This is the last week that nominations are open for the Fleurieu Women’s community awards, held in celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD).

The awards will be presented at the IWD breakfast on Friday 7 March at Encounter Bay Football Club.

The event is run by VIEW (voice, interests and education of women) Club in conjunction with Finniss MP David Basham.

Now in its twelfth year, it aims to draw awareness to International Women’s Day and nominations are being sought now for outstanding or inspirational Fleurieu Women.

In the past The Smith Family and Fleurieu Community Foundation have been worthy recipients of funds raised by the breakfast event.

Mr Basham says the awards acknowledge the often quiet achievers who make a contribution to the business, volunteer or youth world of the Fleurieu.

Local author Darry Fraser will be this year’s guest speaker at the breakfast event. 

The 2024 Fleurieu Inspirational Business Woman was TJ, from Goolwa’s Thai Days restaurant, who has since gone on to open Siam Seaside in Victor Harbor.

Beyond her business success, TJ attributes much of her growth to investing in mindfulness and wellness, enabling her to lead with confidence and energy.

Her commitment to her team extends beyond training and skill development. She ensures her staff's well-being through team-building activities, like beach volleyball, and creates an environment that fosters connection and growth. 

TJ’s success as a leader is rooted in her belief that when her team thrives, her business thrives.

She deeply values the Fleurieu Peninsula and the sense of community it offers. “I love the region, the people, and the peacefulness,” she says. 

Winning last year’s award filled her with pride: "I felt so proud to win. I am just a girl from the Thai countryside who couldn’t speak English, and I’ve come so far from that young girl and her background."

Mr Basham says the awards help celebrate the varied range of talented and hardworking local people.

“I encourage everyone to consider outstanding or inspirational women in the Fleurieu and nominate them. The form is not complex, and nominees will be acknowledged, which could positively influence, even change, their life in a significant way.“

The award categories include Young female ambassador, Community volunteer and Inspirational business woman; nominations close Friday 14 February.

“It is a pleasure to continue to work with the VH View Club to highlight the important roles women have in our local community.“

Find a nomination form online. Contact the Finniss Electorate Office on 8552 2152 for further information or visit the website.

Book to attend the breakfast event on 7 March at 7.30am via Trybooking.