Congratulations Beth O'Connor Summer Hill Woman of the Year 2025. The Women of the Year awards celebrate role models who challenge inequality, innovate and inspire and that certainly describes Beth. A long-term leader at Inner West Council's Early Learning Services, Beth has given many years of dedicated service to the youngest members of our community through her work in early childhood education. Beth codesigned, implemented and led the Cooks River Kids program, which was later transitioned to "The Dharaganggal" meaning "people of the river". This innovative program teaches kids that the Cooks River is important for the local community and includes lessons about sustainability, safety and the rich Indigenous heritage of our local area. Beth also consulted with the Gujaga Foundation, embedding Dharawal language in the program. Beth's dedication and selfless service has and will continue to shape the lives of many young people in the Inner West. Thank you, Beth, for all your incredible work and congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!