Awards 2023

Leonie Anne Mcnally 

Nominated by Ms Sally Bevis 

Seconded by Yvonne Forrest OAM

Leonie has for many years volunteered her time and expertise within the community, supporting numerous causes, events and people along the way.

1974 - 1985 Miss Australia Quest

Leonie assisted with the NT Section of the National Event. The quest was set up to raise funds to assist those suffering from Cerebral Palsy. The Quest encouraged young women to gain confidence and contribute to their community. Leonie, was involved in the preparation and presentation of and participation in the Selection Panel; Organising the prestigious Gala Ball and assisting entrants with their fundraising and community engagement each year. Leonie was also the first Northern Territorian to sit on the National Selection Panel. Funds raised in the NT were used to establish the Harry Giese Centre, (now Harry's Place) offering the early intervention and respite care for those affected by Cerebral Palsy within the community.

1982 - 1989 Quota Club of Casuarina

Leonie was a Charter Member of Quota, an International Women's Service Club committed to providing basic humanitarian needs to women and children in the local community. Quota also provided funds for research for the deaf and hearing impaired around the world, taking on all executive roles including President.

1986+ Darwin Turf Club Ladies Day & Gala Ball

As a volunteer, Leonie with her late husband Jim, initiated and established DTC Ladies Day and the DTC Gala Ball. These events are still today, recognised as major functions on the Darwin Turf Club's annual calendar.

1994 - 2002 NT Fashion Awards

Leonie was a member of the organizing committee of this event. The Awards were established to nurture and encourage local fashion students who were recognised at annual presentations.

1996 - 2016 Australian Forum of Textile Arts

A Board Member, President and annual volunteer at projects presented by TAFTA to enhance and enrich the knowledge of textile practitioners and art educators throughout Australia & New Zealand.

2006 - 2015 Inner Wheel Darwin

An International Women's Service Club initially formed to assist Rotarian husbands. Funds raised for local womens' welfare, particularly those affected by domestic violence and the National Core Blood Research Project.

2007 - 2021 National Trust - Government House

A regular volunteer at Government House Open Days.

2012 - 2016 COTA

Assisting with various community events organised and presented by COT

Leonie has been associated with a number of other community projects and events on a voluntary basis, unfortunately the list being too long to fit onto this page.