Released 07/03/2019
Emma Sckrabei is the 2019 ACT Woman of the Year for her outstanding work in removing barriers and stigma for women within the male-dominated construction industry and providing training and employment initiatives which specifically support women in returning to the workforce.
This remarkable Canberran has played a critical role in delivering SPARK (Ginninderry’s Training and Employment Initiative) and the Women Return to Work Workshop Program, as well as providing training opportunity pathways for girls into the building and construction industry.
Emma is well known for her personable approach to every trainee and participant involved in the program. She often goes far beyond what is expected of someone in her position, but she does this because it’s clear that she deeply cares about the people at the centre of her training programs, and wants everyone to have a decent shot at life. Thankfully for the ACT, Emma has been incredibly enthusiastic about the Return to Work program for women and has made a real difference to many women’s lives.
Ms Morgan Marshall has been named ACT Young Woman of the Year and Dr Aunty Anne Martin AM has been named ACT Senior Woman of the Year. An additional Ministerial Award for her exceptional contribution to raising the status of women in the ACT over many years through her various roles has been given to Marcia Williams. An honourable mention has also been given for Helen Petrou who sadly passed away this year, for her significant contribution in the emergency services sector.
Morgan Marshall has done significant work in inspiring a new generation of women to pursue STEM subjects and careers through her tireless work with Robogals Canberra.
Dr Aunty Anne Martin AM is a Yuin Aboriginal woman who has supported the advancement of Indigenous rights and assisted Indigenous women more broadly, particularly in the field of education.
Marcia Williams has made an outstanding contribution over many years as Chair of the Domestic Violence Prevention Council (DVPC) and as CEO of the Women’s Centre for Health Matters. Her effective evidence-based advocacy has undoubtedly influenced the government’s response to domestic and family violence, and women’s health matters.
Helen Petrou was one of the ACT Ambulance Service’s longest serving officers spanning 19 years where she assisted thousands of Canberrans. Helen’s memory as someone who espoused the belief that ‘women can do anything’ will live on through the service and the mark that she left on her family and colleagues, and she is commended for her dedication and bravery over the many years that she served for the community.
On this International Women’s Day 2019, we celebrate the achievements of women in our community and continue to address issues to support Canberra women and girls.
The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, #BalanceforBetter, highlights the improvements for individuals and society that can be achieved through improved gender equality. It urges us to “Better the balance, [to] better the world”.
See the full overview of the winners.
Media welcome to attend: Ainslie Arts Centre
6:00pm to 8:00 pm
Thursday 7 March 2019
- Statement ends -
Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases
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