Revealed: Toowoomba’s 100 most influential women recognised
To celebrate International Women’s Day, The Chronicle has compiled a list of 100 inspiring women from across the Toowoomba region who are making a positive impact on the world.
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Toowoomba is filled with inspiring women who are excelling in various areas of their lives.
To celebrate International Women’s Day, The Chronicle has compiled a list of 100 inspiring women from across the Toowoomba region who are making a positive impact on the world and their stories will appear in Tuesday’s paper.
TOOWOOMBA’S 100 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN
Ellisa Parker
Proud Muslim woman and former Queensland state forest manager Ellisa Parker has fought for affordable housing and social justice through the Housing Is A Human Right campaign and the Darling Downs Affordable Housing Association.
Ms Parker is inspired by Muslims for Progressive Values founder Ani Zonneveld and Muslim journalist Mona Eltahawy.
Tess Aisthorpe and Cara Bricknell
Life and business partners Tess Aisthorpe and Cara Bricknell started their own private health and wellness studio in 2013, focusing on clients’ physical and psychological needs.
The proud same-sex couple tied the knot last year has always felt their knowledge and abilities have been valued.
Amanda Dalton
Protea Place founder and CEO Amanda Dalton has been assisting others for more than 20 years and started the women’s support centre due to the lack of services for vulnerable women.
Ms Dalton’s love of helping others was inspired by her grandmother Patricia Crew.
Kate Venables
Kate Venables inspires through her work as CatholicCare CEO, Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce president and Toowoomba Refugee and Migrant Service program.
She is a proud mother to two confident women and is inspired by women from war-stricken countries, who moved through the refugee process and now call Australia home.
Jazmyn Wilson
Jazmyn Wilson loves who she is and is proud of the woman she has become.
The inspiring go-getter, 18, has been working towards her dreams at the Jazzy Lane Hair Studio.
Ms Wilson, who lives with Down syndrome, reiterated anyone living with a different ability should be proud to be who they are.
Dr Kathy Reeves
Growing up in a small southern town in the United States, Dr Kathy Reeves recalls often hearing a woman’s “place” was staying home to take care of her husband and children.
Living in Australia since the early ‘90s, Dr Reeves obtained a doctorate and became a lawyer and legal academic at the University of Southern Queensland.
Passionate about helping others, the legal expert now teaches in the areas of domestic violence, child protection and family law, but doesn’t consider her role to be “just a job”.
Emma Bowdler
At one stage she compared her life to the television series Upper Middle Bogan, but now Emma Bowdler is an award-winning entrepreneur and runs three successful businesses including The Women’s Accountant.
But things weren’t always easy for Ms Bowdler who had her first child at 19 and was a single mum of two by the age of 23.
Experiencing the stress of living paycheck to paycheck, the driven business owner was the first in her family to gain a tertiary education and has since excelled in the male-dominated finance and accounting sector.
Jen Shaw
For Emerge CEO Jen Shaw, life started out pretty grim.
She left home at the age of 13, spent time living on the streets and found herself in trouble for not making the best life choices.
Now the social enterprise CEO has helped hundreds of troubled kids to find employment, housing and purpose, authored three cook books, won several awards and become a mother to seven.
Looking back on when she first founded Emerge, Ms Shaw recalls a male member of the board at the time telling her she would need male board members to be taken seriously when negotiating leases and searching for funding.
Four years on and Ms Shaw she is proud to work alongside a female-dominant board.
Gay Hold
Working as a hairdresser for almost four decades, Gay Hold has used her salon Jazzy Lane Hair Studio as a platform for charity work and to assist the disability sector.
Currently, Ms Hold employs 13 staff members, three of which live with a disability.
The advocate co-founded Project School Formal seven years ago and has assisted thousands of students in need by supplying them with complimentary formal wear, hair and make-up.
For the past five years, Ms Hold has also assisted between 50 and 70 homeless or disadvantaged people through the Hair Aid Community Cuts initiative.
Ms Hold was awarded the Judy Antonio Memorial Award in 2018 at The Business DisABILITY Awards, is on the Hairdresser With Hearts board and member of the North Toowoomba Rotary Club, where she received the Paul Harris Fellowship Award.
Louise Noble
Designed to assist migrant communities by transforming unutilised farmland into market gardens, Louise Noble founded The Mulbery Project in 2016.
In addition to her social enterprise work, she completed her tertiary education in Paris and lives with Bipolar I Disorder.
Ms Noble said women should “never underestimate the shamelessness of mediocre men”.
Jennifer Wright (Summers)
From the age of just 15, Jennifer Wright (Summers) was sexually harassed in her workplaces and later became a domestic violence victim, an experience which has left her severely traumatised.
With the assistance of volunteers from the Arts Council Toowoomba, the artist developed a community-led mosaic art trail project after the 2011 floods, to highlight the region’s resilience and spirit.
Another project she is proud to have contributed to is the Grand Central Culture wall on Dent St, which celebrates the region’s multicultural community.
“When a young woman of African origin first saw Helen Sesay’s village scene, through her tears she said, ‘this is the first time I have felt welcome here – that looks like my village,’” Ms Wright said.
The former Arts Council Toowoomba president said when her ex-boyfriend proposed to her, he said she would need to choose between marriage and her career – an view she believes has become prevalent in modern times.
Dennel Moore
Describing herself as shy and introverted, Toowoomba Homeless Outreach president Dennel Moore said one of the biggest challenges she’s faced has been coming out of her shell.
When Ms Moore started the initiative with no financial support, she said her persistence and passion to help homeless people in the community helped things to fall into place.
She said her advice to other women was to never give up on achieving their dreams no matter their age.
Alison Kennedy
Toowoomba Hospital Foundation CEO Alison Kennedy said to be part of an organisation that supports Toowoomba Hospital and 28 other health facilities across the region with much-needed funding has been her biggest career highlight so far.
On a personal front, Ms Kennedy said she was most proud of her husband, three sons and two grandchildren.
Throughout her career Ms Kennedy admits she has been overlooked by both female and male leaders on some occasions, but it has taught her to be braver, stronger and to fight for the things she deserves.
Kate Charlton
Grateful for the support provided by members of the Toowoomba Zonta Club when she was elected for the role of president in 2019, Kate Charlton said their belief in her capability was exactly what the club aimed to achieve – to empower women.
Age is just a number for Ms Charlton who decided to change careers and return to university to become a counsellor in her early 50s.
“Gender bias is so insidious and it is prevalent everywhere,” Ms Charlton said.
“It is so entrenched in the culture of our societies that it takes days like IWD to remind women of the social, economic, cultural and political achievements they have made.”
Dom Tulleken
After she was diagnosed with a neurological disorder and left paralysed from the shoulders down, Dom Tulleken taught herself how to walk again and opened all-abilities dance studio D Dance Academy.
During her career as a car saleswoman, she said she was treated differently due to her gender and was once told by a superior to wear short skirts over pants as it “sold more cars.”
Inspired by her mum who grew up on a small island called Seychelles and later moved to South Africa by herself to pursue a career in nursing, Ms Tulleken said her mum was the epitome of strength.
Kath Turley
Throughout her career Kath Turley has worked in many impressive, inspirational areas including human services, multicultural, disability and domestic and sexual violence sectors.
Ms Turley said her proudest accomplishments were establishing the Domestic Violence Action Centre for the region and the Parenting Support Program and Multicultural Mother’s Group, run through The Kath Dickson Family Centre.
Lorna Higgs
QCWA president for the Crows Nest branch Lorna Higgs was awarded the Crows Nest Citizen of the Year award in January and is an active volunteer in the community.
She said she was passionate about building the confidence of young women through encouragement and believed IWD should recognise women standing strong in times of adversity.
Shannon Townsend
Shannon Townsend’s career as a swimming instructor has taken her across Australia and the globe, educating many about water safety.
Ms Townsend opened yoga studio Sionna alongside mentor and friend Lesleigh Camm.
She also manages The Glennie School’s Aquatic and Sport Centre.
Carol McCabe
Following the rise of the women’s movement in the 1970s, Carol McCabe began to notice a progressive change in workplaces.
At the time, Dr McCabe was one of the few females working as a school principal.
She has founded several not-for-profit businesses, served as an executive board member for many organisations and has been the long-term president of the Australasian Universities Risk and Insurance Management Society.
Most recently, Ms McCabe founded The Compassionate Friends Darling Downs group, supporting bereaved parents in the region.
Erika Brayshaw
The Chronicle’s general manager Erika Brayshaw is the first female GM for the office, and was the first female GM with former Chronicle owner APN, as well as the youngest.
Although she is in the top job now, she said that it hadn’t been an easy journey, with many along the way mistaking her for an employee and not an employer, simply for her gender.
She encouraged all young females new to leadership to just go for it.
“Don’t be scared, stand your ground, have confidence and lead the way into a new world,” she said.
Genevieve Allpass
Labor candidate for Groom Genevieve Allpass has grown up and raised a family in the region, and believes International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.
She said it was a day to support our sisters, mothers, aunts, grandmothers who came before us and our daughters, nieces and granddaughters who will follow us.
Her biggest inspirations are strong female family members, Emma Miller and female politicians who all together make up a village of inspiration, guidance, strength and support.
Rebecca Vonhoff
Toowoomba councillor Rebecca Vonhoff is a former journalist who worked at The Chronicle, The Courier-Mail, The Australian and more.
She holds a PhD in German History and is a member of Toowoomba Regional Council’s Youth Advisory Committee, a Parish Councillor at St Bart’s Anglican Church and Director of Clifton Community Health Services.
She believes we have to get more women into politics, as “there’s better policy and better outcomes when we’ve got different life experiences and diversity of thought in the mix”.
Megan O’Hara Sullivan
First elected in 2016, Toowoomba councillor Megan O’Hara Sullivan believes women shouldn’t have to sit quiet and smile.
She is inspired by women like Grace Tame, who can be a noisy voice for change.
She was first inspired by her mother, who she described was in the first wave of feminism, and says its not about the gender, but about equality.
Cr O’Hara Sullivan also serves as the chair of the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation Research Grants Committee, and is a mother to five sons.
Josephine Martini
After relocating to Australia from Syria three years ago, Josephine Martini has dedicated her time to helping other refugee women and families adjust to their new lives.
Mrs Martini volunteers with the St Vincent de Paul Society and City Women.
Carol Taylor
Mother of two and grandmother of three, Carol Taylor has been part of regional councils for over 22 years, originally at Cambooya Shire Council before becoming a councillor at Toowoomba Regional Council.
She said she has had to fight hard for her voice to be heard, and has had many challenges to overcome because she was a female.
Her inspirations are businesswoman and activist Wendy McCarthy, and fellow politicians Daphne McDonald and Deirdre Comerford.
Raelene Ward
Proud Indigenous woman Raelene Ward earned money through stick picking and cotton chipping before she was accepted into a local hospital to commence her training and become a nurse.
After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree, she went on to achieve a masters and PhD and now works as a nursing lecturer at USQ.
Ms Ward said she was inspired by her late grandmother who was a drover for many years in Cunnamulla and acted as a strong advocate who highlighted the poor living standards of people living in Aboriginal camps in the 1950s.
Tiff Spary
Base Service’s co-ordinator and 2nd Shot cafe owner Tiff Spary has spent years assisting the local community, by providing employment and educational opportunities for those less fortunate.
Alongside her husband Nat, Tiff is an activist and has dedicated her time to spreading awareness of homelessness throughout our region.
Claire Howden
Breast cancer survivor Claire Howden made the proactive but heartbreaking decision to get a right mastectomy and full hysterectomy five years ago.
Volunteering as the vice president for Blush Cancer Care, Ms Howden said it was important to her to give back to an organisation that assisted her through her own health journey.
Ms Howden said the conversation needed to change from ‘girls can do everything’ to ‘of course girls can do everything but they don’t need to do everything.’
Letitia Shelton
Founder of City Women and City Free from Porn, author and speaker Letita Shelton has inspired Darling Downs women with her dedication to the region and helping the community grow.
Letitia said International Women’s Day was a time to celebrate women and their achievements.
She believes women are the “heart and soul of the community”.
Annette Scott
While the past two years have been unprecedented and challenging, Darling Downs Health acting chief executive has led her team with grace, dignity and professionalism.
With a background in Allied Health, Ms Scott has encountered “very few challenges as a woman”, however said there is still work to be done to ensure true equality.
Julie Bishop and Kamala Harris are two big inspirations for Ms Scott, who said they can be relied upon to present to the broader public with great presence, style, intelligence, truth, and integrity.
Shirley-Anne Gardiner
Toowoomba Hospital executive director Shirley-Anne Gardiner has enjoyed “surprising and shocking” people with her job title, a reaction she takes as a compliment.
She said it motivated her to show other women that “you can achieve anything”.
International Women’s Day can be summed up in a quote Ms Gardiner loves, “You can tell who the strong women are. They are the ones you see build each other up instead of tearing each other down”.
Suzie Holt
Independent Groom candidate Suzie Holt began her work within the community at Queensland Health, specifically within the mental health and aged care industries, and has since been involved with numerous programs and cases, including assisting women and children experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault.
This International Women’s Day, Ms Holt has called on the community to put an end to conscious and unconscious bias towards women in the workforce.
“As a community we can and must do better. Many women have expressed a desire for community support and mentorship in navigating these challenges.”
Ellie Burgoyne
Beauty therapist and Luminosa owner Ellie Burgoyne said her biggest achievements were becoming a mum and being able to make other women feel amazing every day.
The business owner’s growing list of accolades don’t stop there, after she filmed a YouTube video with Tanya Hennessy which went viral, had her work published in international magazines and trained with Glow Up make-up artist Val Garland.
“My priorities have changed a lot over the years and most recently becoming a mother to a baby girl I’m even more fiercely defending our rights,” Ms Burgoyne said.
Dr Linda Evans
As principal of Fairholme College for the past 14 years, Dr Linda Evans has helped shape the next generation of women and inspire the region with her commitment to the community.
As the principal of a girl’s school, she said her goal was to have their school-leavers enter post school life with “confidence, hope and self-belief, unhindered by gendered rule, be they written or unwritten”.
To Mrs Evans, International Women’s Day is about valuing women and their voice, and ensuring their choices in all aspects of life are equal to their male counterparts.
While she is inspired daily by students and staff, her biggest inspirations are her mother, daughter, Ash Barty and close friends Margaret Thorsborne and Maryanne Walsh.
Maryanne Walsh
Long-time Centenary Heights State High School principal Maryanne Walsh OAM was farewelled from the role earlier this year, however has stayed in the hearts of all those she touched.
Mrs Walsh said it was important to highlight the place of women in our society who were mothers, shapers of the next generations, teachers, lawyers, councillors and more.
Her biggest inspiration is any woman of a different ethnic background who has made Australia her home for her and her family.
Dr Carolyn Brown
As an astrophysicist, Carolyn Brown said there were times in the wider physics and engineering area where her input was not valued as highly as males, however she has managed to push through the barriers and become a successful astrophysicist and physics lecturer at the University of Southern Queensland.
Dr Brown said while International Women’s Day was a great time to reflect on how far women have come as a society in general, it was important to see how far we still need to go.
Emma Mactaggart
The 2021 Zonta Toowoomba Woman of the Year, author, mother of three, publisher and founder and creative director of The Lighthouse Toowoomba Emma Mactaggart understands the significance of International Women’s Day.
Having once smuggled herself into a Future Leaders event hosted by the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce to listen to the inspirational people in our district, she said today was time to consider the incredible sacrifices made by the women who were here before us, and to contemplate and plan our next moves for the women of tomorrow.
Her biggest inspirations are her three daughters who continue to amaze and elude her for 20-odd years.
Anna Battle
Shiny Happy Art business owner Anna Battle is the artist behind the stunning murals at Toowoomba Hospital and BreastScreen Toowoomba and also had her book Painting Party published by Penguin in 2016.
Ms Battle said changes she would like to see made in the future is to have maternity leave added to women’s HECS/HELP debt, as well as more awareness on how taking care of children impacts superannuation.
Ali Davenport
AS CEO of the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise, Ali Davenport said two of her biggest inspirations were Merle Thornton and Rosalie Bognor who in 1965 chained themselves to a Brisbane bar to protest the exclusion of women in Queensland public bars. This action resulted in change four years later, and Ms Davenport believes International Women’s Day is an important time to reflect on these achievements and think about what we want to achieve in the future.
Kirstie Smolenski
A registered nurse, manager of a construction company, volunteer co-ordinator at a private hospital, wife, mother to five children and now an independent Groom candidate, Kirstie Smolenski believes it is time for change. She has encouraged women to come together, reflect on the past and plan steps for the future in a united front towards recognition, respect and equality.
Lizzie Adams
A true one in a million, Lizzie Adams has given back to the district in a huge variety of ways.
She has been the CEO of Goolburri Aboriginal Health Advancement Co Ltd for the past 18 years and was the founder and executive director of the Jaydon Adams Memorial Foundation, in honour of her late son.
She is also director for the Rural Medical Education Australia, a founding member and committee member in Protea Place.
In the sporting area, Ms Adams is president of the Toowoomba Brothers Senior Rugby League Football Club and was the first female appointed to the Ipswich Jets Rugby League Football Club where she holds the seat of director.
In addition, she also represents the region on a state level as director on the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Protection Peak.
Penny Dowling
For seven years, Penny Dowling has owned and operated the Toowoomba chain Crackerjack Chicken and she said it was important to shape young generations through the business’s core values of respect, teamwork, empowerment and integrity.
“We are all responsible for promoting change, diversity and a better balance in our workplace,” she said. “IWD is a reminder for men and women to actively work towards equality in & out of the workplace.”
Nancy Sommerfield
Toowoomba councillor Nancy Sommerfield has held her seat for three terms, and has invested passionately in the safe water supply and security for the district. During her time in the region, she has been involved in Zonta, the YWCA, the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce, Fairholme College and more. Mrs Sommerfield said while Australia had a long way to go for equality and fairness, “there are many more of our sisters in other countries who are suppressed and suffering more so”.
Melissa Taylor
Councillor Melissa Taylor was elected to the Toowoomba Regional Council in 2020, and believes International Women’s Day is about the importance of challenging biases and misconceptions in the interest of creating a more inclusive and gender-equal world.
Keesha Charles
Eighteen-year-old Indigenous woman Keesha Charles has spent her teen years promoting the welfare and wellbeing of the Oakey and Darling Downs community, and striving to be a role model for others.
She was recognised for this dedication by being named the 2022 Oakey Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Citizen of the Year.
Since leaving school where she was the Indigenous leader, she has also spent her time as a lead dance teacher for SK Studios, which raises money for organisations and charities.
Kim Stokes
For Kim Stokes, her media career started when she became a commercial breakfast radio co-host in her early 20s when there were few female presenters at the time.
Like many women, the selfless and driven woman’s journey hasn’t come without hard work, sacrifice and challenges.
“Let’s talk about the elephant in the room – I have always been a curvy girl, and that’s the nicer way to describe it … I have lost count of the number of doctors or weight loss groups my loving parents took me to as a child,” Ms Stokes said.
“It was not until I was an adult that I learned of the medical issues behind my weight – so much heartache brought on by my own thoughts, words and actions but also those of others – the fat girl just isn’t always a first choice in many things.
“Sometimes people despise you for being different but I’m no victim, what a blessing this body has been to me.”
Ms Stokes co-founded the Toowoomba Business DisABILITY Awards and Inclusion Accession – two initiatives which aim to make the world a more inclusive and better place.
The active volunteer is also a Women in Media, Protea Place Management Committee and Regional Access Disability Advisory Committee member, Women in Business Awards alumini, Down Syndrome Queensland and In Sight of Dreams board director and Project School Formal project lead.
Sarah Kay-Huybregts
The founder of charitable dance company SK Studios and a family partnership co-ordinator for the Smith Family, Sarah Kay-Huybregts said her mum was her biggest inspiration.
She was shown that no matter how hard things get, to never give up and always seek to understand before seeking to be understood. This is a lesson she hopes to pass onto her own children.
Sarah-Jane MacDonald
Lawyer and MacDonald Law director Sarah-Jane MacDonald said she would not have been able to accomplish all she had without the support of her brother, father, team and clients.
In 2019, she was appointed the Downs and South Western Queensland Law Association president and led the first all-female association team.
Sharyn Donaldson
Blush Cancer Care president Sharyn Donaldson said she believed gender shouldn’t be seen as a barrier and everyone should be treated equally.
Dr Donaldson said her daughter and many young women she knew didn’t focus on being female but simply strived to achieve their goals, and she was inspired by Blush volunteers and patients.
“I am constantly privileged by patients whom I contact who despite their illness only think of others and never complain,” she said.
Teela Strang
Life hasn’t been easy for Teela Strang who became a young, single mother with no access to transport, struggling with debt and traumatised after she left a domestic violence situation.
Now a mother-of-four, savvy career woman and happily remarried, Ms Strang built a successful face painting and body art business and has helped with her family-owned business Hip Pocket Workwear and Safety.
Now in the process of launching Lok and Kee, Ms Strang hopes to provide a platform for talented performers to share their talents.
“Don’t listen to that grade 12 teacher who says you will never amount to anything if you don’t get a certain grade or mark – if you want something bad enough, you will find your way,” she said.
Kate Ruijter
Employee turned employer Kate Ruijter stepped into the business world four years ago when she took over the ownership of Classic Beauty Therapy and opened up the second store.
Ms Ruijter, also a board advisor of Zonta Club Toowoomba, said it was important for women to not let barriers stop them.
“As women we have worked so hard for what we have and keep working towards your future. I will always work to grow and improve Classic to help our clients,” she said.
Jen James
Certified lactation consultant for Lactogenesis Jen James has inspired and motivated women across the region during what is sometimes their most life changing times.
She said by supporting women to be able to feed their babies, whether by breast or bottle, “strengthens and empowers them to make decisions which are best for them and their families”.
“Women then flourish and build strong, healthy and resilient families which for the foundation of community,” she said.
Melissa Bannister
United Australia Party Groom candidate Melissa Bannister said she was inspired daily by the women in our community, many of whom were breaking stereotypes in the workforce while juggling the pressures of family commitments.
“The women who show up every single day, even when things are tough to help and inspire others,” Ms Bannister said.
“(This is an) opportunity to thank all the women in our region for everything they do and encourage them to celebrate all they have achieved.”
Sharon Collins
St Saviour’s College principal Sharon Collins has spent the past six years motivating and encouraging the 240 young women of the school to reach their full potential. The day for women is a vital step in assisting them to follow their dreams.
“It’s really important for our girls, many of who come from diverse backgrounds, to realise they have a place and with the right mindset and right nurturing, they are able achieve whatever they put their mind and effort to.”
Chantal Masters Corish
Growing up as a bush kid, Chantal Masters Corish never imagined she would make such a significant impact to mental health in regional Australia, a sector she has worked in as The Rural Psychologist for 15 years.
This year she was offered a research scholarship funded by the Cotton Research Development Corporation and CQ Uni.
Catherine Ardi
Catherine Ardi’s business Excavation Equipment went from three staff members sitting around a kitchen table in 2012 to a $50 million business with 20 employees in 10 years.
Trading in a successful corporate career which offered a great salary, set hours and benefits to run the business with her partner Matt Brennan, Ms Ardi does not regret the decision.
In a male-dominated industry, 40 per cent of the organisation’s staff are women.
The organisation has won several national and state awards, been listed on the Fast 100’s Fastest Growing Businesses in Australia since 2015 and was ranked 50/1000 of the fastest growing businesses in the Asia Pacific.
Focusing on sustainability, the business uses low emission machines and donates a portion of profits to Australian wildlife charities.
“Women belong everywhere – not just where the fairytales have told us we should be,” Ms Ardi said.
“(We) have a beautiful, important voice so we need to make it heard … I’m so proud to see the power of women who gather in support for a multitude of causes.”
Lauren Humby
It’s been a long and challenging road full of depression, self-hatred and suicidal ideation for Lauren Humby.
After she became a sexual assault victim, the USQ criminology lecturer was driven to help make a difference and pursued a criminal justice career.
After receiving a 10/25 on her first essay, Dr Humby was set to quit, but her female HSC Legal Studies teacher wouldn’t let her and worked overtime to help students.
“I think it is common for women to feel alone, ashamed, and powerless (but) IWD allowed me to see that I was not alone in my experiences,” Dr Humby said.
Ash Webb
As a mum to two, Ash Webb is a compassionate and dedicated volunteer for QENDO.
The organisation assists those affected by endometriosis, adenomyosis, PCOS and infertility.
Mrs Webb is the QENDO treasurer and Darling Downs co-ordinator, as well at the Women’s Health Expo co-ordinator for the region.
Having been impacted personally by endometriosis, Mrs Webb understands the vital support the service provides, and International Women’s Day is another day to cheer on our local women.
Karlie Ross
Since Karlie Ross’ daughter Ellie was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at the young age of two, her mum has been doing everything she can to help sick children through The Ellie Project.
“Prior to my toddler’s cancer diagnosis, I would have listed my academic achievements, scholarships and PhD candidature as my most accomplished achievements,” Ms Ross said.
“Over the past year, my work in advocating for regional children’s cancer services through The Ellie Project has easily become my most meaningful achievement.
“In sharing my own experience as a cancer mother, The Ellie Project has reached millions of people as well as supported so many others going through similar critical illnesses.”
Strength is something that runs through the family with Ms Ross‘s biggest inspiration being her own mum Tina Laughton.
“Mum doesn’t just sit at the top of life’s trenches trying to pull you out, she climbs down in them and fights the battles alongside you, all the while making you a cup of tea.”
Gaye Foot
Gaye Foot has been described as the “most amazing breast cancer care nurse” for Blush Cancer Care and St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital. Mrs Foot supports patients through diagnosis, post surgery, recovery and treatment, also providing wellness consultations for patients at the end of their treatment.
Jacqui Walker
Toowoomba real estate agent Jacqui Walker has dominated her field for 10 years, working closely within the Remax office. She has won awards as the second highest amount of Australian properties sold within the business, as well as the fifth highest commission in the country. Mrs Walker has said it was important to recognise IWD “because women are strong, are very valuable members of the community and we all need a good woman in our lives”.
Jo Capp
As an eager volunteer for the community, Jo Capp has spent years assisting the region in any way she can. After the Covid pandemic kicked off, she saw a need in the community to assist Meals on Wheels, and assembled a group of locals to form the Care Army. With a real passion for small businesses and growing the local community, Mrs Capp is also the President of the Hope Horizons board, Toowoomba’s only cancer wellness centre, as well as the events and business development manager for the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce.
Mrs Capp said International Women’s Day is about recognising the women of “all past, all futures, what they can bring to the table and what they’ve already brought.”
Kim Cahill
Founder of ToowoombaDarlingDowns.com.au Kim Cahill has provided critical business growth to the community across the region.
In 2020, Ms Cahill was nominated for the Chamber of Commerce Business awards and was a finalist in the Innovation and Technology section.
Kirsty Gleeson
Kirsty Gleeson was the first female sergeant to join the Toowoomba Scenes of Crime Unit.
The acting senior sergeant and forensic co-ordinator for the Southern Queensland area said the biggest obstacles she had faced had been the pressures she had placed on herself.
“Achieving an even work-life balance can be difficult when working in a role where you are on call 24/7 and some days can be tough,” she said.
“I am fortunate to work in an organisation where women do not receive any different treatment to men.”
The first woman joined the Queensland Police Service in 1965 and more and more women have continued to join ever since, with the appointment of the state’s first female commissioner Katarina Carroll in 2019.
Rachel Gilroy
Dedicating herself to the rescue and care of wildlife, Rachel Gilroy from NLAR Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation has spent her entire life looking after and providing a voice for animals.
From as young as she can remember Ms Gilroy has looked after sick or injured animals – something she inherited from her grandparents who were also wildlife carers.
Her love for animals has led into more career pathways including her pet photography business Miraposa Images and vet nursing.
Passionate about educating young people about animal protection and conservation, Ms Gilroy offers wildlife care and bird handling skill workshops at kindergartends, schools and TAFE campuses.
Dr Mary Wagner
Matriarch of the Wagner Corporation, Mary Wagner, has spent decades assisting the community, and was recently awarded with an Order of Australia, and is a Dame of Grace in the order of St John of Jerusalem. She has an honorary doctorate from USQ, sponsors two families from Sudan of six and four people, was patron of the Toowoomba Refugee and Migrant Service and the John Wallis Foundation, and has also been ambassador for the Toowoomba Hospice and a member of the advisory council for Family Week. Dr Wagner was awarded the Toowoomba volunteer of the year in 2003 and received the Toowoomba community service medal in 2004.
“To me IWD celebrates the contributions women make to our society and the sacrifices necessary to achieve them, not just in our careers, but as mothers, friends and role models,” she said.
“I recall fond memories of my mother, and the tireless work she did for our family without expectation of praise to give us the best life she could offer. I have always cherished the opportunity for families to make a home and chase their dreams, and have tried to embody my mothers selflessness in my support to women.
“While we celebrate the success and progress made by women, I remain conscious of the struggle by women being persecuted around the world, not the least in war stricken Ukraine.”
Angela Brown
Eight years ago when Angela Brown started her cleaning business Angie’s Domestic Duties, she had nothing but a mop, bucket and her sheer determination.
With a young child to support and with Ms Brown facing the threat of homelessness after an unexpected marriage breakdown, she started the business to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table.
Since these humble beginnings, the business has grown, now employs 48 staff members, 42 of which are women and many who have come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“International Women’s Day is an important way to raise awareness of the issues women still face due to inequality, inequity, bias, stereotypes and discrimination,” Ms Brown said.
“A huge part of my business is about ensuring, every day, that women who are facing discrimination and inequality due to their life circumstances, are given the opportunity to thrive.”
Melissa Keogh-Lancaster
The loving mum heartbreakingly lost her son Henry in 2009 when he lost his life in a car crash.
While Ms Keogh-Lancaster has made many accomplishments throughout her professional and personal lives, she said becoming a mother will forever be the one she cherished most.
This year, Ms Keogh-Lancaster will attend the Protea Place luncheon on International Women’s Day as a guest speaker.
Her advice to young women is to always remember older woman are fighting for them so they shouldn’t be overlooked.
Geraldine Mackenzie
Vice-Chancellor of the region’s University, Professor Geraldine Mackenzie is proud to say the majority of people at the University of Southern Queensland identify as women.
“As Vice-Chancellor of the University of Southern Queensland, I am proud of our commitment to providing equal opportunity and an inclusive work and study environment for our staff and students,” she said.
“While we celebrate the many social, economic, cultural and political achievements of
women, we also need to focus on the fact that around the world, women are still subject to
bias, discrimination and inequality based on their gender.”
Jen Munt
Described as a combination of Mary Poppins and Mrs Doubtfire, Jen Munt has collected and donated toy and food Christmas hampers, worked a charity garage sale and sizzle, a pet food drive for the RSPCA, volunteered for Tony’s Community Kitchen, Liberty Bus and the Visitor Information Centre, and assisted Sister Francis as a community volunteer aimed at raising funds for a hospice. Mrs Munt has don't all this, while starting her business Mrs Jam, and being a full time mum to three children, and a full time carer to her daughter who is minimal verbal and asd level 3.
“Community is really about team work – you all work together and share your passions, skills and empathy in just becoming a tiny village that just grows,” she said.
Lesleigh Camm
At almost 82 years old, Lesleigh Camm has continued to inspire and motivate women across the district through her never-wavering thirst for true happiness and peace, particularly through her yoga studio, Lesleigh’s Yoga Classes.
“Women nowadays have a job as well as being a mum, wife, all of those things and they need that me time,” she said.
“They need the resilience, courage and strength to carry out what they need to do or set themselves to do.
“I was brought up in the era where you were brought up to get married, have babies and look after the home and the husband.
“I didn’t know any different, but women have choices now.”
Cara Sherman
Electrical franchisee of the Toowoomba Harvey Norman store, Cara Sherman, has continued to smash through barriers and assist the region in various ways, including raising money for sick children. Mrs Sherman acquired her first Harvey Norman franchise at 23 years old, and is now the franchise of one of the last electrical superstores in Queensland.
Linda Barton
Working in various human service-related roles, Ms Barton has worked with the Department of Child Safety, Commission for Children and The Advocacy and Support Centre.
Ms Barton said she is most proud of her work in destigmatising suicide and raising mental health awareness through the annual fundraising initiative Hike to Heal Australia, which she founded with her husband Jim, after their son Nick tragically took his own life in 2016.
The suicide prevention advocate said watching women like Brittany Higgans and Grace Tame stand up for the injustice they have each experienced and demand change has inspired her, as well as her own 18-year-old daughter Isabel who is pursuing a career in engineering.
Cody Robinson
Entrepreneur and social worker Cody Robinson has dedicated the early stages of her burgeoning career to helping young children and families in need during those stressful days of going back to school.
Her business Mystery Date with a Book has raised thousands of dollars, going straight towards school supplies for students struggling to source the necessities.
Alyce Nelligan
Alyce Nelligan has been breaking down barriers and defying all odds from day dot.
The disability advocate is a fierce supporter of women’s rights, especially those living with disabilities, social justice issues, and even campaigned for the Greens party in the 2020 state election.
Juliet Ballinger
Juliet Ballinger’s sole purpose is to provide comfort, support, and solutions for young women in need.
The Eva’s Place founder has dedicated her life to helping young women with unplanned or difficult pregnancies, and during the pandemic even helped overseas women based in Toowoomba who were unable to access support and funds from their home country.
Shanna Whan
It was Shanna Whan’s incredible survival through alcohol addiction and her subsequent creation of a grassroots charity that earned her one of the highest honours in the country, Local Hero of the year.
Sober in the Country has a national reach and offers peer support for those battling alcohol addiction.
Joy Mingay
Joy Mingay played a pivotal role in advocating for local businesses as Chamber of Commerce president, and throughout her many years of work in the heart of Toowoomba.
In 2019, Mrs Mingay announced her intention to run for council in the 2020 local government election.
Jo Sheppard
Jo Sheppard has worn many hats in her long, rewarding career, including and not limited to Chamber of Commerce CEO, Director of Stakeholder Engagement at USW and now Queensland Farmer Federation CEO.
Sharon Boyce
Disability advocate and author Sharon Boyce’s work with young people with disabilities has proven invaluable to the Toowoomba community and beyond.
The Founder of Discovering DisAbility and Diversity program created her incredible initiative to promote inclusion and awareness of the key disability areas so educate both adults and children.
Liz Wilkes
Liz Wilkes has stood by the side of countless women in Toowoomba during the most important moments of their lives, as a midwife and founder of My Midwives.
A multi-award winning midwife, Ms Wilkes and her business have become vital resources for women giving birth and raising their newborns.
Nadine Wright
Youth justice advocate and founder of Hope for our Children founder Nadine Wright is a staunch advocate and incredible support for disadvantaged children in need.
Emily Pullen
National award-winning CEO of Jim’s Jerky Emily Pullen is passionate about agriculture, and its producers.
She’s a woman of the region, but has also gained experience working internationally before joining her family business in 2015.
Jean Turner
The Toowoomba Woman’s Shed started as a small gathering of just three sewer’s on Jean Turner’s daughter’s pergola.
It was because of the work of Ms Turner and her team that their small operation launched in a full-time charity group, working tirelessly for their community.
Susannah Birch
Susannah Birch is a writer, doula, marketing specialist, mental health advocate, and trauma survivor and in all her many roles uses her skills to help others, and highlight important social justice issues.
Lennon Starr
Becoming a mother is what has made Lennon Starr the proudest and she credits her kids to saving her life.
Diagnosed with ADHD and PTSD, the loving mum has also launched her own business which goes against the grain and aims to help others.
The mother-of-three said the biggest gender-related obstacle she had faced to date was about parenting.
“It is generally assumed that the mother will provide free childcare and the father will continue to progress in his career,” she said.
“If we choose to send our children to daycare and work ourselves we are still the default parent taking time off when the kids are home sick and carrying the mental load for the family and household.”
Inspired by her young daughter, her children’s teachers and other mums navigating their way through the world of parenting, Ms Starr said she is in awe of their courage, strength and compassion.
Shirley Owen
Described as a “trailblazer of the Toowoomba medical community,” Kathleen “Shirley” Owen was one of the first physiotherapists to graduate from the University of Queensland in 1949.
Dedicating her life to the betterment of women’s health, Mrs Owen sadly passed away late last year and left behind her beloved children and grandchildren.
An admirer of the Suffragettes in the early 1900s, Mrs Owen lent her voice loudly to many social issues and human rights campaigns dating back to the early 1970s when she protested vehemently against the Vietnam War and associated conscription scheme.
She worked tirelessly over many years to advance women’s health in Toowoomba and advocated relentlessly for “The Sisterhood” as a longstanding member of Zonta International and the Red Cross.
Mrs Owen was a driving local force behind Zonta’s Flag Raising Ceremony in Toowoomba held each year on November 25, the International Day Against Violence Against Women.
Merryl Dray
Brave and selfless SES volunteer Merryl Dray tragically lost her life while making the ultimate sacrifice last month.
The much loved member of the Lowood SES Group – died while trying to help a family escape floodwaters at Coolana, near Ipswich.
Three others who were in the vehicle were rescued from the floodwaters, but tragically the 62-year-old could not be saved.
QFES Commissioner Greg Leach paid tribute to Ms Dray who had been a volunteer with the SES for four and a half years.
Sarah Walton
The Wellbeing Cottage owner Sarah Walton said stepping out on her own to open her own holistic therapy business in Highfields in 2017, took a lot of courage, faith and belief.
As a one-woman show, Ms Walton said she has overcome many challenges as a business owner including marriage separation, Covid-19, an economic recession and struggling to find a place to call home.
Now, she employs a team of five talented therapists.
“Unfortunately during my years in the corporate world I have experienced many times where I hit the glass ceiling and could never make it into positions or be paid equally due to my gender,” Ms Walton said.
“Despite being highly qualified or experienced I was overlooked or pigeonholed into positions that I considered unfair, or was subject to some very misogynistic comments from men in positions of power.
“I have also experienced bullying and sexual harassment both in the workplace and outside of the workplace.
“I am grateful for the lessons and learnings I gained from these experiences … they taught me everything that I did not want to be, they demonstrated to me what I want my life to mean, what I want to stand for, and the values I hold sacred to all human life – regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or religion I believe we are One. We are all equal.”
Amy Morris
After her father suffered a heart attack and Amy Morris watched the healthcare team treat him, Amy Morris decided to enrol in medicine, in the hope of one day becoming a doctor.
The former nurse is currently enrolled in medicine at The University of Queensland (UQ).
“As an ordinary, wide-eyed, young girl from a very middle-class family in country Queensland, being accepted into this program was completely life-changing,” Ms Morris said.
“Throughout my journey so far, I’ve not been a stranger to some wildly stereotypical comments – for example, often when I tell people that I’m studying medicine, they make an instant assumption that I plan to enter a specialty that offers a family-oriented lifestyle and these people have asked how I plan to fit in having kids between my professional commitments.
“Although having a family is very important to me, so is my career and it’s tiring having to reiterate that I do in fact want both – the need to justify career aspirations against family goals is unique to women and in my experience, a topic not so many men have to endure.”
Sharn Pogan
SES local controller for the Western Downs district Sharn Pogan was recognised at the SES Awards in Toowoomba last year, when she was named the Regional SES Member of the Year.
The mother-of-five said being a parent and following her dream of establishing her own business have been two of her proudest moments.
Inspired by her maternal grandmother Dot, who drove taxi cabs in Launceston and Northern Tasmania in the mid 1900s, Ms Pogan said her profession helped them to purchase a house.\
“I like to think that I have inherited some of her strengths and traits, and that these traits are some that I carry,” she said.
“A woman who is motivated, driven and enthusiastic often meets resistance and challenges in their pathway forward.
“Sometimes those challenges come from men with engendered and ingrained beliefs or who is being challenged by his own beliefs, but at other times – the greatest impediment to women in life is women themselves, women who don’t champion or support others and who want to tear down others through rumour or innuendo.”
Kay Krenske
Since her retirement in 2013, Kay Krenske has been volunteering in Redwood Park and helping to educate the future generations about the importance of caring for the environment.
In 2019, Ms Krenske said the group of volunteers identified a Black Breasted Button Quail which had not been sited for 25 years.
Redwood Park is the last wilderness area along the Toowoomba Range and contains a higher population of birds than the Daintree Forest.
Ms Krenske said her parents gave her a great work ethic and she didn’t believe women in her era had a voice regarding the natural environment.
“Women need to influence others by showing their responsibility for the world that we have been blessed with – we are a strong force to be reckoned with because of our natural insight,” she said.
“I believe that women have a caring side to them as against the egotistical side of some of the male species that often leads to a destructive outcome for our planet.”
Ricky Adams
Former parent / student engagement officer at Darling Heights State School Ricky Adams advocated for a community hub with a commercial kitchen and men’s shed, to improve education, relationships and community integration.
Her role supported children, families and the community.
Since retiring from this role, Ms Adams is now working at The Mulberry Project with Louise Nobel, as an engagement co-ordinator.
Ms Adams said she encouraged young women to always find something worth fighting for in their lives, never be afraid of asking for help and to always show kindness towards others.
Jacqui Fitzgerald
Passionate about helping others in their greatest times of need, QAS officer in charge of the Oakey station Jacqui Fitzgerald said her career in the healthcare sector was very rewarding and humbling.
She said one of the greatest aspects of the industry working alongside incredible and talented people.
The mother-of-three said her children will always be her greatest accomplishment though.
Inspired by many women in her life, Ms Fitzgerald said her great, great grandmother and great, great aunt were “fiercely strong and brave women” with “take no rubbish attitudes but still oozed love and kindness.”
Robyn Ayles
Robyn Ayles was one of the first women to be employed by the CSIRO, where she worked as a field researcher in Western Australia for three years, before joining a male-dominated research team of a seed company in Toowoomba.
“During my years working in these roles I hope that I in some way assisted in opening doors for other women to follow their path into agriculture and research,” Ms Ayles said.
In the past decade, Ms Ayles has been working across three businesses – The Toowoomba Farmers Market, Top of the Range Gourmet Mushrooms and a wholesale business.
Staicee Lehmann
Toowoomba local Staicee Lehmann has dedicated her time and energy to giving back to residents in a variety of ways since she was three years old. Mrs Lehmann makes handmade cards and donates them to charities to sell, so they keep 100 per cent of the funds. She also knits beanies and has donated over 1500 to local and international charities.
Hannah Xavier
Born with severe deafness in both ears, Hannah Xavier learnt to communicate through lip reading, Auslan sign language and now embraces being deaf because she loves who she is.
Ms Xavier received a cochlear implant on the right side of her ear in 2007, at the age of seven, through organisation Hear and Say.
With several achievements under her belt, Ms Xavier went on to win the 2018 Best Employee Award at the Toowoomba Business DisABILITY Awards.
Now working as a hairdresser, Ms Xavier is pregnant and expecting her first child.
“International Women’s Day should be more inclusive and speak up for women living with a disability,” she said.
“If you are not heard, then you are not seen and easily forgotten.”
Every woman out there
While we have to limit our list of publications, we at The Chronicle believe every woman should be recognised, celebrated and acknowledged, particularly on International Women’s Day. This celebration is for every woman who is living her truth. Who is getting up every day even when times are tough. Who is chasing her goals. Who is raising the next generation of strong women and men. Who are married and who are single. Bravo and cheers to you. Let’s continue to Break the Bias.
OPINION PIECES
Opinion – Rhylea Millar
As a teenager, I recall my male friends ranking me and other girls from least to most attractive.
They also labelled women with derogatory terms if they considered them “too” sexually active or not sexually active “enough”.
My weight fluctuated. It never really bothered me as I was relatively confident in my own skin, and my weight would only ever alter by two or three kilos.
This all changed when one of my closest friends uploaded photos of me from a party on social media and discussed my weight publicly with others in the comments section.
“Who’s the heffa?” one man said.
“Yeah, she used to be hot until she put on all the weight,” my friend responded.
When I confronted him, most of the guys said I was overreacting. I was 16 at the time. I have been conscious about my weight and have monitored the number on the scales every day since.
When I was in my 20s, I was employed as an administrator by an engineering firm, and one of my roles was to clean four kitchens twice a day.
You would be surprised to see the state hundreds of grown men left the kitchens in each day.
The worst part of the job was the incessant jokes made by colleagues at my expense, the critiques made over my efforts, and seeing the number of men who would drop their dirty dishes in the sink directly in front of me, despite the dishwasher being empty and accessible at the time.
I eventually changed careers and began working in a marketing role with another organisation.
After years in the role, I recall bending down to pick up a box of A4-sized paper which had been delivered to the office, and my colleague who was aged in his late 50s, threw an object down my top and said “look, I scored a hole in one”.
Initially, I pretended like I was fine and later went into the bathroom, where I removed the object and cried until I could calm myself down.
I had worked with this man for years – I considered him a friend, and I trusted him.
I felt violated, mortified, shocked and like I had no control over my own body or boundaries.
When I eventually told my manager, she had a casual chat with him and told him not to do it again because I was “still pretty young”.
His defence was it was a joke. Whether this was a lack of understanding or genuine predatory behaviour, I’m still not sure.
What I do know is International Women’s Day not only celebrates and recognises the incredible women making a difference in the world, but is also a time to highlight the issues we as women still face today.
It’s equally important to not lose sight of the real intention – the day should not divide genders, but unite them.
Not all men are the problem, and many are allies in our fight for a solution.
I’m one of three women in a newsroom filled with 10 men and have never felt more valued and supported in a workplace as I do right now.
My husband is also one of the kindest people I know. As long as I’m happy and healthy, he doesn’t care what that number I dread so much says on the scales.
But the recent controversy surrounding Grace Tame and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison is a prime example of the unjust vilification women face for simply standing up for themselves and others.
I have been fortunate enough to grow up with many inspiring women – a nan who chose to stay home and raise us, a career-driven mum who chose to work and study, and a sister who has chosen to do both.
Speaking to 100 of Toowoomba’s most influential women and giving them a platform to share their powerful stories, is exactly what today is all about.
Opinion – Morgan Burley
While humanity has thrived for thousands of years, it was only in the past 100 years or so that women began to be recognised as somewhat equal to men, and even then, we can be treated worse than animals in parts of the world.
It was only 52 years ago that women started to have some control over our bodies with the contraceptive pill, and even then we had men deciding who had access to it.
Only four years ago was the tax on sanitary items removed, despite them being necessary items for something natural. The only difference is men don’t experience it.
While we have come a long way, we still have a long way to go.
For our younger generations, I hope the day will come when we won’t hear men ask us to make them coffee despite holding the same job.
No more will a woman be asked when they will get married and have babies, because that’s what’s expected of her.
No more will it be the woman’s fault if she gets pregnant unexpectedly, with males still allowed to make decisions on what a woman can do with her body.
No more will these small comments that make a bigger issue be swept under the rug.
Unfortunately, these are things that still happen daily for many women, and while it is not always men, it is up to everyone of all genders to help change.
Let’s leave history in the past and not repeat it. Do it for the women in your life.
Opinion – Meg Gannon
There are four simple words that sum up why a day like International Women’s Day needs to be commemorated: “Give me a smile”.
It’s the meaning behind those words, and countless other unnecessary comments and jibes directed at women that really reinforce the importance of a day like today.
“You’re too loud.”
“You’re too much.”
“Give me a smile.”
These statements represent a culture of women being limited, and told what to do and how to be.
This day is about making noise, speaking up, making statements that need to be made – ones that advocate for women and not belittle and degrade them.
This day is about being loud and creating space for women, all women, including women of colour, women with disabilities, and transgender women.
Today, I am reflecting on the women who have paved the way for me to be loud – from my mum, my grandmothers, and my sister to my friends, teachers, colleagues and personal heroes.
We reflect on the women who have been silenced in the past, and haven’t been able to make the noise they wanted to.
Use International Women’s Day as a reminder of our purpose together to let women be loud.
Let’s hear their voices.
Also, International Men’s Day has been every single day since humans began roaming the earth.
Don’t be that person.
Opinion – Mahsa Nabizada – Year 12 Fairholme College student and Service and Interact president
Equality for women, for our sisters, mothers and daughters is progress for us all.
Today is an opportunity for us to reflect on the history of the brave heroes who fought for women’s rights in society and broke boundaries.
Today, I want to pay tribute to and acknowledge the sacrifice it took for the progress we have made towards equality of opportunity for women in this country and around the world.
As a woman, I recognise how privileged I am to be living in this free country with access to basic human rights; however, we must not forget that women are deprived of these rights in developing countries.
We must not let our guards down. Human rights are evolving and in some cases are perpetually under threat. The freedom of women is not settled and we must continue the battle, united.
TIMELINE – WOMEN’S ACHIEVEMENTS IN AUSTRALIA
1883 – The first woman graduated from an Australian University
1902 – The Married Women’s Property Act was welcomed in, allowing women to own property
1902 – Federal suffrage for Non-Indigenous women – right to vote and sit in parliament
1907 – Queensland women vote in first state election
1911 – First International Women’s Day
1912- First females to represent Australia in summer Olympics
1915 – Women can be elected into QLD parliament
1919 – Minimum wage for women’s work set at 54 per cent of the male rate
1921 – Edith Cowan is the first woman elected to an Australian parliament
1943 – First women elected to federal parliament
1950 – Female basic wage set at 75 per cent of the male basic wage
1952 – Sister Elizabeth Kenny, who developed an approach to treating Polio, died in Toowoomba
1960 – Women’s Rights movement
1961 – The contraceptive pill was welcomed into Australia (with conditions)
1962 – All Aboriginal women (and men) can vote
1966 – Married women can work in public service
1969 – First abortion rights granted (with conditions)
1970 – Women no longer excluded from Queensland public bars
1973 – Paid maternity leave for Commonwealth employees
1984: federal parliament passed the Sex Discrimination Act
1984 – Toowoomba woman Glynis Nunn-Cearns becomes first Olympic champion in Heptathlete
1998 – Dawn Fraser voted Australia’s greatest female athlete
2000 – Cathy Freeman wins gold
2008 – First female Governor-general of Australia – Quentin Bryce
2010 – Julia Gillard became Australia’s first female prime minister
2018 – Tampon tax repealed by Australian parliament
20 years behind: Qld students in danger over bus seatbelt lapse
Queensland’s motoring body has slammed the state’s lack of action over a safety feature on school buses, saying it is almost 20 years behind other states, as terrified parents voice their concern.
Barbecue, beers, butcher wars: Meatstock’s grilling return in 2025
Toowoomba’s favourite and only finger-licking good barbecue festival is set to return with an event like none before. Check out when tickets go on sale here.
Named: Man charged over alleged ‘fishing knife’ stabbing of 28yo
The identity of a man in his 20s, who allegedly stabbed another, causing “life-threatening” injuries can be revealed.
Drunk teen three times over limit tried to fight witnesses after crash
A Darling Downs teenager who crashed a car that landed inside a truck was almost three time the legal limit, a Toowoomba court was told.
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$326m lost in 31 days: Qld’s shocking pokie hotspot shame
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