Women's Honour Roll

International Women's Day Heather Mutimer Honour Roll

International Women’s Day is celebrated across the world on 8 March each year. The purpose of the day is to recognise women and their achievements.

In 2005, the Heather Mutimer Honour Roll was established to pay tribute to the women in the Hepburn Shire whose contributions, courage and examples have led to significant social change for women.

The roll provides a forum to acknowledge women who have made a difference in our Shire. By acknowledging these women, past and present, they become role models for generations to come.

We encourage you to think about a woman you know who deserves to be recognised.

Nominations

Nominations for the IWD Heather Mutimer Women's Honour Roll are currently closed.

The International Women's Day Honour Roll Advisory Committee makes recommendations to Council on up to five recipients each year. Posthumous nominations can also be submitted.

Nominations can be submitted under one or more of the following categories:

Trailblazer: an inspiring role model who effectively leads the way for women starting out in a field that is traditionally male-dominated and has significant barriers for women
Local champion: a dedicated member of their community who has used their skills and expertise in a voluntary or professional capacity
Change agent: a woman who has made an enduring commitment in their field of expertise, interest or endeavour that has brought about significant and lasting change
Emerging leader: a young woman redefining leadership in their career, field or passion
Leading through disaster: a woman who has led their organisation or community in disaster preparedness and response at a grassroots, state or global level.

International Women's Day 2026

In 2026, four women were inducted to the International Women’s Day Heather Mutimer Women’s Honour Roll at an event in Creswick on Wednesday 4 March.

This year we welcomed Pauline Hawker, Betty Rea (posthumous and accepted by Stefan Rea), Erica Higgins and Kate Smith to the honour roll.

Mayor, Cr Tony Clark, said that it was a wonderful event that honoured the amazing achievements of our local women.

"A heartfelt congratulations to these remarkable women for their outstanding contributions in their fields. You serve as inspiring role models for the next generation," he said.

This year featured keynote speaker Katrina Baraquiel and her guest Brenda Nakanjakko. Katrina is an advocate for women and gender-diverse people in the Grampians region and spoke about her lived experience and evidence-based research addressing intersectional barriers to access.

The event also showcased presentations from Daylesford College students (Martha, Matilda and Jamie), artworks by Creswick Primary School students, and performer Amie Brûlée.