Rockhampton and Capricorn Coast’s inspirational business women 2023
Meet the business power queens of Central Queensland who build empires from the ground up in everything from photography to health, fitness, coaching and fashion. CAST YOUR VOTE.
Rockhampton
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Last year there were 5,483 registered businesses in the Rockhampton Regional Council area, a growth of 313 more compared to the year before.
According to national data, self-employed people are more likely to be males than females, with 65.5 per cent of owner managers male compared to 34.5 per cent of females.
Rockhampton has a strong population of women bucking the trend and paving their way in the small business industry.
Even in politics, we have a female federal politician with Michelle Landry and a state member in Brittany Lauga. Three of the eight councillors, Donna Kirkland, Cherie Rutherford and Ellen Smith are female.
To celebrate women in business, The Morning Bulletin has complied a list of CQ’s female business queens who are inspired by their community. The list is in no particular order.
CHANTELLE SEAMAN – MILL AND THE SEA (PHOTOGRAPHY)
Chantelle started her photography business in 2010 after the birth of her daughter, Sienna.
Over the past 13 years she has become a household name in the local wedding industry.
She focuses on luxury wedding photography and offers portrait sessions for family, newborn and maternity sessions.
Recently, Chantelle expanded her services to offer photography and small business coaching, passing on her years of expertise on others.
“After returning from maternity leave following the birth of my third daughter in September 2022, I revitalised my business to come back even stronger, having been faced with the photography market exploding,” she said.
“Noticing a new wave of photographers who joined the ranks here in Rockhampton, I recognised the demand for photography and small business mentoring.
“So, I added photography business coaching and small business mentoring to my portfolio, with the goal of helping aspiring photographers fast-track their path to success.
“My mentoring services encompass assisting small business owners in standing out in a saturated market by teaching them how to be authentic through mindset mastery, brand authority, and marketing.”
Adding more hats to her busy life, she also launched The Content Studio Rockhampton this year, a versatile hub where businesses can rent space for content creation, filming, photography sessions, hosting events, and workshops.
“Establishing the Content Studio was a deliberate effort to help other businesses enhance their content and marketing efforts while providing a fresh space for client meetings, events, and workshops,” Chantelle said.
“My inspiration and driving force in building this business stem from my passion for inspiring and helping others.”
ALYSHA MCHUGH – SUGAR AND SPICE EVENT CO AND FEMME FOCUSED
Sugar and Spice Event Co was founded two years ago and offers “unforgettable experiences” and offers a range of different hire items such as photo backdrops, audio guestbooks as well as grab and go picnic baskets.
“What inspires me the most is the opportunity to offer memorable experiences,” Alysha said.
“I believe that life is meant to be celebrated, and through my events, I aim to create moments that will be cherished for a lifetime.
“I am constantly exploring creativity, pushing boundaries, and thinking outside the box to bring fresh and innovative ideas to the table.”
Alysha also proudly believes in giving back to the community, whether it be through charitable events or collaborations with local organisations.
It’s not just a business for Alysha, but a “labour of love”
“Today, I stand here with immense pride, witnessing the growth and success of Sugar & Spice Event Co,” she said.
“But I must acknowledge that I did not achieve this alone. The support of other local businesses and the power of collaboration have played a significant role in my journey.
“Together, we have created a network of like-minded individuals who share a common goal – to bring something new and exciting to Rockhampton.”
MOLLY HANNA – MOLLY HANNA MAKEUP ARTIST
Molly Hanna started make-up in 2017 she was working two jobs and raising her son on her own.
In 2019 she added lash extensions to her portfolio which gave her the push to fully quit both her jobs and pursue make-up and lashes as her full-time career.
She now specialises in full glam makeup applications and covers all aspects of makeup applications, training and lash extensions.
“I am constantly inspired by my clients, their reactions to my makeup and lash applications, and watching the visible change in their confidence,” she said.
Molly has now turned her focus to education and has recently begun offering masterclasses, sharing her techniques and wealth of knowledge she has built up over almost eight years of make-up artistry.
“I try my best to educate and inspire others, whether they be clients of other industry professionals,” she said.
“Building up others (especially upcoming makeup artists) is my passion.”
GRACE BAKER-MOLLER – SOCIALS BY GRACE
Grace’s business is new, having only launched in May, and specialises in social media management, content creation and business promotion.
Other offerings include ‘Hire a Bestie’ package, where Grace is hired for special occasions or for businesses and she will capture a highlights reel on her phone.
“I’m in the very early days of my business,” she said.
“This year has been all about setting down the foundations for my business and I’m in a very privileged position, where I can really take my time with this.
“Next year is where things will hopefully begin to bloom.
“What inspires me the most is achieving a balanced life, with a job I enjoy where I can create connections with like-minded people.”
Grace also collaborates with The Goat at Night to co-ordinate ladies night once a month, a first for the city.
“I am trying to shape this event to be a little different to traditional ladies nights,” she said.
“This is a space where women can feel safe, empowered, dress up, dance, and celebrate being a woman.
“Each month I curate a theme, the local women are really enjoying this point of difference. As part of this event we have launched a giveaway program where we promote local businesses in an effort to both attract guests and encourage people to support local.”
ASHLEIGH BUCHHOLZ – ELITE IMAGING GROUP
Elite Imaging Group in the Rockhampton CBD opened this year and specialises in comprehensive diagnostic ultrasound services, including cutting-edge 3D/4D pregnancy scans.
“Our inspiration comes from the significant impact that a positive ultrasound experience, as well as accurate and timely ultrasound diagnostics can have on an individual’s health and wellbeing,” Ashleigh said.
“We also place a strong emphasis on fostering a positive work environment for our employees, and supporting students to study in the medical imaging field to expand and strengthen the workforce.”
Same-day appointments were also important to Ashleigh as it allows for patients to get better sooner.
“Our services play a crucial role in improving healthcare access, enabling early detection of medical conditions, and supporting maternal and child health,” she said.
“This not only enhances the wellbeing of Central Queensland residents but also reduces the ongoing healthcare system strain and supports local healthcare professionals in delivering quality and timely care.”
In it’s short time in business, Elite Imaging Group has given back to the community by sponsoring events like the Fitzroy Community Hospice Garden Party, The Capricorn Food and Wine Festival and the Black Dog Ball.
ANTHEA CURTIS – HYPE PERFORMANCE AND HEALTH
Anthea Curtis was working as a multiskilled medical laboratory scientist when she was inspired to be at the forefront of prevention of disease rather than the diagnosis of disease.
She began face-to-face fitness coaching in 2011 and worked in gyms over the years.
However, COVID-19 taught her how to pivot her business and work from home and her private studio the “Hype Hub” was born, offering small group fitness classes and one-on-one coaching.
“Being able to see clients achieve their goals and gain results, not only in their physical strength and appearance but their confidence and happiness is what inspires me,” Anthea said.
“I have had many women and men see me with many different goals, and it is exciting to be able to support them in their journey, whatever that may look like.”
Alongside this, Anthea has supported many different community events from warm ups at Colour Run and free bootcamps.
“Within the Hype members we have created a unique supportive community of people who are willing to help each other out,” she said.
“I also work with children teaching the fundamentals of boxing with Archer Street Boxing, and enjoy teaching children about the skills of boxing in a non contact environment which builds their confidence as well.”
AMANDA RICKHARD – STIR AND STITCH
Stir and Stitch opened as a cooking and sewing school in March 2021 and the teahouse in March 2022 and a retail space this month.
The unique Yeppoon business offers a range of cooking, sewing and creative workshops for children, teenagers and adults, along with hosting high teas, private events and catering.
“I have created a space where people feel incredibly welcome as soon as they walk through the gate,” Amanda said.
“We have given the community a space to connect, slow down, meet new people, get creative and enjoy good old fashioned food; that we bake from scratch each day on the premises.”
When asked what inspired her, Amanda said the loyalty of her customers.
“They love it and I love them,” she said.
“We have all become incredibly close and heart and friendship is what drives my business.
“Watching people invite others to their table and then watching new friendships being formed over a cup of tea and craft is truly remarkable and I will never get sick of seeing it happen.
“Every day I am inspired by the people I meet and strive to always give my best and offer new and exciting things for my customers.”
ROXANNE HINTON – THE SALTY LIME CO
The Salty Lime Co is a wedding and events venue on a fingerlime orchard just a few minutes from Emu Park on the Capricorn Coast.
Alongside the events, they also offer glamping experiences, farm tours, workshops, retreats and dining experiences.
The business has grown in three years from a production and packing shed and is now booked out for weddings until 2025.
They also sell the fingerlimes and hope to export internationally by 2025.
A eco-certified operation, they are focused on sustainable and eco-friendly off grid practices to minimise impact on the environment.
“I’m inspired to create awareness about eco-friendly practices and how we can implement them to reduce our environmental impact and promote sustainability along with cultural education and experiences,” Owner and director Roxanne Hinton said.
“For me, it is about getting back to basics and sharing this with as many people I can to create a community of like minded people.”
Roxanne herself is studying naturopathy and is keen to explore the ways to incorporate the native Australian fingerlimes.
“I’m excited about creating innovative ways to use all of the fingerlime fruit and making skin care serums and products along with health Retreats and workshops that we can offer to guests and create a wholesome yet exciting experience for all guests using our native Australian bush tucker, off-grid/eco friendly operations and health and wellbeing awareness for our mind, body and soul.
JORDJA HUTCHEON – AMBLE FOLK AND FORAGING JOY (PHOTOGRAPHY)
At 23, Jordja Hutcheon runs two photography businesses, with Amble Folk specialising in commercial shoots and Foraging Joy in family portraits.
Jordja became a sole trader at the end of 2020 and most of her clientele has come from word of mouth.
“My businesses have been widely accepted and supported by my local community … Booking new sessions throughout the year and continuing to service regular clients who have stood with me since the beginning,” Jordja said.
She thanked other local businesses owners and said she wouldn’t have grown as much as she has without their support.
“It doesn‘t come without challenges, though we are surrounded by a supportive community … Who are happy to lend you a hand, teach you something new and help you network with the ’right’ people,” Jordja said.
“I‘m inspired to pursue my dreams of being a creative business owner, after witnessing similar cultures in other big cities across Australia,” Jordja said.
“Offering something unique helps to keep our community engaged and encourages them to continually develop themself and their businesses.”
Jordja would like to help young people chase their dreams.
“The difference I want to make in the community is to encourage our emerging youth that they can challenge the norm and pursue their creative endeavours,” she said.
JULIANNE HOLLAND – BELTERA AND APHRODITE ART SCHOOL
A creative soul, Julianne undertook formal studies in Fine Art at university, but also worked as a park ranger for some years in the remote regions across the wild, which comes across in her art.
Aphrodite Art School offers creative workshops, events, mentoring, art expeditions, naked life drawing circles and kids art, in all mediums from clay, painting, embroidery, watercolours and more.
Her ethos is “there’s no such thing as bad art” and encourages her students to feel the same and create without Judgement and expectation.
Beltera, another baby of Julianne’s, sells bespoke Australian embroidered hats with each hat handmade from premium quality rabbit fur felt.
Julianne uses traditional hat making techniques to stretch the felt over wooden blocks and shape the hat by hand and sources the highest quality trimmings and supplies from reputable sources and vintage suppliers including Australian kangaroo leather, crushed velvet, glass beads and vintage fabrics and silks.
Finally, the hats are completed with the embroidery art that she is renowned for and each design is unique.
Described as “slow fashion in its most patient and devoted form”, Beltera’s process can take up to 30 hours to complete.
CONNIE ROTHERY – CLINIQUÉ COSMEDICA
Connie Rothery opened her cosmetic tattoo business in June 2021 in Yeppoon and in two years has provided her services to thousands of women, local and afar.
“It was my mission to create a safe space for my clients to feel welcome, comfortable and at ease with their decision having chosen me as their artist,” she said.
“Being able to use my artistic ability to build confidence in the women I meet every day, is hands down the driving force behind my obsession with what I do,” she said.
“I strive to do better and be better every single day.
“Each new client, I see as an opportunity to improve, both professionally and artistically.
Expanding her offering from just ombre powderbrows to include lip blush and eyeliner tattooing, in 2022 Connie was awarded Winning Lip Blush Tattoo Artist of the Year.
Taking these skills and sharing them, Connie also now hosts masterclass courses.
“I take great pride in being able to mentor other artists within our industry,” she said.
“I like to take on the mindset of collaboration over competition, always.
“We are all in this together, and it brings me great joy to be able to come together in any way we can, despite most of us working on our own daily.
Connie said she gives back to the community for their support by being involved in Breast Cancer research, mental health awareness and sponsoring local sporting teams and individuals.
TAYLAH MATUKIN – HOLIDAYS BY DESIGN
When Taylah Matukin was 15 years old she watched her first auction and a dream was born.
That dream led her to working in the real estate industry where she is the principal and director of Design Real Estate.
In late 2022, she also established Holidays by Design, a short-term holiday rental business with luxurious and executive holiday home listings suited for large families to romantic honeymoons.
“In just one year, Holidays By Design has seen remarkable growth,” she said.
“From our modest beginnings, our dedicated team have expanded our portfolio to offer a large range of holiday homes across Rockhampton and Yeppoon.”
With a strong desire to make a positive impact in the community, Taylah also supports local businesses where she can.
“Upon arrival, guests receive curated welcome packs encouraging exploration of local attractions and supporting local businesses,” she said.
“It extends beyond accommodation, contributing to the vitality of our local area, enhancing the overall guest experience.”
Taylah is inspired through her passion to create “extraordinary travel experiences”.
“We are motivated to provide unique, memorable getaways that seamlessly blend luxury and comfort at affordable prices, allowing our guests to savour the best our local community offers,” she said.
SARA MILBURN – HEART SPACE 222
Sara Milburn describes her business as a “low and no tox luxury self-care salon”.
Heart Space 222 was created in 2020 as a home hobby business, drawing on Sara’s own 23 years of experience as an award-winning hairstylist and combining it with her studies of natural therapies.
At the end of 2022, she moved to a professional space at the Zilzie Seaspray Health and Fitness Centre.
“Every product and service, the aesthetics of the space was created to provide salon guests a nurturing sensory experience with a holistic approach to both hair and beauty services,” she said.
“My vision is also to support other women developing their working independence that are passionate about natural therapies and a holistic approach to hair and beauty.”
Sara’s road hasn’t been easy, she has faced many personal challenges, which in part have been her driving force.
“I am living proof that anything is possible, that you can start over with next to nothing and rewrite your story,” she said.
“It might require trusting through fear, a lot of dedication and commitment but in my experience it is definitely worth it.”
Her passion and drive comes from her children and clients.
“Showing my children a life of love and laughter, that abundance is achievable through resilience, integrity, strength and love,” Sara said.
“’I’m inspired to provide a space for people to choose self care in the most natural way possible, to take a breath and connect back to living through a heart centred energy … That’s where wonderful things happen.”
JOSIE WELLER – BEAUTY IN THE WOODS
In eight years of business Josie Weller has opened two salons, one in Rockhampton and a second one that was opened in Toowoomba in May this year, and in 2022, she launched her own product.
She was also recently awarded The Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Award for Beauty Services.
“Beauty in the Woods has grown far beyond what my 19-year-old self could have ever dreamt,” Josie said.
“The community we have built is a testament to the hard work of my team and the incredible opportunities of Rockhampton and the growing community.”
Growing up on a cattle property near Mundubbera, Josie moved to Brisbane to pursue beauty.
She began to realise that rural areas were missing out on the services and quality of treatments available in the cities.
“I wanted to bring a luxury escape to rural women as I knew first-hand how demanding the country lifestyle is,” she said.
“I also grew up in a family full of business owners who inspired and pushed me to always do more and become a better me.
“I am constantly driven by the incredible women around me to continue to do more for our community.
“I think social media is a powerful thing when used to your advantage because there is so much inspiration and education from other like-minded businesses and women.”
Community building is a passion for Josie, and she does so through her educational social events.
“It’s one thing to read tips and tricks off a package or blog, but to see those in action and be able to ask questions or observe closer allows clients to grasp new concepts more effectively and meaningfully,” she said.
“It‘s something that rural areas often unfortunately miss out on, but is what BITW hopes to bring to our community.”
KIERA WALLACE – FOXX COSMETIC TATTOO AND FEMME AND FOCUSED
Kiera first began in the beauty industry in 2008 with spray tanning and by 2012, she learnt the art of brow treatments and in 2017 she moved into the world of cosmetic tattooing.
Over the years her work space evolved from a home salon to a spacious salon, which she shares with Lex from Lex’s Lounge.
“My passion for the beauty industry is unwavering, driven by the transformation it brings to our clients,” she said.
“We live by the mantra that self-care isn‘t a selfish act; it’s an essential one.
“Our goal is to empower each client, leaving them feeling both incredible and beautiful, recognising that perfectly groomed brows can be a game-changer for any woman or man.”
MICHELLE LUDWIG – THE LOOKOUT WOODBURY
The Lookout Woodbury wedding venue opened in July 2022 as a family owned and operated business by Michelle Ludwig, the daughter-in-law of former Livingstone mayor Bill Ludwig.
Located at 494 Woodbury Road, 12 minutes from Yeppoon, the ocean, mountain and panoramic rural views take after the namesake of the lookout.
Offering elopements, small or large weddings, ceremonies can be held outdoors taking in the incredible scenery, and a large white marquee for receptions.
Construction is also underway now for on-site accommodation for bride and grooms or guests.
Michelle also has a popular Instagram account, Our Mountain Life, with her 21,300 followers and shares homestyle content and life as a mum of four and a wedding co-ordinator.
BIANCA PURDIE – BIANCA PURDIE PHOTOGRAPHY
Bianca Purdie strives to empower women through her boudoir photo shoots.
“I simply aim to inspire confidence and positive transformations within the community I‘m in, and am privileged enough to have a voice in it,” she said.
Bianca began her business in 2019 as a side hustle as a general portraiture photographer.
It has now grown into an almost exclusive boudoir photography business.
“Alongside finding a specific style of photography that I love, and being consistently booked and busy because of that, I have opened an exclusive studio where I can give my clients more than just a photo shoot, I can give them a half-day experience,” she said.
“I‘ve also founded a Facebook group full of past clients, women, and friends where everyone encourages and inspires each other.
“This group was obviously created to further grow my online presence but has turned into something much greater and wholesome.
“It serves as a support network where women can share stories, celebrate victories, uplift one another, and be there for each other when things are tough.”
Creating art for women and witnessing her clients transform during their boudoir shoots speaks for itself for Bianca.
“Women come to me wanting to see themselves in a different light, wanting to unapologetically love themselves sick,” she said.
“Capturing their confidence in an image, and producing a gallery full of photos that make my clients say ‘I cannot believe that is me!’ is incredibly rewarding.
“I‘m motivated by the belief that every woman (and person, regardless of gender) deserves to feel empowered and beautiful, and my business is a vehicle for facilitating that journey.”
LILY CHELLINGSWORTH AND ZENOBIA DRAGANOFF – DEADLY NIGHTSHADE ATELIER
Zen and Lily started their tattoo journey together in 2020 and began a shared dream of creating a studio to reflect their personalities and artistic flair.
The pair achieved their dream and opened their own private studio this year.
“Opening our own studio allowed us to create an environment catered to our individual needs and has provided us with the space to grow as artists,” they said.
“The inclusivity and comfort of our private studio has also assisted in the growth of our community of clients.”
Being able to provide a safe and inclusive place for all was incredibly important to Zen and Lily.
“We are so grateful that we are able to provide a safe and comfortable experience to our clients,” they said,
“Having the opportunity to build our own business that reflects our shared ethos of inclusivity and sustainability inspires us every day.
“We strive to support small, local businesses and prioritise using vegan and eco-friendly products and consumables.”
KELLIE KANI – GRACE AND ROSE CRYSTALS
When Kellie’s daughter Siarrah was diagnosed with Alopecia in 2007, she began research on the best treatment process.
“After many areas of research I realised the stress associated with the hair loss was more damaging than the hair loss itself so healing her stress became my main focus,” Kellie said.
“This is when I found a faith in the universe and my trust in crystal healing began.”
Siarrah began making crystal macramé necklaces and together the family decided to display them at local markets and the family business Grace and Rose Crystals started.
Over the last three years, the family has expanded the stall from a small three-metre stall to a large 12 metre stall, selling a large range of individual crystals, jewellery, crystal infused gift items, and recently added a new children’s collection.
With a background as a teacher’s aide, Kellie is passionate about teaching children the benefits of crystal healing, which they do with their Kids Fossicking.
“Attending local markets and being part of the community is the most rewarding part of what we do,” Kellie said.
MINJI LIM – MINIRONS
After working as a chef for 12 years Minji Lim was looking for a new adventure.
She was given opportunities to work on her pastry and baking skills and began to fall in love with making macrons.
“Each time my macarons failed I tried to figure out the reasons why I couldn’t make the perfect macaron shells … then I started getting obsessed with the process,” Minji said.
Minirons, Rockhampton’s first handmade macaron stall was born in September 2018, and took off with a bang.
“I couldn’t sleep for three nights in a row to keep up with the demands,” she said.
In those early days, her main inspiration to start the business was her daughter, to be able to spend more time with her.
Food is Minji’s love language, and this shines through her work.
“I decided to become a chef as I love making good quality food for people and spoiling
people with the food I make,” she said.
“But the more I worked in commercial kitchens the more I lost the purpose of my job … So I decided to create my own.”
Earlier this year, Minji opened a shop front on East St, a small cafe serving coffee and delectable desserts from her ever-changing menu, and of course the macarons.
“Our business isn’t driven by title, population, or to be better than other businesses but
to be driven to spread love around the community,” she said.
“I always wanted to create a space for people to come in with excitement.
“So when they are having a bad day, they can come in anytime with their burdens and walk out with hope and happiness.”
DO YOU KNOW ANOTHER INSPIRING BUSINESS WOMAN? Comment below
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