Maitland City Council is calling for applications for the 2026 International Women’s Day Loretta Baker Scholarship, supporting women in the Maitland area to achieve their goals across arts, culture, business, health, sport and more.

The annual $1,000 scholarship is part of Council’s International Women’s Day program and fosters leadership, personal growth and community involvement.

Applications are now open, with the winner to be announced at Council’s International Women’s Day celebration at Maitland Town Hall on Friday 6 March 2026, ahead of International Women’s Day on Sunday 8 March 2026.

The 2025 scholarship recipient Isabella Crebert said she is grateful for receiving the inaugural scholarship. 

“The scholarship helped to support me to travel to Europe to collect data in Zurich, Switzerland, for my PhD and present my research at the International Academy of Forensic Sciences conference in Dublin, Ireland,” Isabella said.

“However, this scholarship is about more than the funding – it is encouragement to young women in regional areas to pursue their goals, and it is a testament to Loretta Baker as a trailblazer in leadership and as an inspiration for all women.”

Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold said the scholarship “reflects Council’s commitment to supporting women in the community.”

“Maitland City Council is proud to support local women through this scholarship. By investing in women’s potential, we’re helping to build a connected city with thriving communities where everyone has the opportunity to achieve together.”

The scholarship aligns with the 2026 International Women’s Day theme #GiveToGain, promoting generosity and investment in women’s potential, so that when women thrive, the whole community benefits.

Eligible women in the Maitland area are encouraged to apply.

IMAGE | Loretta Baker and 2025 scholarship recipient Isabella Crebert.