THIRTY-two inspirational women are soon to be recognised for their service to our local community as finalists in the upcoming Sunshine Coast Inspiring Women Awards.

Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson has announced the names of the women selected from the host of great nominations received for the four categories of the awards.

The 2017 finalists are:

1. Community Leadership Award - sponsored by Think Money: Deb Blakeney (Lions inPlace homelessness and DFV support), Carmel Crouch (STEPS), Robyn Elkojje (ComLink), Maria Faulder(Suite Three Hair), Barb Holden (Coolum HeARTS), Dr Lynette Maguire (My Wedding Wish), Jesma O'Hara (Neighbours Aid Community Stores), Vicki Stewart (Stewart Property, Mooloolaba Rotary) and Rachel Witton (SunnyKids).

2. Community Volunteer Award - sponsored by White's IGA: Audienne Blyth (Yandina & District Historical Society), Lorraine Buhk OAM (Alexandra Headland SLSC), Val Colley (Mudjimba SLSC), Marilyn Holness (Zonta Club of Caloundra), Natalie Jarrott (Maroochydore SLSC and Immanuel Lutheran College Netball Club), Joy Kefford (Guide Dogs Queensland), Gail King (Coolum Beach SLSC), Sharon Madgwick (Landsborough State School and Twinnies Pelican & Seabird Rescue), Linese Norrish (Coolum & North Shore Coast Care), Robi O'Keeffe, Smart Pups), Jeanne Parry (Mudjimba SLSC), Katie Thompson (Be Hers), Myra Timmerman (U3A Sunshine Coast) and Charmaine Wheatley (Mooloolaba Rotary, Lions International).

3. Young Leader Award - sponsored by Suncoast Christian College: Nicole Carty, Miranda Crosby, Cassie Feldman, Faith Liberato, Alyssa McLean and Samara Welbourne.

4. Carer Award - sponsored by Sundale: Deb Anderson, Sharon Fulwood and Cathy O'Sullivan.

All the finalists will be invited as guests of honour at a gala presentation dinner to be held on Friday, March 10, at 6.30pm at the Lake Kawana Community Centre where the four overall winners will be announced.

Ms Simpson said she was looking forward to acknowledging these special women for the difference they made to our Sunshine Coast community.

"In the lead-up to International Women's Day, I am delighted to honour these women for the commitment they make to serving others and their dedication to our community,” Ms Simpson said.

Ms Simpson thanked the local business and not-for-profit community for coming together to sponsor and promote these awards.

"All the finalists will be our special guests at the awards night, thanks to the generosity of local businesses who have generously sponsored the awards,” she said.

Link: https://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/news/inspirational-women-of-the-sunshine-coast-take-a-b/3140193/