Steph Cooke MP With Jugiong’s Jen Sturrock.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is calling on residents across the electorate to recognise the extraordinary contributions of local women by nominating them for the 2026 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll.
The Honour Roll, coordinated by the NSW Rural Women’s Network, celebrates the often-unseen efforts of women who dedicate their time to supporting community groups, sporting clubs, emergency services, schools and charitable causes across regional, rural and remote NSW. Ms Cooke said volunteers play a vital role in keeping country communities strong and connected.
“Our volunteers are the heartbeat of small towns. Whether they are coaching junior sport, organising community events, supporting families in need or serving with local emergency services, their generosity enriches every corner of our communities,” Ms Cooke said.
Nominations open ahead of National Volunteer Week, which will be held from 19 to 25 April 2026. This year’s theme, ‘Your Year to Volunteer,’ celebrates the impact of volunteers and encourages more people to get involved in community life.
Since the Honour Roll began in 2010, more than 1,300 women across NSW have been recognised for their contributions, including over 90 women from the Cootamundra electorate. Ms Cooke said the awards provide an important opportunity to publicly thank women whose work often goes unrecognised. “Many of these women quietly give their time year after year without seeking recognition,” Ms Cooke said.
“This is our chance to acknowledge their dedication and ensure stories are told.
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