Kirsty Evans, NSW Regional Woman of the Year 2025 – Cheney Suthers Lawyers.
Kirsty Evans, co-director and Commercial and Property Lawyer at Cheney Suthers law firm, has been named NSW Regional Woman of the Year for 2025 in acknowledgment of over 250 hours of pro bono legal support for Molong flood victims following the catastrophic floods of November 2022.
At the awards ceremony held in Sydney on Thursday, Mrs. Evans expressed her gratitude and humility at receiving statewide recognition.
“It’s a privilege to be acknowledged among such inspiring women who are making a meaningful impact across our state,” Mrs. Evans said. “This recognition is not just a personal milestone but also a reflection of the incredible support I’ve received from my community, my colleagues, and my family.”
Recognising Women Making a Difference
Since 2012, the NSW Women of the Year Awards have celebrated and honoured exceptional women who serve as role models, community advocates, and everyday heroes across the state. Mrs. Evans’ contributions stood out for their significant impact on flood-affected businesses and residents in Molong.
Law Society of NSW President Brett McGrath said at the recent Annual Members Dinners and Awards Night that Kirsty “displays an exceptionally high level of integrity, courage, and responsibility through commitment to continual improvement of the profession and of themselves.”
The Devastating Impact of the 2022 Floods
Mrs. Evans was living in Molong when record-breaking floods swept through the region, leaving behind devastation that many long-time residents compared to – or even worse than – the disastrous 2005 floods.
Kirsty enquired into many claim denials from Molong’s business owners and identified and addressed any inadequate insurance responses.
In 2024 Kirsty presented evidence at the Parliamentary Inquiry into insurer’s responses to the 2022 major flood claims exposing systemic failures and advocating for better practices.
Pro Bono Legal Aid: A Lifeline for Local Businesses
$1 million has been returned to Molong clients on a technical argument Kirsty and the team at Cheney Suthers Lawyers constructed on whether water is floodwater (i.e. it has escaped its natural confines) as opposed to being (un-coverable) stormwater.
Understanding the dire situation, Mrs. Evans swiftly put her legal expertise to work, offering free legal services to affected businesses with support of Paralegal Meaghan Denholm.
Many business owners faced denied – in whole or part – insurance claims, leaving them without the financial means to recover. Determined to support her community, Mrs. Evans meticulously reviewed and challenged insurance policies, ultimately overturning unjust decisions by insurers.
Her tireless efforts provided a lifeline that helped many businesses rebuild and recover.
A Well-Deserved Honour
NSW Minister for Women Jodie Harrison congratulated the winners, recognizing their invaluable contributions:
“You are truly deserving of the recognition you received,” she said. “The NSW Government is proud to celebrate your incredible success and highlight your role in inspiring other women and girls across the state.”
Mrs. Evans’ award not only highlights her exceptional dedication to justice and community support but also serves as an inspiration for women in law and beyond. Her selfless contributions continue to make a profound impact, demonstrating the power of compassion, expertise, and advocacy in times of crisis.
Visit: Cheney Suthers Lawyers
Image credit: Cheney Suthers Lawyers, Photography: Monique Lovick
