Vote in the Gold Coast Bulletin’s Women of the Year People’s Choice Awards by Harvey Norman
The People‘s Choice category – sponsored by events organiser We Are Phoenix – is decided by reader votes. The contenders are the finalists across the eight Women of the Year categories. See here.
Women of the Year
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The Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year awards – brought to you by Harvey Norman – is looking for its People‘s Choice champion.
The People‘s Choice category – sponsored by events organiser We Are Phoenix – is decided by reader votes.
The contenders are the finalists across the eight Women of the Year categories.
Read about some of our incredible finalists below, and select your favourite contender below.
CHAMPIONS OF SPORT
NATASHA PRICE
I AM UNBREAKABLE
In 2008 I became blind and paralysed from the neck down almost overnight due to a rare disease I didn’t know I had. I was bed bound for nine years convinced by others that my life could no longer amount to anything. That I should let go of my hopes, dreams and big goals for the future. Today I’m an elite wheelchair racer, entrepreneur, volunteer, speaker, awards winner and author. I believe I was noticed not purely for my athletic achievements but also as I am a changemaker and narrative shifter. I use the power of my story to help others, demonstrating an insatiable zest for life and showcasing infinite possibilities for anybody wishing to chase fulfillment despite adversity. I draw on the feelings of inadequacy, hopelessness and fear I felt at my lowest, as well as my natural drive, motivation and determination as an athlete to teach inclusion, disability awareness, resilience, passion and purpose.
LINDA BISHOP
I AM PASSIONATE
Serving several committees, coaching and volunteering, I experienced the negativity and politics of sporting culture. This inspired me to create a caring environment built on the spirit of fun. I am proud to be the President and founder of ‘Allstars’ Netball Club Gold Coast. A place where players learn skills, sportsmanship, respect and resilience. This platform has helped me overcome the personal scars left from a hostile workplace. Bullying caused me to have a breakdown and shattered my self-confidence. ‘Allstars’ has given me an outlet to help not only myself heal but guiding others to boost personal pride and confidence. I am devoted to helping young people feel supported, comfortable and to build resilience while being active and making new friends. The most beautiful thing you can wear is confidence.
ALL STAR NETBALL COACH NOMINATED FOR WOMEN OF THE YEAR AWARDS
MADELEINE MCTERNAN
I AM DETERMINED
“Last year’s Woman of the Year, Champion of Sport, Montana Atkinson nominated me and I am truly honoured to be a finalist, it is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I am a 21 year old Paralympian who is proud to represent my country. I want to show other young people with disabilities that they can have a go to achieve their dreams. I want to be an ambassador for children of all abilities and disabilities. As an Australian female Para Swimmer, it’s wonderful to receive recognition for all the hard work and dedication that I have given to both my community and country. I believe in ‘Training hard, never giving up, believing and achieving.’ At the Commonwealth Games the team slogan was Bold in Gold. So, to all the women out there. Be bold, train hard in the sport you love.”
STARS OF TOURISM
MARION CHARLTON
I AM AUTHENTIC
I found myself alone in Australia as a young adult, leaving a tight-knit family and friendship group in Ireland. That taught me the value of resilience, connection and community. I’ve been told I am too passionate, too ambitious, I should be more focussed on my family – the list goes on. You could tie yourself in knots trying to please others, but the best person to be is yourself. Stay true to yourself and your values. I think it’s incredibly important to have role models – like the nominees in this category – so women can see a path for themselves. I’ve always worked in areas that lacked female representation, and agree with the saying that ‘you can’t be what you can’t see’. In my day job overseeing the operation of four airports; I have the privilege of setting a path for women in operations and aviation – fields that are traditionally dominated by men.
GOLD COAST AIRPORT’S NEW TERMINAL: WHAT TO EXPECT, WHEN IT OPENS
NATASHA EDWARDS
I AM MAGNETIC
20 years of presenting the annual SWELL Sculpture Festival, connecting People Art and Place, a free outdoor sculpture exhibition on the picturesque Currumbin Beach. To be a finalist is a reflection I’ve made a difference and supported change. A nod to the advocacy and vision I have for Artists and the arts sector. It is recognition that art shapes and informs our cities, builds social cohesion and healthy communities. Applauding the dedication of awe-inspiring people. I have learned that I am brave, and I enjoy challenging myself. Live your dream, be the curator of your life, let others see you. Be the success you want, relish in all the moments including the toughest of tough times. Experiences build resilience and make you discover how tenacious you are. Behold your vision, stay focused, be kind to yourself. Champion the people around you and support them. Take time out for yourself, remember to breathe. Life is an expression of who you are. Be a magnet for fun.
SWELL SCULPTURE FESTIVAL FOUNDER NATASHA EDWARDS RECOGNISED FOR WORLD-CLASS ART TO OUR SANDS
JAYME CUTTRISS
I AM AUTHENTIC
National Trust is a non-for-profit charity which manages 15 properties across Queensland, on the coast we manage Garima Conservation Reserve, Honeyworld, iconic Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Hospital. As CEO I lead a diverse team of more than 1000 inspirational staff, volunteers and training participants, caring for wildlife, habitats and special places. Our organisation is 78% women, and I am also very proud to have witnessed a shift in gender diversity from board level down in recent years. Currumbin Wildlife Hospital is one of the busiest wildlife hospitals in the world and it is leading the way in research programs to help wild koalas, which are now endangered in Queensland. The sanctuary holds very fond family memories for me, I’ve been visiting since I was a child – this is not just a career for me. If we can bring perspective to our guests and encourage them to care for our wildlife we have made a difference.
SARAH COLGATE
I AM RESILIENT
As a passionate Gold Coast tourism advocate, the Managing Director of Aquaduck and Southern Cross Tours, I work hard to support other business owners in our industry on a regular basis. Since March 2020, I have personally been tested in every way. During a very dark time for our industry, there were many days I fell and was ready to give up. The COVID pandemic and border closures tested us all. My focus was to bring people together, ensure they knew they were not alone and supported. When we feel supported we can face challenges together and emerge a stronger community. Today the sun is shining and my beloved industry is bouncing back with less setbacks. Know that it’s ok to stumble, it’s ok to fall and none of us are perfect. Believe in yourself, follow your dreams and keep getting up every day and shining your light. You can do this.
AQUADUCK OWNER SARAH COLGATE NOMINATED IN STARS OF TOURISM CATEGORY
ENTREPRENEURS
CHERIE UZAN
I AM CREATIVE
I am driven by my passion for creating amazing spaces and crafting unique concepts. As the creator of the Gold Coast’s Balboa Italian Restaurant and The Valley Estate, covid was an incredibly tough time for me personally. The pandemic completely decimated the hospitality industry. We battled through with Balboa while building The Valley Estate. We delivered 5 iconic wedding and event spaces across the 9 acres in under 15 months, at a time when the industry was at an all-time low. Having lived on the Gold Coast most of my life I can think of nothing greater than bringing new ideas to our beautiful home and putting the Gold Coast on the map; whether that be in the culinary, design or building sector. I wake up each day overwhelmingly excited to work in my businesses alongside my wonderful team of more than 70 employees; our ethos is ‘positive people with passion and purpose’. Believe in yourself. Surround yourself with good people. And don’t be afraid to follow your dreams and give it a try.
JORDANA EDWARDS
I AM
As the CEO of ‘The Breastfeeding Tea Co’, I’m passionate about supporting mothers through their breastfeeding journey. Breastfeeding may be natural but it is not always easy. One cup of tea at a time, we support mothers with colic babies or those struggling with milk supply. It is an honor to have helped over 30,000 mothers nationally in the last year. It is such an honour to be recognised as an entrepreneur in my hometown, and the greatest feeling of joy. Niche brands like mine are driven by purpose and passion to make a difference. Every day I wake up with purpose. As we say in the tea world, you can’t pour from an empty cup. The past year has taught me, you can’t be your best self if you give it all away. To be a great member of the community, a mother, an entrepreneur, a friend or a partner, self care is not negotiable.
ROSE MADDEN
I AM BOLD
Vanessa Cave is my work wife by trade, soul sister and best friend by heart. Our womenswear label is called Nine Lives Bazaar – we create wearable art inspired by the colourful lives of generations before us. A decade ago we were selling vintage at the Village Markets and since have evolved to hire staff, open a flagship store, see our designs on the likes of celebrities including Victoria’s Secret supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio. As a small startup brand from the Gold Coast it came as a huge shock to us to find our unique hand drawn prints plagiarized and appearing in local fast fashion boutiques. We now give ourselves a pat on the back and know our creations are special and worthy of copying. Entering motherhood we were stretched to our limits wearing all the hats and learnt it is difficult as it is rewarding. We wouldn’t have it any other way.
YOUNG WOMEN
SOPHIA RIZZO
I AM DETERMINED
I am the founder of Glitter Girl, a company I launched in 2017 with a $2,000 start up investment at just 10 years old. Glitter Girl now turns over $350k annually. Today I am 14 and Glitter Girl has blossomed into a multi-faceted business supplying loose eco glitter, vegan cruelty free makeup, sparkly accessories and fashion for all sparkle lovers around the world. We have more than 160 retail stockists across Australia and New Zealand. I am a young entrepreneur who is all about sparking joy, providing inspiration, and encouraging creativity while being environmentally mindful. My advice to other young women would be: believe in your dreams, have a go and don’t fear failure. If you believe in yourself and put the work in, anything is possible. Making a mistake or getting a knock-back are just opportunities to learn, don’t let it discourage you from living your best sparkly life.
ELLA COHEN
I AM AMBITIOUS
At age 21 I am the Marketing Coordinator for the Gold Coast Turf Club and hope one day to be an industry leader among the greats. I’m the best example of businesses catching young talent in the beginning, watching them grow and thrive. I graduated high school at 16, received a scholarship to Bond University at 17, graduated with a bachelor’s degree at 19. Breaking into an industry at such a young age I was often looked down on as a ‘child’. After several job interview setbacks, I promised myself I wouldn’t be defined by my age. ‘She’s too young and needs more life experiences’ has been replaced by ‘Because of what you have achieved Ella Cohen you are a finalist for Gold Coast Young Women of the Year’. You have the power to take on the world and achieve your wildest dreams. Take advantage of what is available to us today and back yourself, nothing is stopping you.
BROOKE PENDER
I AM DEDICATED
I am the founder of The Fresco Complexion, a beauty and skin clinic that specialises in uniting clinical results with holistic education. I know feeling beautiful from the inside out is an essential for the modern-day woman. I wanted to continue to offer this experience beyond the treatment room. This inspired the creation of Fresco Collection. An Australian made cosmetics brand that contains only clean ingredients. To get to where I am today has been a challenge. I left school after year 10 to pursue my dream. Straying from the societal norm to complete year 12 and pursue university, came with negative criticism, disbelief and doubt, however I was guided by my heart and chased the vision I’ve had from a young age. Through sharing my journey I want young woman to know anything is possible when you work hard, embrace challenges, take risks, neutralise your fears and turn the unknown to known.
ANGELS AMONG US
MANUELA WHITFORD
I AM STRONG
I am the founder and CEO of ‘Friends With Dignity’. I have helped over 5,000 people and distributed furniture and household items to the value of over $8 million just through one of my programs I developed. I am passionate and committed to social justice and love working within the social enterprise space. Having been a victim of assault myself, I vowed I would never be a bystander. Years of nursing made caring for people second nature to me and a vocation that I am truly devoted to. It provided me with life skills and emotional intelligence to know when and where I am needed most. I have strong personal and professional boundaries that allow a healthy work-life balance. Take the leap of faith and believe in yourself. There is nothing you cannot do if you commit yourself and truly believe in what you are doing.
SAM STENBERG
I AM EMPOWERING
I am passionate about utilising civilian skills to assist communities when hit by disaster. Our ‘National Disaster Management Service’ model is designed to fit and adapt to volunteers and the community. It can be a lonely road backing a vision no one else can see. I was laughed at when I said the gaps in public emergency management could be better filled by specialist trained NGO and community led response that contextualises and assesses risk dynamically to the specific disaster and community. There wasn’t a model, concept, data or funding — so I created a new model. Financially it has taken a toll, I have personally funded the start up, operations, admin, systems, uniforms, deployments, equipment, training, insurance — a huge personal cost but I knew we were making huge changes in the lives of people who needed it.
THE GOOD SAMARITAN WORKING TWO FULL TIME JOBS TO FUND A DISASTER RESPONSE SERVICE
NICOLLE EDWARDS
I AM UNSTOPPABLE
My favourite African proverb says that “if you want to go fast you go alone, but if you want to go far you go together” and with a community nestled at the very center of what we do, I am most grateful for the angels that walk beside me as we continue this important work. I may indeed steer the ship but it’s the RizeUp team, as a collective, who keep it afloat with their shared commitment and relentless drive to create new beginnings for the most vulnerable in our community. The success of RizeUp is testimony to the hard work and allegiance of many. Domestic and family violence is as pervasive as it is insidious and for me to be recognised for the work we are doing, means my team are also being recognised …and for that I am extremely grateful. When you find people who share your values, your purpose, and your advocacy, nothing will stop you.
CHAMPIONS OF EDUCATION
KYM AMOR
I AM TENACIOUS
I am a passionate educator with over 26 years in State education across Queensland. Like most educators I became a teacher and then Principal to inspire children and young adults to find their passion, fulfill their dreams, and to make a difference in and for our world. I established the ‘Girls in STEM’ project with the University of Queensland, to inspire more young women to take on careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. We need to address the alarming statistic that there are only 25% of women in STEM careers nationally. Through our unique partnership with UQ, Griffith University, and QUT, we have partnered our G-STEM students with PhD buddies who mentor and inspire the girls as they chase their STEM dreams. Women need to surround themselves with other empowering women who share triumphs, challenges and setbacks. Remember often those who think differently to us – provide us with the deepest contemplation and greatest growth.
KEITHA DUNSTAN
I AM TRAILBLAZING
I am a proud descendant of the Mandandanji people of South-West Queensland and the eldest of five girls. First in my family to attend university, I chose to enter the male dominated fields of accounting and academia.I was the first woman to be appointed as Professor in the fields of Accounting and Finance in New Zealand in the year 2000. I am the first Aboriginal to be appointed as Provost at an Australian University. I take pride in my achievements because I have shown others what is possible. While many more women have now joined academia, fewer than 20% of full Professors in Australia are women. And while Indigenous students are succeeding at Australian Universities we still have a long way to go to gain equality. I have committed my career to ensuring that other women and Indigenous Australians gain the opportunities that the socio-economic bridge of education has provided me.
DONNA NAYLOR
I AM ENTHUSIASTIC
As the Careers Outreach Manager of Study Gold Coast, I’ve seen our programs support and guide career pathways of 22,000 Gold Coast students in just three years. My journey began with distance education ‘school of the air’ in regional North Queensland, 4 hours west of Cairns. I’m proud to be the first of my family to graduate University. From an early age I’ve been determined to help others. Working across many industries and roles offered insight and opportunities to support individuals with resources and tools to understand their own value, strength and interests. It’s a privileged position supporting young women to find independence from difficult personal situations to find their place in the world. If by being a Woman of the Year finalist I’m able to help our Gold Coast community to see the value in Career Education and the impact it can have on an individual’s self-worth and their life – this opportunity is invaluable.
WELLNESS WARRIORS
FELICITY COHEN
I AM UNSTOPPABLE
I am a wellness warrior who founded Weightloss Solutions Australia in the year 2000, to empower women to live their best lives. Weight related health complications continue to escalate at an alarming rate. Developing systems and solutions to end obesity is at the forefront of my daily objectives. Every day I am excited to work. As the business evolves I find new ways to connect with people in need of support and guidance. I launched my Wellness Warriors Podcast, The Research Institute For Future Health and developed an obesity prevention program for kids. Women of 2022 are choosing to be heard on all issues that are central and pivotal to women leading empowered and independent lives. We want equality across all spheres of life; parenting; workplace; healthcare and rights for all humanity.
BELINDA NORTON
I AM SUPPORTIVE
I’ve written seven books and my fourth was a memoir titled ‘Because I Was A Bad Wife’. Being referred to as a ‘bad wife’ by my now ex husband was a pivotal moment which led to my awakening, acknowledging my value and self-worth. We are often defined as weak without a partner or the fairytale ending. I wanted to share my story of ownership to empower mothers to be who they want to be, to be who they want their children to see. Our world has changed and we need to re-routine and re-habit to celebrate life as a family unit – it is as simple as cooking, eating and walking together daily. Combined, these factors will support confident, healthy, balanced youth; whilst strengthening parent-child relations and reducing social behavioral, mental and physical health struggles. That is my wish for all mothers, in partnerships or solo.
JODIE BRADNAM
I AM COMPASSIONATE
My name is Jodie Bradnam and I’m the Group Psychologist and Well-being Officer at Village Roadshow Theme Parks.
As a clinical psychologist, I know the value of supporting people as they navigate life’s successes and challenges. When we take good care of ourselves, we have the capacity to extend that care and kindness to others too.
I’m very proud to lead the BOOST wellbeing program at VRTP, offering counselling and coaching support and onsite wellness initiatives including mindfulness, movement and meditation for our team members. BOOST extends mental health first aid training to our managers and team leaders and the evidence based, wellbeing program Be Well.
As we empower our team members to take care of their physical and emotional health, we weave wellness into the way that we live, work, love and lead. It is from these little things that big things grow.
ENTERTAINERS
MICHAELA COOK
I AM TENACIOUS (CHANGE WORD)
When I started releasing music in Australia, I was considered ‘too country’ for pop-music and ‘too pop’ for country-music. This forced me to forge my own path. As a result, I reached #1 on the charts as an independent female singer-songwriter. I want all women to know that they are worthy. Have courage to trust your instincts and let them guide you on your journey. In 2014, I began creating my own positive online community which has grown to 1.5 million members today. I focus on celebrating diversity and providing a feeling of instant acceptance to everyone who engages. I’ve consciously used my platform to partner with many deserving charities and I am a proud RSPCA QLD ambassador. It feels surreal to be alongside such a high caliber of finalists. I am thankful to the organisers and sponsors for providing a space for local women to receive well-deserved recognition for their hard work.
SUE PORRETT
I AM PASSIONATE
I was the girl, who followed her dreams and ran away and joined the circus. I have always had a desire to push boundaries, take risks and live my life my way. I opened Australia’s first circus arts, acrobatic and dance school – Aerial Angels Cirque Central – The same year I gave birth to my triplets. The sisterhood of the school has shaped lucrative careers for thousands of young women and given them a platform to make their own dreams come true. Just months before the global pandemic, I opened the world’s first Spiegelclub - The Pink Flamingo. Despite crippling covid lockdowns, we made it through and today employ 150 staff and have placed the Gold Coast on the global map for this unique style of theater entertainment. Pursue your passion unapologetically, Your dream should be so big it scares you. Anything is possible with a dream and a pocket full of passion.
LIZ CANTOR
I AM LOYAL
I’m a passionate and loyal Gold Coaster who has been working on our TV screens for 18 years after my start on Channel 7’s Creek to Coast in 2005. Unrestricted by stereotypes, I entered the media landscape as a gender fearless female surfer on a traditionally bloke heavy show. Tonight I am 37 weeks pregnant. Growing up I didn’t think it was possible to be on television while pregnant because it was something you never saw. This year I have presented the weather for 7News Gold Coast alongside pregnant News Anchor Amanda Abate and pregnant Sports Presenter Sally Pearson. All of us are mindful that young female impressionable eyes witness a new picture being presented on our screens. To be a part of this group and see their achievements has made me very emotional about the gift of bringing a daughter into the world. One day my daughter will hear her mother was able to present live television and host 4WD adventuring stories with a baby on board.
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