Inspiring Women of Moyne

Kayla Grant

Kayla is a dedicated and resilient small business owner who runs her own barber shop in Koroit. As a one-woman operation, she has created a welcoming space where everyone feels at home, while providing exceptional service and genuine support to her community.

Despite facing significant health challenges over the past few years, Kayla’s determination and passion for her craft have never wavered. She continues to deliver outstanding service to her loyal customers and extends her commitment beyond her business as a strong advocate for men’s mental health and a supporter of other local businesses.
Her strength, resilience, and dedication to her community make her a deserving recipient of the Inspiring Women of Moyne Award.

Tricia Smith

Tricia is a dedicated educator, historian, and community leader whose impact across the Moyne Shire has been profound. With a lifelong commitment to education, she has shaped young minds in rural and Indigenous communities for decades. As Principal of Purnim Primary School, Tricia introduced Cultural Awareness Days, Protective Behaviours programs, and community initiatives that fostered inclusion and growth. Her leadership helped pave the way for stronger Indigenous representation in education, securing vital resources and opportunities for local students and families.

Beyond the classroom, Tricia is a passionate advocate for the arts, history, and community engagement. A long-time supporter of the Port Fairy Theatre Company, Port Fairy Historical Society, and the National Trust, she has played a key role in preserving and celebrating the region’s heritage. She is also a familiar face at many local events, where her warmth and enthusiasm bring people together.

Whether mentoring future educators, performing as Mrs Claus at Carols by Candlelight, or championing local initiatives, Tricia truly embodies the spirit of community. Her dedication, leadership, and unwavering passion make her a deserving recipient of the Inspiring Women of Moyne Award.

Kimberly Parker, Mortlake

Kimberly undertakes the crucial role as the moderator of the Mortlake Community Facebook Page, which is no small achievement, especially considering the challenges posed by the virtual realm.  

In the face of internet dynamics where rules can be easily overlooked, Kim has demonstrated remarkable resilience, kindness, and a selfless commitment to maintaining a positive online community.  

Her caring and thoughtful approach has not only fostered a harmonious digital space and had a positive impact on the Mortlake community. 

Kimberly nominator described her as “kind, caring, thoughtful and selfless, exactly what we need in Moyne. She makes Mortlake a better place.” 

Oonagh Kilpatrick, Southern Cross

Oonagh is a passionate and dedicated dairy farmer, who actively promotes the suitability practices on farm to schools and the wider community. Oonagh often hosts open days on her farm to promote and educate students on what happens on farm but also the career pathways within the industry that are not only on farm but also beyond the farm gate. 

Oonagh also is on the Food and Fibre Great South Coast board and actively promotes not only dairy but food and fibre for our region both here in the region. 

One nominee desbribed Oonagh as “the type of person who attracts others to her in a crowded room, people want to engage with her as she exudes enthusiasm and passion for our industry and is also a woman who empowers other women to grow and further thier capabilities. 

Melanie Macilwain, Port Fairy

Mel was nominated numerous times for the community which she has created through the Port Fairy Run Club, which she started in 2023.  

From beginners to experienced runners, everyone is welcome with open arms by Mel to join the group which meet twice a week.  

One nominee described Mel as “the sole reason for some lovely connections and promoting the mental health and physical wellbeing to those around her. 

Mel is also a local artist has run workshops at the Port Fairy Womens Weekend, donated artwork and raised money for local charities and volunteers her time at parkrun.  

Mel is a wonderful addition to the Moyne Community inspiring health and fitness, socialisation and great community spirit!

Amy Atwell

Amy has demonstrated a strong commitment to volunteerism, having served as the President of the local kindergarten for the past three years. She has successfully initiated a new event for the school, known as "Picnic in the Paddock," which has garnered significant attention and participation. In addition to her involvement in the kindergarten, Amy has recently assumed the role of Vice Principal at St. John's Dennington, showcasing her dedication to educational leadership.
Amy's passion for community engagement dates back to her youth. She was honored with the prestigious title of "Moyne Shire Youth of the Year" during her younger years, a testament to her outstanding contributions and accomplishments. Additionally, Amy actively served on the Youth Council, further showcasing her commitment to representing the interests and needs of young individuals in the community.

Ashleigh Pruys

Sshleigh has established a beautiful and supportive network of mothers within our region, showcasing her outstanding initiative dedication. journey began with the creation facebook group called "port fairy mums," which now grown to include over 100 active members. this group, local engage in valuable discussions, provide mutual support, organize various activities such as play dates exerciseIn addition to her achievements with the Facebook group, she has further expanded her impact by establishing the Toolong Classroom. This nature play group meets weekly, providing an opportunity for children to explore the outdoors, while also offering yoga sessions and fostering social connections among the participants. Furthermore, she has initiated a "Mums Book Club," promoting intellectual engagement and creating a space for meaningful discussions among the members.
Amy's exceptional individual's contributions have resulted in a heightened sense of community connection and improved mental well-being for many.

Bree Ryan

Breearna serves as an unwavering source of inspiration through her tireless efforts for the betterment of the Port Fairy community. As the driving force behind the highly successful Port Fairy Marathon, she has demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment and dedication. Organizing an event of this magnitude demands an extraordinary amount of work, and the tremendous success of the marathon, with over 1200 participants enjoying a truly memorable day, is a testament to Breearna's leadership and guidance of the PF Consolidated working group committee. Her tireless efforts in the lead-up to the event were truly commendable and went above and beyond expectations.
In addition to her instrumental role in the marathon, Breearna selflessly contributes to the community as a PFSLC Grants Officer, Under 7 Nippers Age Manager, weekend surf patrol participant, basketball coach, member of the PF Consolidated Parents and Friends, School Council, and Southcombe Park Committee. Remarkably, she manages all of these responsibilities while maintaining a demanding professional career and organizing a family of five. Breearna is undeniably an outstanding and highly valued member of our community.

Carolyn Howe

Fiona Hampson

Hannah Morris

Janette O'Keefe

Carly Jordan

Janette O'Keefe

Julie Houlihan

Martina Murrihy

Tracey Wilson