Ingrid Heyman

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Roads, and Minister for Regional Transport)—Congratulations to 2025 Maitland Local Woman of the Year finalist Ingrid Heyman. Ingrid is a founding member of the Maitland Cancer Appeal Committee Inc. and has been a driving force behind the charity's significant impact on cancer research over the years. Ingrid's journey began in 1982 when she, alongside her friends Alice Dennis and Lesley Flannery, formed the Committee after Alice's heartbreaking loss to cancer. Together, they established a registered charity to raise funds and provide vital support services, including laundering linen for terminally ill patients in Maitland. For over four decades, Ingrid has been an unwavering volunteer at the Committee's Op shop, dedicating countless hours each week to keep the charity's efforts alive. From coordinating volunteers to donating goods herself, Ingrid has poured her heart into the cause. Her consistent commitment has helped raise over $2.5 million for cancer research since 2007, supporting vital work in breast, prostate, bowel, lung, pancreatic, ovarian cancer, and more. At 81, Ingrid continues to lead by example, proving that age is no barrier to making a lasting difference. Ingrid's selflessness and dedication to the fight against cancer are truly inspiring, and our community is incredibly fortunate to have her.