Smart women in Far North Queensland shine!

The Bligh Government has recognised the outstanding achievements of 5 women from Far North Queensland – all named as finalists in some of Queensland’s most prestigious awards.

Minister for Women Margaret Keech is delighted to announce Karen Benn, Romina Rader, Kateryna Bazaka, Amy Mauric and Amanda O’Malley are in the running for the Smart Women Smart State Awards 2008.

“Congratulations to these five amazing ladies for being innovative and excelling in their chosen fields,” Mrs Keech said.

“The Bligh Government is improving services and by supporting and encouraging people to excel we continue to grow and improve Queensland,”

“To be short-listed for these awards is a great honour as the women are up against some of the best minds in Queensland in some of the most complex and crucial fields.”

This year, Mrs Keech is also proud to announce the Lockhart River Corporation is a finalist in the inaugural Community Innovation Award.

This award showcases and celebrates the achievements of women making a positive and sustainable contribution to Indigenous communities.

Another new category this year is the Green Award which recognises Queensland women’s contribution to the environmental sciences.

Amanda O’Malley is a Green Award finalist who is researching the previously unknown pink nosed turtle.

“My research is the most rewarding thing I have ever done because it means gathering important and new information in the world heritage wet tropics,” Ms O’Malley said.

Her work involves trudging through thick wet tropic rainforest to remote locations and carrying up to 40 kilograms of supplies and equipment on her back in order to study these freshwater turtles.

“These awards showcase women who are excelling in traditionally male dominated fields of science, engineering, information and communication technology, and the environment,” Mrs Keech said

The winners of the Smart Women - Smart State Awards 2008 will be announced at a ceremony being held at the State Library of Queensland in Brisbane on 2 September 2008.

“The awards are part of the State Government’s Smart Women - Smart State Strategy and have recognised the achievements of Queensland women for the past six years.”

ENDS

Media Contact: Matthew Hyde 3235 9236

Innisfail:

Amanda O’Malley is available for interview on 0409587319.