Emma Crethar has been at the forefront of getting Broadwater Public School rebuilt after the 2022 floods. As president of the Broadwater Public School P&C Association, she fought to overcome unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles that could have delayed the rebuild.
State MP Richie Williamson has announced Emma as the Clarence Electorate Local Woman of the Year – which is part of International Women’s Day celebrations.
Mr Williamson said Ms Crethar’s leadership and determination had been instrumental in securing that Broadwater got its flood resilient school.
“She never sought recognition – she just wanted to see the kids back in their school,” Mr Williamosn said
“But there is no doubt that Emma was the driving force behind this fight, and this award is just a small way of saying thank you for everything she has done.”
Ms Crethar said she was humbled to receive the recognition but emphasised that it was a shared achievement.
“I am truly honoured and humbled to receive this recognition. But I want to be clear—this award isn’t just mine. I accept it on behalf of our entire P&C, a group of strong, resilient, and supportive women who have worked tirelessly for the betterment of our kids and community,” she said.
“We are a group of mums who, after hearing ‘be patient’ and ‘trust the process’ one too many times, decided to take action. From our very first call for help, both Richie and the Broadwater community have stood by us every step of the way. We are so fortunate to call Broadwater home—our small village is built on a foundation of unwavering community spirit.
“Lastly, I want to thank my family for their constant support throughout this entire process. All the hard work will fade into the background on Day 1 of next term, when our kids walk into their new school for the first time—back in the heart of their community, where they truly belong.”
Mr Williamson said Ms Crethar’s fearlessness and tenacity in tackling government red tape and her community advocacy would be a legacy that would be felt for generations to come.
“The Broadwater P&C Association, with Emma at the helm, never took no for an answer. She is incredibly humble, but the reality is that this school would not be nearing completion today without her determination. The entire Clarence electorate is proud of her,” Mr Williamson said.
The rebuilt Broadwater Public School opens on Day 1 of Term 2.
As the Clarence Electorate Local Woman of the Year, Ms Crethar will attend the NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony at the International Conventional Centre this Thursday, March 6 with her husband, Mal. Mr Williamson will also be attending.
Millie Trustum from Tatham will also be at the award ceremony in the category One to Watch 7–15 year category.
This information was provided by the office of Richie Williamson MP.