Honouring the women who lead, inspire and empower Ku-ring-gai

Honouring the women who lead, inspire and empower Ku-ring-gai

Published on 17 September 2025

Andrea Doney has been named the 2025 recipient of Ku-ring-gai's inaugural Women's Leadership and Inspiration Award, recognising her outstanding impact on community wellbeing and inclusive leadership.

The inaugural Women's Leadership and Inspiration Award celebrates local women who are making a real difference in Ku-ring-gai through leadership, advocacy and action.

Ku-ring-gai Mayor Christine Kay said the award recognises women who show strong leadership, speak up for others and strive to create a more equal and inclusive society.

"The purpose of this award is to shine a light on women who are breaking down barriers, strengthening communities and showing extraordinary resilience and leadership," Mayor Kay said.

"Among this year's nominees are women who have built grassroots initiatives to connect people, nurture women and create opportunities for others to step into leadership roles. There are also women who have overcome personal challenges and used their unique lived experience to empower others.

"Importantly, we honour and thank the incredible women who have tirelessly supported families experiencing hardship or violence, ensuring that all women in Ku-ring-gai have access to safety and support."

Award recipient Andrea Doney is the founder of Run with the Slow Coach, a local coaching business supporting slower, older, beginner and returning runners. She is also co-founder of the North Shore Run Club, a free and welcoming community running group that now has over 1,500 members.

Andrea not only provides expert and empathetic coaching, but also fosters the social connections that make these experiences truly life-changing.

Her leadership has been formally recognised, including mention in a 2024 Parliamentary Hansard for her contribution to community running, and receiving the 2023 Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Local Business Award for Most Outstanding Fitness Service. She also serves as a volunteer on the Ku-ring-gai Arts and Culture Advisory Group.

The judging panel also awarded a Highly Commended to Cate Sinclair, CEO of The Northern Centre. Cate has been a driving force in advocating for families and for women and children impacted by domestic violence.

Her tireless efforts led to the successful launch of a pilot program called Safe T in 2022 - an initiative she lobbied for over several years, which has since gained widespread support and continues to assist the community.

Cate has also been instrumental in building networks among leaders in the not-for-profit sector across Northern Sydney.

"Congratulations to Andrea, Cate and all of the truly remarkable women nominated in this year's Women's Leadership and Inspiration Awards," Mayor Kay said.

"You have all shown true leadership in our workplaces, schools, sporting clubs and community groups - and have each made a profound impact in the lives of so many people."

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