ALimestone Coast woman and a junior club who empower girls and women in sport have been celebrated at The Power of Her 2025 Recognition Awards, showcasing the work done to advance gender equality following International Women’s Day.
Individuals, clubs, and organisations have been recognised for implementing programs and initiatives which ensure girls and women can equally and actively participate in their sporting passions.
The winners were announced at the IWD ‘March Forward’ event hosted by Netball SA in partnership with the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing.
The South East Women’s Cricket Association’s Chloe Mackenzie (pictured) was named one of two The Power of Her Emerging Leaders, alongside Woodville Orion Tennis Club’s Andriana Petrakis.
Chloe was recognised for creating the first South East junior girls cricket group to assist in the development of girls playing cricket and provide them with the opportunity to play and train with other girls rather than in a mixed competition.
She will often travel over 200km to conduct inclusive programs and engaging girls only training sessions throughout the South East making junior girls cricket more accessible and fun.
The Naracoorte and Districts Little Athletics Club was named The Power of Her Champion Local Club (Regional).
The club was recognised for its inspiring connection to Olympian and Commonwealth Games gold medallist Jessica Stenson, which has led to a record-breaking increase in female participation through female specific program offerings including targeted skill development training, and mentorship.
The club has increased its female coaching representation and developed leadership pathways for older girls and created beginner-friendly programs to ease young girls into athletics.
Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Katrine Hildyard congratulated the winners.
“When we see women celebrated for their strength and talent, it gives us an opportunity to shift attitudes about women and the roles they can play,” she said.
“A massive congratulations to these incredible South Australians who are progressing change through sport in a way that is making a difference in the lives of girls and women, and to the fabric of our community.
“Thank you for helping to create an equal future for girls and women and for strengthening our state through doing so.
“These winners demonstrate extraordinary dedication to ensuring girls and women of all abilities can deepen their involvement in their chosen sport and experience the many benefits of being involved, and to ensuring our state is one that empowers girls and women to equally and actively participate in every aspect of life, including sport.”
Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Emily Bourke said the government was serious about backing women and girls in sport and determined to advance a legacy of equality and inclusion.
“These awards are a platform to share the stories of individuals and groups driving change and shifting attitudes while celebrating their incredible achievements,” she said.
“Congratulations to all The Power of Her Award winners – keep smashing barriers, challenging stereotypes and creating environments where all women and girls feel safe and included.”
The awards are just one part of The Power of Her, the State Government’s ongoing tribute to the legacy of the Matildas historic FIFA Women’s World Cup run.
At the heart of The Power of Her is $18m in legacy funding over three years for dedicated facilities, improvements and programs that will grow female sporting participation.
