Community leader and cultural champion Lesley Schoer is the 2025 Coffs Harbour Electorate Local Woman of the Year.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said Lesley was awarded this prestigious honour in recognition of her significant work and strong leadership at the Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium over many years.
“Lesley last year retired as President and Chair of the Board of Directors after 14 years at the helm of our beloved Con, where her legacy will be lasting,” Mr Singh said.
“She’s been instrumental in The Con’s phenomenal success and in shaping its status as an iconic institution in our community.
“Under Lesley’s visionary leadership and close work with her colleagues, The Con is firmly established as a leading educational organisation on the Coffs Coast, where it is renowned for its pursuit of excellence in both teaching and performance.
“Her dedication, guidance and support for The Con has allowed it to reach, teach and inspire many people in our region.
“Lesley is a nurturer who is much loved in our community for her warmth, her grace and her passion. A very worthy Coffs Harbour Electorate Local Woman of the Year indeed.”
Lesley said she’s honoured and humbled to receive this award.
“So much of what we achieve in volunteering is due to the combined work of many individuals and I’ve had the privilege to serve with many dedicated people of great talent and skill in Coffs Harbour,” she said.
“I’m passionate about improving the services and facilities in regional areas so that people in our communities have access to what we need for our wellbeing, and opportunities for the future.
“Volunteering with the Conservatorium has brought me such joy, working with the Board, teachers and staff to create a vibrant organisation, and experiencing how much music, education, art and culture enhances the lives of people of all ages, especially young people and their families.”
Additionally, Lesley features on the NSW Local Women of the Year Honour Roll for 2025: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/awards-and-events/nsw-women-of-year-awards#toc-local-women-of-the-year-honour-roll.
Each year, the Coffs Harbour Electorate Local Woman of the Year Awards recognise and celebrate progressive thinkers, everyday heroes, social advocates and innovative role models.
