Abermain’s Catherine Parsons named Cessnock’s 2026 Local Woman of the Year

newy.com.au – Abermain resident Catherine Parsons has been named the 2026 Local Woman of the Year for the Cessnock electorate, with State Member Clayton Barr saying her decades of service to the arts and the wider community had made her a role model.

Parsons was nominated by Mr Barr as part of the Local Women of the Year Awards, which recognise women and girls making a difference in communities across New South Wales. This year, 94 women were nominated by local MPs during NSW Women’s Week, held from 2 to 8 March.

Mr Barr said Parsons had made outstanding contributions to the Cessnock City community through her dedication to the arts and extensive volunteer work. From the early 1980s until her retirement this year, she served as secretary and convener of the Abermain Eisteddfod, helping maintain the event as a cultural highlight of the Hunter Valley and a platform for performers to build skills and confidence.

For more than 30 years, Parsons has also volunteered with Central Hunter Community Broadcasters, where she continues to serve as 2CHR Association Secretary, Programme Manager and Office Manager. She also served on Cessnock City Council for more than 20 years, including a term as Deputy Mayor, and represented the community on Hunter Health, NSW Forestry and the Newcastle Ports Authority.

Her other community roles have included secretary of the Abermain Plaza Hall Management Committee, membership of the Cessnock City Seniors Week Advisory Committee, 25 years as a Special Religious Education teacher in local schools, lecturing at the Australian Institute of Management Newcastle, foundation membership of the Abermain Heritage Preservation Society in 1998, patronage of the Edgeworth David History Museum, founding Abermain Neath Tidy Towns and leading the group for many years, and volunteering at the 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She has also received a Premier’s Award for contributions to the education of senior citizens.

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said: “The Local Woman of the Year 2026 recognises and honours the contributions of everyday women and girls across New South Wales who are making a difference in their communities.

“Local MPs have nominated exceptional women whose efforts inspire us all.

“Congratulations and thank you to every Local Woman of the Year – this recognition is truly well deserved.”

Mr Barr said: “I’m incredibly proud to see Catherine recognised as a role model in our community.”

“Her dedication to arts and her tireless contributions to the community is both admirable and inspiring.”

All Local Women of the Year were to be recognised at the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday 5 March. Women who volunteer and live in regional, rural and remote areas of NSW are also being honoured through the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll.