TWO Shepparton women have been inducted into the 2025 Victorian Honour Roll of Women, joining an esteemed list of leaders and advocates whose work has left a lasting impact across the state.
Vicki Scott and Lutfiye Kavci were among 24 women honoured at a ceremony at the Arts Centre Melbourne last Tuesday night.
Ms Scott was honoured in the Local Champion category for her longstanding commitment to community initiatives in Greater Shepparton. Even while undergoing treatment for stage IV bowel cancer in 2022, she dedicated her time to helping others.
She became the inaugural Goulburn Valley Health Foundation Ambassador in 2023, promoting the Foundation’s work and fundraising efforts, and serves as a GenesisCare Consumer Advocate supporting people with cancer. A strong supporter of equity and inclusion, Ms Scott is deeply involved in local organisations, including the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project, which works to improve outcomes for young people.
Ms Kavci was recognised as an Emerging Leader for her advocacy on family violence and homelessness. In 2021 she survived a violent attempted murder by her ex-husband, later telling the court: “I’m still here.” Her words have become a powerful message of resilience, inspiring her ongoing work as a speaker, rally organiser and member of the Victims of Crime Commissioner Lived Experience Advisory Group.
“I’m really proud I’m representing our small region the Goulburn Valley,” said Ms Kavci. “It shows that there are amazing people who do such good work here. It is not just me and Vicki.”
The Honour Roll was established by the late Joan Kirner AC, Victoria’s first female Premier, to celebrate women whose leadership and achievements inspire others and create meaningful change.
Minister for Women, Natalie Hutchins, said this year’s inductees reflect the breadth of women’s leadership across the state.
“Every one of these women has made Victoria a better, fairer place. They’ve changed lives, inspired others and strengthened our state in ways that will last for generations.”
Since 2001, more than 770 women have been inducted into the Honour Roll across fields including education, health, community service, the arts and politics.
