2025 National Council of Women of Queensland Bursary Presentations

Representing the City of Moreton Bay Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Councillor Jodie Shipway; Councillor for Central Ward, Councillor Vicki Howard; National Council of Women of Queensland President, Ms Sandy Smith; Bursary Program Manager, Ms Kathy Cavanagh AM; bursary recipients; distinguished guests.

I too begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people here today.

As Patron of the National Council of Women of Queensland, I am pleased and proud to join you this afternoon to honour a well-deserving group of individuals, including 38 new bursary recipients, who are now part of a group of 425 recipients since the program commenced in 2009.

The sheer breadth of bursary categories reflects the diverse and meaningful ways women are enriching every facet of our society.

This year’s recipients are women working or studying in fields as varied as domestic and family violence support, education, STEM, allied health, nursing, communications, child welfare, sport, and the arts.

They span generations and come from diverse ethnic, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds. What unites them is their leadership, commitment to community, and unwavering determination to succeed—often in the face of distance, hardship, or disadvantage.

In this way, the program continues to break down the obstacles that might otherwise restrict opportunities.

Since the NCWQ’s inception, in 1905—the same year, I might add that Queensland women were finally granted the right to vote in state elections—the organisation has pursued greater equality; to enable women to fully participate in all aspects of life.

It has pushed the boundaries to extend women’s involvement into areas previously the domain of men, and encouraged greater financial independence.

As Patron, and a female Governor, I am so pleased to see such inroads being made, and I am also deeply grateful to the visionary bursary sponsors, who, through their support, help make these advancements possible. The scope of the program is not only admirable, but its continuing expansion is immensely encouraging, because I know that every woman who earns a bursary is one step closer to achieving her dreams.

I also thank “Team Bursary” who work so hard to field the applications and raise awareness of the program far and wide, and the National Council of Women of Queensland Board, staff, members, volunteers and all supporters who work with such commitment and passion every day, for the women of this state.

Finally, my sincere congratulations to all our recipients today. It takes great bravery, self-belief and optimism to put yourself forward for consideration. I wish you all the greatest success in the future, and encourage you to maintain your involvement with the NCWQ, as the organisation provides such valuable opportunities for you to connect with others. I look forward to hearing your stories.

Congratulations.