THE ROCK'S VICKIE BURKINSHAW OUR WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Vickie Burkinshaw from The Rock is the Wagga Wagga Local Woman of the Year 2025.
The Local Women of the Year Awards recognise and celebrate progressive thinkers, everyday heroes, social advocates and innovative role models.
This year, 93 women have been nominated by their local MPs to be acknowledged during NSW Women’s Week (2-8 March); an annual week-long celebration of women in NSW through a program of activities that empower women and promote gender equality.
Award recipient Vickie Burkinshaw was nominated by the Independent Member for Wagga Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr, for her outstanding work in the community supporting the arts and promoting inclusivity.
The owner of The Curious Rabbit and the President of the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, Ms Burkinshaw is a leading figure in the arts community and has long been a valued mentor for creatives in all fields.
Her gallery provides a valuable space for emerging and touring artists, and she is recognised for amplifying new voices in the sector.
As a champion of social causes, Ms Burkinshaw is well known for fostering diversity and social connections within the community.
She is President of the Wagga Wagga Women’s Health Centre and has led ongoing initiatives to provide counselling, support and other services to local women.
Each Local Woman of the Year award recipient will receive their certificates at the 2025 NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday 6 March.
Recipients who volunteer and live in regional, rural and remote areas of NSW will also be added to the 2024 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll; a public tribute to recognise the vast number of women who volunteer their time and energy to help others.
To learn more about the Women of the Year Awards program and view the livestream, click here. For more about Hidden Treasures click here.
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:
“The Local Woman of the Year 2025 recognises, celebrates, and honours the contributions of women and girls across NSW. Local MPs across the state have nominated stellar women in their communities whose contributions are an inspiration to everyone. Congratulations and thank you to all the Local Women of the Year – this is recognition you deserve.”
The Independent Member for Wagga Wagga Dr Joe McGirr said:
“I am delighted to announce Vickie as the recipient of the Local Woman of the Year Award.
“Her dedication to the arts and fostering and encouraging emerging voices to shine has helped our vibrant arts sector to reach new heights and I know many creatives are very grateful for her help.
“Her leadership in women’s health has been invaluable in supporting and empowering women and making a huge difference to their health and welfare, while her dedication to inclusivity has made Wagga Wagga an even more welcoming and tolerant community.
“I’m proud to have Vickie as an exceptional role model in our community, dedicating her efforts to making Wagga Wagga a better place for all women and inspiring others to work towards a brighter future.”