Recognising South Australia’s leading ladies at the Women of the Year Awards

From science researchers to social influencers, six of the state’s most inspiring women have been recognised in SA’s Women of the Year Awards.

Prominent vaccine researcher Helen Marshall has been named Woman of the Year by SkyCity, The Advertiser and Sunday Mail, for her contributions to science.

Professor Marshall is one of the country’s most celebrated vaccine experts, involved in studies that have had global significance, including assessing the effectiveness of meningococcal B vaccine in the young.

The research has offered lifesaving protection to children and averted disability.

“I’m just so thrilled ... being here amongst so many inspiring women,” Professor Marshall said.

“I’ve had fantastic support, I’ve got a wonderful family, I’ve got my three beautiful children.

“If you’ve got that and the passion you can have a wonderful career.”

On Monday night, the eve of International Women’s Day, the Woman of the Year Awards recognised six of South Australia’s most inspiring women for their contributions to science, social justice, innovation and the arts.

The Advertiser SkyCity Woman of the Year Professor Helen Marshall with her daughter Imogen Misan. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

Innovator of the Year Award winner Dr Alicia Byrne with partner Alex Semmens. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

Professor Marshall, as well as winning Monday night’s overall award, was recognised as OCPSE Leader of the Year.

Young Adnyamathanha woman and film star Shantae Barnes-Cowan won the Girl About Town Rising Star award and Oakden whistleblower Barbara Spriggs won the Most Inspirational category.

Ms Spriggs said her late husband Bob inspired her to shine a light on the aged-care industry and “he would be very proud”.

Paraplegic drift car racer Christina Vithoulkas was recognised as the Community Champion for breaking down the stigma of spinal injury with candour and positivity.

A motorcycle accident in 2018 left her paraplegic.

The Advertiser editor Gemma Jones with winner Professor Helen Marshall. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

Inspiration of the Year Barb Spriggs with Kerry Spriggs. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

A cheque for the Zahra Foundation. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

She said she looked for “cool disabled people” on Instagram to inspire her after her accident and now she wanted to be that role model for others.

MasterChef alumna Laura Sharrad took out the SkyCity Hospitality Hero accolade.

She urged everyone to have confidence and stand up for themselves.

Community Champion Award winner Christina Vitoulkas. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

Hospitality Hero of the Year Laura Sharrad. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

Researcher Alicia Byrne won Innovator of the Year for trailblazing research on stillborn and newborn deaths.

Dr Byrne’s research has already informed reproductive planning for more than 100 families Australia-wide and has the potential to help hundreds more.

“To have that much impact on someone that you can never meet is an incredible feeling,” she said in an emotional acceptance speech.