Nominations are now open for the Local Government Association of Queensland’s (LGAQ) Alison Woolla Memorial Award for local leadership in the prevention of domestic and family violence.
The award winner will receive a $5,000 cash prize and will host the hand-crafted artwork by Brisbane artist Laura Vincent for 12 months. The piece was created using timber and resin and represents the complex emotions felt by those experiencing domestic and family violence.
LGAQ Domestic and Family Violence Project Officer Jim Boden says the LGAQ launched the award to provide an opportunity to recognise an individual’s commitment to preventing and raising awareness for domestic and family violence in what is often tireless work conducted behind closed doors.
“We want the winner to use the $5,000 however they see fit as this is some small recognition for the amazing contribution they are making to the lives of individuals and greater society,” Jim says.
“This is one of the few awards that recognises these champions within our communities.”
The Alison Woolla Memorial Award was launched by the LGAQ in 2020 and honours pioneering former Aurukun Shire Council Mayor Alison Woolla, who provided remarkable leadership and support for members of her community when they were experiencing abuse.
Last year’s winners were May Ballie and Myrtle Foote, who are the co-founders of Pormpur Paanthu (Women’s house) in the Aboriginal community of Pormpuraaw. The centre provides a refuge and services to assist women and children experiencing domestic and family violence. Through the centre’s creation, May and Myrtle have been instrumental in saving the lives and improving the futures of many women and children in their community.
Entries for this year’s award close on 27 September 2021 and are available to self-nominate or nominate another individual.
Click here to download the entry form and to view terms and conditions.