CONNECTING SUCCESSFUL, LIKE-MINDED WOMEN IN BUSINESS
Where safety meets opportunity
SAFETY is not expensive - it’s priceless. And when it comes to workplace safety, FireWatch Safety Results (FWSR Group) is the Goulburn Valley’s trusted, locally owned total solution provider. With services spanning fire protection, Nationally Recognised Training, heights safety and gas detection, FWSR Group ensures workplaces across Victoria are compliant, safe and prepared for any hazard.
Driving operational excellence across Shepparton, Melbourne and regional branches in Wodonga, Bendigo, Ballarat and Mildura, FWSR Group is a growing team of female professionals. From administration, accounts, estimating, scheduling and business development, through to training management and on-the-tools technicians, FWSR’s women are not only essential to service quality but also key to driving innovation and culture.
Standout leaders include Training Manager Anna, who heads up FWSR’s Registered Training Organisation (RTO ID: 45221), Office Manager Janet, and Business
Development Manager Jodie. Alongside them are women in trades such as Mildura Sprinkler Fitter Olivia and Fire Technician Zoe, reflecting FWSR’s commitment to diversity across every level of the business. Behind the tools and in the office, women make up what is proudly described as the
‘engine room’ of FWSR Group - helping the business as a whole deliver on its passion and commitment for all things fire protection and workplace safety.
With a strong people-first culture, FWSR Group is not only a trusted safety provider but also a leader in the fire services sector - creating not just jobs, but meaningful, long-term careers.
DRIVING OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE... across Shepparton, Melbourne and regional centres, the team of professional women at FireWatch Safety Results play a crucial role in not only ensuring workplace safety but the smooth running of the organisation from administration, scheduling and business development to trades. Pictured from left are, Tamara Ismail, Mallory Hogan, Lili Stone, Caitlyn Morris, Alanna Bunn, Janet Hodges, Jo Ogilvie, Dannielle Murdoch, Jayde Organ, Kayla Doncon, Anna Morris, Cecelia Hargreaves, Kate Sicali and Jodie Taylor. Photo by Emma Harrop
Bridging the gap in regional skincare
“The greatest challenge was perception,” Cat reflects. “Many felt they had to travel to Melbourne or Sydney for advanced treatments. My vision was to show that the same expertise and technology could be accessed right here.”
That vision has flourished. From a part-time endeavour to a purpose-built facility in 2022, LUSH has become an award-winning clinic recognised internationally, including with the prestigious Blue Diamond Innovator award. Strategic investment in medical-grade technology and the appointment of Cosmetic Physician Dr Niki Talic have set new benchmarks for safety and professionalism in regional practice.
At its heart, though, LUSH is about restoring confidence. Cat recalls a young woman
WHEN Cat Armstrong opened LUSH Skin & Laser Clinic, she set out to prove that Shepparton deserved the same world-class care often thought to be the preserve of metropolitan centres.
with severe acne who, through tailored treatments and support, rediscovered her self-esteem. “It’s not just about skin, it’s about giving people back a part of themselves.”
Cat’s advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs is clear: “Trust your vision, even when others doubt it. Passion and resilience make anything possible.”
LUSH Skin & Laser Clinic is located at 66 Skene St, Shepparton. You can find out more by calling (03) 5832 7604, or going online to lushskinandlaserclinic.com.au/
Celebrating five years with leading brand iS Clinical, LUSH continues to pair luxury with science, delivering care in a space designed to feel both professional and nurturing.
“It’s not just about skin, it’s about giving people back a part of themselves”
CAT ARMSTRONG DIRECTOR, LUSH SKIN & LASER CLINIC
BRINGING SKINCARE TO THE REGION…
LUSH Skin & Laser Clinic has bridged the gap between metropolitan expertise and regional care, offering world-class treatments locally. The team is committed to personalised service, helping clients look and feel their best. Clinic
Director Cat Armstrong is pictured. Photo: Supplied
Balancing life, work and hardware
AT Ultimate Fasteners, women are not only keeping the business running smoothly like a well-oiled machine, but they are also bringing their whole selves to work, balancing careers with family, passions and personal challenges.
Customer service representative Sophie Dervish brings energy and strong customer focus to the team, while caring for an unusual menagerie at home: two kittens rescued from the pound, a dog, and a 17-year-old blue-tongue lizard! In her downtime, she loves spending time outdoors, usually in the garden or practicing her shooting techniques.
In administration, Kaylene McCormick has been with Ultimate Fasteners for eight years and is known as a steady hand in the business. Dealing with recent health issues and ongoing treatments, supported every step of the way by the businesses’ flexible and caring workplace culture. Away from the office, Kaylene is a devoted Saints supporter, an avid reader, and loves spending time with her three sons and five grandchildren.
Accounts officer Carole Moore balances her work in accounts payable and receivable with a long-standing passion for dog showing. She breeds and shows the uncommon Clumber Spaniel on her 32-acre hobby farm, which she shares with horses, chooks, guinea pigs, and other animals. Originally from outer-Melbourne, Carole has called the Goulburn Valley home for 35 years and enjoys the close-knit community life with her children and grandchildren.
In an industry often associated with grit and machinery, it’s the hard work and personal commitment of Sophie, Kaylene, and Carole that ensure Ultimate Fasteners delivers excellent service.
SUPPORTING TRADIES WITH HEART… Kaylene McCormick (Administration), Carole Moore (Accounts), and Sophie Dervish (Customer Service) are the backbone of Ultimate Fasteners in Shepparton. With a combined 18 years in the business, they embody the core values of reliability, expertise, and a steadfast commitment to customer satisfaction. Their dedication ensures that every customer feels valued and supported. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
Sophie Dervish
Kaylene McCormick
Carole Moore
A culture built on balance and support
IN the legal profession, balance and flexibility are often hard to find. At Morrison & Sawers Lawyers, women lead the way in creating a workplace where colleagues support each other and thrive, both personally and professionally.
With five female directors and a team made up primarily of women, the firm has cultivated a culture that values flexibility, work-life balance and long-term commitment.
Policies reflect the changing needs of staff, encouraging a healthy work-life balance with no expectation to work
beyond 5pm and the option to adjust hours around family responsibilities. In recent years, this has included supporting parents returning from leave on part-time arrangements..
This supportive environment translates directly into the service clients receive. Staff who feel balanced and valued bring focus, clarity and care to every case, ensuring consistently high standards.
The strength of this culture is evident in the team’s loyalty. Most employees have been with Morrison &
Sawers for more than five years, with over a third serving for more than a decade. Earlier this year, Director Robyn Curtis and Conveyancing Clerk Penny Newman each marked an extraordinary 40 years with the firm, which been serving in the community since 1880.
By investing in its people, Morrison & Sawers delivers not only legal expertise but also the continuity and compassion of a team that genuinely loves what they do.
FEMALE-LED FIRM… Morrison & Sawers Lawyers have been a cornerstone of legal expertise in the region for more than 130 years. With five female directors and a largely female team, the firm fosters a culture of flexibility, work-life balance, and long-term commitment. This year, two staff members—Director Robyn Curtis and Conveyancing Clerk Penny Newman—celebrated 40 years of service, while several others have marked more than a decade with the firm. Pictured: staff at the 40-year celebration. Photo: Supplied
Spotting the signs, saving lives
BY no means a luxury, skin health is a necessity and thanks to the expertise of Alanna Adams from Skindepth Dermatology, regional residents are gaining access to world-class care. An accomplished Registered Nurse, Melanographer, and Dermoscopist at the leading Melbourne-based clinic, Alanna brings over 30 years of nursing experience and more than 12 years of dedicated specialty in dermatology and skin cancer detection to regional clients.
Alanna leads nurse-led dermatology clinics three days a week at Skindepth’s Shepparton location, offering comprehensive skin checks, UVB therapy for conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, acne management, and wart treatments. Her work is vital in the early detection and prevention of skin cancer, a service that can make a life-saving difference, especially in sun-exposed regional communities.
Formally accredited as a Melanographer by the Australasian College of Dermatologists, Alanna also plays an educational role, regularly assisting in dermoscopy workshops to train the next generation of skin health professionals. Her close collaboration with plastic surgeons and dermatologists, including her supervisor Dr Alice Rudd,
‘A
Ensuring and empowering locals with early intervention as well as the knowledge to maintain optimal skin health, Alanna said,
“I am thrilled to be working alongside such a knowledgeable and experienced specialist like Dr Rudd and the other wonderful dermatologists at Skindepth Dermatology. It is imperative the Shepparton community has access to high-quality specialist care which negates the need to travel to Melbourne.”
GAINING ACCESS TO WORLD-CASS CARE... Alanna Adams (pictured) is a highly accomplished Registered Nurse, Melanographer, and Dermoscopist at Skindepth Dermatology. As the lead clinician at the Shepparton clinic three days a week, Alanna brings extensive expertise and dedication to her role. With a patient-centred approach and state-of-the-art technology, Skindepth Dermatology ensures that the Shepparton community has access to world-class skin care, close to home. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
adds depth to her clinical approach. Dr Rudd, founder of Skindepth Dermatology, is known for her commitment to accessible, high-quality care and holistic skin health solutions.
Dr Alice Rudd
(Shepparton) Better Health Specialist Centre 75 Wyndham Street, Shepparton, VIC (03) 9527 4209 or reception@skindepth.com.au
and experienced specialist like Dr Rudd and the other wonderful dermatologists at
Offering general dermatology management of psoriasis, eczema and acne as well as skin cancer and rashes. Dr Rudd employs a variety of methods such as UVB phototherapy, Biologics, and biopsies to help treat and diagnose her patients.
Nurse Alanna Adams
The women behind Shepparton’s workforce success
THE Apprenticeship Factory and Monarch Personnel are two vital organisations shaping the future of the region’s workforce. They offer tailored recruitment and apprenticeship solutions for both local businesses and job seekers in our region, creating opportunities for both employment and training, meeting the evolving needs of industry.
With over 40 years of experience as a community-based, not-for-profit organisation, The Apprenticeship Factory has helped over 7,000 young people bridge the gap between education and employment through supported apprenticeship and traineeship pathways.
By nurturing the next generation of skilled workers and allowing host businesses to focus on what they do best, the organisation
plays a critical role in the local economy.
Two staff members, Natalie and Melissa, work daily supporting and mentoring Apprentices and Trainees, whilst also working closely with industry and local businesses to support their needs. Behind the scenes, dedicated and professional office staff, Tracy and Tash, give ongoing support with all things administration,
including payroll ensuring everything runs smoothly within the office environment.
Together, these women exemplify the values of efficiency, care and integrity, making a lasting impact on both their workplaces and the wider Shepparton community.
Sharing her thoughts on her team’s commitment, professionalism and dedication, CEO Paula Ryan said, “Our team is a small but
effective team and I’m incredibly proud of the way in which they support, care and guide many young people in our community. Their genuine care ensures individuals have the best opportunity to complete their qualification and be successful in their chosen career. I’m privileged to work alongside such a committed team who continue to deliver positive outcomes and make a difference every day.”
BUSINESS LOOKING FOR STAFF?
SHAPING THE FUTURE... of the region’s workforce, the dedicated team behind The Apprenticeship Factory and Monarch Personnel ensure individuals seeking the best opportunities to complete their qualifications and be successful in their chosen careers are well-supported. Pictured from left are: Natalie Simpson, Natasha Bell, Paula Ryan, Melissa Davies and Tracy Duke. Photo: Emma Harrop
Baking awardwinning treats
BEING one of the most renowned bakeries in Australia doesn’t happen by chance. It takes passionate and committed owners and a team of dedicated staff to create award-winning baked goods.
The list of awards won by North End Bakehouse (NEB) are almost too numerous to count, and none of it could have been achieved without the passion and drive of Co-owner Shekiah ‘Kiah’ Aylett and store manager Cass Clark. Kiah, along with husband Matt, opened North End Bakehouse in 2014 after years of baking experience that began when she was an apprentice at age 16. At 20, Kiah started her own cake decorating
business, Get Caked, before closing her business to focus on NEB, holding down every position required over the years.
Cass came to NEB in 2023 after years in hospitality, starting in customer service and quickly working up to the position of store manager and leading the team.
The female-led team at NEB are a big part of the reason they have continued to win awards, including best hot cross bun and vanilla slice on multiple occasions.
“Being a woman and being in business for so many years now you learn to rely on the team you have built up around you. You learn that you can’t do it all! (and sometimes that’s what puts us ahead of the males haha),” said Kiah.
Where career development meets community service
AT Gagliardi Scott Real Estate, success isn’t just measured in sales, it’s also measured in teamwork, support, and the positive energy the team brings to each client interaction. The women in the Shepparton and Numurkah offices play a key role, bringing dedication and professionalism that benefits clients every day.
Accounts and administration manager
Nicole Gapes believes the company’s culture is what allows everyone to thrive.
“From day one, I’ve felt encouraged to grow and take on new challenges,” Nicole said. “The directors lead by example, and it makes a real difference
knowing your efforts are valued and your development is supported.”
For anyone looking to buy or sell property in the region, Gagliardi Scott Real Estate can be found at 182 High Street, Shepparton, and 70 Melville Street, Numurkah. They can be contacted on 5831 1800.
WINNING BAKERY... North End Bakehouse owner Kiah Aylett has years of baking experience before taking over with her husband Matt. Building a reliable friendly team means they have become one of the best bakeries in the country.
From left, the bakery store manager Cass, Mackenzie, Owner Shekiah ‘Kiah’, Alla and Donna. Photo:EmmaHarrop
The well way to support the community
THE mental health space can be complex to navigate and requires a varied approach to offer the best support to people on their recovery journey.
The Wellways-led Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Greater Shepparton, Strathbogie and Moira in partnership with APMHA and GV Health, strive to offer the best supports available for local people, with the understanding that everyone's needs are different.
Sally Whitelaw is Mental Health and Wellbeing Local, Operations Manager located in Shepparton. She oversees the day-to-day operations of the service and supports the realisation of ideas and innovations around
what's possible and encourages the team to be our best selves. “We have a big team of people of different cultures, different experiences, and different skills. So, it's about bringing out the best in each other at work, and the other aspect of my role, I suppose, is to work closely with our consortium partners,” said Sally.
General Manager Reform and Implementation at Wellways, Cat Hunt, looks after six Wellways-led Mental Health and Wellbeing Local services across Victoria, including the amazing team in Shepparton.
“It's different to a traditional mental health service where a clinician or a practitioner tells you what your recovery journey looks like. We give
With Women’s Health Week running from September 1-5, Rikkie-Lee wants to acknowledge the dedication of working mothers and women across the region
the power back to the person, and they choose what their recovery journey looks like,” said Cat.
Support and Connect Team Leader Hayley Clarke, employed by GV Health, supports the wellbeing navigator peers who all have a lived experience of mental health or substance recovery. The team walk alongside people supporting them throughout their journey with the service.
“My job as the team leader for the peers is supporting them. Having the lived experience
LOCAL MENTAL HEALTH... The Wellways-led Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Greater Shepparton, Strathbogie and Moira in partnership with APMHA and GV Health, strive to offer the best supports available for local people, with the understanding that everyone’s needs are different. Back from left, Sally Whitelaw (she/her) Operations Manager Wellways and Renae
Clinical Team Leader APMHA. Front left, Caitlin Hunt (she/her) General Manager Reform and Implementation Wellways and Hayley Clarke Support and Connect Team Leader GV Health. Photo:
and working in the peer space can be challenging at times, so being there for them and supporting them and making sure that they're okay and that they can work the best with the participants to support them,” Hayley.
APMHA Clinical Team Leader, Renae Durward, supports a multidisciplinary team. “I feel fortunate to work in a space that supports participants with co-occurring mental health and substance needs while helping to break down stigma—it’s deeply fulfilling,” said Renae.
REPRESENTING the diverse communities of Northern Victoria, Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell has embraced life in Parliament House while staying connected to the realities of country life. She values the chance to bring rural voices to state decision-making and to champion the needs of the people she serves.
who balance careers, family, and community responsibilities, while also managing their own physical and mental wellbeing.
“Every working parent faces challenges managing professional
and family demands,” she said. “In rural areas, these challenges can be even greater, but like many women in our community, I’ve learned to share responsibilities and prioritise wellbeing whenever possible.”
SUPPORTING RURAL WOMEN… Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell MP, Member for Northern Victoria, champions women balancing work, family and community. She is encouraging everyone to prioritise their health this Women’s Health Week. Photo:Supplied
This Women’s Health Week, RikkieLee encourages women to make their health a priority. Whether it’s scheduling a check-up, booking a wellness appointment, or simply taking a moment for yourself. Supporting women’s health in rural communities strengthens families, workplaces, and the wider community.
Durward (she/her)
AaronCordy
Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Greater Shepparton, Strathbogie and Moira is delivered by Wellways in partnership with APMHA HealthCare and Goulburn Valley Health and is funded by the Victorian Government.