Mar 12, 2024 2 min read

Amplifying Mother Nature

Monica Mudge, founder of Treading Lightly, one of five NSW 2024 Women of the Year.

Mollymook environmental campaigner, Monica Mudge, is one of five outstanding NSW women who received a NSW Women of the Year 2024 award at a ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Sydney during NSW Women's Week.

Monica Mudge is the visionary behind Treading Lightly Inc., a not-for-profit organisation that stands at the forefront of environmental advocacy in the Yuin region of NSW. As founder and President, she developed the organisation into a beacon of hope, dedicated to 'Caring for Earth, Connecting Community', particularly since the 2019–2020 bushfires. Monica was awarded the winner of the NSW Community Hero category for her embodiment of environmental stewardship and for fostering a sense of hope and grassroots change.

In accepting her award, Monica said her community volunteering work was "about amplifying the voice of mother nature - the ultimate woman."

"To stand up here on behalf of all the women in our community - and the men who support us to do the work we do - is a privilege."

As a child, Monica's profound love for the environment and oceans sparked a lifelong commitment. In her previous role as Program Manager for Take 3 for the Sea, she showcased her leadership in addressing plastic pollution and sustainability goals with Surf Life Saving clubs. Now, through Treading Lightly Inc., Monica champions regenerative and sustainable practices that bridge community and environment.

Monica is a mentor and guide to women on the South Coast of NSW. As a certified yoga teacher, she nurtures physical and mental wellbeing and inspires the community – particularly youth – to engage in positive change. She is also a Community Resilience Officer with MacKillop Seasons, supporting community recovery from the bushfires.

Since 2012, the annual NSW Women of the Year Awards have recognised women and girls whose determination, bravery, skill and passion have inspired their communities and others to achieve great things.

This year, 33 women and girls were recognised across 5 award categories, receiving commendation for their contributions to community, industry and society in NSW.

The NSW Women of the Year Awards 2024 was celebrated at the heart of NSW Women’s Week, which ran from Monday 4 March to Sunday 10 March and included International Women’s Day on Friday 8 March.