On yer bike: CEOs grab tools for youth charity

A group of Queensland execs are getting their tool kits in order so that they can take on a bike-building challenge with youth organisation TRACTION.

Sandy Murdoch, founder of Traction

Morgans chief financial officer Karyn Ferguson will be grabbing her tool kit to join a group of Queensland business leaders and young people in the name of charity in September. Ferguson and other executives have been tasked with assembling a bike within a three-hour time frame as part of mentorship program with youth organisation TRACTION.

TRACTION founder and chief executive Sandy Murdoch is aiming to recruit 40 chief executives and business leaders to help achieve a goal of raising $200,000 for the organisation. “We’re set to launch our largest CEO Bike Build yet, and I’m beyond excited by the incredible support from our corporate partners,” says Murdoch.

“This event isn’t just about building bikes; it’s about forging connections and instilling a sense of achievement in our young people.:

Ferguson says that as a mum of an 11-year-old she understands the many challenges young people are facing today. Having done the challenge last year, she is encouraging other CEOs and business leaders to get involved.

Faye Goodyear, Cyril Jinks and Sandy Murdoch at a previous cycling event.

“The experience surprised me with the meaningful connections I made on the day, not only with the young person I was paired with but also with all of the other business leaders that participated,” she says. “It was an incredible day, I was so inspired by the young person I was paired with, their knowledge and confidence to teach me, when they had only just met me that morning was amazing, and we had such a fun day together.

“My bike build partner taught me no matter how hard your life has been or the challenges you have faced as a child, you can still put your mind and heart into a goal and succeed.”

TRACTION is a for-purpose organisation that works to empower young people to realise their potential by providing a supportive and safe learning environment where they can learn new skills and experience success. In 2023, participating CEOs raised more than $114,000.

tionally, there were 219 senior lawyers from 25 countries in the promotions round

Cheeky look

Boutique Gold Coast swimwear brand Full Bums Swimwear is making waves presenting its range of swimwear and accessories at Miami Swim Week.

The business is the only Australian designer chosen to take part in the Flying Solo Miami Swim Week event. “I’m one of 50 designers taking part in this specific event, and I think I’m going to stand out with my full coverage” says founder Ashya McDonald.

Full Bum Swimwear heading to the US

As the name sugggest, Full Bums provides more modest swimwear compared to the skimpy designs that have become popular in recent years. “I’m polar opposite to the other brands but I am so excited to have been accepted and show something different.” Full Bums showcased eight looks at the Perez Art Museum in Miami this week including bikinis, one-pieces, kimonos, towels, hats and other swimwear accessories.

McDonald has collaborated with Australian artist Erin Reinboth who recently worked with Adairs, with Erin’s original artwork on the swimwear.

Legal promotions

DLA Piper has promoted two of its Brisbane lawyers Chloe Foyster and Lisa Huynh to senior associate. DLA Piper managing partner Amber Matthews says the promotions are a major career milestone and recognise the hard work and commitment of each individual.

“This year, 83 per cent of our senior lawyer promotions are female, demonstrating our strong talent pipeline,” Matthews says. Interna