Stephanie Trethewey wins 2024 Australian of the Year for Tasmania

Stephanie Trethewey – founder of Motherland, a support service for rural women, and 9Honey columnist – has been bestowed the title of 2024 Australian of the Year for Tasmania.

She had set up Motherland Australia as a charity and podcast in 2019 after struggling with post-natal depression and isolation when moving from Melbourne to a beef farm in the north of Tasmania.

"I didn't realise that when I married a farmer, I also married the land," she had written in a column for us recently.

Over the last four years, Trethewey has worked to provide rural mothers with the support they need, and in 2021 she created Australia's first online mother's group program for rural mums, called Motherland Village.

"I just keep thinking of all the rural mums on farms right now like me, who have struggled like I have," she said, as per the ABC.

"Farming can be relentless … and motherhood is relentless so what Motherland has done is really reduce that social isolation because I couldn't find a platform that told the stories of women like me, rural mums on the land."

Trethewey took to Instagram to share the win with her network.

"To be recognised through this prestigious award is mind-blowing. I am so emotional and overwhelmed. I've cried a lot. But I am so excited," she shared, along with pictures from her big night.

"This is for you mamas. This is all for you. This is all about YOU. This award is far bigger than me. Momentum is building. I can feel the love for Motherland growing, not just within the rural sector, but far beyond."

The advocate was one of four winners of the night.

Reverend James Colville, founder of charity Colony 47 which helps Tasmanians in need, won the title of 2024 Senior Australia of the Year for Tasmania.

2024 Young Australian of the Year for Tasmania went to actor, singer and Indigenous activist Naarah. The Hobart-raised Gija woman uses social media to advocate for diversity and inclusion, especially in the arts.

Clair Harris was named Tasmania's Community Hero for her charity Tassie Mums, which she set up after moving from Melbourne and finding no local group. The charity aims to help families with essentials, including families with children, refugees, those fleeing domestic violence, and those affected by mental health issues and financial stress.