TWO Mitchell Shire Councillors were recently recognised for their work in local government, earning nominations for the 2026 Mary Rogers Award.
The award is recognition for women councillors for outstanding contribution as a civic leader across the state and is named after Mary for her work in becoming the first woman elected to a Victorian council, doing so in 1920.
The awards were launched by the Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA) last year.
The award also has ties to the Mitchell Shire, with Mary’s grandson Gerard Clancy the son of JJ Clancy, and resides in the Mitchell Shire. Mary’s great-granddaughter, Debbie Clancy, currently works in Council’s libraries team, and both attended the ceremony.
Councillors Andrea Pace and Claudia James were both nominated for the award for their work across the Mitchell Shire.
The winner of the award was Councillor Melina Sehr from Stonnington.
VLGA President, Cr Jane Karslake, said it was a testament to women in council positions highlights the impact they are having on their local area.
“By recognising the outstanding contributions of women councillors across Victoria we aim to foster a more inclusive and supportive culture in local government,” she said.
“To every woman councillor working tirelessly in the sector I am incredibly proud to stand alongside you and celebrate your achievements.
“Your leadership matters, your voices matter, and the positive change you are creating in communities’ matter.”
Minister for Local Government, Tim Richardson, said their work demonstrated leadership.
“Your work demonstrates an outstanding dedication to leading with purpose and uplifting women both in the sector and in your community,” he said.
“It’s important for our councils to reflect the communities they represent, which is why we’re working to improve the number of elected female councillors and mayors across the state.”
Cr Karslake said the vision of the VLGA was to see equal representation by 2028.
“The VLGA’s vision is to see 50% of women elected as councillors and mayors by the next local government election in 2028,” she said.
“We are proud to be the organisation behind these Awards because of the impact they will have in inspiring other women to stand in the future.”
