Maitland is continuing its celebration of 2017 Citizen of the Year Amorelle Dempster.
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On Friday night, the Slow Food Hunter Valley leader was crowned Maitland’s 2018 Woman of the Year at an International Women’s Day sunset soiree hosted by Women’s Network Hunter NSW.
Ms Dempster said she was overwhelmed to be recognised for something she was really passionate about.
“I feel really honoured and really privileged,” she said.
“I feel the community has acknowledged that the work we do and the work I do, mainly through Slow Food, to bring clean and fair food to all, is seen as a valuable thing in the community.
“It has made change to the way people eat, to the way they shop, and to how our producers are recognised and respected in the community once again as being a worthwhile contributor.
“Food has brought me some recognition, but really all I’ve done is been a facilitator.”
Ms Dempster said events like International Women’s Day were important.
“It’s our time,” she said.
“We are capable and we can be major contributors to life and use the skills we have as women to really enhance everybody’s life, and the life of the planet in particular.”
“I’d like to say a thank you to all the men who support us as well, who are taking on board that women now are seen as equals.
“I think that men have played an important role, and will continue to play an important role, as equals with women in the future.”
All proceeds from the soiree will be donated to Carrie’s Place Domestic Violence and Homelessnes Services.
The evening at Blackbird’s Artisan Bakery included dinner and a candle lighting ceremony.