Kerryn and Jackie named Mother of the Year ambassadors

Marriage equality advocate, media commentator and GP, Professor Kerryn Phelps and wife Jackie Stricker-Phelps have been named as 2013 Mother of the Year ambassadors by children’s charity Barnardos.

Held for the past 18 years, the Mother of the Year Awards run by Barnardos help recognise the enormous contribution mums make to society through their care and nurturing of children. 

“Mothers are so special because they are the first point of reference for a child, and remain one of our most powerful influences,” Phelps said.

Barnardos remains one of the few child fostering and adoption agencies across Australia that allow for adoption by gay and lesbian parents.

The charity's marketing and fundraising Director, Manisha Amin, said the awards existed to recognise as many inspirational mothers in the community each year.

“This Mothers Day Barnardos Australia wants to celebrate these families and the mothers who make homes that children can belong to,” Amin said.

Phelps paid tribute to the work of the charity in finding new loving homes and families for children, saying that not all kids were fortunate enough to have received love and care from their biological parents.

“Strong and positive mothering helps children to become confident and independent adults,” Phelps said.

Other Mother of Year ambassadors include Noni Hazlehurst, Damien Leith, Natarsha Belling, Lisa Wilkinson and Dr Ginni Mansberg.

The national awards will be given out during a high profile event to be held in Sydney on Friday, May 10.

Nominations for the 2013 Mother of the Year Awards are now open and close at midnight on Friday, March 1. To vote or more information, visit http://www.motheroftheyear.org.au/