Sandy Rogers and Kelly Lamb make finalists cut for prestigious womens’ honour gong

Two regional NSW women have joined a chorus of 30 inspirational women and girls from across the state who have made the final cut for the 2025 Women of the Year Awards.

Sandy Rogers, right, from Tweed Heads and Kelly Lamb, from Port Macquarie-Hastings are among 30 women and girls from across NSW to be named finalists in the 2025 Women of the Year Awards.

Two regional NSW women have joined a chorus of 30 inspirational women and girls from across the state who have made the final cut for the 2025 Women of the Year Awards.

Now in its 13th year, the awards aim to recognise and celebrate revolutionary female thinkers, everyday heroes, social advocates and innovative role models.

From community leaders and advocates – to doctors and academics – the list demonstrates those who have gone above and beyond.

Sandy Rogers from Tweed Heads. Picture: Supplied

Sandy Rogers from Tweed Heads has been named a finalist in the Community Hero category in the awards.

She has dedicated 40 years to improving the lives of children with intellectual and physical disabilities and their families.

In 1977, Sandy’s son was born with cerebral palsy and other major health issues. Tragically, she lost her baby boy at just 10-years-old.

She says he taught her the meaning of unconditional love and was the inspiration for her commitment to helping others.

As Vice President of the Tweed Kids in Need charity, Sandy continues fundraising to support those requiring essential equipment or treatment, ensuring their lives are made a little easier.

Ms Rogers recently founded Tweed Branch of Can Assist, a charity providing financial support to cancer patients.

“Our beautiful Vice President, Sandy Rogers is a Community Finalist in the Woman of the Year Awards, through the NSW Government,” a spokeswoman from Kids in Need Association said.

“We know Sandy is amazing, so it is great she is being recognised for all her work to support our community. We wish you all the best in winning this much deserved award.”

Kelly Lamb from Port Macquarie-Hastings. Picture: Lucy Humphries

Kelly Lamb from Port Macquarie-Hastings has been named a finalist in the Community Hero category in the awards and is an advocate for equality and women’s empowerment.

As CEO of charity Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services in Port Macquarie, she works to improve outcomes for victim-survivors.

Ms Lamb also promotes reconciliation and cultural understanding.

Under Ms Lamb’s leadership, Liberty worked with more than 2,200 people across prevention, intervention, response and recovery initiatives last year.

A refuge was also opened that has significantly expanded local crisis accommodation.

As an Executive Director and Deputy Chair of Domestic Violence NSW Ms Lamb is passionate about women’s issues.

After transitioning from a corporate career, Ms Lamb is now inspiring others in the human services sector, uniting people around the goal of uplifting women.

The Women of the Year Awards ceremony is the centrepiece event of NSW Women’s Week 2025, a week-long celebration from Sunday, March 2 to 8.

The award recipients will be revealed at the ceremony on Thursday, March 6 at the International Convention Centre in Sydney.

Got a news tip? Email [e-mail]

Originally published as Sandy Rogers and Kelly Lamb make finalists cut for prestigious womens’ honour gong