Social-justice campaigner Dr Cynthia Briggs and rural health advocate Nicole Scholes-Robertson, have been named finalists in the 2021 NSW Women of the Year Awards.
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The two Armidale women have committed their lives to improving social and health outcomes for rural and regional people, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall said when announcing the nominations.
Dr Briggs has been named a finalist in the NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year category, while Ms Scholes-Robertson is nominated for NSW Regional Woman of the Year.
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The purpose of these awards is to shine a spotlight on the ground-breaking work being done every day by inspiring women across the state.
A secondary school and TAFE teacher, Dr Briggs has had input into educational support initiatives to improve literacy, numeracy and retention rates of Aboriginal students.
Dr Briggs is a strong voice on a number of important committees, including the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group, Gamilaraay Aboriginal Legal Services and the DV NSW Board.
Ms Scholes-Robertson was being recognised for her advocacy on behalf of patients with chronic kidney disease.
Following a kidney transplant herself, she launched the Rural Kidney Association to support others from the bush suffering from kidney disease.
Ms Scholes-Robertson has raised $23,500 for the renal unit at Armidale Hospital and the RPA Transplant Institute by walking 525 kilometres in 21 days, and also launched the 'Norm Bourke Box' to supply essential health items to rural home dialysis patients.
"Just being nominated for these awards is a huge honour and I wish both Cynthia and Nicole the greatest success," Mr Marshall said.
There are seven award categories in the 2021 program, including the new 'NSW Woman of Excellence' which highlights women who affected lasting change in her field.
Winners will be announced on March 10 during NSW Women's Week, at an awards ceremony at Sydney's International Convention Centre.