Deputy Mayor Leah Anderson thanked the Rotary Club of Salamander Bay, who not only hosted the formal presentation dinner but has again sponsored a fourth scholarship this year.

“The theme for the 2024 International Women’s Day campaign is 'Count her in: Invest in Women’ and while progress has been made, women still face significant obstacles,” Deputy Mayor Anderson said.

“This scholarship program highlights the amazing work being undertaken right here in our community, celebrating the social, cultural, economic and political achievements of women.

“I’d like to congratulate the 2024 scholarship recipients, as well as each of the applicants – you’re all playing your part to build and invest in women and strengthen their capacity to learn, earn and lead,” she added.

“Women make a valuable contribution to our community across various fields. When women are inspired, they fight for change and equal opportunity, support and recognition.

“It’s been wonderful to see how the recipients of our International Women’s Day Scholarships have worked to impact positive change since the program was first introduced 7 years ago.

“We’re proud to continue to offer this support and look forward to seeing how this year’s winners use their scholarships to achieve their goals,” said Deputy Mayor Anderson.

The 2024 International Women’s Day Scholarship recipients are:

Sally-Anne Marshall
A dedicated and tireless social worker who has served the community of Port Stephens for 8 years. There are very few face-to-face social workers in the area, but Sally-Anne has been a beacon of hope for women who have survived domestic violence, homelessness, and other adversities.

Now, Sally-Anne is taking her advocacy work to the next level by focusing on disability, particularly those with neurodivergence. With the help of this scholarship, she hopes to continue her passion in this space and develop much-needed books and resources that will support the community.

Emma McMillan
The proud owner of the Wellness Centre in Port Stephens. With many years of experience in the wellbeing and community services industry, Emma is passionate about helping people live their best lives.

With the help of this scholarship, Emma is taking her commitment to the next level. She's been working hard to bring weekly wellness classes to those in need, including people experiencing hardship, homelessness, family and domestic violence, NDIS, or mental health issues.

This scholarship will also help Emma to expand her initiative and offer even more support to people in our community who are struggling.

Brodie Oxlade
A courageous survivor of child abuse and post traumatic stress disorder who is determined to turn her pain into purpose.

Brodie has an incredible story to share, and she is ready to share it with the world through a memoir that will raise awareness about these issues. But publishing a book is no small feat, and Brodie can't do it alone–that's where the Port Stephens Council IWD scholarship will assist.

Brodie will use the scholarship to help cover the costs of publishing her book, including legal checks, editing, formatting, printing, and distribution. By helping Brodie, we’re also helping make a difference in the lives of countless people who are struggling with similar experiences.

Brodie's memoir will be a powerful tool for raising awareness and helping others heal.

Jacie Whitfield – Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Salamander Bay
Jacie has a passion for empowering women through their menopausal transition, post-partum recovery, and infant care.

She wants to bring her expertise to the beautiful community of Port Stephens through workshops and classes, all of which will be available via a mobile service.

With the help of the IWD scholarship funds, Jacie hopes to level up her skills, education, and training, as well as expand her marketing strategies. Additionally, the funds will also be used to provide top-of-the-line equipment for her sessions.

For more information on Council’s International Women’s Day Scholarships, including past winners visit portstephens.nsw.gov.au/international-womens-day-scholarship