Qantas and Australian Business have today announced the shortlist of those in the running to take home the 2014 Qantas Australian Woman of the Year in the UK Award.

Now in its seventh consecutive year, the award celebrates the achievements of Australian women living in the United Kingdom (UK) and recognises individuals excelling in all walks of life, including business, the arts, science, government, the community and sport.

This year a large volume of nominations were received from across the UK and, from this, a final shortlist of four women selected: Carole Berndt, Global Head of Transaction Services, RBS; Sarah Ramwell, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager, EMEA, Reed Smith LLP; Ann-Maree Morrison, Managing Director and Founder, Labels4kids Ltd and Kelly O’Rourke, Senior Strategy and Performance Manager, BHP Billiton.

The winner will be chosen by a panel of representatives from the Australian High Commission, Qantas and Australian Business and announced at an evening reception on Tuesday 11 March, to coincide with International Women’s Day on 8 March.

The event, at Australia House in London, is expected to attract around 150 men and women supporting the achievements of Australian Women in the UK. Special guest is Australian Foreign Minister, Julie Bishop, who will present this year’s award as part of an upcoming visit to London. 

The prize includes a return Business class ticket to Sydney or Melbourne flying Qantas from London Heathrow and their name will appear on the perpetual trophy housed at the Australian High Commission in London. The title also brings with it a representative role for Qantas and Australian Business at selected events throughout the year.

Previous winners include Siobhan Reddy, Co-Founder and Studio Director of Media Molecule (2013); Liz Koops, Theatre Producer (2012); Skye Gyngell, former Head Chef at Petersham Nurseries (2011); Dr Margaret Mayston for her work with the UCL chartered institute of Child Health (2010); and Gill Hicks, London bomb survivor and founder of MAD for Peace (2009).

Tickets to this year's Qantas Australian Woman of the Year Awards are still on sale. Visit http://www.australianbusiness.co.uk/ for full details. 

Notes for Editors:

QANTAS

The world's second oldest airline, Qantas was founded in the Queensland outback in 1920 and has grown to be Australia’s largest domestic and international airline.  It is widely regarded as one of the world's most respected full-service airlines and one of the strongest brands in Australia. With an outstanding reputation for excellence in safety, customer service, operational efficiency and technical innovation, Qantas are a top provider of flights to Australia, New Zealand and Dubai.

On 31st March 2013, Qantas embarked on its new global partnership with Emirates*. This exciting collaboration opens new routes and opportunities, providing customers with one-stop access to Australia from more than 30 European destinations, travelling via the global hub of Dubai. Customers now benefit from a seamless Australian and international network, exclusive frequent flyer benefits and world-class travel experiences, including flying on board the airline’s flagship A380.

Australian Business is the only organisation in the United Kingdom that brings together professionals and companies who have Australian interests and connections through business networking opportunities and events.  With over 300 corporate and individual members, Australian Business helps strengthen business links between Australia and the UK, and further members' interests, in the UK and beyond. 

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For further information please contact:

Emily Booth

Tel: +44 207 610 9877

Email: emily@bethcooperpr.co.uk