Julia Gillard calls UK Aussie Woman of the Year Award ‘pivotal’

AUSTRALIAN Prime Minister Julia Gillard has lent her support to 2012’s Qantas Australian Woman of the Year in the UK Award. The annual award, now in its fifth year, is supported by Australian Times, Australian Business and Qantas and nominations are open for this year’s nominees.

“The Qantas Australian Woman of the Year in the UK is a pivotal award that recognises and celebrates the achievements of Australian woman who have left home in pursuit of their dreams in the UK,” Gillard said.

“These successful Australian women are leaders and an inspiration.  It’s fantastic…[to] bring together these Australian women to collectively celebrate their many achievements.”

The Award promotes, recognises and celebrates the achievements of Australian women in the UK and coincides with International Women’s Day. Open to all Australian women whether success has been achieved through business or personal endeavours, the prize for the worthy recipient includes two return International Business tickets to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Perth flying with Qantas, a perpetual trophy to be housed in Australia House, and an ambassador role representing Qantas and Australian Business.

The 2011 title holder Skye Gyngell, a London Michelin Star Head Chef and acclaimed cookery writer, was honoured to receive the award last year.

“When I left Australia 30 years ago, my intention was to make my way in the world and become someone my family could be proud of.  To know that Australia is proud of me too and to be named Qantas Australian Woman of the Year in the UK, is truly an honour and beyond my wildest dreams” said Gyngell.

Past recipients also include Dr Margaret Mayston for her work with the UCL Institute of Child Health (2010), Gill Hicks, London bomb survivor and founder of MAD for Peace (2009) and Glenda Stone, businesswoman and Founder of Aurora (2008).

The 2012 winner and shortlist will be announced at a special reception on 8 March at the Langham London hotel and is expected to attract over 200 professional Australian expatriates and industry leaders. Guests will hear from Australian keynote speaker Jo Elvin, Editor of Glamour Magazine UK.

Nominations close on 1 March, so nominate now for the Australian Woman of the Year in the UK Award