Event Information
The Rural Women’s Network hosted a special evening to recognise the vital role women volunteers play in their communities. Without their time and dedication, many organisations would struggle to operate.
The event featured a panel discussion on the benefits of volunteering, a welcome drink, delicious food, entertainment, gift bags, and wellbeing services. The NSW Minister for Women and Volunteering, the Hon. Jodie Harrison MP, was also in attendance.
It was a memorable night to honour, appreciate, and celebrate the contributions of women who give their time to others.
View the photo album from the event, Connecting Communities - Thank You NSW Volunteers
Meet your MC, Jean Kittson AM
Jean Kittson AM is a beloved author, public speaker, actor, and comedian known for her sharp wit and engaging presence.
She rose to national fame on The Big Gig and has since starred in iconic shows like Let the Blood Run Free, Good News Week, and Mother and Son. Jean's humour and intelligence make her a regular on ABC Radio's Thank God It's Friday, and she is also a successful columnist and bestselling author of 'You're Still Hot to Me: The Joys of Menopause' and 'We Need to Talk About Mum and Dad: A Practical Guide to Parenting Our Ageing Parents'.
Her work in aged care and women's health is profound - she recently co-created and presented aged care modules for Carer Gateway (Federal Government) and regularly delivers keynotes and panels for aged care, carer, volunteer, and women's health care sectors for local, state, and federal governments. Jean is also a frequent presenter at schools, inspiring young minds with her wit and wisdom.
In addition to her advocacy, Jean recently created her own one-woman comedy show, 'Jean Kittson Bangs On', which premiered at the Sydney Comedy Festival and is now on tour, further solidifying her status as a beloved figure in Australian comedy. Her contributions to entertainment and social causes earned her the appointment of Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2023.
What is the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll?
The Hidden Treasures Honour Roll acknowledges the important volunteer roles women and girls play within NSW regional, rural and remote communities.
It is a way to acknowledge and thank women and girls who volunteer through a public tribute to recognise the vast number of women and girls who give their time and energy to help others. Women and girls are nominated by peers, friends, or their volunteer organisation and those over the age of 18 can also self-nominate to be included on the digital Honour Roll.
Hidden Treasures has recognised 1,348 women and girls volunteering in regional, rural and remote NSW since 2010.