Modestly saying she “wears a lot of hats”, Sally Edwards from Coolah was last week recognised as Barwon’s Local Woman of the Year.

The Local Women of the Year Awards recognise and celebrate progressive thinkers, everyday heroes, social advocates and innovative role models.

This year, 93 women were nominated by their local MPs – in Ms Edwards’ case this was Member or Barwon, Roy Butler - to be acknowledged during NSW Women’s Week (March 2 - 8).

Ms Edwards was nominated for her tireless community work and advocacy for rural NSW.

Mr Butler said she drives change in her local area and ensures her community and those around her are represented and heard.

“Sal Edwards is the kind of quiet achiever that makes our community a better place to live,” Mr Butler said.

“Sal is selfless and diligent in getting involved in many aspects of the community of Coolah and neighbouring communities.”

Ms Edwards has worked in rural community development for close to 15 years, heavily involved in volunteer advocacy.

“In my roles in community development, I have worked with Roy’s team as far as connecting local communities with what's been happening in state parliament or vice versa.

"I got to know Roy and his team through my volunteering roles and the other bits and bobs that I've done over the years.

“Like a lots of country people, I have worn a lot of hats over the years.

Well known journalist, Leigh Sales, hosted the Women of the Year Awards in Sydney.

"I started as a coordinator of a youth camp in Coolah.

"I was a committee member for many years on the Camp Draft Association.

"I was president of the P&C for three years, and I've been treasurer of the Coolah Youth and Community Centre since 2013.

"I've also been on a community representative committee over the last few years for the renewable energy transition.

"It's very common that those who volunteer passionately have their fingers in many pies and I suppose that's where this recognition stems from."

Recipients of the award are also 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.

“People like Sally keep projects moving forward, and other community members engaged. I wish there were a thousand more of her,” Mr Butler said.

Ms Edwards travelled down to the International Convention Centre in Sydney on March 6, where she received her Local Woman of the Year award.

Not one to sit idle, Ms Edwards has opted to stand as the Libertarian (formerly Liberal Democrats) candidate for Parkes in the upcoming election.

“I have thrown my hat in the ring as candidate for Parkes. This is my first run and I'm a new political party member,” she said.

“This commitment means I will probably step down from most of the volunteer roles I currently hold.

“I’m excited for whatever the election will bring - whether that is a successful result or an ongoing advocacy role on behalf of the region towards whoever is elected.”

To learn more about the Women of the Year Awards program and view the livestream, click here. For more about Hidden Treasures click here.