Clarence MP Chris Gulaptis is once again seeking the help of the local community in uncovering women volunteers within Clarence Valley communities who have contributed their time and energy to help others across rural NSW. Mr Gulaptis said these worthy women would be included in the 2018 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll which acknowledges and celebrates the contributions women make to NSW rural communities. “This is not an award program but a public tribute to the vast number of women who have given their valuable time and energy to help others. “Women are often the backbone of families and communities and without their support many groups, including charities, emergency services, the arts, environment, social justice, education and sporting organisations would struggle to survive,” Mr Gulaptis said. The Rural Women’s Network program, within NSW Department of Primary Industries, initiated the Hidden Treasures project to promote and archive the work of these remarkable women. Mr Gulaptis said last year nine women from across his electorate were recognised in the Honour Roll. “I encourage people to get in touch with my office if they know of a woman or women in their local community who they believe would be worthy of such recognition in this year’s Honour Roll. “Nominating a rural woman is easy. Simply go to www.dpi.nsw.gov.au, complete your nomination online or download a nomination form and share a few paragraphs why your nominee is worthy,” Mr Gulaptis said. Nominations close Monday, 30 July 2018. All Hidden Treasures nominees will be included in the 2018 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll to be launched at the annual NSW Rural Women’s Gathering in Merimbula on 19-21 October 2018.