26 Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year awards finalists reveal what drives them
Before the awards ceremony kicks off, we asked each of our incredible Women of the Year finalists to describe themselves in their own words. Read their inspiring stories
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The Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year awards by Harvey Norman for 2023 have attracted hundreds of impressive contenders.
The annual ceremony recognises women who go above and beyond to make our community and the Gold Coast a better place.
Before the awards ceremony kicks off on Saturday night, we asked each of our incredible finalists to describe themselves in their own words:
ANGELS AMONG US
Tracey Woodbry
I am a believer
I have been bullied in the workplace because I am a female but it made me stronger.
I grew during that period, returned with a voice and to a seat at the table.
Sexism won’t get in my way, I am respected as a person.
It is important for men to support women, if they are the right person for the job regardless of their gender.
It is just as important for women to support men. It is about respect.
You earn respect by your actions and abilities. Sometimes women don’t believe in themselves or their ability, they don’t feel confident to question the system and it is up to us to encourage others.
Believe in yourself. Have a go. Fall over, get back up and go again.
You learn more by listening than speaking.
My philosophy is finding solutions, not excuses and our team catchphrase is “get s**t done”!
Linda Osman
I am unique
I’m a mum of four and number four is Lars. At two, we saw differences that would rock our world.
He ate deodorant sticks, ran away from home, laid on top of me and tried to suffocate me.
I didn’t know what he needed. I didn’t understand his world, he didn’t understand mine, or the family dynamic.
He had no voice. At three, he was diagnosed with level three Autistic Spectrum Disorder and no language.
As a mum, it’s gut wrenching, because you’ve read a piece of paper that says your son will never speak.
He does today, after years of sheer determination.
I established Journey 2 Learn, a person-centred, not-for-profit organisation that prides itself on highlighting the importance of inclusion and mainstream school opportunities for children on the Autistic Disorder Spectrum.
We offer an individualised service as each child’s individual needs.
We work within mainstream schools so our children can be accepted, while achieving priceless progress and a sense of pride.
Journey 2 Learn offers previously impossible opportunities for children and families, plus perspective to the community.
Each child with autism is a treasure waiting to be unlocked, given the chance, the possibilities are endless.
Georgia Lane
I am assiduous, alacrtitous
Being diagnosed with breast cancer and going through surgery, chemo and radiotherapy made me a different person in a great way.
I have always said that it was the best thing to happen to me. It shifted my focus, from being almost entirely focused on climbing the corporate ladder to wanting less stress, more love, focus, balance and joy.
I discovered you could study philanthropy at university so I applied to be a mature-aged student. It was a complete change and a challenge.
Learning and meeting people who also wanted to make the world a better place was exhilarating. I applied for a dream job in philanthropy and was successful.
Now I spend each day with wildlife, nature and amazing people who are saving our planet and its precious creatures.
Women are the nurturers, the carers, they are the voice, the heart and soul of every community.
When a woman is lifted and celebrated, she does great things and makes the world a better place.
CHAMPIONS OF EDUCATION
Erica Wilson
I am dedicated
My journey at Southern Cross University started in my late 20s as a lecturer. In 20 years I’ve transitioned from Professor to Pro Vice Chancellor.
I’ve overcome, at times, debilitating anxiety and fear throughout my life.
Fear of failure, not being perfect, not looking or being confident, smart enough.
One of my harder lessons as a high-achiever is we women can’t do everything and do it perfectly.
Education is so important – particularly for girls, young women and women – and at all stages of life. I really like the notion of a ‘champion’ of education.
I have dedicated my career to the opportunities and power of higher education.
Both of my grandmothers were fortunate to have university degrees in the 1940s, real trailblazers in their own way, always working while being married and having families.
I couldn’t have gotten where I am without the support and mentoring of both women and men who have seen my potential at times I couldn’t – or who have literally held up my hand for career opportunities.
Renee Brescianni
I am compassionate
I am a woman motivated by juggling many things at once. I love keeping busy as a mother, employer and not-for-profit organisation champion.
I established the Enriching Lives Foundation to fulfil my mission to support disadvantaged, in need, local students to access basic educational needs and requirements.
Our Sponsor A Student Program has made an impressive impact in its inaugural year.
In 2024 we aim to support 100 Gold Coast teens to complete their education.
Our goal is to give more than 5 kids in each classroom a “leg up”, not a hand out.
Education is the gift that keeps on giving. It provides self worth, well-being, friendships and of course skills to allow anyone to not only work but dream for the future.
This journey has made me realise raising awareness of inequality in education is so important. You cannot judge a teenager based on the circumstances they find themselves in.
Helping them is essential to their future success in our community.
Kate Hucker
I am passionate
No doubt, creating a school from its foundation has been the hardest thing I have set out to accomplish in my career.
Coomera State Special School was established to ‘shine the light on everyone’s potential’.
It has been an all consuming but incredibly enriching experience.
While I’ve always been an empathetic leader, becoming a mum reshaped how I support our families.
I’ve learnt, you cannot judge a mother on how she copes with the role. For a mother navigating a child with special needs, the scope of service required during motherhood can be inconceivable and unimaginable unless you’ve lived it.
Anxiety, expectation and self imposed pressures that come with the territory can feel frightening.
At the Coomera Special School, I strive to create an environment that places collaborative endeavour and student success at the core, where people can ask questions without judgement, dream big, and work together to accomplish major goals.
YOUNG WOMEN
Olympia Pope
I am warm-hearted
From volunteer committee positions - to umpires, referees, coaches, physios, administration, support and medical staff - women are the backbone of sport in Australia.
Women’s sporting success has been on an upward trajectory for many years, and we aren’t done yet.
Our Aussie Diamonds in the Netball World Cup and Matildas in the Quarter FIFA World Cup final are shining examples of the future of women in sport.
When men elevate and empower women, in every field, momentum grows.
True potential, whether it be at a grassroots or international level, will be realised, when we see funding and support for athletes no matter their gender.
I am so grateful to use this platform to advocate for women’s sport.
Seeing so many young achievers in this category, it is an indication our future is in endearing, safe hands.
Aurora Iler
I am tough
I’m 12 years old, and most motivated when people doubt me. Rejection is tough, but it makes you tougher.
I believe you must take your success into your own hands, rather than waiting for it to come to you.
My mission to deter youth from vaping prompted me to create my second short film for positive change called ‘Grape’. When I couldn’t find a director, a female mentor encouraged me to do it myself and I’m so glad I did.
Being a catalyst for change by creating thought-provoking content, has not only protected lives but also changed my life. We need more women in the film industry.
I am proud to be a female director. My dream is one day there will be as many of us as our male counterparts. I hope other young girls see this and know they can do this too. That they control their destiny.
Priya Virdee-Hero
I am driven
Due to my age, gender, and cultural heritage I have been pushed aside, disregarded, and at times been told to be less confident or goal-oriented by men.
Unwelcome comments and sexism have led me to my great passions, advocating for women’s rights, protecting mental health, empowering the youth, responding to the climate crisis and supporting minority groups.
Challenges have invited me to take charge, be confident, and push myself.
Juggling many leadership roles and studying has been challenging but I am grateful for every opportunity to take on projects and volunteer to make an impact and create connections with likeminded people.
If we lift each other up, collectively, we can break down the glass ceiling and change the world for the better.
PROFESSIONALS (sponsored by The Valley Estate, Balboa)
Debbie Sage
I am compassionate
The legal industry has traditionally been a more male-dominated industry, but this year marks my 18 years in law at Attwood Marshall Lawyers.
The chance to be a force for good, to champion kindness, respect, and justice gets me up in the morning.
I see myself as an agent of change, whether it’s by voicing my concerns, proposing alternative approaches, or collaborating with like-minded individuals.
When I called for the specific criminalisation of elder abuse and abuse against vulnerable persons recently, I received unanimous support and felt an overwhelming sense of pride.
I had to do something to try and safeguard the rights of our elders and our most vulnerable in the community.
The most satisfying aspect of my life journey has undoubtedly been my resilience and dedication to self-improvement.
Every day presents an opportunity for me to challenge myself, and from this pursuit I have discovered the true measure of my own strength and potential.
Lynne Benzie
I am determined
Hollywood on the Gold Coast - is more than a promotional catch phrase - it’s reality.
In my 33 years at Village Roadshow we have seen countless blockbusters produced in our backyard.
The industry is a multiplier of business. Not just for crew but local tourism and the local economy, forging relationships with other industry bodies that have built what is a thriving business.
I’ve worked hard to position our city as the premier destination for film production in Australia. Our sector generates billions.
We have helped 100s of local artists to work in the industry that they love - while boosting the economy and fostered positive relationships with U.S and U.K - markets with record numbers of international productions calling the Gold Coast home.
Shifting focus from scale to sustainability, we can offer long-term employment for people and businesses, grow crew depth and mentor talent.
I’ve experienced a lot of resistance in my career as the industry is typically male-dominated. We all have challenges but how you handle them can shape the life you create in the future.
Renee Henville
I am resilient
We have worked with over 300 businesses throughout the last 13 years and are a team of 13 HR professionals - a business I’ve built from scratch through resilience, determination and passion.
In 2023 unconscious bias remains against women in business.
Within our client businesses, our HR team advocates delicately for equality.
We have responsibility to ensure equity across - salaries, bonuses, promotions, recruitment and selection processes and much more.
I’ve worked in professional services for the last 30 years - ever since I left Emmanual College at only 17 years old and across many industries.
Unfortunately, throughout my career and even to date, I’ve had to endure the prejudice against females by rude, disrespectful and belittling people.
I’ve left meetings absolutely shattered more than once.
However, these instances have made me stronger, more determined to succeed and resilient.
I hope to inspire my team, my business colleagues and friends and family that no matter what the challenge, to believe in themself to back themself and go after their dreams.
Anything is possible.
ENVIRONMENTAL WARRIORS (sponsored by We.Are.Phoenix)
Sarah Eccleston
I am dedicated
I wake up with one goal, to conserve and protect our wildlife and encourage others to do the same.
That is my life’s work. Knowing my son could grow up in a world without koalas is incredibly sobering.
It breaks my heart and soul to know they face extinction locally by 2050.
While breakthroughs in breeding endangered species and research are rewarding, honing in on your intuition can take an emotional, physical and mental toll.
I have to be their voice because they don’t have one.
To illustrate the plight of the natural world and arm the next generation of environmental warriors with knowledge to champion change, I became a children’s author.
When I first started out 25 years ago, it was a male-dominated industry, today conservation, research and zoology are female dominated.
I’ve had many supportive male mentors that drove me to be the passionate, dedicated woman I am today.
Claire McCulloch
I am industrious
Bringing life to steep land on which we live was an idea that sprouted a sustainable micro flower farm.
By harvesting dry flowers, we enhance where we live through permaculture principles.
It’s surreal to be surrounded by beautiful flowers, work in the garden and be able to call it a job.
On the journey I’ve protected crops from pests and disease, prioritised waste reduction and natural resources, learnt how to build compost, keep soil healthy and which support plants are necessary to each flower.
We have refined our products and processes.
I have been so inspired by friends and local businesses who make such great impacts with sustainability so I hope I can be a part of that.
You don’t need to know every step of your path now. Life takes so many twists and turns, just work out the very next step and the rest will follow.
Amy Gash
I am dynamic
My parents met and fell in love on Lady Elliot Island.
Before becoming leaseholders they connected visitors with the tourism destination via Air Charter.
My family and I are now custodians of the island, responsible for protecting and preserving the site through revegetation programs and conservation efforts.
We also manage the eco resort. Growing up surrounded by the idyllic waters of the Great Barrier Reef and the immense beauty of its inhabitants, I innately feel protective of the land, sea and wildlife.
It is my mission to inspire and educate guests of Lady Elliot Island to adopt a sustainable business model and lifestyle.
Protecting and preserving the natural environment by way of consistently evolving conservation practices has become the lifeblood of our organisation.
We are proud to work hard so future generations can experience paradise.
WELLNESS WARRIORS (Sponsored by Chempro)
Aneta Siedlecka
I am a unicorn
As a former Australian Body Sculpting Champion I was crippled by body dysmorphia, feelings of insecurity and inadequacy.
My pursuit of perfection, personal struggles with addiction, physical and mental health sparked my passion for holistic wellness.
Today, as a Holistic Transformational Coach, I am able to share my secrets to become the conscious creator of your reality and in turn, to reach optimal health.
Seeing my clients evolve to create better relationships with themselves and others, enjoying meaningful communication and living authentically is the greatest gift.
It wasn’t until I let go, trust in my path and healed the wounded parts of myself, I was able to transcend my past and transform to achieve emotional, physical, mental and spiritual wellness. My advice to my 12-year old self? Be bold, be loud, never be afraid to be too much.
Patsy Tierney
I am persistent
My relationship fell apart after the birth of my second child. I never expected to be a single mum of two, under two years of age.
Barely keeping my head above water working full time, I neglected my own needs, using alcohol and antidepressants to function.
Signing up for the Gold Coast Marathon 10km was a turning point that turned my life around. I prioritised my health, and returned to doing what I love, coaching women and in particular mums.
I established the Fit Mumma Classic to help mums target and train toward a goal together.
I’d like to see this initiative grow to a nationwide event highlighting the physical and mental challenges of motherhood, but also offering support to the growing community.
From mum to business owner, boss to friend, I’ve had days where I felt as though I was failing.
30 years in the fitness industry has presented countless opportunities to positively impact people’s lives.
Oftentimes the most rewarding for me are connection based, beyond weightloss or physical fitness.
Danni Gillham
I am determined
From side hustle, one-woman-show to thriving health hub - The Wellness Boutique - was the brainchild of my own journey to motherhood.
For most, giving life is the greatest physical and mental transformation.
For some, it is the greatest challenge, a time of uncertainty and change without adequate guidance or support.
Our Bump & Beyond Program supports mums through pregnancy and the postpartum period. Shockingly one in 10 women experience birth trauma or PTSD, one in three leak from the bladder, one in 10 suffer faecal incontinence and one in two experience pain with intercourse or some degree of prolapse.
My goal is to empower women with the knowledge they deserve to make the right decisions for themselves.
In our purpose-built women’s wellness space, we offer birth preparation techniques to reduce risk of injury, recovery remedies, postnatal pilates and physiotherapy to help mothers feel nurtured and return to a happy, healthy life after baby.
CHAMPIONS OF SPORT (sponsored by Harvey Norman)
Karyn Murphy
I am determined
Before leading the NRL Integrity unit, Director of Female Rugby League and Head Coach of the Gold Coast Titans NRLW team, I was a police officer.
In male-dominated fields, successful female leaders are critical to install confidence in other women.
As a young girl, I remember being at the football fields every weekend hoping one day I’d be allowed to play but the NRLW was non-existent.
At the time, support in terms of accessing the game to play, and pathways for representative rugby league funding and resources were next to nothing.
How far the game has come humbles me as a retired player. It was sheer passion and the love for the sport that saw us self-fund and fundraise our way through our sporting careers.
Today, society is more inclusive and open to women participating in what has been traditionally viewed as ‘men’s sports’.
Collectively our courage to stick with the game in the tough times laid the foundation for what we see now.
Courtney Hancock
I am loving
Everyday I strive to be the best version of myself and the truth is, you can do anything you set your mind and heart to. The limit does not exist.
In my 16 year long Ironwoman career, I made countless podium finishes, four Coolangatta Gold titles and also hold three Australian Ironwoman titles to my name.
Despite my wins, I am very hard on myself, always searching for perfection in racing.
There are plenty of moments I could have done better but I have no regrets.
Being ultra competitive with my male counterparts in training helped me improve my swimming, paddling and running.
As an athlete I have many male training partners and lifelong friendships.
As women we go through the good, bad and ugly.
Women rise with strength when we have another woman’s support, it’s our superpower.
In reflection, I am incredibly grateful to be where I am today, surrounded by and still meeting the most wonderful people.
STARS OF TOURISM (sponsored by Destination Gold Coast)
Michelle Massey
I am empowering
I was sexually abused as a child, kidnapped in Russia, in a horrific car accident at ten, nearly lost my father to cancer, had four soul-destroying miscarriages, a hysterectomy, and endured domestic violence and stalking.
When I went to forge my way in business, I was underestimated and told ‘you’re a young, blonde Goldie girl, leave business to the big kids’.
I was told I’d be ‘chewed up and spat out’ by competitors - such as Flight Centre, Hello World and Expedia.
Today Amplify - Accessible Travel Specialists services these brands so they can cater to the accessible tourism market.
I was told the medical world was dog eat dog, to stay out, but this is a cause close to my heart.
I fight for my child with Neurological Super Powers, my paraplegic cousin Sandy Blythe - Captain of Gold Medal Australian Basketball team, my cousin with Down Syndrome, my Aunt with MND, my Uncle with Cerebral Palsy, ex partner with Paraplegia, quadriplegic teammate and paraplegic teammates - to see accessible travel become a reality.
Victoria Peterson
I am resilient
Men that support women are invaluable. I’ve been fortunate to work with some great male leaders.
It’s refreshing not having to constantly prove yourself, to not be spoken over or over-ruled “just because”.
Antiquated men make life harder than it needs to be.
Previously I’ve experienced resistance from male colleagues who have been dismissive, sexist or ignorant, and I want to be able to empower and give a voice to those that aren’t as comfortable to speak up.
My Dad is my biggest advocate and has instilled in me that we deserve a seat at the table. And that it’s quite possible I do have more experience or am higher qualified than the man sitting across from me.
My advice? Travel as much as you can. Move away from where you live at least once. Be you. Stand up for what you believe in.
Adrienne Readings
I am authentic
Days from full hysterectomy surgery I found out I was pregnant.
A possibility previously rendered heartbreakingly unlikely by experts.
I knew this was my only chance. I knew my miracle would survive - that she would have the will to live - because she was a girl and girls are stronger.
Strong women can be labelled as aggressive, while a strong man is seen as assertive.
I’ve never heard anyone describe a woman as assertive. Some women get harder in leadership. As opportunities came, I took advantage and I worked hard.
You can achieve what you want if you work hard enough and see disappointments as motivation for your next achievement.
I could be perceived as a ‘ball breaker’ but I’m not, I’m just strong. I just care. I really care.
If I commit, I’m there 110%.
That’s personal or professional - I will never not turn up - I normally turn up early.
I just think if you commit to something, it matters. I love watching people succeed. Sometimes the best success stories come out of the blue.
If I can help one person succeed in what they set out to do, god, it’s a good feeling.
I hate being in the spotlight and am far more comfortable being someone who advocates for others.
ENTREPRENEURS (sponsored by Southern Cross University)
Lori Phegan
I am inappropriate
Sending five sharks into a feeding frenzy on Australia’s Shark Tank - a show for entrepreneurs - to pitch business ideas for investor input and funding - was a pinch me moment.
When I couldn’t find funny gifts for my friends and family online, I decided to make them myself.
Creating gifts with slogans was initially a creative outlet, to have a laugh and share my sense of humour with other mothers.
Until one product went viral, racking up nearly 10 million views overnight.
It was a mug emblazoned with “I’m not feeling very talkative today, off you f**k.”
Leaving my financially secure, well paid corporate job in Human Resources to become an entrepreneur and pursue a business from my kitchen bench with no funding was scary but the right decision.
Today, The Inappropriate Gift Co has operations in Australia and UK, and is on track to meet its targets to turn over $2 million this year.
Evette Hess-McEwan
I am passionate
A decade ago, PONi Cosmetics started my entrepreneurial journey, and today we have four flourishing brands under the MakeupCartel Banner - PONi, esmi Skin Minerals, Lip Heroes and Sun Skills.
Our growth is a testament to the vibrant and passionate community we’ve nurtured and our love for creating products that provide solutions to our customers.
When you first start out it can feel like a fight for survival and you do feel like you miss out on a lot.
Within the first 12 months of launching in Sephora Australia and New Zealand, our iconic esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum, was the best-selling serum in-store.
esmiSkin Minerals will launch in Sephora South East Asia early next year with PONi and Sun Skills also available in Australia and New Zealand stores by end 2024.
In the decade of building the business and with over $100,000,000 in sales to customers in over 100 countries, I’ve not really taken the time to stop and recognise the work and effort that’s gone into all of this so it’s a real delight for me to stop and celebrate.
Sonia Stradiotto
I am passionate
Only an entrepreneur knows the feeling. Beyond passion, it takes blood, sweat and tears to stay and thrive in business.
I built a company from my kitchen bench. Next year will mark 35 years living my purpose - elevating and empowering women - as an Australian fashion designer.
Decade after decade, one curated collection at a time, I put my heart and soul into my craft, for my loyal customers and friends.
I believe you can introduce yourself without words. That your style tells your story, so best be true to you and say something interesting.
Dress for success in life. My greatest satisfaction is seeing designs come to life as treasured wardrobe favourites - to see my sisterhood sporting Sonia Stradiotto with unstoppable confidence.
I take every opportunity to give back, my annual charity runway raises much needed funds for The Carers Foundation, this year achieving $75,000.
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