Gold Coast personalities and business leaders celebrate Women of the Year launch at The Star

The atmosphere at The Star Gold Coast’s Garden Kitchen and Bar this morning was tangible as dozens came together to celebrate the launch of Harvey Norman Women of The Year.

Gold Coast Women of the Year media launch: Federal Minister Angie Bell, Gold Coast Bulletin Editor Rachel Hancock and State Minister Kate Jones. Pic Mike Batterham

EMPOWERED, uplifted and inspired — the atmosphere at The Star Gold Coast’s Garden Kitchen and Bar this morning was tangible as dozens came together to celebrate the launch of Harvey Norman Women of The Year.

An initiative of the Gold Coast Bulletin, the campaign invites the community to nominate trailblazing local women to recognise the positive impact they make in the region.

Nominated women will have the chance to become a top three finalist in one of eight categories, with one crowned the winner of the category after being judged by a panel of influential Gold Coast women.

GOLD COAST WOMEN OF THE YEAR: NOMINATE HERE

Last year’s overall Women of The Year winner Louise Bezzina and people’s choice winner Katrina Springer. Pic Mike Batterham

This morning’s launch event was attended by politicians, media personalities, business leaders and entrepreneurs keen to champion women from all industries and commemorate International Women’s Day with a classy morning tea.

MP Kate Jones reminded the crowd how important it was to acknowledge the significant women in our lives.

“This is a time when we need everybody on the Gold Coast to really stop and reflect on those women in the local community that are making such a difference,” she said.

MEET LAST YEAR’S WOMEN OF THE YEAR WINNER

Dozens of influential women attended the launch of Women of The Year at The Star’s Garden Kitchen and Bar. Pic Mike Batterham

“Make sure you’re getting your nominations in, make sure you’re supporting them, because through these awards we can celebrate their talents, give them a platform and enable them to grow and continue to achieve what they are here locally.”

The Star Gold Coast COO Jessica Mellor said the company is honoured to be a partner of the campaign.

“I’m so proud that The Star is a major partner of this year’s Gold Coast Women of the Year. It’s such an empowering initiative recognising Gold Coast women of all backgrounds for their remarkable contribution to the community, and for inspiring the next generation of women on the Gold Coast,” Ms Mellor said.

PHOTO GALLERY: 2020 WOMEN OF THE YEAR LAUNCH

Jess Mellor COO Star Hotel, Gold Coast Bulletin Editor Rachel Hancock, State Minister Kate Jones and Alison Smith group Executive. Pic Mike Batterham

“I look forward to learning the stories of many extraordinary women, the most hardworking, talented and passionate ladies on the Gold Coast in the coming months.”

Nominations open 6am tomorrow at womenoftheyear.com.au