The first ever TFSS Local Women’s Awards was held this morning at Armidale City Bowling Club with over fifty people in attendance.

TFSS CEO Belinda Kotris sent her congratulations to all nominees, runners up and winners.

“With hosting this event, we wanted to shine a spotlight on woman in our community who thanklessly go around volunteering and working in the community. From the nominations received, I am encouraged by the strong community spirit here in Armidale.”

Nearly thirty nominations were received from across the community, where each nomination is judged by an independent panel including current Armidale residents.

Outstanding Community Woman

For her selfless dedication towards serving her community, Ms Helen Browning was awarded Outstanding Community Woman. Ms Browning is a Life Member of CWA, volunteers for Meals-on-wheels and Probus, whilst also volunteering to drive senior citizens to weekly church services.

Two runners up were announced for this award category, Ms Lynda Lynch and Tammy Marriott.

Well known for her work at BackTrack Youth Works, Ms Lynch is an active supporter of youth and their families while also volunteering time to help out with local fundraisers and the Pony Club.

As a foster carer and experienced community services worker, Ms Tammy Marriott was credited for her kindness, expertise and dedication to her community.

Outstanding Community Businesswoman

Owner and operator of Armidale Ultrasound and X-Ray Ms Tanja Van Der Walt was awarded winner of Outstanding Community Businesswoman, who was celebrated for her unwavering commitment towards providing accessible medical support for the community.

Local Hairdresser Ms Kimaree Drury was acknowledged as runner up in this category, for her exceptional customer service and work to provide cost effective haircuts across the wider community.

Outstanding Young Community Woman (16-24 years)

Ms Brooke Turner was awarded Outstanding Young Community Woman. As a proud Kamillaroi women and third-year social work student. Her infectious personality and empathy stem from her experience undergoing corrective hip surgery.

Through her disability, Brooke and her family successfully advocated for a change to the Government disability parking age requirement. She aims to continue to advocate for community change and support the Armidale community through her volunteering efforts.

TFSS Award of Resilience

The recipient of the TFSS Award of Resilience is Ms Tina Rimpici. Tina has faced many challenges over the last couple of years, including surviving cancer and being made redundant. Despite all this, Tina has remained positive. She recently started working at Good Price Pharmacy and is commended for her exceptional customer service.

“On behalf of TFSS, I would like to thank the local businesses and staff who have helped make this event a reality,” said Ms Kotris.

The event sponsors include Flourish Australia, JJ’s News Agency, SPARS Convenience Store, Elle Bache, Armidale Rentals, Armidale Market Fresh, Renee Maree, Jackson’s Meats, Westside Coffee Shop, Koni Korean Restaurant, Westside Hair, Harvey Norman, R & V’s Furniture Centre.