At our 2026 Changeover Luncheon, the Rotary Club of Salisbury (SA) proudly launched a new annual tradition: the Outstanding Women of Action Awards.

The idea for the Women of Action Awards began as a 2025/26 Community Team project to celebrate International Women’s Day through a club meeting. While circumstances meant the project did not proceed in its original form, the purpose behind it was too important to leave behind. Following discussions with PP Anthea Walker, PP Kristianne Foreman, Mary Purbrick, PP Mignon Clark, President Elect Nominee Rosalind, Jenni Thompson and President 2025/26 Damien Walker, President 2026/27 Martin Foreman, it was agreed that this concept deserved to continue and become part of our club’s legacy.

Across our Rotary Club, workplaces, businesses and wider community, there are women leading, advocating, supporting others and creating impact every day, often without seeking recognition. These awards provide an opportunity to honour that service and celebrate women whose actions inspire others and contribute to a stronger, more connected and inclusive community.

The name Women of Action is deliberate. Rotary is known throughout the world as a network of People of Action. We do not simply identify challenges; we work together to solve them. We do not simply talk about making a difference; we actively create change.

The Women of Action Awards recognise women who embody that same spirit. They lead, serve and strengthens the people around them and communities they are part of.

These awards recognise sustained and meaningful action that creates positive change in our community. The recipients are women who have empowered others, supported women and girls, and contributed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive Salisbury community. These awards celebrate women who lead not because they seek recognition, but because they care deeply about the people and communities around them.

Two awards will be presented annually to ensure both Rotary and the wider community are represented.

1. The Outstanding Community Woman of Action Award recognises a woman connected to the Salisbury community who has demonstrated outstanding service, leadership, advocacy and meaningful action to support others and strengthen community life. This award may be presented to either a Rotary member or a member of the wider community.
2. The Outstanding Business Woman of Action Award recognises a woman in business, enterprise or professional life who demonstrates leadership, integrity, innovation and a commitment to creating positive impact through her work and community contribution.

Each recipient will receive a certificate and trophy, with their name also placed on the perpetual trophy, which will be displayed at the AllSorts Op Shop.

We congratulate our inaugural Women of Action Award recipients