Mayor Ryan Palmer said the scholarships are one of the ways Council recognises the important contribution women make to our community.

“Now in its fifth year, the Port Stephens International Women’s Day Scholarships support local women to achieve an important goal, whether it’s related to the arts, culture, environment, business, community, health or sport,” Mayor Palmer said.

“There are so many women already doing incredible things across our region, and we know there are many more out there who have an important goal or idea and just need a hand to get them off the ground.

“These scholarships are about providing that added financial support to help make their dreams a reality in 2022.”

2021 recipient Nikita Austin said the scholarship meant she could run her first inclusive school holiday program through her speech pathology.

“We had a great turn out and got some excellent feedback. The money helped with hiring the space, and filling it with resources needed for the children,” she said.

“I would definitely encourage anyone with a passion for supporting Port Stephens to apply. The scholarship can really help to bring your visions to life - exactly what happened with me.”

Mayor Palmer said the scholarships are open to local women aged 16 years and over.

“The International Women’s Day 2022 theme, Changing Climates: Equality today for a sustainable tomorrow, recognises and celebrates the contribution of women and girls around the world, who are working to change the climate of gender equality and build a sustainable future,” he said.

“We’re excited to offer these scholarships for another year to help lift up local women and provide them the opportunity to build their future and reach their goals.”

Applications close 5pm Sunday 13 February 2022, with the winners to be announced at an International Women’s Day lunch in March.

For more information and to apply, visit portstephens.nsw.gov.ay/international-womens-day-scholarship.