Two Wimmera councillors were nominated for the 2026 Mary Rogers Award for Women in Local Government Emerging Woman Leader Award.

Horsham Cr Rebecca Sluggett and Hindmarsh Cr Rosie Barker both won recognition for their contribution to local government and dedication to their communities. 

The award, presented by the Victorian Local Governance Association, highlights emerging leaders who are making a positive impact through service, advocacy and leadership. 

The winner of the award was Cr Rayane Hawli, of Hobsons Bay City Council.

Mary Rogers was the first woman to be elected to a Victorian municipal council, and the annual awards celebrate and acknowledge the significant contributions and achievements of women councillors as civic leaders in local government.

Other winners were Mary Rogers Award: Mayor Melina Sehr, City of Stonnington; Gender Equality Council Champion Award – Metropolitan: Brimbank City Council and Gender Equality Council Champion Award – Regional/Rural: Mildura Rural City Council.

Cr Sluggett was nominated by fellow councillors Todd Wilson and Angela Munn, who praised her commitment to community outcomes and collaborative approach to leadership. 

Cr Wilson said Cr Sluggett’s nomination reflected the qualities she brought to her role every day. 

“I nominated Rebecca because she consistently demonstrates the values that make a strong community leader,” he said.

“She is passionate about representing our community, takes the time to listen to residents and is committed to achieving positive outcomes for Horsham Rural City.”

Crs Sluggett, Wilson and Munn attended the awards celebration on September 3.

While pleased to have been nominated, Cr Sluggett said she was equally pleased to see the award recognise another emerging leader in local government.

“I was honoured to be nominated and recognised alongside so many inspiring women in local government. Congratulations to Cr Rayane Hawli from Hobsons Bay on receiving the Emerging Woman Leader Award,” she said. 

Cr Barker and fellow Hindmarsh Cr Chan Uoy also attended the event at Queen’s Hall, Parliament House. 

Cr Barker said she was honoured to be nominated

“It was inspiring to stand alongside fellow first‑term councillor and deputy Mayor Cr Rebecca Sluggett from Horsham City Council, who was also recognised at a state level as an emerging leader – a proud moment for women in the Wimmera,” she said.

Cr Barker said a highlight of the afternoon was meeting the new Local Government Minister Tim Richardson, who agreed to meet with Hindmarsh Shire Council – hopefully before caretaker mode – to discuss its current challenges and priorities. 

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