A COMMITTED mother and volunteer has won the 2015 Women Hold Up Half the Sky Award, which annually recognises an outstanding South Australian woman who has made a great contribution to her community.
Status of Women Minister Gail Gago presented the award to Michelle Sibbons at a ceremony on Friday.
Ms Sibbons volunteers to support families with children suffering from Congenital Melanocytic Nevus, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition.
Her daughter Danielle was born with CMN and Ms Sibbons found it difficult to find support and information about her condition.
“She developed a website and support groups to help other parents and children in the same position," Ms Gago said.
“She has organised a support camp this Australia Day weekend, with families travelling from New Zealand and Malaysia to attend.
“Her work is internationally recognised and she is on the board of Nevus Global. All of her time is unpaid and for the benefit of the wider community.
“I wish Ms Sibbons the very best with her long-term goal to establish a Research Fund for this condition, for which there is neither a known cause nor cure."
Karyn Bradford was also awarded a commendation for her service to the Milang community, particularly her tireless efforts during the devastating drought.
“Ms Bradford’s nomination demonstrates just how much influence one person can have on an entire community," Ms Gago said.
“These awards highlight the calibre of women’s contributions to our community. However, there are many more local women who deserve our recognition."
The award is provided by Minister Gago and the Office for Women, part of the Department for Communities and Social Inclusion.
The award is administered by the Australia Day Council of SA.
