General News
14 March, 2026
Diverse award winners
A WOMAN who has served the community for over 50 years, a 12-year-old wildlife supporter and fundraiser and a dancer teaching Indigenous youth, were the winners at the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) Awards.
Held last Saturday at the Cains Central Centre Stage, the Awards are the culmination of a glittering night of fashion, gourmet dining and entertainment.
But it was a gentle contrast when this year’s Woman of the Year (for 25 year olds and over) was Sister Faye Kelly, a woman whose lifelong ministry has quietly served the community with unwavering compassion for more than five decades.
As an educator, Sr Faye spent over 20 years at St Joseph’s School as its final Mercy Principal. As a spiritual guide and advocate, she has been supporting people on society’s margins through hospital visits, home care and pastoral leadership.
Highly commended in this category, Christine Norman, has been a leader in the Babinda community for more than 40 years. She helped establish women’s boxing classes at the Babinda Boxing Club, as well as advocated, fundraised and mentored young women at Babinda Basketball.
At just 12, Young Woman of the Year (24 years and under) Summer Adams has already made a remarkable impact in community service.
She founded Summer Spirit in 2024, creating handmade products that have raised more than $5,000 for wildlife and community organisations, including Cairns Domestic Violence Service and Ruth’s Women’s Shelter.
A former School Captain and Female Sportsperson of the Year, she also received her school’s Spirit Award for outstanding character.
Highly Commended was Ella Fisher, who, at 17, has already led an inclusive football program for primary students, including those with disability.
Delivered across five schools in 2024-25, the program has engaged more than 200 students, including 30 with disability, building skills and participation in sport.
The Women’s Recognition Award, with a prize of $2,000, went to Caitlin Sands who has dedicated more than a decade to developing the dance skills of Indigenous youth in the Cairns community.
Since 2015, she has trained and supported local dancers to perform at major sporting and music events while mentoring young people and supporting local families.
A state schoolteacher since 2018, Ms Sands combines education and dance to create opportunities for Indigenous youth.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mayor Amy Eden said this year’s winners acknowledged the 150-year history of outstanding local women who have made a significant impact on the Cairns community.
“I am incredibly proud of the role women play in shaping our community and strengthening our region,” Cr Eden said.
“Behind every strong community are those who lead, volunteer, mentor and advocate for others. These awards give us the opportunity to publicly recognise their contribution and thank them for the difference they make every day.”
The Cairns International Women’s Day Awards began in 1991 under the former Cairns City Council.
