Hepburn Shire Council marked International Women’s Day with a community event at The Mechanics in Trentham celebrating the achievements of local women and the 20th anniversary of the Heather Mutimer Honour Roll. The Honour Roll, established in 2005, recognises women whose contributions have significantly shaped the region. This year, five outstanding women—Mary Harvey, Jessie Leggatt (Posthumous), Donna Kelly, Mary-Faeth Chenery, and Lynda Poke—were inducted for their exceptional work in community service, journalism, health, education, and advocacy.
The 20th anniversary of the Honour Roll underscores the ongoing importance of recognising women’s contributions. As Hepburn Shire moves forward, the legacies of this year’s inductees will continue to inspire and shape the community for years to come.
The Honour Roll is named after Heather Mutimer who has been a steadfast advocate for social justice, local history, and environmental preservation since moving to the Hepburn Shire in the 1970s. With family roots in the region dating back to the 1860s, Heather made history as one of the few female Shire councillors of her time, serving two terms from 2003 to 2008. She played a crucial role in the establishment of the Honour Roll, ensuring that the contributions of local women were formally recognised and celebrated. Her passion for the community continues to inspire and shape the future of Hepburn Shire.
This year’s event featured a keynote address by Australian Paralympian Shae Graham. Her story of resilience, from a life-altering spinal cord injury at 18 to becoming the first female wheelchair rugby player to represent Australia at the Paralympics, resonated deeply with attendees. The event also highlighted young changemakers from Daylesford College, offering a hopeful glimpse into the future of women’s leadership.
2025 Honour Roll Inductees
Mary-Faeth Chenery is an advocate for peace and housing security. She has represented Australia in international peace initiatives and has worked to elevate the role of women in peace negotiations. As co-founder and president of Older Women in Cohousing (WINC), she has been instrumental in developing a sustainable housing project for older women. Additionally, her leadership in Safe Place Homes has provided crucial support for vulnerable populations in Hepburn Shire.
Lynda Poke has dedicated her career to gender equity and improving access to essential healthcare services. With extensive experience in financial and strategic planning, she has provided vital support to local community organisations. As General Manager of Springs Medical Centre, she spearheaded innovative health programs, including “Spring in Your Step,” which won national recognition. Her advocacy extends to grassroots initiatives, where she played a pivotal role in challenging the Victorian Liquor Licencing Commission decision to grant a license to a proposed Dan Murphy’s outlet in Daylesford because of concerns about alcohol-related harms.
Mary Harvey has spent her life promoting education and community engagement. As a school librarian and educator, she worked to support students and staff, particularly women, in professional development. Her involvement in local organisations, including U3A and the Spa Quilters of Daylesford, has strengthened community bonds. Through her leadership roles in the Bullarto Public Hall Committee and Daylesford Show, she has championed gender equity and fostered a spirit of collaboration within the region.
Jessie Leggatt (1825–1907) was a pioneering philanthropist whose legacy continues to benefit Daylesford. A Scottish immigrant, she established a successful business with her husband during the gold rush and later became a prominent benefactor. Her contributions helped build St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, fund the Daylesford Hospital, and establish a scholarship at the University of Melbourne. Jessie’s foresight in creating long-term educational opportunities was ground breaking for women of her era.
Donna Kelly has promoted local journalism, providing a platform for community voices through her publication, The Local. Through the publication, she has consistently advocated for gender equity and mental health awareness. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she maintained the publication despite financial hardships, ensuring critical information reached the community.
Hepburn Shire Mayor, Cr Don Henderson, reflected on the significance of the Honour Roll, stating, “Tonight was a special occasion to celebrate the accomplishments of local women who have demonstrated resilience, courage, and dedication. Their achievements pave the way for future generations, and we look forward to continuing our support for women’s empowerment in our community and beyond.”
This article is based on a media release from Hepburn Shire Council and on Councillor notes provided for the ceremony.
