The Power Of Storytelling And Strength

The 2025 Just Saying Project Women's Awards

The lights dimmed, the air buzzed with anticipation, and the room filled with energy as women from all corners of the region gathered to celebrate something extraordinary.

The Just Saying Project (JSP) Women’s Awards 2025 wasn’t just another evening of awards—it was a living, breathing testament to the strength, resilience, and brilliance of the women who make our community thrive.

On March 29th, the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre hosted a night unlike any other, marking 10 years of celebrating women who break barriers, create change, and lead with purpose.

Fallon Drewett, the visionary founder of the Just Saying Project, stood before the crowd, beaming with pride as she reflected on the incredible journey of the awards.

"10 years ago, I just had my first child. Prior to being a mum, I was a journalist. Not just a career for me, it was and still is part of my DNA," she shared with the audience.

"It was my Mum, who gave me the name of Just Saying, which became my blog, where I would tap away at the keyboards, hoping to make sense of my new role as a mum.

“After almost a year of writing, I decided to add a project to the end of Just Saying and host one event… to see how it went. It sold out. So, what was going to be one event has now become a movement in our community."

Read more on pages 24-25

A Celebration Of Strength, Resilience And Creativity

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After the event, Fallon Drewett, founder of the Just Saying Project, reflected on the powerful impact of the night.

“This year's event was wonderful,” she said.

“Each year, the vibe and tone of the event change, based on the incredible stories of our finalists and winners.

“I love that stories have the ability to create an experience for us all to connect and take a moment for ourselves.”

Fallon shared that the diversity of 130 nominees made choosing the finalists challenging.

“This year was an incredibly hard one for the judges, with so many outstanding women in our community,” Fallon explained.

“I want to thank all those who took the time to nominate someone in their lives and for the Mackay community who has supported JSP in the past 10 years.”

“It is such a joy to celebrate these awards, to showcase the strength of the women and men in the community and give others a sense of purpose. It is very special,” Fallon said.

The evening’s keynote speaker, Jane Tara, delivered a powerful address on the theme of women’s visibility, drawing from her book Tilda is Visible, which explores the importance of embracing one's story. The Women Who Want to Sing (WWWS) also took to the stage, adding a special touch to the evening with empowering anthems that lifted the room and brought women together in song.

The award categories themselves were a reflection of the diverse and powerful ways in which women shape our lives and communities. Each category acknowledged a different aspect of personal strength, from creativity to resilience, health, and breaking boundaries.

The winners, each deserving of the spotlight, were chosen from a group of extraordinary finalists who represent the best of what our community has to offer.

The Magic Muse category recognises a woman whose creativity, vision, and artistic expression inspire and influence those around her. This award celebrates the transformative power of art and imagination.

Winner: Tanell Thomsett

The Mother of All Mothers award honours a mother who shows exceptional dedication, nurturing, and love in her role. This woman is a true embodiment of care and commitment to her family and community.

Winner: Lisa Versaci

The Rising Star category celebrates a young woman whose achievements and potential set her apart, showcasing her promise for the future. This award is for those who are already making an impact in their chosen field.

Winner: Arhamah Haider

The Resilient Rebel award acknowledges a woman who has overcome personal or professional adversity with strength, determination, and resilience. This category celebrates the ability to rise above challenges and lead by example.

Winner: Amanda Wright

The Health and Wellbeing Warrior award recognises a woman who has made a significant contribution to promoting health, wellness, and well-being in her community. She is dedicated to improving the lives of others through her work and advocacy.

Winner: Sari Jurczyluk

The Woman Who Breaks the Mould (Judges’ Choice) celebrates a woman who challenges norms, breaks barriers, and paves the way for others. This category acknowledges those who defy expectations and forge their own path.

Winner: Terri Lee Sharpe

The Equaliser award recognises an individual who has worked tirelessly to create a fairer, more inclusive world. This award celebrates a person committed to fighting for equality and justice for all.

Winner: Rod Francisco

Each of these categories highlights the diverse and powerful contributions women make to society, and the winners embody the strength, passion, and dedication that define them.

As Fallon so aptly stated, “Every woman has a story worth telling.”

It was a sentiment that rang true throughout the night.

The Just Saying Project Women’s Awards 2025 was not only a celebration of these remarkable women but a powerful reminder of the importance of storytelling in amplifying voices and creating meaningful change.

“We all wear a cape under those fabulous outfits,” Fallon said.

“Storytelling has allowed me to show women their superpowers.”

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Celebrating strength, unity, and joy—women coming together to shine at the 2025 Just Saying Project Women's Awards. Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

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