MANSFIELD recognized International Women's Day this Wednesday, as part of global celebrations acknowledging the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.

Kirsten Alexander, Chief Executive Office at Mansfield Shire Council said that although the elected members for the shire are all male, the executive team are all female.

"We are striking a balance at Mansfield Shire Council and it is great to have had the opportunity to celebrate International Women's Day together at the WiNE network luncheon with Mayor Tehan and some of our council team members, both female and male," she said.

"I am really enjoying working with other North East Local Government CEOs of which five out of the 12 are women.

"It's great to be working in a diverse group of leaders bringing different perspectives to the table, and having that 42 per cent balance of females in executive roles."

On a local front, there are a multitude of local women working across a variety of industries and spaces to make a difference.

There is Alli Walker, behind the monthly farmers market and the Mansfield Lantern Festival, who was recently nominated as Club Person of the Year at the annual Sportsperson of the Year awards.

As president of the Mansfield Swimming Club, Alli has been working proactively to get more local kids in the pool, and under her guidance and mentorship our local swimmers have gone from strength to strength.

Mansfield Citizen of the Year for 2021, hospitality royalty and philanthropist Gill Belle is another community member, who is always on the front foot making a big difference in our small community.

Whether she's supporting the arts, donating money to local causes or joining husband Dean to cook a 'pub meal' for Bindaree residents during COVID lockdowns, Gill is proactive and present, making Mansfield a great place to live.

Professional skateboarder and Olympian, Hayley Wilson is a local role model providing inspiration and guidance to the next generation of both female and male athletes, her achievement recognised by a great mural overlooking the skate park.

There is Narelle Rademaker for her contribution to the community through workshops and events championing bike riding and fitness, along with her community activism and volunteer work, supporting local groups like the guides.

Mind Body Bike, an annual women's festival which is held every February, is Narelle's initiative.

"Our mission is to promote the importance of being both physically fit and mentally strong," said Narelle of the popular weekend.

Two of our local veterinary practises have female owners.

Anna Manning and Sally Rekers are both hands–on clinicians who work hard to champion and support not only the veterinary industry, but animal and owner welfare across the shire.

Charlotte Lindsay and Sophie Yencken both wear a variety of hats, but let's just mention their commitment to putting on the Mothers' Day Classic in Mansfield every year, and the donations raised to find a cure for breast cancer.

And then of course there are our female doctors like Dr Laura Carter; principal solicitor at Mal Ryan and Glen and active board member supporting a variety of local organisations Katie Lockey, and all the local teachers who have dedicated their career to teaching and guiding our youth.

At Mansfield Primary's recent 150th birthday celebration, numerous staff members were recognised for their decades of service to the school and the community.

And then there is Ros Ritchie.

A lauded winemaker in the shire for over 40 years, Ros began her celebrated career at the Ritchie family's Delatite winery from 1981 to 2006, before establishing her own winery in 2008.

Her wines – 14 varieties in total – are a celebration of the region, whether she is making wines under her own eponymous label or creating vintages for other small vineyards in the shire and immediate surrounds.

Throughout her illustrious career, Ros has accrued a veritable cache of trophies, awards and accolades, with regular inclusion in the preeminent James Halliday wine review which is published annually.

"It is a great thrill when people say they love all our wines, and nice when they are interested in not only the process but where they come from," Ros said of her ties to the shire.

When not championing local viticulture, Ros can be found volunteering her time at fundraisers like church fetes.

This International Womens' Day let's celebrates the achievements of all women both locally and globally.

This year's theme is about embracing equity, where collective activism is called on to drive change.

From grassroots action to wide–scale momentum, it seems that our local ladies are already leading the charge.