Skye Rose with Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby. Photo: Michael Mannington OAM
For International Women's Day 2026 (March 8), the official theme is "Balance the Scales". This theme focuses on ensuring equality, safety, and a fair go for all women and girls, while encouraging the dismantling of systemic, structural barriers that hinder progress.
NSW Women's Week 2026 (March 2–8): Focus: The week aligns with the overarching "Balance the Scales" theme, featuring events centered on economic, health, and empowerment for women.
UN Women Australia CEO Simone Clarke said: “Balance the Scales is a promise for every woman and girl to be safe, heard, and free to shape her own future. In 2026, unjust laws, policies, and ingrained barriers still stand in the way of fair and inclusive communities. This International Women’s Day, we are calling on Australians to join a movement for real action – to transform our justice systems, amplify marginalised voices, and ensure equality is not the exception, but the rule.”
First Nations women face especially complex challenges, including overrepresentation in the justice system, intergenerational trauma, and limited access to culturally safe legal support. First Nations women are 34 times more likely to be hospitalised due to family violence than non-Indigenous women, highlighting the urgent need for community-led, self-determined pathways that centre First Nations leadership.
Achieving justice demands transformation – so that systems are survivor-centred and responsive to the needs of every woman and girl.
Climate change and disaster displacement disproportionately impact women and girls – especially across the Pacific – exacerbating barriers to safety, security, and rights. UN Women projects that by 2050, climate change may push up to 158 million more women and girls into extreme poverty – 16 million more than men and boys – as climate-driven impacts continue to deepen existing gender inequalities. Australia plays a crucial role in championing women’s leadership and ensuring climate justice is gender justice.
Ms Clarke added: “True progress takes more than words. Together, we have the power to dismantle discriminatory systems, unlock transformation, and deliver justice, safety, and dignity for all women and girls.”
On Wednesday, 4 March 2026, Zonta NB hosted its IWD 29026 Breakfast at the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club at Newport, with over 180 local women and guests, including men, in all fields with multiple interests attending.
Zonta NB’s 2026 Breakfast Speaker was Shae Ingram, a Class of 2018 graduate of Mater Maria at Warriewood who has gone on to become a Senior Program Engineer working in the Satellite and Space Systems team at Optus. Shae graduated with first-class honours from a Bachelor of Aeronautical Engineering (Honours) at the University of Sydney, where she was heavily involved in student societies, including serving as Co-President of the Sydney Women in Aerospace Engineering society and Treasurer of the Sydney University Women In Engineering Society.
Shae Ingram. Photo: Michael Mannington OAM
Shae has been working in the space industry for three years, where she has gained experience working in Satellite Operations, Payload & TCR Engineering, Program Engineering, and Satellite Policy & Industry Engagement. Shae has also co-authored and presented papers about STEM outreach at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan 2024 and Sydney 2025. She recently spent her time volunteering for the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) on the Space Generation Congress 2025 Organising Committee.
Ms Ingram is very passionate about advocating for women in STEM, promoting careers in Space, and participating in outreach programs as a Space Ambassador at Optus, where she spends her time educating young people about space, sharing her career pathway, and creating visibility around what an engineer can look like.
‘’From studying Aeronautical Engineering to working at Optus Satellite and Space Systems, representation and visibility of women in engineering is so important to foster a more diverse workforce, particularly for students who are considering future STEM careers.’’ Shae says
The Speaker is very timely given former South Curl Curl girl Katherine Bennell-Pegg was recently announced as Australian of the Year, and fits with Zonta's own program of getting women 'off the ground'. Former Narrabeen and Mona Vale pilot Nancy Ellis, was, in 1953, the only Australian member of the Ninety-Nines and the winner of their Silver Jubilee Scholarship in the United States of America in 1954. The Ninety-Nines, founded by Amelia Earhart in 1929, is the International Organisation of Women Pilots that provides networking, mentoring, and flight scholarship opportunities to recreational and professional female pilots.
Zonta's own Amelia Earhart Fellowship was established in 1938 in honour of famed pilot and Zontian, Amelia Earhart. The US$10,000 Fellowship is awarded annually to up to 30 women pursuing Ph.D./doctoral degrees in aerospace engineering and space sciences. It may be used at any university or college offering accredited post-graduate courses and degrees in these fields.
The breakfast also is when the Pittwater Woman of the Year is announced.
In 2026 Mona Vale SLSC's Skye Rose was announced as the recipient of this recognition.
Skye, who was nominated by independent Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby, is the driving force behind the ‘Kickability’ program for children with disabilities at Pittwater Tigers AFL Club and the inclusive nippers’ programs at Mona Vale Surf Club.
Skye initiated Kickability after her own son, Dane, 17, who lives with autism, found mainstream AFL too intense. Kickability provides professional-led sessions, supported by junior volunteers and their coaches, creating “a strong, inclusive culture and genuine friendships. Kickability players are not a separate group - they are part of the Tigers’ family,” according to Skye.
Not content with just AFL, she also got actively involved with inclusion at Nippers at Mona Vale Surf Lifesaving Club. Despite finding the club supportive, it was still challenging to provide the structure and resources her son needed, so she developed a modified program. In 2024, she stepped into the Inclusion Coordinator role and, with the support of passionate and skilled volunteers, developed a structured Inclusion Program for Nippers (ages 5–12), Surf Rescue Certificate trainees (13+), and reintroduced an annual Northern Beaches Inclusion Carnival.
Skye was formally honoured at the Zonta International Women’s Day Breakfast at the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club in Newport on March 4. All Local Women of the Year, from around NSW, were recognised during the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony, held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday 5 March.
Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby said:
“Recognising Skye as the 2026 NSW Local Woman of the Year for Pittwater is an absolute privilege. She’s a shining light making our community more inclusive and making a positive and profound impact on kids' lives, on their parents and families’ lives, and on the whole community.”
“I’ve witnessed the programs she runs in action, the skills of participants and the joy the programs bring. Skye is an inspirational leader, organiser and passionate doer, who is making sure that kids with disabilities in Pittwater have greater opportunities to participate in sport and the active lifestyle that defines our Northern Beaches community.”
“Sport is part of who we are, and Skye is making sure that what many take for granted is open to those who previously struggled to access sport.”
Skye Rose said:
“Being Pittwater Woman of the Year is incredibly humbling and, if I’m honest, slightly uncomfortable, because these programs are successful due to the volunteers, staff and key champions who give their time so generously. Across the Northern Beaches, many inclusion programs are led by parents of children with disability. There is no shortage of these quiet heroes in our community. Inclusion is never the work of one person - it is always the work of a team.”
“I see this recognition not as an individual award, but as recognition of the programs and the communities behind them. If it helps shine a light on inclusion in sport, the athletes striving to try their best and encourages other clubs to take similar steps, or attracts more volunteers and participants, then it is truly beneficial.”
“From an early age our eldest son Dane was eager to be involved in the same sporting opportunities as his younger, neurotypical brother. He proudly wore an AFL uniform, but never was able to join a team. What he really wanted was not to sit on the sidelines - he wanted to belong, and I wanted to make that happen - not just for him, but all kids like him.”
“Our experience motivated me to explore what an inclusive, modified AFL program might look like while I was secretary of the club. After researching different models, I developed a structure, secured AFL Kids as a sponsor, a grant and support of the Club’s Committee, and then worked with AFL NSW/ACT to formalise the program. From there, Tiger’s Kickability was born.
“Both programs are fundamentally about opportunity, belonging and community. These programs fill a gap. They create another choice and meaningful opportunity for people with disability to participate in sport, to belong to a club, and in the case of surf lifesaving, to contribute to an emergency service. Inclusion in sport is not just about physical activity - it builds confidence, friendships, independence and community connection. When inclusion is done well, everyone benefits”
Gidget Foundation Founder and Narrabeen Sports High student recognised at NSW Women of the Year Awards
Pittwater was also proudly recognised with two NSW Women of the Year 2026 awards going to inspirational locals this year.
Jacqui Cotton from Terrey Hills, was part of the Gidget Foundation Australia team - along with fellow founders, Simone Short, Libby Bowditch, Lou Hunter, Kim Mouret, Stephanie Hughes and Alexandra Berthold - who won the NSW Community Hero category.
The Gidget Foundation Australia works to improve the mental health of expectant and new parents across NSW. For 24 years, these incredible women have worked to improve mental health support for parents in NSW. In 2001, their sister and friend, Louise (nicknamed Gidget), lost her battle for mental health while experiencing postnatal depression.
Following this tragedy, they set out to make a difference in Gidget’s honour by increasing awareness of the illness and support for parents. Today, Gidget Foundation Australia provides parents with accessible, timely and specialist care. The foundation has established 39 Gidget Houses and delivered a total of 108,704 appointments to support 12,705 families. The founders are still actively involved, demonstrating dedication that has had a direct impact on perinatal mental health awareness, education and support in NSW.
Gidget Foundation Australia Founders - NSW Community Hero 2026 awardees
NSW Community Hero 2026 recipient, Jacqueline Cotton on behalf of the founders, Gidget Foundation Australia said:
“We started the foundation to make a change after losing my sister, so every parent could find access to the right support and care they needed. Never in a million years did I expect this to be recognised in such a way for doing what we do.”
“As a founding committee, we have been fortunate to receive unwavering support over the years - from talented health professionals to event attendees, corporate and government partners, and the broader community. Their commitment has helped transform our early dreams into a powerful reality.”
Elly Ings, a student at Narrabeen Sports High School, was named as “One to Watch” (aged 7–15).
At just 14 years old, Elly from Mona Vale is already making a meaningful impact in her school community - championing Aboriginal education, elevating First Nations voices, and building programs that connect students to culture, land and community.
Independent Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby celebrated the awards at the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards official ceremony on Thursday 5 March at the International Convention Centre Sydney.
Ms Scruby described Elly as an inspiring young leader with vision well beyond her years.
“Elly is not waiting for permission to lead - she is already doing it,” Ms Scruby said.
“She is strengthening Aboriginal education at her school in practical, lasting ways and bringing her peers with her.”
Elly coordinates camps and expeditions to culturally and educationally significant sites, including Taronga Zoo, where students engage in immersive learning experiences. She also leads school-wide activities for key events, ensuring First Nations traditions and perspectives are respectfully acknowledged and celebrated.
“Her leadership is thoughtful, inclusive and action-focused. She represents the very best of the next generation,” Ms Scruby said.
Ms Scruby said Pittwater could be immensely proud of its strong representation at this year’s awards.
“These women and girls are making a real difference - whether in our schools or across the state through vital mental health support,” she said.
“It was wonderful to see Pittwater so well represented at such a significant statewide event.”
Elly Ings said:
"Strengthening the role of First Nation perspectives in my school community is a very important part of my life. Helping to organise camps and excursions for First Nations students at my school helps to connect them to their ancestors as well as creating a comfortable school environment where they feel recognised and supported. Ultimately I want to help people feel seen and heard and continue to raise awareness so that everyone can thrive in this world of diversity."
"Having the privilege of accepting an award alongside women who have made a significant contribution in their field is very humbling. This experience has shown me the impact that one person can make on an entire community. Their selfless acts inspire me to continue to want to be involved with making a difference in other people’s lives."
Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby with Elly Ings
The NSW Women of the Year Awards 2026 recipients are:
Professor Tracey O’Brien, AM (Lane Cove LGA) – NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence
Tracey is a leading Australian cancer clinician, researcher and advocate whose career has centred on one mission: improving the lives of people with cancer. Now NSW Chief Cancer Officer, Tracey works across communities, government and science to ensure equitable, culturally safe cancer care for all.
Adjunct Professor Nicole Turner (Port Stephens LGA) - NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year
Nicole is a proud Kamilaroi woman with over 30 years’ experience in Aboriginal health. She is CEO of the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council, working closely with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations across New South Wales.
The Founders of Gidget Foundation Australia (Metro Sydney regions) - NSW Community Hero
For 24 years, these seven incredible women have worked to improve mental health support for parents in New South Wales. Today, Gidget Foundation Australia provides parents experiencing perinatal depression and anxiety with accessible, timely and specialist care. The foundation has established 39 Gidget Houses and delivered a total of 108,704 appointments to support 12,705 families.
Jo Marshall (Upper Lachlan Shire LGA) - NSW Regional Woman of the Year
Jo is a visionary leader and advocate for rural communities. As the driving force behind the Australian Agricultural Centre, including their Women in AG program, Jo inspires and equips the next generation of agricultural leaders through immersive education, hands-on training and innovative programs.
Milli Weaver (Randwick LGA) - NSW Young Woman of the Year
Milli is the founder and Chief Executive of the Australian Endometriosis Foundation, a volunteer-run charity she established at the age of 24 in 2023 to address the gap in peer-led support and advocacy for young people with endometriosis.
The Awards also showcased 10 inspirational girls aged 7 to 15 who were awarded in the Ones to Watch category for their acts of courage, strength and kindness to help and support those around them.
The Ones to Watch recipients (7–15 years) for 2026 are:
- Imali Bamji (Hunters Hill LGA)
- Piper Clarke (Shoalhaven LGA)
- Hafsa Faizan (Liverpool LGA)
- Emma Hoskins (Blacktown LGA)
- Amalia Carolyn Howard (Dubbo LGA)
- Elly Ings (Northern Beaches LGA)
- Hannah Orr (Goulburn Mulwaree LGA)
- Ruvi Pooliyadde (Blacktown LGA)
- Shanvi Govinda Raju (Penrith LGA)
- Ivy Walker (Hornsby LGA)
The Women of the Year Awards ceremony was held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday morning, March 5. It is the flagship event of NSW Women’s Week 2026 which runs from Monday 2 March to International Women’s Day on Sunday 8 March.
Since 2012, the NSW Women of the Year Awards have celebrated women and girls whose determination, leadership and advocacy are shaping a stronger, more inclusive New South Wales.
More information about the NSW Women of the Year Awards program, including the full recipient and finalist biographies, is available at https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/awards-and-events/nsw-women-of-year-awards.
Deputy Premier New South Wales Prue Car said:
“These award recipients represent outstanding women and girls across New South Wales who lead with courage and purpose.
“Each of these remarkable women represent the very best of our state, and I commend them for their extraordinary contributions.
“To every award winner recognised today, thank you for the powerful impact you have made in your fields and communities.”
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:
“Each year, the NSW Women of the Year Awards shines the light on women and girls who are driving meaningful change across our state.
“This year’s recipients and finalists come from diverse backgrounds and communities, but they share a common commitment to lifting others up and creating a fairer future. Their stories remind us of the power of leadership grounded in service and empathy.
“Congratulations to the NSW Women of the Year, the Ones to Watch and our Local Women of the Year. Thank you for your contributions to our communities, and being the leaders that others can aspire to.”
NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence 2026 recipient, Professor Tracey O’Brien, AM said:
“I'm humbled and deeply grateful to be recognised alongside women making a difference across NSW. After more than 25 years in the public health system in frontline cancer care, I have seen tremendous progress, but the impact of cancer on individuals, families, communities and our economy remains profound and is increasing. Healthcare is always a team effort and I am grateful to the clinical teams, researchers and communities that I have had the privilege to serve with.
“When we celebrate women who challenge inequality and create impact, we expand the horizon for the next generation and signal leadership comes in many forms, across every community in NSW.”
NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year 2026 recipient, Adjunct Professor Nicole Turner said:
“I feel deeply honoured to be the 2026 NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year. I see this recognition not as a personal achievement, but as a tribute to the Elders, mentors and communities who paved the way for myself and for Aboriginal leadership.”
“For women and girls, particularly Aboriginal women and girls, seeing diverse role models celebrated helps build confidence and a sense of possibility.”
Background
The Local Women of the Year Awards celebrate visionary thinkers, everyday heroes, social advocates, and trailblazing role models making a meaningful difference in their communities. This year, a total of 94 inspiring women have been nominated by their local Members of Parliament as part of NSW Women’s Week (2–8 March) - a week-long celebration that empowers women and promotes gender equality across the state.
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said: “The Local Woman of the Year 2026 recognises and honours the contributions of everyday women and girls across New South Wales who are making a difference in their communities. Local MPs have nominated exceptional women whose efforts inspire us all. Congratulations and thank you to every Local Woman of the Year - this recognition is truly well deserved.”
Learn more about the Women of the Year Awards and watch the livestream by visiting www.nsw.gov.au/wotya26