Liz Arcus named recipient of the 2026 Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Award

Posted on Friday 6th of March, 2026,

Council has announced Liz Arcus as the winner of the 2026 Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Award at the Soroptimist International of Shepparton’s annual International Women’s Day Breakfast held on Thursday 5 March 2026.

In Summary

  • Liz Arcus has been named the recipient of the 2026 Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Award, announced at the Soroptimist International of Shepparton’s International Women’s Day Breakfast on Thursday 5 March 2026.
  • The award, established in 2013 by the Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Advisory Committee, recognises women who make a positive difference in the community and promote equality through leadership, support or mentorship.
  • Liz was recognised for her work supporting vulnerable women and newly arrived families through her roles with St George’s Road Primary School, the Shepparton English Language Centre and Primary Care Connect.
  • Four women were shortlisted for the 2026 award: Danae Napier, Lauren Barker, Sookie Li and Liz Arcus.

The Annual Women’s Award, established in 2013 by the Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Advisory Committee, recognises women who make a difference in their community, embrace diversity, inspire others and promote equality through leadership support or mentorship.

This year’s award attracted a strong field of nominations, with four women shortlisted: Danae Napier, Lauren Barker, Sookie Li and Liz Arcus.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali congratulated all nominees and highlighted the important role women play across the community.

“The nominations this year again show the strength, compassion and leadership of women across our region. Each nominee has made a meaningful contribution to the lives of others and to the broader Greater Shepparton community,” he said.

Liz was recognised for her longstanding commitment to supporting vulnerable women and newly arrived families across Greater Shepparton.

Liz currently works as the Community Hub Leader at St George’s Road Primary School and the Shepparton English Language Centre and also works with Primary Care Connect as a Foundation House Refugee Access Worker. Through these roles she supports refugee, migrant and asylum seeker families to connect with services, build friendships and feel part of the community.

Through the Community Hub alone, Liz supported more than 200 families in 2025 and completed over 200 service referrals, helping women access health education legal and wellbeing services.

Her work focuses on creating welcoming, safe and culturally respectful spaces where women can connect, share experiences and learn from each other. Liz also encourages women to pursue study volunteering and employment opportunities, helping them to build confidence and independence.

Beyond her professional roles, Liz has also contributed to community connection through initiatives such as co-founding Shepparton’s Picnic for Peace event which brings families together through music food and shared messages of peace.

Chair of the Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Advisory Committee, Councillor Sam Spinks said the award recognises women whose work creates lasting change in the community.

“The Women’s Charter Award shines a light on women who lead, support and inspire others in our community. Liz’s work supporting women and families from diverse backgrounds helps build connection, confidence and opportunity for many people across Greater Shepparton,” she said.

Council congratulates Liz Arcus on receiving the 2026 Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Award and thanks all nominees for their contributions to the region.

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