Port Stephens Council awards four International Women’s Day scholarships

newy.com.au – Four Port Stephens women have been awarded $1,000 scholarships in recognition of their contributions across business, sport, health and community leadership, with the recipients of the 2026 International Women’s Day Scholarships announced by Port Stephens Council.

The scholarships were presented at an event at Soldiers Point Bowling Club on Saturday 7 March. Council’s International Women’s Day Scholarship program offers three $1,000 scholarships each year to support women across arts, culture, environment, business, community, health and sport, with a fourth $1,000 scholarship sponsored by the Rotary Club of Salamander Bay.

Mayor Leah Anderson said the program recognised the contribution women make locally. “The International Women’s Day Scholarship is about acknowledging the impact women have in Port Stephens. We are removing barriers to help them work towards their goals and provide practical support to take the next step,” Mayor Anderson said.

Thirteen applications were submitted for this year’s scholarships. Mayor Anderson thanked all applicants for sharing their ideas and aspirations, saying the successful recipients reflected the diversity of women contributing across the region.

Madison-Kate Davidson will use her scholarship to develop practical resources to help parents and carers confidently talk to children about body safety and protective behaviours, with the material aimed at supporting prevention and family wellbeing. Precious Mbara will expand her cupcake decorating workshops for young women, which create safe and inclusive spaces designed to build confidence, creativity and connection.

Ava Foster, who has represented NSW and Australia in touch football, will continue competing at a high level while also mentoring local girls and delivering skill development opportunities in Port Stephens. Holly Kennedy will continue providing free nutrition education and develop community-based preventive health initiatives focused on equity and long-term wellbeing. Her scholarship was sponsored by the Rotary Club of Salamander Bay.

Mayor Anderson said this year’s International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain, reflected the spirit of the scholarship program. “When women are supported to grow their skills, leadership and confidence, it strengthens families, workplaces and our wider community. These women are giving their time, knowledge and leadership back to our community,” Mayor Anderson said.

“When we invest in women who are investing in others, we all gain,” Mayor Anderson added.

The scholarship is open to women aged 16 years and over from across Port Stephens and forms part of council’s broader community funding and scholarship programs supporting education, personal development and community leadership across the region.