Steve Whan, has called for nominations saying, "I'd like to invite everyone to nominate a local woman who is making a great contribution to our community for Monaro Electorate Woman of the Year.

"This award is about recognising those women whose achievements sometimes go unsung. They could be a local mother, doctor, teacher, nurse, businesswoman, author or community worker. "We want to know about women who are out there working to make life easier for others, who are great community leaders or who excel in their field."

Nomination forms for the 2006 Monaro Electorate Woman of the Year are available from Steve Whan's Office by calling 1800 654 199.

"The Monaro Electorate Woman of the Year will be presented with a small gift and invited to attend the Premier's Reception for International Women's Day alongside other winners from across NSW.

"She will also be Monaro's candidate for the NSW Woman of the Year, which will be announced at this reception."

The 2005 Monaro Woman of the Year was Heather Little from Cooma, who was recognised for her involvement with Meals on Wheels, the Cooma Hospital Auxiliary, the Ladies Probus Club, Cooma Health Service Volunteers, Yallambee Lodge Hostel for the Aged and the Country Women's Association.

The award is open to all women living in the Monaro Electorate.

Nominations close Friday January 27, 2006.