Zonta Women of the Shoalhaven Awards 2023

Yesterday I was honoured to attend the Zonta Club’s International Women’s Day celebration at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre. Each year, Zonta clubs celebrate International Women’s Day by giving tribute to the people who have most inspired them. Women from all walks of life were honoured with over 17 categories from Agriculture to Volunteer of the year.

I am very pleased to announce that our own Mrs Bernice Mathie-Morris won the Education category for her exceptional contribution to children in the early years. Bernice has been the Director of the Bomaderry Community Preschool for the past 13 years and prior to this was the leader at Shoalhaven Community Preschool. Bernice is also the Director of Early Learning at Nowra Anglican College, overseeing our Kindergarten programs.

Bernice is well known for her advocacy for each child and recognises the strengths and talents of all children. Each child is well known and supported in our Kindergarten, Banksia, Gumnut and Wattle rooms and the emphasis on learning through play is a significant feature in these spaces. Bernice is passionate about creating an environment which is calm and inviting for all of our families. She is also passionate about developing the incredible talents of our youngest learners and the adoption of a Reggio Emilia approach to learning is evident. I am always fascinated by the nurturing of the skills and abilities of our littlest ones. This was most evident in the Power of Place exhibition held at Nowra over six years ago which still stands out in my memory as significant in recognising the exceptional abilities of our children.

Such a well-deserved recognition of Bernice’s energy, effort and talents. She is such an inspiring leader in education.

Mrs Lorrae Sampson
Principal

Excerpt from Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC Governor of New South Wales

Women’s achievements and contributions to the community once went unheralded. But no longer, as is apparent from Shoalhaven Community’s wholehearted support for the Zonta Berry “Women of the Shoalhaven” Awards Gala event.

In recognising the 200 women nominated for the Awards, we honour the many women, from all walks of life in the Shoalhaven, whose achievements and contributions make such a difference to this vibrant and diverse community.

Women are nominated for these Awards because their contributions are appreciated and valued in the community, by the community. It is their passion, commitment and selfless generosity, the giving of their time and energy, as well as using their skills and expertise to support community, emergency, cultural and professional organisations, which ensures that the Shoalhaven community thrives.

Congratulations and thank you to all nominees, finalists and winners.