Nominees Announced for the Just Saying Project Women’s Awards 2026

The Greater Whitsunday Region is gearing up for a night of inspiration, courage, and celebration as the Just Saying Project (JSP) presents the Women’s Awards 2026 – A Night of Storytelling. Set for Saturday 14 March at the MECC North Foyer, doors open at 5:30pm for a 6pm start. Tickets are $115 for general admission, with guests encouraged to book early for this age 15+ event.

The annual awards shine a spotlight on women and allies who bring joy, strength, and purpose to the region. This year’s theme celebrates the power of storytelling, sharing voices that heal, connect, and empower. Bestselling author Belinda Alexandra will take the stage as keynote storyteller, sharing her memoir Emboldened, which traces her journey through devastation, courage, and renewal.

Nominees have now been announced across all award categories. Guests can look forward to recognising leaders, innovators, and changemakers who embody the spirit of resilience, courage, and inspiration.

2026 Nominees:

The Equaliser 

   • Marty Strecker
   • Namarca Corowa
   • Lachlan Cooke
   • Mitchell Flor
Sponsored by FMS Group

Rising Star 

   • Alexis Versaci
   • Jennifer-Lee Houseman
   • Zoe Place
   • Jorja Jurczlyuk
Sponsored by Move It Chiropractic

Health and Wellbeing Warrior 

   • Dr Ritu Rana
   • Dr Suzanne Kippen
   • Debbie Knight
   • Dr Saarh Springer
   • CJ Fitsos
   • Rebecca Cooper
   • Alice Ruddell
   • Michelle Byrne
   • Gemma Refalo
   • Tabitha Brennan
   • Denise McCullen
   • Amy Fiore
   • Kate Woods
   • Jen Gils
   • Inge Hilhorst
   • Pier Tierney
   • Charlotte Hellar
   • Lauren Hietman
   • Sammy Cole
   • Amanda Potter
   • Chloe Gaudion
   • Scout Fraser
   • Dr Kerry Summerscale
   • Kimberly Stevens
   • Sari Jurczyluk
Sponsored by Athletica Fitness Centre

Resilient Rebel 

   • Teanna Ramsamy
   • Katie Chapman
   • Barb Hill
   • Vikki Corowa
   • Kayleigh Brewster
   • Cassandra Reeves
   • Danielle O’Carroll
   • Belinda Hassan
   • Jameela Walker
   • Tracey Mulligan
   • Alicia Cashen
   • Caitlin Ramsay
   • Cheryl-Ann Marshall
   • Amanda Grobbelaar
   • Georgie Grace Carter
Sponsored by Gardian

The Mother of All Mothers

   • Melanie Kemp
   • Claire Grandcourt
   • Terri Leotta
   • Allisha De Grit
   • Terri Lee Reedman
   • Teanna Ramsamy
   • Toni Moore
   • Carly Nicholas
   • Danielle O’Carroll
   • Lauren Pattie
   • Anita Camilleri
   • Tanya Williams
   • Jessica Majid
   • Angela Wilkins
   • Erica Moloney
   • Teaneale English
   • Nana Stevens
   • Kayleigh Brewster
   • Jacquie Camilleri
   • Jessica Christie
   • Lisa Thompson
   • Annerie Tomkinson
   • Jules Thompson
   • Barb Hill
Sponsored by First National 360 Mackay, Sarina & Nebo

The Magic Muse 

   • Liz Russell
   • Venita Mooney
   • Elena Grant
   • Jeanette Mundy
   • Sammy Cole
   • Kim Kleidon
   • Sarah Brown
   • Bri Brett
   • Karen Jacobson
   • Melanie Laas
   • Kristy Purdon
   • Tonia Beckman
   • Shirlz Russell
   • Tina Ramsland
   • Vassie Comino
   • Terri Lee Reedman
   • Leonie Wood
   • Lian Meaney
   • Leisa Watkin
   • Leigh Cairns
Sponsored by  Tina's Bows and Accessories

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