Gold Coast Bulletin women of the year winners: where are they now
They are the 2023 stars of the Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year awards by Harvey Norman. We catch up with Priya Virdee-Hero, Sonia Stradiotto, Kate Hucker and more one year on.
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In a series looking at where the 2023 winners are now of the Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year awards, by Harvey Norman, we talk to Wellness Warrior Patsy Tierney, Angels Among Us winner Linda Osman and Professionals winner Lynne Benzie and Champions of Education and People’s Choice winner Kate Hucker and Young Women winner Priya Virdee-Hero.
CHAMPIONS OF EDUCATION AND PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER 2023 - KATE HUCKER
PORTIA LARGE: Who would you nominate for the Gold Coast Bulletin’s Champion of Women category for males?
KATE HUCKER: Peter O’Sullivan is a very successful educator and CEO of large multinational companies, and has chosen to work with and alongside me for the last few years. He has shared in my vision and been a constant cheerleader, assisting me to believe I can achieve what I am trying to achieve. He believed in my ability as a person, not just because I am a woman. Peterhas not undertaken anything on a large scale on the Gold Coast but he is an absolute champion, and in my eyes one of the best mentors and friends. He is a huge advocate for women, or should I say people achieving based on merit, not on gender.
PL: Why would you encourage others to be a part of the awards and why are they relevant in 2024?
KH: My instant reaction at the beginning of the process was to run really fast in the opposite direction. I am really confident in my workplace, and around people that know me well, however I find being around new people quite terrifying, and really don’t like being in the limelight. I am very much a team player, and truly believe I would not be where I am now without myamazing team. What going through this entire process taught me is there are so many amazing people that actually think just like me. They relate to things like imposter syndrome. They get nervous in new environments and would rather not be highlighted for their work as this means the focus turns to them. When I was standing on the other side, I could see why people had nominated the woman next to me, and shared the thoughts they were amazing and were doing amazing things. I could also see the pleasure people had in celebrating what we had all achieved, and this was truly empowering. I have tried to step back and be okay with the comfortable. It’s a journey, but the Women of the Year process has helped me to be braver as a person and as a leader, and to stop and actually see I have achieved some great things. The awards are relevant for so many reasons, but the reason that stands out to me is there are so many amazing quiet achievers out there who have an amazing story to share. It might need to be shared so the individual can actually allow themselves to celebrate their journey and successes, but it also allows others to see and understand what the incredible ‘right work’ is that is happening in our own backyard. Certainly the women I met were not doing it for themselves – they all had a much wider purpose that had a direct, positive impact on the lives of many others. These stories need to be shared so the people of the Gold Coast can get behind these stories and widen the scope of support for the lives of many more.
FINAL DAYS TO NOMINATE FOR 2024 - CLOSES 5PM, SATURDAY, SEPT 21
PL: Reflecting on your experience as a finalist, what was your favourite part of the process?
KH: My favourite part of the process was the night itself – which surprised me to be honest. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be nominated, so to be up on stage accepting two awards was simply mind-blowing. I hadn’t prepared any speeches, because I certainly wasn’t expecting to be up on stage, yet there I was – twice. I surprised myself with how I was able to address the large room – I was raw, emotional and real – which is who I am. I had the amazing opportunity and privilege to speak with passion about ‘shining the light on everyone’s potential’, which for me was about the potential of our entire school community, for the purpose of seeing our students succeed. What the night did was enable others to shine the light on my potential,and for me to see this. I had to acknowledge others saw I was worthy of recognition and celebration, and whilst this was still incredibly difficult and uncomfortable, it has opened up new and exciting opportunities for me and my school, as well as enabledme to be open to future possibilities that I am not sure I would have been prior to this process.
PL: How did it feel to walk on stage and be recognised?
KH: Terrifying, empowering and exhilarating all at the same time. I am definitely not someone who typically celebrates mywins at all, and this is to my detriment I think. The last couple of years have been hard for a myriad of reasons, and imposter syndrome kicked in in a big way in my work life. The award was a process that helped me to see there are definitely wins to celebrate, and it became increasingly obvious I needed to gain perspective, and not always see the path not yet paved as a negative. Since the awards, I have taken steps to engage in some professional coaching which has helped me to start to see and be proud of the type of leader I am, and start to believe more in my skill sets, and how I can continue to influence people to shine the light on the potential of themselves and others.
PL: What are you most proud of the past year since taking out the title - how has your mission progressed since we last spoke?
KH: Again, following on from the previous answer, but I think I am most proud of the times I have put myself out there a little more, and how this has created opportunities for me to build new relationships and be a part of some really exciting new projects. I am starting to see that I have the worth to hold a place at the table, and that whilst I am not perfect, and see that I will never and should not ever stop reflecting, learning and growing, that I may have something to offer others that could positively impact their current and/or future steps.
FINAL DAYS TO NOMINATE FOR 2024 - CLOSES 5PM, SATURDAY, SEPT 21
YOUNG WOMEN WINNER 2023 - PRIYA VIRDEE-HERO
PORTIA LARGE: Who would you nominate for the 2024 Women of the Year awards?
PRIYA VIRDEE-HERO: Soraya Abdel Aal, she is an incredibly inspiring Gold Coast young woman, and a marvellous advocate within our community, as the President of Griffith University’s Government and International Relations Society, a facilitator with UN Youth Queensland, and an executive member of Young Australians in International Affairs. She is studying Business and International Relations at Griffith University, and is completing two policy internships, one at Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast, and one with the Department of Justice and Attorney-General. She is an outstanding young person and she is, and will continue to make an impact on our Gold Coast community and champion young, culturally diverse, women’s voices.
PL: Who would you nominate for the Champion of Women category for males?
PVH: It is very important to acknowledge men championing women, because we cannot effectively overcome gender inequity withoutthe support of the men. It is important to provide the men in our communities with male role models as well as the many outstanding female ones, so that they can be inspired to champion women in their communities as well.
PL: Why would you encourage others to be a part of the awards? Why are the awards relevant in 2024?
PVH: Everyone should get involved because it is an important opportunity to celebrate the women in our community succeeding,growing, fulfilling their passions, and supporting the Gold Coast. It is a chance to reflect on the importance, value, andunique energy these women bring to our lives, and to acknowledge and celebrate their achievements. It is also a beautifulway to foster female development and inspire women across the Gold Coast to believe in themselves, seize opportunities, andconnect with one another.
PL: What was your favourite part of the process?
PVH: The culture amongst the other finalists and previous winners. It was so welcoming and exciting to attend events in the lead up to the night with the other finalists and learn about each other’s achievements. It felt like we were all sharing the experience together. I made friends with a lot of inspiring women, and have been lucky to continue engaging with them across my community.
PL: How did it feel to walk on stage and be recognised?
PVH: So special. I was so shocked to have won, because the calibre of achievement within my category was phenomenal, but I was immensely proud, and to represent my cultural identity in the lehenga that I wore on the night. It was a beautiful night and I felt so lucky to be a part of it.
PL: What are you most proud of the past year since?
PVH: Advocacy work I’ve been able to be engaged with. I have been so lucky to grow my speaking and advocacy skills and experiences,speaking at the Queensland Family and Child Commission Youth Summit (and becoming a Youth Advocate with them), the Gold CoastImpact Youth Summit, and debating at the Women of Influence Queensland Annual Great Debate, and the Asian Australian Lawyers Association Culture and Law Moot. I am using my platform and my voice to elevate the Gold Coast community, and represent my communities within it. I am so grateful for the ongoing support of the Gold Coast Bulletin team and the community of finalists who I have continued to engage with over this year.
PL: Anything else to add?
PVH: My advice to other women is to back yourself, be your biggest supporter, and support the women around you. Nominate yourself for an award, and encourage the outstanding women around you to do the same.
FINAL DAYS TO NOMINATE FOR 2024 - CLOSES 5PM, SATURDAY, SEPT 21
ENTREPRENEURS WINNER 2023 - SONIA STRADIOTTO
PORTIA LARGE: Who would you nominate for the Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year Awards 2024 and why are they deserving?
SONIA STRADIOTTO: Pam Sturgess Gold Coast Charities.
PL: Who would you nominate for the Champion of Women category for males and why is it important to acknowledge men championingwomen?
SS: Great category and glad you have added it. Marco Renai CEO and Founder of Men of Business.
PL: Why would you encourage others to be a part of the awards? Why are the awards relevant in 2024?
SS: The awards are a platform for encouragement, inspiration and acknowledgment. The Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year Awards are great coverage of the genres of category of recipients and in 2024 let your voice be heard.
PL: What was your favourite part of the process?
SS: I loved every part and the women I reconnected and connected with. It was great to be a winner as our Gold Coast businessfelt it was a great acknowledgement. For me personally I felt it was a reason to encourage others and do more community building.I loved every moment. Gold Coast Bulletin was amazing with their coverage.
PL: How did it feel to walk on stage and be recognised?
SS: I have had many wins early in my career and have focused more this last decade on championing others and helping my favourite charities. To walk on stage was a privilege and an honour that I will treasure.
PL: What are you most proud of the past year since taking out the title?
SS: Since then I have celebrated 35 years in Gold Coast business and I have started writing my book. I have enjoyed helping my favourite charities and given out over $130,000 in donations and sponsorship which is one of our biggest fundraising contributions to date.
PL: Anything else to add?
SS: In an ever-changing world of mixed emotions and uncertainty, the Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year awards are a beacon of light and positive energy. Women need to inspire, uplift and encourage each other and most of all continue to teach thenext generation about the importance of relationship connections and business integrity.
FINAL DAYS TO NOMINATE FOR 2024 - CLOSES 5PM, SATURDAY, SEPT 21
WELLNESS WARRIORS WINNER 2023 - PATSY TIERNEY
PORTIA LARGE: Who would you nominate for the Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year Awards 2024 and why are they deserving?
PATSY TIERNEY: Mekarla Jones - owner MJ Sisterhood. Mekarla is an unsung hero who has been quietly raising money for Baby Give Back for the last five years. She created Burpees for Babies, an annual event where participants spend a morning doing burpees, to raise funds for the mums and babies charity. So far she has raised over $30,000 and because of Mekarla, thousands of burpees have been done.
PL: Who would you nominate for the Champion of Women male category and why is it important to acknowledge men championing women?
PT: Cory Bell, the general manager partnerships and commercial at Sports Marketing Australia. Cory is such a great supporter of women in sport and has been a driving force on the Gold Coast for many years. Acknowledging the men championing women is such an important part of the awards as there are so many men in our community who are dedicated to backing women and pushing for greater equality and opportunities.
PL: Why would you encourage others to be a part of the awards? Why are the awards relevant in 2024?
PT: The awards do so much more than just highlight the achievements of the women who are nominated. They shine a light on all the incredible businesses, events and charities these women are involved in. As a mum of a teenage daughter, I love the fact these awards showcase all the opportunities that exist for young girls, to both excel and do good in their community.
PL: Reflecting on your experience as a finalist, what was your favourite part of the process?
PT: One of the best parts of my nomination was meeting all the other incredible nominees. Despite our different backgrounds, from couture to zookeeping, we all bonded with our love of the Gold Coast and our drive to be the best in our field.
PL: How did it feel to walk on stage and be recognised? Are you someone who typically celebrates your wins?
PT: Winning was absolutely incredible and was made even more so by having a table of my original Fit Mummas with me. These women have been there from the start and have supported me every step of the way. Walking up to the stage was surreal as one of my favourite Spice Girl tracks was playing (Spice Up Your Life) and I was surprised, shocked and delighted.
PL: What are you most proud of the past year since taking out the title and how has your mission progressed since we last spoke?
PT: My mission to help mums reconnect to themselves through fitness and improve both their physical and mental health, has continued to be my driving force. I have grown the Fit Mumma Classic to be Australia’s largest (and only) mums fitness event with over 180 participants. I also launched a virtual running challenge that had mums walking and running all over the country. But what I am most proud of, is my online program, Fit Mumma Ignite. This six-week program gives mums the tools to prioritise their own health and it is the type of program I wish I had when I was battling my own demons as a single mum of two under two year olds.
PL: Anything else to add?
PT: There is so much focus on what is wrong with the world, and rightly so as there are many terrible things, but something like these awards gives us a chance to stop and appreciate all the wonderful things too. Women doing great work to help others, being trail blazers, being rebels and kicking goals in all aspects of life. It’s a chance to celebrate these women and I am so honoured to have been a part of the process.
NOMINATE SOMEONE YOU KNOW — OR YOURSELF NOW
ANGELS AMONG US WINNER 2023 - LINDA OSMAN
PORTIA LARGE: Who would you nominate for the Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year Awards 2024 and why are they deserving?
LINDA OSMAN: I have been fortunate to meet so many inspirational women, and for this award, I would like to nominate Stefanie Doree. Stefanie is a partner of the Kingsford Lawyers with her husband, Victor Doree, who is the Principal Lawyer. Stefanie owned and operated her own businesses in the fashion and beauty industries (including medical treatments) since she was 21. Stefanie has had many professional milestones, although a highlight of her career was having the pleasure of working under a well-known QC in the areas of contract disputes and wills. Stefanie was exposed to in-depth industry knowledge and training during this time that she will continue to include and expand on in her practices. Stefanie’s roots in law came from assisting her client in insolvency matters. Stefanie has worked in the insolvency realm of law for over 15 years. Stefanie focuses her main area of practice on Family Law and has completed her master’s degree in Family Law at the College of Law. Besides her business achievements, she also regularly sponsors charity events, support many charities financially, and offer free advice and services to help as many people as she can. Kingsford Lawyers was the main sponsor for the 2024 Gold Coast Show. Stefanie has a big and bubbly personality and who holds immense love for her friends, family, and everyone around her, she is a Mum to a beautiful little girl and is a powerful woman in her profession.
PL: Who would you nominate for the Gold Coast Bulletin Champion of Women male category and why is it important to acknowledge men championing women?
LO: Michael Kollosche is widely recognized on the Gold Coast for his remarkable business achievements, but beyond that, he and his team are making a significant impact on the local community. In 2021, Michael founded the Kollosche Community Fund as a way for the company to give back. A percentage of every sale, along with additional company contributions, is reinvested into the community through donations and support for special causes. Since its inception, the Kollosche Community Fund has helped raise over $3.5 million, providing much-needed aid and support to countless individuals and organizations, including our own charity, Journey 2 Learn. It is absolutely crucial for men to actively champion and support women in order to achieve true equality in this world. When men advocate for women’s rights, amplify their voices, and stand as allies, it helps break down the systemic barriers that have long limited progress. Gender equality is not just a women’s issue - it’s a human issue that benefits everyone.
PL: Why would you encourage others to be a part of the awards? Why are the awards relevant in 2024?
LO: This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and honour the inspirational women of the Gold Coast. Recognizing the incredible achievements and contributions of these women not only uplifts them but also sets a powerful example for the next generation. Women empowering women fosters a strong sense of community, support, and collaboration, showing young girls and future leaders that they too can achieve greatness and create positive change in the world. It’s a reminder of the importance of lifting each other up and creating a legacy of empowerment that will continue to inspire for years to come.
PL: How did it feel to walk on stage and be recognised? Are you someone who typically celebrates your wins?
LO: Hearing my name announced as the winner of the 2023 Angels Among Us category was an overwhelming and surreal moment. I could hardly believe that I had actually won. This recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a victory for neurodivergent children and the outcomes we strive for every day. Every step forward I take is a step forward for the neurodivergent community, and I am proud to dedicate this win to their ongoing journey toward inclusion and empowerment.
PL: What are you most proud of the past year since taking out the title - how has your mission progressed since we last spoke?
LO: I am incredibly grateful and honoured to have been named the winner of the 2023 Angels Among Us category last year. This recognition gave me the strength to keep pushing forward, even though the journey to transform the education system for neuro-inclusion is challenging. I’m thrilled to share that over the past year, we’ve welcomed several collaborations with mainstream schools, and these partnerships are making a real difference in the lives of many neurodivergent children on the Gold Coast. Witnessing this positive change has been both inspiring and motivating. The media exposure following the awards night, and in the time since, has also had a significant impact on our charity’s mission. It has amplified our voice, expanded our reach, and opened doors to new opportunities, helping us further our cause of creating a more inclusive future for all neurodivergent children.
PL: Anything else to add? Wisdom, Advice, Reflection... Anything you’d like to put a spotlight on at the moment?
LO: As an advocate for neuro-inclusion, I truly believe that kindness is a state of both mind and heart, capable of changing the world. I kindly urge everyone to embrace and accept neurodiversity. Our world becomes richer and more vibrant when we welcome and celebrate different minds, appreciating each for its unique strengths and perspectives. Together, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate future.
NOMINATE SOMEONE YOU KNOW — OR YOURSELF NOW
PROFESSIONALS WINNER 2023 - LYNNE BENZIE
PORTIA LARGE: Who would you nominate for the Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year Awards 2024 and why are they deserving?
LYNNE BENZIE: Jodie Bradman. Clinical psychologist, mental health, first aid facilitator, be well co-trainer, boost ambassadorfor Village Roadshow Theme Parks (VRTP). Jodie has to wear many hats and focus on the health and well-being of all staff acrossmultiple parks, mentor to so many people. In the current climate health and well-being is very important to ensure people’shealth is maintained across so many levels. Jodie has had to deal with so many variables of health and well-being it is importantto recognise this critical support role. Not just for VRTP but the wider community on how important health and well-beingis for our day to day lives.
PL: Who would you nominate for the Gold Coast Bulletin Champion of Women male category and why is it important to acknowledgemen championing women?
LB: While it’s good to recognise I feel the main focus is on women who can achieve anything without a man by their side.
PL: Why would you encourage others to be a part of the awards? Why are the awards relevant in 2024?
LB: It is being recognised for what we achieve in life, the passion we have that drives our vision and what we can bring tothe community.
PL: Reflecting on your experience as a finalist, what was your favourite part of the process?
LB: Being on the journey, meeting so many amazing people who were all nominated.
PL: How did it feel to walk on stage and be recognised? Are you someone who typically celebrates your wins?
LB: Being recognised for my achievements over so many years was a great experience and having my friends and the communitybe part of that journey. Very special moment walking on stage.
PL: What are you most proud of the past year since taking out the title?
LB: Helping the broader community understand what the film industry brings to the Gold Coast and continue my journey to havea voice for the industry.
PL: Anything else to add?
LB: Helping others understand there is a career in the film industry and the arts and believing in yourself that anythingis possible if you put your mind to it.
NOMINATE SOMEONE YOU KNOW — OR YOURSELF NOW
ENVIRONMENTAL WARRIOR 2023 - AMY GASH
PORTIA LARGE: Who would you nominate for the Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year Awards 2024 and why are they deserving?
AMY GASH: There are so many amazing women on the Gold Coast who deserve this title, it’s hard to choose just one. I’m cheering for all the nominees for 2024 and hope they embrace and enjoy every moment of the process. Each of them brings something special to the table, and it’s fantastic to see their incredible contributions recognised.
PL: Who would you nominate for the award’s male category, Champion of Women?
AG: It’s important to recognise the men who champion women. I’ve had the privilege of being mentored and supported by many incredible men throughout my career. Acknowledging their contributions not only honours their support but also inspires others to play a positive role in empowering women.
PL: Why would you encourage others to be a part of the awards? Why are the awards relevant in 2024?
AG: I’d encourage others to be part of the Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year Awards because it’s such a great way to celebrate the awesome women in our community. These awards highlight women who are making an impact, leading, and lifting others up. It’s more than just recognition - it’s about coming together to support and cheer on all the incredible things women are doing. It’s a true celebration of female strength, creativity, and leadership.
PL: Reflecting on your experience as a finalist, what was your favourite part of the process?
AG: One of the best parts of the Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year Awards for me is meeting like-minded women who share the same passions. It’s not just an event - it feels like being part of a community where everyone is supporting and empowering one another. The connections and conversations are so uplifting, and it’s such a unique opportunity to share experiences, learn from each other, and build meaningful relationships. It’s truly about coming together to celebrate and inspire!
PL: How did it feel to walk on stage and be recognised? Are you someone who typically celebrates your wins?
AG: Walking on stage and being recognised was such an incredible moment. We had to pick our own winning song, and I chose “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield. I still remember looking around the room, seeing all these amazing women dancing and singing along - it was so uplifting. I was definitely nervous and even forgot the words I’d prepared earlier. But that just made the moment more real and special. I’ve always been someone who loves celebrating both personal and professional wins, and this experience really reinforced the importance of pausing to enjoy those milestones.
PL: What are you most proud of the past year since taking out the title/ how has your mission progressed since we last spoke?
AG: It’s been a big year since the awards, and I’m excited to share that I’ve been working on a children’s book. My goal is to inspire and educate the younger generation about the threats facing our marine life, which is something I’m really passionate about. I’m thrilled to use storytelling as a way to help kids understand the importance of protecting our oceans and the incredible wildlife that call it home.
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