ANN ADAMS NAMED WAGGA WOMAN OF THE YEAR

Ann Adams OAM from Gumly Gumly has been named the Wagga Wagga Local Woman of the Year for 2026.

The Local Women of the Year Awards celebrate visionary thinkers, everyday heroes, social advocates, and trailblazing role models who make a meaningful difference in their communities.

This year, a total of 94 inspiring women have been nominated by their local Members of Parliament as part of NSW Women’s Week (2–8 March) - a week-long celebration that empowers women and promotes gender equality across the state.

Award recipient Ann Adams OAM was nominated by Dr Joe McGirr, Member for Wagga Wagga, in recognition of her outstanding contributions across the community through her work with the Country Women’s Association (CWA).

Ann has been a member of CWA for 58 years, holding various positions within Oura CWA, the Riverina CWA Group and the State branch. She was instrumental in delivering the State CWA Conference in Wagga Wagga in 2025, a mammoth task, and it has been described as one of the best State Conferences.

All Local Women of the Year will be recognised during the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony, held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday 5 March.

Women who volunteer and reside in regional, rural, and remote areas of NSW will also be honoured through inclusion in the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll - a public tribute acknowledging the countless women who generously give their time and energy to support others.

Learn more about the Women of the Year Awards and watch the livestream by visiting www.nsw.gov.au/wotya26.

For more information about the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll, visit www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/rural-womens-network/hidden-treasures-honour-roll.

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.”

Wagga Wagga MP, Dr Joe McGirr said:

 “I’m incredibly proud to see Ann recognised as a role model in our community. Her dedication to the local community and commitment to empowering women is both admirable and inspiring.”

 “CWA is a cornerstone organisation for supporting women in regional NSW, and Ann has dedicated decades of her life to ensuring the ongoing success of the local and State branches – in doing so, supporting many other women while strengthening a pillar of our community.”