Centenarian Joan Palmer Honoured as 2025 Maitland Local Woman of the Year

Joan Palmer, a beloved figure in the Maitland and Hunter community, has been named the 2025 Maitland Local Woman of the Year, recognising her incredible contributions spanning more than seven decades. The award was presented at a special event last Friday night, co-hosted by the Women’s Network (Hunter) NSW, where approximately 70 attendees gathered to celebrate Joan and six other outstanding nominees.

Joan’s connection to Maitland began in 1946 when she moved to the area as a young schoolteacher. Over the next 40 years, she dedicated herself to shaping young minds across the Hunter region, serving in both teaching and principal roles at various schools, including Vacy, Morpeth, Mayfield West, and Scone public schools. Her legacy in education is only one part of a lifetime spent giving back to the community.

A long-time supporter of Legacy since 1949, Joan has also played a key role in the local arts scene as a founding member of the Maitland Repertory Society. However, it is perhaps her unwavering dedication to the Maitland Golf Club that has left the deepest mark. Having joined in 1947, she served on the club’s committee for 18 years, including four years as President and nine as Vice President. Her commitment was recognised with Life Membership in 1999. Even after the club’s amalgamation with the Bowling Club in 2003, Joan remained actively involved, earning the title of Joint Patron of Easts in 2013—a role she still holds today.

At 102 years old, Joan remains an inspiration, a fact noted by The Hon. Jenny Aitchison MP, who praised her lifelong service. “This is such a well-deserved honour for Joan. Her contribution to education, Legacy, the arts, and her beloved game of golf is beyond compare. Joan is an inspiration to all who have the pleasure of meeting her,” Ms Aitchison said.

Joan’s acceptance speech was met with warmth and admiration, as she humorously reflected, “It’s only taken me 102 years to win!” She also took the time to acknowledge the other nominees and their contributions, fondly recalling past experiences with Maitland’s community leaders, including Federal MP Meryl Swanson.

The event, attended by notable figures such as Minister The Hon. Kate Washington MP, Meryl Swanson MP, and several Maitland and Hunter Valley councillors, highlighted the importance of recognising the work of local women. NSW Minister for Women Jodie Harrison commended all recipients of the 2025 Local Woman of the Year Awards, stating that such women are the “pillars of their communities,” tirelessly dedicating their time and energy to making a positive impact.

The Maitland Local Woman of the Year Award is part of the broader NSW Government initiative that acknowledges the outstanding efforts of women during NSW Women’s Week, aligning with International Women’s Day on 8 March.

All seven nominees for the 2025 award, including Montana Duggan, Margaret Enright, Ingrid Heyman, Samantha Kulupach, Angie Ussher, and Christine Walmsley, were recognised with certificates and flowers. Their achievements will also be acknowledged in the NSW Parliament through Community Recognition Statements.

Joan Palmer’s story is a testament to a lifetime of service, leadership, and dedication—an example of the remarkable impact one person can have on a community.