recognition,” Mr Williamson said.

“She is someone who gives endlessly to others, often quietly and without seeking praise, and her work has touched hundreds of lives across the Clarence Valley.”

Jenny is one of three finalists vying for the NSW Regional Woman of the Year title, alongside Amy Riddle from neighbouring Coffs Harbour and Jo Marshall from the Upper Lachlan Shire.

A former schoolteacher and music educator, Jenny is widely known for co-founding Forget Me Nots with her friend Leigh Robertson at the Clarence Valley Conservatorium, where she has served as Chair for the past decade. The volunteer-led, free, cross-generational singing group supports people living with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s and their carers, providing vital social connection and wellbeing benefits.

“I’ve known Jenny for a number of years through her work with Forget Me Nots,” Mr Williamson said.

“What she and her volunteers have built is extraordinary — a program grounded in compassion, inclusion and community, and one that has become a model for other regions.”

Forget Me Nots now welcomes 60–80 participants each week and has inspired similar programs across the Northern Rivers, while also contributing to music therapy research in partnership with Macquarie University.

Mr Williamson congratulated all finalists and wished Jenny the very best ahead of the NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony, to be held on Thursday 5 March in Sydney as part of NSW Women’s Week 2026.

“Regardless of the final outcome, Jenny has already made the Clarence Valley incredibly proud,” he said.

FILE PHOTO: Richie Williamson is pictured with Jenny Worrell (left) and co-founder of Forget Me Nots, Leigh Robertson where he recognised the group with a Seniors Local Achievement Award last year.