Hornsby's 2015 Local Woman of the Year has been confirmed with Womens Community Shelters' CEO Annabelle Daniel taking out the award.
Ms Daniel has overseen the establishment of the Hornsby Kuring-gai Women's Shelter for women who are homeless or escaping domestic violence and do not have dependent children.
In late 2013, Ms Daniel along with Women's Shelter Chairman and co-ordinator, John Lockyer, helped find a suitable location and work with local residents to fundraise over $100,000 to open a 10 bed facility in just over 12 months.
The achievement has earned plenty of respect and admiration from local residents who were keen to help establish a much needed facility for women living in the Hornsby Shire and along the North Shore.
Hornsby MP Matt Kean presented Ms Daniel with the award saying she was a very worthy recipient for her countless hours of dedication to help some of the most vulnerable members of our community.
"Annabelle was the first person to come to my office and raise her vision to create a Women's Shelter in Hornsby," Mr Kean said.
"It was an ambitious plan, but Annabelle is a very successful and ambitious woman. With the community's support she was able to make this vision a reality."
Mr Kean also presented a Community Service Award to both Dick and Dot Babb for their vital work on the Hornsby Women's Shelter Steering Committee.
"This award is due recognition to Dick and Dot Babb who are always the first to help in our local community and are heavily involved with a number of charities," Mr Kean said.
Mrs Babb was also recognised for her leading role as deputy co-chair of the Reconciliation Network for Northern Sydney region and her efforts for helping refugees settle in the area.
