DON’T MISS CANBERRA’S BIGGEST WEEKEND ON THE WATER. 1-2 NOV
RED SHED | BLACK MOUNTAIN PENINSULA
Experience the thrill of Canberra’s first world-class rowing regatta, as elite international and Australian rowers, battle it out on Lake Burley Griffin against the backdrop of a vibrant lakeside festival.
World-class rowing action on the lake
Food vans, bars, live music
Kids activities
Cardboard boat regatta
Move in now. Display townhouses open for viewing.
Welcome to MIŌ, where spacious living meets re ned design, inside and out. Discover a seamless blend of practicality and elegance within our townhouse residences, rede ning contemporary living to cater to a variety of preferences.
With life’s essentials conveniently within reach and located just 20 minutes from the heart of Canberra, MIŌ enhances your everyday living experience.
• Nestled in Googong, Australia’s pioneering 5-Star Green Star Community
• Positioned ideally, opposite the upcoming town centre
• Fibre-optic connectivity to every home
• Electric vehicle charging station
• Solar power for every home
• Ducted heating and cooling
• Engineered timber ooring
daily
visit canberradaily.com.au,
@canberradaily
FOUNDER & PUBLISHER
Nick Samaras
EDITOR
Vincent Samaras news@newstimemedia.com.au
HEAD OF SALES
Anand Kamani
MARKETING MANAGER
Danielle Pascual
ART DIRECTOR
Wilson Au Yeung
EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES
T: 02 6175 8800
E: sales@newstimemedia.com.au
3/21 Albany St, Fyshwick ACT 2609
The incredible winners from the 2025 Canberra Women in Business Awards.
Photo by Jordan Mirchevski.
As the New Aged Care Act and Strengthened Quality Standards take effect from 1 November 2025, Goodwin Aged Care stands at the forefront, ready to continue delivering person-centred care, safety, and choice for every resident and client.
Person-Centred Care
Your rights, dignity, and preferences are at the heart of everything we do
Transparency & Choice
Clear budgets, published prices, and dedicated teams to guide you through every step
Support at Home
Flexible, tailored services to help you live independently, with new restorative care options
Innovation & Sustainability Award-winning technology and new communities set the benchmark for excellence
With over 800 skilled staff and a commitment to continuous improvement, Goodwin is not just ready for change - we’re leading it.
Be Goodwin Ready. Choose confidence, dignity, and hope for your future.
www.goodwin.org.au
Local Businesswomen Celebrated at 2025 Canberra Women in Business Awards
Canberra’s only dual-accredited Family Law and Dispute Resolution Specialist, Debra Parker, has been crowned Business Woman of the Year at the 2025 Canberra Women in Business Awards.
At CWB’s night of nights, nine other incredible women were also recognised for their outstanding contributions to the Canberra community. Canberra creative Eryn Marshall was recognised as the Young Business Woman of the Year for her work in her selftitled business Eryn Marshall Artistry, which shows that art can have both aesthetic and social value.
CWB President Mandy Hill said each year the CWB Awards highlight the tenacity, creativity and sheer determination of women leaders and business owners across Canberra.
“Reading the stories of all our finalists is one of the greatest rewards of my role with CWB. I continue to see the commitment women business owners and leaders have to lift others up and make a difference,” Mandy said.
“It’s an honour to shine a light on these women and the work they do. “Congratulations to every
nominee, finalist and winner — you are all deserving and inspirational.”
Minister for Business, Arts and Creative Industries, Michael Pettersson, praised the remarkable achievements of local women entrepreneurs and leaders.
“What a wonderful celebration of the ingenuity, resilience, and leadership of Canberra’s businesswomen. These awards deservedly recognise the long hours and the sheer determination it takes to turn a vision into a thriving business,” Minister Pettersson said.
”Women-led businesses make a significant contribution to the ACT economy, and their success inspires future generations of leaders to ensure we have a more inclusive and innovative business landscape.”
Parbery Consulting Founder, Owner, and Co-CEO, Kylie Burnett congratulated Debra Parker of Parker Coles Curtis for winning the Business Woman of the Year.
“This is a well-deserved recognition of leadership for a business that supports women and families,” Kylie said,
“The Canberra business sector is in safe hands with all these incredible women leaders contributing to and shaping our community.”
The 2025 Canberra Women in Business award winners
Business Woman of the Year (sponsored by Parbery Consulting): Debra Parker, Parker Coles Curtis
Young Business Woman of the Year (sponsored by Canberra Women in Business): Eryn Marshall, Eryn Marshall Artistry
Small Business Woman of the Year (sponsored by ACT Government): Sophie Mclean, Your Property Profits
Leadership Business Woman of the Year (sponsored by Doma Hotels): Amanda Mead, Jamala Wildlife Lodge
Community Service Business Woman of the Year (sponsored by Synergy Group): Courtney Smith, Completely Rescued
Innovation Business Woman of the Year (sponsored by Southern Cross Austereo): Laura Chapman, The Know You Co.; Careen Redman-Matthews, humaneer
Social Impact Business Woman of the Year (sponsored by Canberra Weekly): Vanessa Schimizzi, Curated
Environmental Sustainability Business Woman of the Year (sponsored by Instant Colour Press): Vanessa Brettell, Stepping Stone Social Enterprise
Micro Business Woman of the Year (sponsored by auDA): Reiné Williams, Tranquil Architecture
This year’s Canberra Women in Business Award winners honoured for their outstanding contributions across a range of industries.
Photo: Jordan Mirchevski
Belco’s little battler bar
by GEORGIA CURRY
Sorry Civic, but Belconnen was the nightlife capital of Canberra in the ‘70s, with Weedon Close once boasting five nightclubs. Now, the sole survivor, The Pot Belly Bar, is about to turn 50.
Canberra’s second-oldest bar (after Old Canberra Inn) is a time capsule, with its original wooden arches carved to represent a pregnant woman, a nod to the bar’s history as one of the first venues to warn of the dangers of drinking while pregnant.
The Pot Belly is known locally as “the last one standing on Sesame Street”, in reference to the underage drinking that once occurred along Weedon Close in the early ‘70s (hardly any ID checks back then).
As the nightclubs fell one by one – Hungry Horse, Captain Gregg’s, Leather Bottle, Wicked Lady and Bind Beggars Inn – the Pot Belly hung on.
Owner Guv Toor, who purchased the bar in 2015, said he walked through the bar one day after work “and just fell in love with the place”.
“It’s the people who actually love the pub that keep it going,” he said.
In the Pot Belly’s heyday, the crowd at the bar used to be fivepeople deep and Weedon Close (which was actually a dead-end Close not a Street) was packed with revellers, including Checkers Food Van.
If only these walls could talk.
Anecdotally, it’s said that in the ‘70s, ACT firefighters had a ritual where new recruits would go for a
drink in the beer garden and the fire truck would park next door and open up the hose on them. OH&S anyone?
When Belconnen’s nowdemolished Benjamin Offices were jam-packed with public servants (and their long lunches/after-work drinks), the Pot Belly opened six days a week and held all-night raves with international DJs.
Before mobile phones, every weekday around 2pm, happy
public servants once queued by the pub’s coin phone to seek formal approval to flex-off for the afternoon.
Those were the days.
Today, most public servants work from home so five full-time bar staff have since been let go and the Pot Belly is now a familyrun business.
The Pot Belly Bar is on Facebook and Instagram.
The Pot Belly Bar in Belconnen is about to turn 50, the second-oldest bar in Canberra.
Photo: Georgia Curry
Size of the Assembly
Following on from my article last week about whether the ACT should revert to a council-style government, I note that the local Greens are at it again, with calls by Andrew Braddock to increase the size of the Assembly from 25 to 35 members. The idea here is no doubt to ensure, on current voting trends, that more Greens are elected (at least one Green per electorate). Just what we need! Might I suggest we take a di erent tack? I have no problem
with seven-member electorates, indeed, with the current status quo of two Labor members per electorate and a Green in four of the five electorates, a continuation of the current government would likely be inevitable if we stay at five members per electorate.
However, if the number of electorates were reduced to three, and they followed the boundaries of the three Federal House of Representatives electorates, we could reduce the size of the Assembly from 25 to 21.
Now, before anyone gives me that nonsense about needing lots of ministers to share the workload (currently eight), I say that’s rubbish.
A look at the current portfolio responsibilities shows that some ministers are very light on compared to others. Up until the 2016 election, there were only 17 members of the
Assembly and four or five ministers. I served in several governments as a minister when there were only four ministers. It was busy but not impossible — in fact, quite enjoyable. When we went from four to five ministers in 1998, I found it very reasonable time-wise, and I think for a place like the ACT, five is an ideal number.
If the Assembly were reduced in size to 21, we could still have six ministers — more than enough in my experience. As a government would need a majority of 11 to govern, that still leaves room for a Speaker and four backbenchers.
In the first Follett government, poor old Bill Wood, as the only Labor backbencher, was on all the committees. Recent practice has also seen a non-government member appointed Speaker — Shane Rattenbury from the Greens in 2008,
Vicky Dunne from the Liberals in 2012, and now Mark Parton from the Liberals in 2024 — which would leave five government members available for committees.
Another option might be to have three electorates of nine members. This would certainly make it easier for good independents to have a realistic chance of being elected. You could even keep the ministry at eight — three too many, in my view.
I’d like to see the government look at reducing the size of the Assembly to 21 now that Mr Braddock has raised the issue. Aligning with the three Federal electorates locally makes a lot of sense, and it would also save money by having fewer politicians, a simpler electorate system, and reduced support services and sta for the Assembly.
Over to you, Chief Minister.
A PERFECT BALANCE BETWEEN SWEET AND SAVOURY!
With over 20 years serving the Fyshwick community, The Flute Bakery creates sumptuous gateaux for special occasions alongside an array of small cakes, tarts, fresh breads and pies. You’ll also find mousses, bavarois, macarons, praline, feuilletine and plenty of gluten-free options.
wi BILL STEFANIAK AM RFD
Goodwin Village Araluen marks one-year milestone with heartfelt celebration
Goodwin Aged Care Services recently commemorated the one-year anniversary of Goodwin Village Araluen, Fisher, joining its Retirement Living community with a celebration held on Friday 24 October. Residents and staff gathered for an afternoon of light refreshments to mark the milestone. “At the Annual Management Meeting held prior to the festivities, we reflected on the great achievements over the past year. Change is never easy, but I must say the Goodwin management team has been incredibly supportive and responsive to our needs, making this first year a success in all respects”, said Mr Ken Doolan, Residents’ Committee Chair and longtime resident.”
Goodwin, Canberra’s oldest Retirement Living operator, acquired the village from the previous owner operators, Canberra Retirement Villages Pty Ltd, which had run the village for the past twenty years. Located in Weston Creek on the site of the old Fisher Primary School, the acquisition in 2024 brought
Goodwin’s total number of retirement living villages to six across the ACT and New South Wales.
The village itself boasts an excellent reputation for its build quality and range of amenities. It features 109 single-level villas, a heated pool and spa, and a clubhouse with the inclusions the community has come to expect from Goodwin’s retirement villages. The acquisition made strategic sense as it aligns with Goodwin’s strategy in expanding the provision of services to a wider range of seniors in the community.
The one-year celebration highlighted the positive impact of the acquisition, with residents enjoying enhanced services, upgraded facilities, and deeper community engagement over the past year. Stephen Holmes, CEO of Goodwin, addressed the gathering.
“This milestone reflects the strength of our partnership and the shared values between the Araluen Residents and Goodwin,” he said. “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved together and excited for what lies ahead.”
Reflecting on the past year, Village Manager Jane Staley shared her pride in the growing sense of community among residents.
“It’s been a privilege to see our village settle into the Goodwin family over the past year. The sense of belonging and connection among our residents has never been stronger, and I’m proud to be part of this journey,” she said.
As a not-for-profit organisation, Goodwin’s primary focus is on providing residents a lifestyle with choice and respect. All surplus funds are reinvested into Goodwin’s care and accommodation services and facilities.
Goodwin’s latest development, Goodwin Village Downer, will open its doors in early 2026, adding to another Goodwin community in the heart of Canberra.
“The Goodwin management team has been incredibly supportive and responsive to our needs”, said Mr Ken Doolan, Residents’ Committee Chair and longtime resident at the recent “one year as Goodwin Village Araluen” celebration.
Dickson and Manuka Pools reopen with summer upgrades
Dickson Pool and Manuka Pool reopened to the public on Saturday 25 October.
Over winter, the ACT Government completed almost $1 million in upgrades to improve accessibility, sustainability, and visitor comfort.
“Canberrans will notice the difference the moment they walk in,” Yvette Berry MLA, Minister for Sport and Recreation, said.
“Cleaner water, greener lawns and better facilities are ready from day one of the season…
“Families will love the upgrades. There’s easier access, cooler lawns
to relax on, and yes, even crispier hot chips and more food options available at the recently upgraded cafés.”
Dickson Pool’s $925,000 improvements include a new high-efficiency filtration system that reduces chemical use and keeps the water clearer; new droughtresistant turf and drainage; and better ventilation and a sandwich preparation bench at the café.
“We have future-proofed Dickson pool with water saving systems, energy efficient technology and drought-hardy landscaping so they stand up to
hotter weather and bigger crowds,” Ms Berry said.
$30,000 improvements at the heritage-listed Manuka Pool, Canberra’s first public swimming pool, include anti-slip flooring in all bathrooms; baby-changing tables in both male and female bathrooms; better ventilation in the kiosk; new café equipment including a coffee machine and deep fryer; and the return of the historic Champions Board, restored
nearly 70 years after it last hung at the pool.
“Manuka Pool is part of Canberra’s story,” Ms Berry said. “Locating and bringing back the Champions Board after nearly 70 years returns a lost piece of our city’s sporting history to the community.
To find more information and to get passes, head to manukapool. com.au or dicksonpool.com.au
For the first time in 100 years, a once-in-a-lifetime renovation of the House of Representatives at Old Parliament House is underway.
Photo
Canberra has its faults
by GEORGIA CURRY
If you ask me, Canberra has few faults, but its biggest one is near Lake George and if you’ve ever driven there, you’ve inadvertently helped to map the Lake George fault line that lies 800m below.
Your car tyres vibrating along the Federal Highway have been used by ANU scientists as a kind of 3D “CT scan” to look at a still-active fault zone that once experienced 7-magnitude earthquakes.
So thank you citizen scientist drivers for exiting (and entering) our fair city because for about 80km of tarmac, you’ve created by default (pun intended) a never-seen-before picture of what lies beneath.
You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to know that earthquakes are unpredictable, but knowing more about this fault line helps ANU researchers learn about the seismic nature of Lake George.
Unlike Canberra, this fault line sees a lot of action and in the past 60 years it has experienced 50 earthquakes ranging in magnitudes from 1 to 3.5.
That’s just a fraction of what it’s capable of – for the past four to five million years it experienced many
7-magnitude earthquakes.
California has the notorious San Andreas Fault; we have the Lake George Fault.
Study co-author, Professor Meghan Miller, said the imaging technique of analysing ordinary traffic noise allowed scientists to study the structure and characteristics of a fault zone in never-before-seen detail.
So while you were driving to Sydney listening to the radio, you were literally creating good vibrations.
ANU scientists used a network of 100 beer cansized seismometers, placed in the then-dry lakebed and near the highway. Researchers analysed traffic vibrations and used that data to create 3D images, allowing them to peer 800 metres beneath Earth’s surface – similar to doing a CT scan to create detailed medical images of the human body.
Study lead author Dr Chengxin Jiang said that by cross-listening to the data captured by the seismometers, “we’ve created the first detailed picture of the lake’s fault zone, allowing us to better study its structure and seismic characteristics”.
“Earthquake faults can pose serious risks,
especially in areas where people live and build. To understand how dangerous a fault might be, scientists need detailed maps of what lies underground,” Dr Jian said.
“The findings provide us with insight into the size of the earthquakes that occurred in the geologic past on the Lake George fault, and we can compare that fault to other regions that are seismically active today.”
Through no fault of our own, as far as capital cities are concerned, Canberra is one of the highest rated in terms of earthquake hazard because we are situated between known active faults: Lake George Fault and the Murrumbidgee Fault.
RETIRMENT TOTAL STOCK LIQUIDATION
ANU researchers have created the first detailed picture of Lake George’s fault zone.
Photo ANU
Public servants as you’ve never seen them
by GEORGIA CURRY
There’s more to this public service town than grey suits and lanyard accessories, so after knock-off, office-workers are casting off their suit-jackets and ties to let loose at Dept of Rock.
You can’t get much more Canberran than a democratically-voted, public sector battle of the bands comp – no red tape, just red-hot rock.
Mild-mannered IT workers are plugging in their electric guitars, not modems, and pen-pushers are writing prose, not policies.
The best part is, there’s no panel interview, no-one cares what APS level you are, and no previous rock experience is required.
Such is the demand by punters to witness the wild alter-egos of sedate public servants, this annual public sector bash has sold out all three heats at Smith’s Alternative in Civic. Heat four is shaping up to be the same.
As a former public servant, I fondly remember the marathon meetings, cryptic acronyms and waist-deep bureaucracy, but also the burning desire to, well, cut loose from the strict Federal Government Style Manual
Dept of Rock offers a real-life look at the human (and humorous) side of the APS, behind the officiallooking facade of the ACT and Federal Governments.
Probably nowhere else in Australia – nay the world – do you get a Federal Minister plugging in an amp with the hoi polloi, just like Arts Minister Tony Burke did last year.
His band “Left Right Out” whipped the crowd into a frenzy with their cover of AC/DC’s Long Way to the Top – complete with bagpipes.
Who knows, maybe DJ Albo (aka Prime Minister Anthony Albanese) will ditch question time and turn up to vote at next month’s semi-finals. His shout.
Self-appointed Madam Secretary of Department of Rock, Leanne Thompson, said that this was the comp’s third year and amateur bands were vying for
a gold record trophy and Dept of Rock glory (no EL1 promotion sorry).
“I do have ACT Minister for the Arts, Michael Pettersson locked in as a judge for this year’s grand final – so there will be some ministerial vibes in the room,” Leanne said. “I have two other departmental secretaries on board to judge in the semis and ACT Greens MLA Jo Clay.
“It’s great to have high profile supporters like (actual) secretaries and pollies but I always come back to the main thing which is the musicians ... No doubt some of these bands will weave hilarious public service satire into their sets.”
Semi finals are in November and the grand final in December at Smith’s Alternative in Civic. Dept of Rock is on Facebook with links to tickets.
Public servant band Blindsided goes rogue at Dept of Rock.
Photo: shaneocam
ScaleACT 25: Australia’s Friendliest Scale Modelling Show
The ACT Scale Modellers’ Society (ACTSMS) is holding its annual twoday scale modelling event – Scale ACT 25 – at Thoroughbred Park in Lyneham, over the weekend 8 – 9 November. This year’s event marks the 25th anniversary of ScaleACT, so it will be bigger than ever. ScaleACT 25 is proudly supported by the ACT Government.
Featuring around 800 competition entries, ScaleACT 25 is one of Australia’s largest model competitions and also features Swap and Sell, themed displays, expert workshops, club showcases, and a bustling vendor hall.
giveaway
The competition is open to all modellers, regardless of modelling interests or skills, and provides an opportunity to see the many talented modellers from across Australia showcase their work. We will also have static displays of real cars and motorcycles over the weekend. Additionally, there will be free build activities for kids, on-site catering and various displays and activities, making this a fun day for all the family.
Other local hobby groups will also be at ScaleACT 25, including the Canberra Model Shipwrights, Task Force 72, Canberra Monaro N Scale Group, Canberra Regional Wargames
WIN! the Complete ‘In Two Minds’ Journal Collection by
Jumble
&
Co
Celebrate the launch of the expanded In Two Minds range with a chance to win all seven journals. Designed for young Australians, this dual-toned series supports wellbeing by providing space for reflection and emotional release. Journaling helps manage daily pressures from school, social media, and life, building resilience through mindful expression. The collection includes Sleep, Fitness, Manifestation, Relationship, Mindfulness, Wellness, and Gratitude Journals, each with layouts for balance, calm, and self-discovery. Email competitions@canberradaily.com.au with ‘Jumble & Co’, your details, and the charity supported by the collection (see collinsdebden.com.au).
Group and Canberra Display Painters Guild. Various car and bike clubs will also be attending, adding to the broad appeal of ScaleACT. There will also be demonstrations and workshops from renowned international and Australian modellers.
Founded in 1972, the ACTSMS proudly celebrates 53 years of fostering creativity, craftsmanship, and community in 2025. Our 176 members meet regularly throughout the year and subjects modelled by our membership include aircraft, military vehicles, ships, cars, truck, motorcycles, figures, science fiction subjects, Gundam and other specialist subjects. In 2022, the
WIN! 2026 Product of the Year hamper
Join us in celebrating the products Aussies love most as we unveil Australia’s favourite picks for 2026, chosen by Aussie shoppers themselves! This year’s Product of the Year winners showcase the perfect blend of innovation, quality, and value, all tested and voted on by over 5,000 Australians. And now, we’re excited to offer you the chance to win a hamper packed with this year’s top-rated products!
Our lucky winner will enjoy an amazing selection from 2026’s award-winning range, featuring the best in health, homewares, food, drinks, and more. From an Aussie favourite, Coles Special Fried Chicken Salt, to refreshing Woolworths Lightly Sparkling Water Cans Lime, these are the products Australians rely on to simplify their lives and make everyday moments better. Each product has been carefully evaluated by a panel of industry experts and recognized for its quality, innovation, and dependability, so you know every item in this hamper is a winner worth trying.
ENTER TO WIN!
To enter, email competitions@canberradaily.com.au with ‘Jumble & Co’ in the subject field. Tell us your name, full contact details (including street address) and the answer to the following question: Which Australian charity is the In Two Minds collection supporting? Visit collinsdebden.com.au to find out. Entries close 9am Friday 7 November 2025 and winners drawn same day.
ACTSMS were the proud recipients of the ACT Chief Minister’s Gold Award in recognition of 50 years serving our community.
Scale ACT 25 is open from 10:30am to 5pm on Saturday 8 November and 10am to 4pm on Sunday 9 November, with competition results and presentations from 3:30pm. Entry is $10 for adults, $20 for families and $5 for children/concession and includes access for both days of the event.
T: 0413 280 065
E: scaleact@actsms.asn.au
W: actsms.asn.au/scaleact-25
CW has one hamper to give away featuring a select range of 2026 Product of the Year winners, including:
• Coles Finest Granola Honey Roasted with Nut
• Starbucks by Nespresso Ristretto Shot
• Cocobella Flavoured Coconut Water Coffee
• Ultralife Adult Hair Skin Nails Gummies
• Coles Special Fried Chicken Salt
• Woolworths Lightly Sparkling Water Cans Lime 250ml x 6 Pack
• Woolworths Belgian Dark Chocolate With Himalayan Salt
• Ultralife Ashgandha Tablet 60 Tablets
• Coles Ultra Tropical Oasis Fabric Conditioner
• Macro Chia Sesame Snaps 3 Pack
ENTER TO WIN!
To enter, scan the QR code or visit canberradaily.com.au and click on the ‘Entertainment’ tab to ‘Competitions’, find the competition you wish to enter and follow the entry instructions. Entries close 9am Friday 7 November 2025 and winners drawn same day. One entry per person per giveaway. Entrants must be aged 18+. To enter, you must be subscribed to a Canberra Daily newsletter.
The bells of St John’s
by NICHOLAS FULLER
“From time to time, complaints are made about the ringing of church bells,” the English detective novelist and Christian apologist Dorothy L. Sayers wrote in The Nine Tailors (1934). “It seems strange that a generation which tolerates the uproar of the internal combustion engine and the wailing of the jazz band should be so sensitive to the one loud noise that is made to the glory of God.”
“We feel we live to the glory of God, because the noise just goes up and spreads around,” St John’s bellringer Jennifer Lawson agrees.
The Anglican church’s eight bells were a gift from Governor-General Lord De L’Isle (1961–65), in memory of his wife, Jacqueline, who died in 1963.
Bellringer Charles Body, “a very young kid” then, remembers: “The De L’Isles would walk up the path on a Sunday morning at 8 o’clock like any other parishioner; they became regular parishioners. When she died, he retired as
Governor-General and moved back to England, but wanted to give something back to the church and the whole community, because he and his wife had loved the place so much.”
The bells were cast at England’s only bell foundry, John Taylor & Co., Loughborough — which manufactured the National Carillon’s bells — and installed in 1964.
The bells are fixed to steel girders, rather than swinging loose, as in most belfries. There was not enough room, and the weight of the bells — the lightest weighs 100 kg and the heaviest 660 kg — would have put massive strain on the tower, Mr Body explained.
The bells are rung at Sunday services, weddings, funerals (one peal for every year of the deceased’s life), Christmas carols, and on Anzac Day.
They play both tunes (including Christmas carols and non-church tunes like Waltzing Matilda) and changes based on mathematical combinations: St John’s row of eight bells can produce 40,320 different changes (8 x 7 x 6 x 5
x 4 x 3 x 2 x 1).
“I got fascinated by how they were worked out,” says Mr Body, who started bellringing when he was a teenager. “My sisters were very good pianists. I was absolutely hopeless musically, but I reckon I can count to eight, ring the bells… That’s more than 50 years ago I’ve been ringing. I still love it — I love the sound and I love the fact that other people can enjoy it. It’s something I can do because I can count to eight!”
Traditionally, church bells are worked by a team of ringers, each pulling on a rope, but at St John’s, one or two people ring all eight — a boon for the COVID lockdowns, when Ms Lawson could work the bells solo every Sunday morning. (Her playing was recorded for a series of sounds of COVID.)
The church uses a system developed by the Revd. Henry Thomas Ellacombe, a Victorian clergyman and engineer. The bellringers in his parish of Bitton were drunken, lewd, and unruly; seldom attended church services; and refused to play, or played badly, unless they were given
more money. He devised a mechanism whereby a single responsible bellringer could operate all the bells: the bell ropes are attached to a clapper, and pulling the rope makes the clapper hit the bell. Ellacombe also introduced 29 bellringers’ rules — among them: “Punishment for beerish belfry behaviour, like squabbling, swearing or excessive drinking, six months exclusion from the belfry.”
St John’s and St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Forrest are the only two in Australia — and possibly the world — that ring changes on Ellascombe bells. Indeed, the John Taylor bell foundry came to St John’s specially to see change ringing on an Ellacombe chime bell; they had never heard of it being done before, Mr Body said.
Tourists come to the bell tower several times a year: walking over Anzac Parade or Commonwealth Avenue, they hear the bells rung, and are “drawn into where the lovely sound is coming from”, Mr Body said. Likewise, people who recently moved into Reid or
Campbell hear the bells and come and see where the sound is coming from; the bellringers invite them to see the bells, and perhaps to ring them.
“It’s not just an entertainment, it’s actually having the original intent of drawing locals and tourists into the church,” Mr Body said. “Some tourists have come here and said that coming up and ringing the bells was the highlight of my trip. On more than one occasion, they said: ‘We went to Parliament House and the National Gallery and the War Memorial and all the tourist places, but this has been the most memorable part of it. We knew what to expect at the others, but this has been fantastic.’ I like the idea that we’re bringing people into the church.”
The best time to hear the bells is before and after the 9:30am Sunday service. The public can try bellringing (learn the ropes, so to speak) at an open ringing session on the first Sunday of every month, 5pm to 6pm.
St John’s bell-ringers Jennifer Lawson and Charles Body.
Photo Tim Grainger
Australia Post opens first parcel-only post office in Canberra
Australia Post recently unveiled its first Australia Post Parcels in Canberra ahead of the year’s busiest shopping season. The new, modern format Post Office is designed to make sending, collecting and returning parcels faster and more convenient for locals.
Located in the heart of Mitchell, the new Parcels Post Office is dedicated to parcel services, allowing for a streamlined experience, helping customers get in and out quickly, with added flexibility through 24/7 self-serve options and secure 24/7 free Parcel Lockers.
Australia Post Executive
General Manager Retail, Brand and Marketing, Josh Bannister, said Australia Post Parcels has been designed with flexibility and convenience at its core.
“The number one reason a customer visits the Post Office is to collect a parcel, so we’re making it easier and quicker to collect and send parcels at a time that suits them, especially as we head into the year’s busiest shopping season,” Mr Bannister said.
Mitchell Parcels blends in-person assistance with convenient selfservice options, including 24/7 access to secure Parcel Lockers. Customers can collect or return
online purchases around the clock, with 24/7 accessible vending machines stocked with packaging, stamps and other mailing essentials.
This next-generation format is designed to be flexible and scalable, with some featuring a smaller physical footprint but a highly efficient back-of-house setup to manage increased parcel volume.
Australia Post has also announced last sending dates ahead of Christmas:
• Parcel Post: Friday 19 December (most destinations within Australia)
• Express Post: Tuesday 23 December
• Letters and cards: Tuesday 16 December for interstate deliveries
People sending to or from Western Australia, Northen Territory, Tasmania, or regional and remote locations, should allow a few extra days.
Canberrans can now send, collect and return parcels around the clock at Australia Post’s first parcel-only Post Office in Mitchell.
have you heard?
GIVIT donation of the week: Children’s clothing
GIVIT is an ACT Government partner working with an organisation in the region that provides settlement and related services for migrants, refugees and humanitarian entrants. They are seeking assorted gifts for children of migrant families for their annual Christmas party. This year, this organisation’s goal is to spread joy by providing more than 200 presents to children and families across the ACT. Many of these families are doing it tough, facing financial hardship, housing stress and other challenges. This time of the year can feel lonely or uncertain, especially for those living far from their loved ones. GIVIT is requesting children’s clothing to make their Christmas brighter and let them feel that their community cares for them. Generous Canberrans can donate children’s clothing or fund its purchase. 100% of your financial donation will be used to purchase the clothes. To help, please visit: GIVIT.org.au/what’sneeded, search; Location State: ‘ACT’, Keywords: ‘children’s clothing’ and Suburb: ‘Canberra, 2601’.
St Ninian’s Grand Fete
Join the fun at St Ninian’s Grand Fete on Saturday 1 November, 9am–1pm, at the corner of Mouat and Brigalow Streets, Lyneham. Enjoy Christmas cakes, baked goods, salads, sausage sizzle, Devonshire teas, Tastes of Tonga, craft, plants, books, jewellery, clothing, and more. Entertainment includes Dance Northside, Raio de Sol drummers and live music. Bring family and friends for a great day out.
noticeboard email news@newstimemedia.com.au with ‘HYH’ in the subject field
Red Dove Op Shop
The monthly Red Dove Preloved Op Shop will be open Thursday 6, Friday 7 and Saturday 8 November, 9am–1pm, at Tuggeranong Uniting Church, Comrie Street, Wanniassa. Browse summer bargains for the whole family, plus books, jewellery, linen and bric-a-brac. Enjoy homemade treats and coffee while giving great clothing a second chance at bargain prices.
Sunday Brunch Toastmasters Club
Gain confidence in Public Speaking. Friendly and supportive environment to practice speeches. You’ll get helpful feedback. The club meets on the second and fourth Sunday of the month at 10am for a 10:15am start to 12pm. Sunday Brunch is the only Canberra Toastmasters club that meets on the weekend. Join us via Zoom or in person at Australia Croatia Club, 68 McCaughey Street, Turner. Guests welcome. For information, visit sundaybrunchtoastmastersclubs.org or email: sundaybrunch1015@gmail.com
Canberra Jung Society
The next meeting of the Canberra Jung Society will be held on Friday 7 November at MacKillop House, 50 Archibald Street, Lyneham. Dr Craig San Roque will present The Mystery of Mysteries, a talk in honour of former president Glenda Cloughley marking the Society’s 41st anniversary. Join from 7:30pm for music, library browsing, a cuppa and chat, with the talk at 8pm, followed by supper and discussion until 10pm. Cost: $20 (concession $15). Details: canberrajungsociety.org.au or contact Jeanne on 0406 375 670. A special related event hosted by A Chorus of Women, with assistance from the Jung Society, will take place the following day, Saturday 8 November, 10:45am–3:30pm at the ACT Legislative Assembly, 196 London Circuit. Tickets must be pre-purchased; lunch provided. Details on the Jung Society website or from Janet Salisbury, A Chorus of Women.
VIEW Club
Weston Creek: The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 11 November, 11:30am, at the Canberra Southern Cross Club, Corinna Street, Woden. Cost: $40 for a twocourse meal. RSVP to Barbara on 0408 864 616 by Wednesday 28 October. Guest speaker Colin Greef will discuss his work supporting veterans and PTSD sufferers through music.
Belconnen: The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 11 November 2025. Cost: $32. Bookings or cancellations to Chris Colyer by text on 0438 878 120 by midday Wednesday 6 November. Please note, late cancellations or no-shows after this date will still be required to pay.
Yerrabi: The next meeting will be held on Thursday 20 November at the Eastlake Gungahlin Club, Hinder Street, Gungahlin, commencing at 11am for 11:30am. Guest speaker: Rod Nicholas, JP. New members are always welcome. For details, contact Cheryl at chanily3@bigpond.com by Monday 17 November.
Tuggeranong Day: The next meeting and lunch will be held on Tuesday 18 November, 11am–2pm, at the Vikings Town Centre Club, corner Athllon Drive and Rowland Rees Crescent. Guest speaker: Jessie Price. Cost: $36 for a two-course lunch. RSVP by Thursday 13 November to Sharron on 0422 799 913 or kupke@ internode.on.net.
HYH submissions
Submissions to our free community noticeboard are reserved for charity, not-forprofit and community organisations. Deadline for submissions is 10 days prior to the Thursday edition date. Email your submission with essential details – who, what, where, when, cost, contact details – to news@newstimemedia.com.au with ‘HYH’ in the subject heading. Flyers and attachments not accepted. Due to space restrictions, please keep it brief. Please note: publication in print is not guaranteed.
ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19)
This week, your perspective widens with dialogue. You will talk to people unlike you because you’re not trying to be validated. You’re trying for something much more important: understanding. You’ll separate the minor differences from the shared values.
TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20)
This week brings a burst of inspiration. Use the temporary boost strategically. “Where would this burst make the biggest impact right now?” Maybe it’s finishing a project or finally having a conversation that’s been hanging over you. Channel your energy to something that matters.
GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 21)
BRAIN BUSTERS
1 Who created the children’s characters, Tigger, Kanga and Roo?
2 Which unit in the International System of Units has the symbol, cd.?
3 The song, Defying Gravity, is the signature song from which musical?
4 In which year of the 1960s was Robert Francis Kennedy assassinated?
5 Which Australian defeated Novak Djokovic at the 2024 United Cup tournament?
Needing less brings freedom. You know this in theory, but it’s pretty challenging to let things go and stop adding that which could complicate your scene. Start by noticing what has you in its grip. You’re tense when you don’t have it. Just noticing a dependence loosens its hold over you.
CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22)
Moody types can put you on edge. It’s the inconsistency that has you on alert. When they’re sunny, you relax, but never too far. When they’re stormy, you brace yourself. Something good comes out of the tension of dealing with difficult people this week. You’re bolder and more creative for the effort.
LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22)
Emotional investment cuts both ways. Though, arguably, anything that “cuts” at all “cuts both ways.” Because there can’t be one side of a cut, in a multidimensional world it would be impossible. Now it’s your ability to see the other side that turns the split into a stronger connection.
VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22)
Epiphanies are rare. This week brings a breakthrough that comes together rather slowly as your perspective grows through context and connection. You’ll see a big picture and notice the values and needs shaping this moment in culture, in your community, in your own life.
LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 23)
The more someone matters to you, the more power they have to affect your nervous system. Love, friendship, creative collaboration – all require vulnerability, and vulnerability guarantees volatility. The same bond that opens you to joy also exposes you to pain.
SCORPIO (OCT. 24-NOV. 21)
You simply can’t conquer everything at once. Focused intensity is the vibe this week. Pour it into preproduction to set yourself up for success. All tasks are lined up like dominoes. The set-up takes a really long time, but when you do it right, you only have to do it once!
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21)
The theme this week is building self-reliance. It will involve things like keeping promises to yourself, reflecting, spending time alone without distraction, eating well and moving in a way that makes you feel good. In short, taking care of yourself, knowing that everything good grows from there.
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19)
You’ve taken calculated risks to get a certain result. And though you’re still after that same result, your motivation is changing. This week, what interests you is doing something because it matters. You’ve found something deeper, and the sense of purpose is its own reward.
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18)
As much as you’d like to compartmentalise your emotions, and apply them with discretion, it’s a tall order. When your feelings are big, they can’t merely be managed; they must be moved. Physical activity and creative expression will keep it from spilling into every area of life.
PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20)
Your creativity is alive and thriving, even when you’re not getting the obvious result. Trust that nothing is wasted. The false starts, the tedious practice, the things no one reads or sees –these are elements that count toward building the creative tools, knowledge and capacity.
DIFFICULTY RATING
ABOVE 2025 Canberra Women in Business Gala Awards, Hotel Realm. Photos: Jordan Mirchevski BELOW SpringOUT Pride Festival launch, The Shine Dome at the Australian National University.
Christopher Gibson, Minister Suzanne Orr, Michael Joost, John Willers
Amanda Mead, Leadership Business Woman of the Year
Laura Chapman, Innovation Business Woman of the Year
Courtney Smith, Community Service Business Woman of the Year
Sophie Mclean, Small Business Woman of the Year
Careen Redman-Matthews, Innovation Business Woman of the Year
Reiné Williams, Micro Business Woman of the Year
Debra Parker, Business Woman of the Year
Eryn Marshall, Young Business Woman of the Year
Kalokairi Subakti, Jolene Mifsud, Flick Andison
Jenny Cannon, Pearl Harbour
Lynne O’Brien, Danny Corvini
Johann Idriss, Bob Lees, Martin Elias
Wayne Herbert, Russell Nankervis
The Canberra Women in Business committee
Vanessa Schimizzi, Social Impact Business Woman of the Year
National Zoo & Aquarium and Jamala Wildlife Lodge
Maureen Tindale, Owner & Director (27 years); Shelley Russell, Director & Wildlife Manager (27 years); Sophie Dentrinos, Animal Care Manager (20 years); Renee Nasserpour, Director & General Manager, Zoo (18 years); Tracey Lee, Housekeeping & Quality Manager (12 years); Amanda Mead, Director & General Manager, Jamala Wildlife Lodge (9 years); Chara Reynolds, Events & Projects Manager (5 years);
The incredible women behind the National Zoo & Aquarium and Jamala Wildlife Lodge bring passion, expertise, and heart to everything they do. From animal care and conservation to luxury hospitality and guest experiences, this dedicated team ensures that every visitor encounter supports a greater purpose: protecting wildlife and inspiring connection. Together, they represent more than 120 years of experience, driving innovation, compassion, and excellence across one of Canberra’s most loved attractions.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Renee: I’ve worked at the National Zoo & Aquarium (NZA) for over 18 years, serving as General Manager since 2018 and Director since 2024. During this time, I have closely collaborated with owners Richard and Maureen Tindale, leading major developments and contributing to the zoo’s progress in conservation, animal welfare, sustainability, and visitor experience.
Chloe: This coming April marks two years since I joined the Jamala family. I oversee all aspects of food and beverage for our in-house guests. We’ve also recently introduced a unique Jamala Dinner only experience, which allows visitors to enjoy an exclusive dinner in our stunning Rainforest Cave Dining Room and meet Jake & Mischka, our beautiful white lions.
Michelle: As the HR & Business Manager, my days are anything but ordinary. For just under two years, I have championed our amazing team, helped grow both the zoo and the lodge and ensured that everything runs smoother than a meerkat on Monday morning.
Letizia: I have been in my current role as Assistant General Manager for a year and a half. What I love most about working here is the opportunity to combine luxury hospitality with a strong conservation message while providing guests with unforgettable stays, as well as the great team banter.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Jessica: I joined NZA in 2014 while studying Primary Teaching, combining my love of animals with education. Starting just before Jamala opened, I witnessed its incredible impact and the zoo’s transformative growth.
Sophie: My zoo career began 20 years ago as a volunteer at the NZA. After moving to Perth briefly, I returned to Canberra, progressing through leadership positions, including Wildlife Supervisor. Two years ago, I became Animal Care Manager, now overseeing 45 keepers and more than 370 animals!
Amanda: My journey at Jamala and NZA began after I had the opportunity to stay as a guest. Now, I have the privilege of leading and mentoring the next generation of women in business here, and I’m passionate about helping them grow, find their voice, and thrive in their careers.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
Chloe: Guest satisfaction is at the heart of everything I do. I take great pride in ensuring every guest leaves with a memorable experience, feeling genuinely cared for and valued. I believe that attention to detail, empathy, and consistency are essential to achieving that.
Chara: I’ve always believed that strong relationships are at the heart of great hospitality, and this mindset has really shaped my career. As I’ve grown into management roles, those same skills have translated into leading teams, supporting staff, and fostering a workplace culture where everyone feels valued.
Sophie: Multitasking and prioritising are crucial in my role. Strong communication, effective delegation, and strategic planning allow me to lead 45+ keepers efficiently, ensuring each team member’s strengths contribute to successful, well-managed projects.
Shelley: During my entire tenure with the Zoo, I have had the pleasure of working as a Zoo Keeper, taking care of the entire Wildlife Department and venturing into our humanities department, which has given me the appreciation and understanding of each individual member of our team who dedicates themselves to conservation and preservation of the natural world.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Maureen: Very often, you have to go with your instincts, and you need to trust them. All success takes effort and sacrifice – I see this on a regular basis with the female managers who work with us.
Renee: My advice is to trust in your abilities and pursue your passions fearlessly. Seek out mentors who inspire and challenge you and build a network of supportive peers who share your commitment to growth. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn, and always back yourself, even in the face of uncertainty.
Chara: Don’t underestimate the value of your voice and perspective. Confidence grows with experience, but back yourself early – share ideas and trust your worth. Success isn’t always linear – embrace change, stay curious, and find joy and purpose in your work. Passion and authenticity open the most rewarding doors.
Emily: AI is transforming work rapidly. Many current skills may fade, but curiosity, critical thinking and asking the right questions remain vital for learning, adapting, and using AI effectively. Staying curious and
learning how to think critically will always be valuable. Amanda: Success in business isn’t about knowing everything — it’s about being willing to learn, adapt, and lead with integrity. For women entering the field, staying true to your values while confidently stepping into new opportunities will set you apart.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
Maureen: My motivations are that I love what I do, helping animals and their conservation, and I love what we have all created and achieved between us. Like everyone here, I all want it to keep evolving and growing.
Emily: I stay motivated by regularly asking myself, “What can I do better, and how?” There’s always something new to learn or improve. That mindset keeps me engaged and striving to grow.
Shelley: I keep motivated by balancing my work and personal life, and my driving force is my relationship with the animals that push me to be the best every day.
Tracey: Watching our guests create unforgettable memories at both Jamala and the Zoo is one of our biggest motivators. We’re constantly inspired by the amazing feedback we receive! And of course, having the animals around every day is a bonus we never take for granted.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Maureen: I am fortunate that, as I get so much out of what we do here, I don’t have the need to unwind. But if I did, golf and shopping would certainly help.
Michelle: Sipping a glass of wine, dancing like nobody’s watching, or soaking in a bubble bath with the bubbles piled higher than Everest.
Tracey: Relaxing on the farm with my gorgeous Llamas!
Letizia: Taking a walk through the zoo to see the adorable animals.
T: 02 6287 8400
E: info@nationalzoo.com.au
W: nationalzoo.com.au
W: jamalawildlifelodge.com.au
SANDRA DR. McRae Cabot
Cabot Health
Integrative Medical Doctor, Pilot and Humanitarian
From Medicine to the Skies
A pioneering doctor, author, entrepreneur and pilot, Dr Cabot has dedicated her life to improving health and empowering others. As the founder of Cabot Health, she has combined decades of medical experience with a passion for preventative care and education. From writing bestselling books to fl ying medical missions across the Pacific, her journey reflects resilience, innovation and an unshakable belief that good health and courage can take you anywhere.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
In 1882, I founded a nutritional supplement company and named it MediNat. I was 30 years of age and was working as a medical doctor at the Western Suburbs Hospital in Sydney. I had been researching nutritional and herbal medicine for a decade and knew what ingredients to put in a good formula. Unfortunately, my business partner was incompetent and made bad decisions and I had to sell the company. I was not business savvy and decided to concentrate on medicine.
My mother was right as usual. The book helped people and hundreds of testimonials flowed in.
In 1997, I decided to found another supplement company, and I think if you are an entrepreneur, it is in your DNA to build companies that make great products. This new company was called Health Direction and formulated supplements to improve and repair the liver. I worked with integrative medical doctors, naturopaths and nutritionists and did a clinical study on fatty liver. We showed that it is possible to reverse a fatty liver with a lowcarbohydrate eating plan and specific nutritional supplements.
After this negative experience, I travelled to India and ended up working as a volunteer obstetrician in a missionary hospital for 6 months. This opened my mind to di erent cultures, some of which did not value women, and taught me about diseases that were no longer prevalent in Australia or other Western countries. When I came back to Australia, I was short of money and went back to hospital work and decided to write my first book titled WOMEN’S HEALTH. It was published in 1987 by Pan Books. In the 1980s, no Australian banks would lend money to a single woman, so I had to work hard and be patient.
I became interested in aviation and got a pilot’s license, which enabled me to fly around Australia and do health seminars. The seminars were popular, as in those days there was no internet and no live streaming or webinars. Many of my seminars raised money for di erent charities.
In 2003, I purchased a Citation Bravo aircraft from the USA, which I used for business trips, charter and to carry organs for transplant. I borrowed a lot of money to buy the aircraft and the Australian dollar crashed to 50 cents of the USD – this hurt me financially, but I managed to survive! I learnt not to panic and to keep working as there was no sugar daddy on my horizon.
Stay healthy and positive, and you can do anything.
In the 1990s, I noticed that fatty liver disease was becoming very common and was a cause of weight gain, immune problems and inflammation. This inspired me to write a book called THE LIVER CLEANSING DIET, which won the Australian People’s Choice Award in 1996. Why was my LIVER CLEANSING DIET book a best seller? One of the reasons was that a Professor of Immunology did not like the book because several of his patients had cured their autoimmune disease by following the advice in the book. I learnt that it’s good to have detractors and to be controversial. As my mother quoted, “There is one thing worse than being talked about and that’s not being talked about!”
In 2017, I purchased a Falcon 50 aircraft to do medevac retrievals in the Pacific, and this was an amazing adventure, retrieving desperately ill and/or injured people from overseas. We travelled to many parts of Asia, Russia and even Wuhan in China before the COVID pandemic started.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Always get good advice and share your ideas before taking risks. This is something I did not always do, and I learnt the hard way. But at the end of the day, trust your gut and your heart.
Never sacrifice your health for success.
Look after your customers – the customer is always right, and your reputation is everything. Employ good people and look after them –you need them to be successful.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
Look after my health with exercise, sleep, diet, and supplements because without energy, you cannot be motivated.
My website cabothealth.com.au has many good resources for people and we use social media to promote my health seminars. I have
some good videos on YouTube from which we receive a lot of emails.
I think the Internet and social media have made it easier to get your message out there, and in my early days as an entrepreneur, there was only TV and magazines. There was less competition, things moved more slowly, and it was more personal.
Now I am in my mid-70s, I sometimes dislike dealing with the modern world as it lacks the personal human contact. One hour ago, I was talking to a very intelligent AI Robot about exporting to Indonesia and it felt weird. Maybe I am getting old, hey, but I am still in business! Go for it girls, and think big – it used to be said that the sky is the limit, but now it is outer space.
T: 0246 554 666
E: info@cabothealth.com.au
W: cabothealth.com.au
W: sandracabot.com
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Presently, I’m focusing on being a Women Writer’s Mindset Coach. Through my business, BALAB Australia, I self-publish, run coaching workshops and training sessions, locally in Canberra and online, mainly to the US and France.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
I’ve been a Business Analyst for almost 40 years, in South Australia, Queensland and the ACT, in federal government departments, such as Defence, Foreign A airs and Prime Minister & Cabinet. What I loved most was facilitating over 1000 workshops and working one-on-one with people to achieve the desired outcomes.
I’d also been mentoring colleagues and friends personally, but still felt like something was missing in my career. So, I took on a Part-Time Lecturer role at the UNSW School of Business, where I taught thirdyear Defence students Strategic Management.
This experience, together with my last contract as a Strategic Advisor at a leading federal government agency earlier in 2025, completed the puzzle. The
HELENMcCandle BALAB Australia
Writer’s
Mindset Coach
Empowering
women to change their inner dialogue
After nearly four decades working in high-level strategy and facilitation, Helen found her true calling in helping others rewrite their inner stories. As a Writer’s Mindset Coach through BALAB Australia, she empowers women to overcome self-doubt, shift limiting beliefs, and unlock their creative potential.
skills I’d built over the last four decades transitioned from strategic mentorship to certified coaching.
Nothing excited me more than watching a room of people who might be shy, unsure or sceptical, with limiting beliefs about their own capabilities, transform into being confident and motivated architects of their lives.
So, this is what I decided to do: enabling others by helping them change their mindset. Since my whole life has been immersed in the world of writing, I decided to focus on helping women writers, in particular, to improve their inner dialogue, so that they can better look after themselves, their families and ultimately positively impact society.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Don’t be so hard on yourself: You’ll always be learning and you’re doing the best you can. Keep going!
It’s OK to ask for help: Believe you can do whatever you set your mind to but remember that the knowledge of others is invaluable to your success. Utilise it wisely.
Take a breath before making big decisions: If your gut says no, think carefully. It could be right,
you could be “dodging a bullet” if you decide not to proceed, but don’t let fear guide every decision.
Invest in being as self-aware as you can: Operating from a centred position is not only healthy, but advantageous to your strategic goals.
Protect your power: So many people would gladly make your life “easier” by taking the di cult tasks from you for a handsome fee. But beware, they don’t always have your best interests at heart. First, learn how to do each business task yourself before outsourcing it. Understanding the required quality of the work, because you personally know how it should be done, is the best safeguard I can recommend for your business.
E: helen@balabaustralia.com
W: lifeunlimited.substack.com
Helen McCandless
Owner JUNEIrv g Bentleys Hair of Canberra
Cutting the way for future stylists
Raised on a farm in country NSW, June Irving dreamed of using colours and scissors to make people beautiful. For the past 46 years, June has been doing just that, working her way from apprentice to owner of the thriving salon, Bentleys Hair of Canberra at Jamison Plaza. She is also dedicated to teaching up-and-coming stylists the best in hairdressing techniques.
Tell us about your career path.
I started my apprenticeship 46 years ago at Jamison Centre with Jan Bartholomeaus. The salon was known as The Mop Shop. The name was later changed to Hair Vogue Jamison and I managed the salon for the previous owner. I later purchased the salon and changed the name to Bentleys Hair of Canberra.
Tell us about your business and your role within it.
I manage the salon on a daily basis and have
built it up to a thriving business. Our team are well trained in all aspects of hairdressing. I have had a passion for training and have trained for the College of Transformation, Education and Training for the past 11 years. I won the John Scott Award for training in 2017, and the Canberra Business Award for Outstanding Hairdresser in 2019 and 2021. I have also been nominated two years in a row for the Australian Small Business Awards. I have so much confidence in my senior hairdressers that I have gone into partnerships with several in other hair salon ventures.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
My passion for training young stylists, watching them grow from school children to passionate stylists.
What inspired you to own Bentleys Hair of Canberra?
I have always had a passion for hairdressing and have lived my dream and continue to do so.
Who inspires you?
Gerald Scott, one of Australia’s greatest hair colourists.
To book an appointment with one of Canberra’s finest hairdressers at Bentleys Hair of Canberra, visit bentleys-canberra.edan.io or call 6251 2681. Open Monday to Saturday.
The team of women at Maliganis Edwards Johnson are leaders in their field, dedicated to advocating for justice and supporting their clients with expertise and compassion. Their collective focus on continuous learning, mentorship, and a balanced approach to worklife ensures they provide exceptional legal services while staying connected to the Canberra community.
hat inspired you to pursue a career in your field, and how did you get started?
Kirsten Leitch: I always wanted to be a lawyer, but did not know what type of law I wanted to practice. I fell into
insurance litigation. I did a rotation in the insurance litigation team in my first job, and really enjoyed the work and the people I was working with. I had some great mentors in that role that I ended up working with for a number of years.
Kirsty: While I was in university, I worked at MEJ as a law clerk and the favourite part of my day was picking up
the phone for a new client enquiry and having an injured person entrust me with their most vulnerable moments. I felt so connected to the Canberra community and privileged to be able to help the community in this way, that I decided I wanted to stay after graduation and pursue a career in personal injury and I haven’t looked back since.
What moment in your career are you most proud of, and why does it stand out to you?
Suzanne: There is no one defining moment for me, but rather, I find fulfillment each day in the many opportunities I’ve been provided with
to navigate complex legal disputes and secure the best possible outcomes for my clients. My greatest sense of achievement comes from alleviating the pressure my clients face in challenging life circumstances. It’s incredibly rewarding to make a positive di erence during one of their most di cult times, and to help them navigate an often long and arduous journey.
What are your favourite things about living and working in the Canberra region?
Svetlana: Canberra is my home – YES I do wish that we had a beach! I do, however, love and enjoy being part of the Canberra and Queanbeyan community, not just because of the warmth and diversity, but also because it’s where I truly feel a sense of belonging. Migrating here with my family as a child and ultimately getting married and having my own family, I’ve embraced both the broader community and my own ethnic community, which has been a source of support, connection, and pride. Being surrounded by people who share my cultural background, while also connecting with others from di erent walks of life, has made Canberra my permanent home and being part of it strengthens my commitment to helping others through my work as a lawyer.
What advice do you have for young people looking to enter the working world?
Mirna: : As a young solicitor myself, I would recommend finding a mentor that inspires you as they could influence your career growth and the type of professional that you become. It is also important to show interest and to get involved in extra-curricular activities when possible as it will help you get involved and build relationships with those in your industry.
What drives you to continuously enhance your professional skills?
Kirsten: Working as a lawyer, it is
important to make sure that you keep up to date with current law and cases. However, I make sure that I spread training time across a range of professional skills – you need more than technical knowledge to provide good service to clients.
Mirna: The legal field is constantly developing and by enhancing my professional skills I am able to maximise my potential, contribute meaningfully to the field and advocate for my clients in the most e ective way. Ultimately, that is what it is about, that is, advocating for my clients in the best/most e ective way and career growth/ satisfaction.
How significant is the support of family and friends in helping you throughout your career and life?
Thuto: The support of family and friends has been incredibly significant throughout my career and life. Their encouragement has provided me with a strong foundation, especially during challenging times. Whether it’s celebrating my achievements or helping me navigate tough decisions, their unwavering belief in me has been invaluable.
Have you faced any major challenges in your career? If so, how did you overcome them?
Suzanne: Due dates, time-pressure and complex issues are often the hardest challenges in the legal profession. Having a file management system that allows me to manage my tasks and time is my best asset to keep on top of everything. In addition, having access to the shared knowledge of my experienced colleagues is of immense value in being able to
tackle complex issues.
Outside of work, what activities or passions keep you energised?
Svetlana: It won’t come as a surprise to many who know me, but I love spending time with my family and cooking up big storms in the kitchen. These moments allow me to unwind from the demands of my legal career and reconnect with my loved ones. I am Macedonian at heart, and cooking allows me to express the richness of my culture and family traditions. I find joy in exploring di erent ingredients and tweaking some of my mum’s traditional recipes (though Mum doesn’t always approve!). It’s a wonderful way to bring everyone together and stay grounded as a person.
What are your top tips for creating a healthy work-life balance?
Kirsten: What a healthy work-life balance looks like is di erent for everyone, and changes with di erent stages of your career and life – and can be hard to achieve! A healthy work-life balance starts with reflecting on what your priorities are, and communicating them with the people that you work with. You cannot be your best at work if you are not looking after yourself.
Suzanne: Really take the time to focus on your own health and needs, including exercise, family time and personal down-time. It is important to rest, relax and periodically ‘reset’ yourself.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
My career has taken me through both the insurance sector and the public service, and while those roles were rewarding, I always had a dream of owning my own business. In 2018, I decided to take a leap of faith and left the public service to start a business in the aged care sector. Although that venture didn’t succeed in the way I’d hoped, it turned out to be one of the most valuable learning experiences of my life.
The lessons I took away from that time gave me the confidence and insight I needed to take the next step: purchasing this franchise and building something I truly believe in.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
Driven to make a di erence
I’d have to say people are my strength. I’ve always had the ability to talk to anyone and build genuine connections. I’m a people person through and through, and I really care about others. I’ve also been told I bring a great sense of humour to my work, which helps put people at ease.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Driving Miss Daisy – Woden Valley
McC ry
Director
For Lisa, Driving Miss Daisy Woden Valley is more than a business; it’s a way to make a di erence in people’s lives. Since purchasing the franchise in early 2025, she has embraced the challenges and rewards of running a community-focused service that helps clients stay connected and independent. With warmth, empathy and a love of people, Lisa leads with heart, humour and a commitment to care.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Driving Miss Daisy is a companion driving service that helps seniors and people with disabilities remain active and engaged in their communities. Being a companion driving service, we don’t just take our clients from A to B, we support them every step of the way. We’re family when family can’t be there.
My Daisy journey began at the start of 2025 when I purchased the Driving Miss Daisy Woden Valley franchise. What drew me to Driving Miss Daisy was the way they genuinely care about each and every one of their clients and go the extra step for them.
2025 has been the most challenging but rewarding, heart filled year. It has been and continues to be a learning curve being a business owner and juggling family life, but I feel so lucky and grateful to be a part of such a wonderful community focussed company.
Keep going, even when things don’t go to plan. If something doesn’t work out, get back up and try again; your greatest lessons often come from the times you fall.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
I stay motivated by treating every client the same way I would a family member, with empathy, respect and genuine care. Knowing that I can make a di erence in someone’s day keeps me inspired and grounded.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Spending time with family and friends is my favourite way to relax. I also love op shopping, playing football, and, when I can, simply unwinding at home.
T: 0447 197 259
E: wodenvalley@drivingmissdaisy.com.au
W: drivingmissdaisy.com.au
AMY
GoBoat Canberra
Director Wea erby
Making waves in Canberra
For GoBoat Canberra director, life on the water isn’t just a business; it’s a way to unwind. When she’s not helping locals and visitors enjoy Lake Burley Gri n from a new perspective, you’ll find her doing much the same: exploring Canberra’s lakeside paths, discovering local food spots, and taking time to slow down and soak up the calm.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
GoBoat is an eco-friendly electric boat hire company that gives people the chance to experience Canberra from a new perspective. Our boats seat up to eight people, are easy to drive, require no license, and are designed for picnics, celebrations, or simply spending quality time with friends and family on the water.
Our mission is simple — to make boating accessible, sustainable, and social, and to give people a chance to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy Canberra’s natural beauty from a whole new angle.
I’ve been with GoBoat since 2019, starting as a casual team member before stepping into the Assistant Manager role in 2021, then Business Manager in 2022, and now proudly taking ownership of GoBoat Canberra in 2025. It’s been an incredible journey growing with the business and now leading the team that helped shape what GoBoat has become today.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
My career began in hotel hospitality and tourism, where I developed a love for creating memorable experiences for people, whether that meant ensuring a guest had a comfortable stay during their work trip or helping a couple bring their dream wedding to life
through seamless event setup and catering. I worked across many areas of hotel operations, from reception to breakfast and dinner service, as well as events, before moving into a role at a rooftop cocktail bar.
In 2019, I joined GoBoat as a casual team member while also working at a local café. At that time, GoBoat was still a relatively young company in Australia, with only one location in Canberra. I was immediately drawn to its sense of community and the way our customers connected, celebrating birthdays, engagements, and showing o Canberra to visiting friends and family. It was such a unique and joyful experience; after all, not many people get to say, “I work at a boat rental in Canberra!”
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to grow with the business, learning every part of its operations from the ground up. I eventually stepped into the role of Business Manager, overseeing multiple locations across the ACT and NSW.
In July 2025, I proudly took ownership of GoBoat Canberra. It’s been an incredibly rewarding journey to lead the business I helped build and to continue growing it as a vibrant part of Canberra’s tourism and lifestyle scene.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
I’d say my biggest strengths are organisation, people management, and adaptability. Running a tourism-
based business means every day is di erent, from managing operations and safety to hosting events, overseeing marketing, and supporting our amazing team. I’m also passionate about creating positive experiences for both customers and sta , that’s always at the heart of what we do at GoBoat.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
My advice is to back yourself and take opportunities before you feel “ready.” In the past, I’ve been guilty of waiting for the “perfect moment,” but by then, you may have missed a great opportunity.
Believe in your own ability and don’t wait for someone else to make things happen for you. Don’t let others’ expectations, or what’s considered the “norm,” hold you back.
I’m a 25-year-old boat business owner in Canberra, proof that you can shape your own path.
T: (02) 7256 4990
E: canberra@goboat.com.au
W: goboat.com.au
@goboatcanberra
UC Christy Collier-Hill Capitals
Executive General Manager
Driving change, on and off the court
As Executive General Manager of the UC Capitals, Christy leads one of Canberra’s most loved sporting teams with passion, purpose, and pride. A former Cap herself and proud Queanbeyan local, she brings nearly two decades of experience in sport management to her dream role. Guided by a commitment to equality and community, Christy is helping shape a stronger future for women’s basketball in Canberra and beyond.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
I’ve always loved sport – playing, watching, coaching – really just being involved in it. So when I finished high school, I decided to study a degree in Sports Management at the University of Canberra. I’ve continued my studies over the years and also completed a Graduate Certificate in Marketing at UC, a Graduate Diploma in International Sports Management, and an MBA (both at Southern Cross University).
My first roles were in community and event coordination, and over time I worked across different areas of sport — marketing, partnerships, operations and leadership — which gave me a really broad understanding of how clubs and leagues run.
Eventually, that experience led me to the Melbourne Boomers, where I became General Manager, and later to the WNBL, where I had the privilege of leading the league as Head of the WNBL during a time of massive growth.
That experience really cemented my purpose — I’m passionate about bridging the inequalities that exist for women in sport – both on and off the court.
Today, I’m the Executive General Manager of the UC Capitals, and I get to combine everything I love: growing a professional women’s team, connecting with our community (my local community), supporting athletes, and creating commercial opportunities that help the club thrive.
As a former Cap myself, a local (Queanbeyan), and a lover of basketball, I’m now in my absolute dream job. But I don’t take that for granted – I feel privileged to be part of it, and I’m pushing very hard to
achieve what we’re setting out to achieve. I recognise I’m a custodian of this great Club for a period of time, and I want to ensure it’s in a stronger position when I leave it than when I arrived.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
I’ve worked in sport for nearly 20 years, and more often than not, I’ve been the only woman in the room. Gender balance behind closed doors still has a very long way to go.
So for women in business, at all levels, my advice is to have strong female supporters and mentors, speak up when gender balance in the room isn’t right, and continue to
strive to make an impact. We’re all paving the way for those coming behind us, and although it’s hard, we have to keep fighting.
E: christy.collier-hill@canberra.edu.au
Christy Collier-Hill
EMBRACE DISABILITY Katie Hancock Group
Redefining opportunity through inclusion
For Katie, leadership is about creating opportunity and driving change with purpose. As CEO and Co-Founder of Embrace Disability Group, she’s reshaping the future of inclusive employment. Through cafés, school canteens and catering services, Katie leads a social enterprise where people of all abilities can thrive, proving that when inclusion comes first, success naturally follows.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I’m the CEO and Co-Founder of Embrace Disability Group (Embrace), a social enterprise redefining what inclusive employment looks like in the catering and hospitality industry. At Embrace, we create meaningful, paid work and training opportunities for people living with disability — not as a token gesture, but as the very foundation of who we are and why we exist. Since launching at the end of 2022, Embrace has grown to operate cafés, school canteens and largescale catering services across the ACT and NSW. Each part of our business is designed to provide hands-on hospitality experience, develop capability and skills, build confidence and create a genuine sense of belonging for our team members.
Leading this organisation from its inception has been one of the most rewarding (and most challenging) experiences of my life.
Watching the people we employ gaining skills, independence, confidence and pride in their work is what drives everything we do and the reason I show up and keep working for all of them. What do you consider to be your key strengths?
I am driven, results-focused, and a natural problem solver. I love to help others find a way through their challenges, even when things seem difficult to navigate. I have a strong
compass for finding solutions to even the most complex problems, and am able to see potential where others might see barriers — in people, ideas and opportunities. That sense of possibility keeps me creative and forward-thinking, both as a leader and as a problem solver.
My first priority is always our people and I believe that strong leadership begins with empathy and trust, being able to bring people along on the journey we are on, as well as having a strong alignment to our organisational values and leading with these every day.
I am resilient and work hard to manage my mental health and stay balanced and never has it felt more important to do this than now, running a social enterprise. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Don’t wait for perfect timing, or permission, or for someone else to give you an opportunity — just start. Believe in yourself, even when the path ahead isn’t clear and trust that confidence grows through action.
Surround yourself with people who lift you up and challenge you to grow. Be authentic and be yourself; it’s your individuality that will set you apart.
T: 02 6140 3258
E: katie@embracedisabilitygroup.com.au
W: embracedisabilitygroup.com.au
Canberra’s trusted renovation specialist making every home shine
For Kim, property renovation is about more than fresh paint and new fixtures — it’s about helping people unlock their home’s full potential. As the owner and founder of Renovation Matters, she leads a trusted Canberra team dedicated to transforming homes with care, creativity, and purpose. Being named a finalist in the most distinguished and fiercely contested category of the Canberra Women in Business Awards — Business Woman of the Year — was a proud milestone in her journey. Since launching in 2021, Kim has completed more than 100 projects, combining hands-on experience, strong communication and genuine connection to deliver beautiful results that truly make a di erence. Despite being one of Canberra’s youngest renovation companies — not yet four years old — Renovation Matters has already earned an impressive 34 five-star reviews, reflecting the trust, quality, and care Kim and her team bring to every project.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I’m the founder of Renovation Matters, a Canberra-based business that helps homeowners get the most out of their property through smart renovations, styling, and project management. I started the business in December 2021 after seeing just how much people needed trustworthy, start-to-finish renovation support that really delivers results — whether they’re selling or simply improving their homes.
I’m very hands-on in my role, from planning and coordinating trades to guiding clients through every stage of their renovation journey, making sure the process is smooth, clear, and rewarding. I’ve been working in this space for around nine years and have now completed over 100 renovations, so I like to think I’ve gained a lot of experience along the way! That said, no two renovations are ever the same, so I’m always learning — and that’s one of the things I love most about what I do.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
I’d say my biggest strengths are trust, communication, and empathy. People know they can rely on me to deliver what I promise, and I truly value building genuine connections with both clients and trades. I’m very detail-oriented and have a natural ability to bring together the right people, ideas, and solutions to achieve exceptional results.
My career over the past 10 years has always revolved around property and people. Before launching Renovation Matters, I worked in similar renovation and property-preparation businesses, where I built strong relationships with trades, clients, and agents, helping people renovate whether they were planning to sell or stay.
Over the years, I’ve worked with a lot of tradespeople, and now I’m lucky to have what I consider some of the best tradesmen in Canberra on my team. With this A-team, I’m able to consistently deliver beautiful transformations with exceptional workmanship, while genuinely helping clients get the best possible return on their investment.
I combine strong project management with a personal, client-focused approach — treating each home as if it were my own and assisting with any extra services clients might need. I’m very hands-on, visiting sites daily to check progress, keeping everything on schedule, and ensuring the process runs smoothly from start to finish.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
This question is especially close to my heart, as I have two teenage daughters who I love to inspire. My advice to the next generation of women in business is to trust yourself and your instincts — they are your most powerful assets. Don’t be afraid to back your ideas or take up space in any room. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, and remember that integrity and consistency will always take you further than shortcuts.
Most importantly, never lose sight of why you started. Passion and purpose are what keep you moving forward when things get challenging, so hold on to them and let them guide your journey. What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
and the joy it brings to clients always gives me a boost of energy. I also make a point to celebrate small wins, keep learning, and spend time with my incredible team, who constantly inspire me with their hard work, creativity, and positivity.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
To be honest, as a business owner, finding the right balance can sometimes be a challenge. I feel incredibly lucky to love what I do and to work with a team who are not only trustworthy but also fun to be around, and I get to collaborate with amazing clients — so work itself is a real joy.
I stay motivated by focusing on the impact of what I do — helping people transform their homes and, often, their financial situations. I especially love supporting clients who’ve had bad experiences with trades or renovations, and showing them that good, reliable services do exist. Seeing the before-and-after results
As a single mum, I really value spending time with my family, especially my daughters, who keep me grounded and motivated. I also enjoy catching up with friends and getting away for long weekends whenever I can. Being a homeowner, I spend a lot of time outside in the garden or walking the dogs, and I enjoy going to the gym when I can. I love being outdoors in general — whether it’s a walk, a quiet co ee on the deck, or simply taking a moment to reflect and reset before the next big project.
Debra Parker, Catherine Coles and Jacquelyn Curtis
Directors
Canberra’s leading women in family law
Led by three of Canberra’s most respected family law specialists, Parker Coles Curtis has redefined what it means to practise family law with compassion, courage and innovation.
Founded by Debra Parker, Catherine Coles and Jacquelyn Curtis, the firm is now Canberra’s largest female-led family law practice. Their work is driven by one purpose: to guide families through di cult times with clarity, empathy and strength, empowering every client to rebuild with confidence and hope.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Parker Coles Curtis is Canberra’s largest female-led family law firm. Founded by three award-winning specialist family lawyers, Debra Parker, Catherine Coles and Jacquelyn Curtis, the firm has become a trusted presence in family law within the ACT and beyond.
Parker Coles Curtis has a team of exceptional family lawyers dedicated to empowering clients experiencing family transitions and conflict. The ACT Law Firm of the Year across all disciplines in 2023, their mission is to make challenging times, such as separation and divorce, less di cult. Their team will meet you where you are at with understanding and connection, to provide support every step of the way.
mediation. Debra serves on the ACT Law Society Professional Ethics Committee, is the Chair of the Dispute Resolution Committee and is a fellow of the prestigious International Academy of Family Lawyers. Debra has recently been awarded several distinguished achievements, including: Excellence Award – 2025 Inside Family Law Awards; Mediator/Arbitrator of the Year – 2025 Lawyers Weekly Awards; Elite Women 2025 list – Australasian Lawyer; Winner 2025 – ACT Law Society Leadership & Excellence Award in Family Law & Dispute Resolution
Founded on values of care, compassion and a desire to support the local community, the firm proudly supports organisations such as the Women’s Legal Centre, Menslink, Hands Across Canberra, Karinya House, and Roundabout Canberra through matched giving, volunteering, and more than 120 hours of pro bono legal work annually.
Their philosophy is simple: to use legal skill and knowledge to make a tangible di erence in people’s lives and the community, while leading with integrity, empathy, and heart. Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
The Directors are industry experts with distinguished accomplishments over their careers. Their expertise and shared values have shaped Parker Coles Curtis into a values-driven, community-focused practice, recognised for leading with heart, intelligence, and impact.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
Simply, Parker Coles Curtis meets clients where they are at! Their team of trauma-informed, family law experts work together to get things moving and get the best results for clients. With a mix of compassion, skill and life experience, they cut through the lawyer-speak, clearly explain clients’ options, and provide the support and guidance that clients need to move on.
As winner of the 2025 Canberra Women in Business, Business Woman of the Year, Debra Parker is one of Canberra’s pioneering female family lawyers. Debra has served as a Judicial Registrar of the Family Court. She is the only lawyer in the ACT with dual accreditation as a Family Law Specialist and Dispute Resolution Specialist, and is recognised as both a Leading Family Lawyer and a Leading Mediator in the 2025 Doyle’s Guide. Debra is widely respected for her leadership and her passion for giving back to the community through education and
Catherine Coles is included in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers™ - Canberra, Australia, for Family Law, is an Accredited Specialist in Family Law and an Independent Children’s Lawyer. She has dedicated her career to amplifying the voices of children and supporting families a ected by family violence. Her innovative thinking has also seen her lead the firm’s AI transformation, which made Parker Coles Curtis a finalist in the Australian AI Awards for legal innovation. Catherine’s commitment to modern, ethical, and compassionate practice has helped redefine what family law can look like and resulted in her being named a Leading Parenting, Custody & Children’s Lawyer and “Best” Family Law in 2025. She is Chair of the Family Violence and Children’s Committee and elected Councillor on the ACT Law Society.
Jacquelyn Curtis is named as Pre-eminent Parenting, Custody & Children’s Matter Lawyer (alongside only two others with this rank in the ACT) and is a Leading Family & Divorce Lawyer in the 2025 Doyle’s Guide. An Accredited Specialist in Family Law, Jacquelyn has experience in financial and parenting cases, but is particularly regarded for her work in complex parenting matters involving risk issues and family violence. Jacqui is a co-parent and is passionate about assisting families towards lowconflict and cooperative resolutions where this is safe and appropriate. She serves on several ACT Law Society Committees to contribute to the legal sector with advocacy and collegiality. Jacquelyn’s advocacy for community wellbeing will see her complete The Great Walk for Menslink, undertaking the Centenary Trail while fundraising over $10,000 for young men and their families in Canberra.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Don’t be afraid to break the mould! Embracing innovation and maintaining continuous focus on the client experience has been a key driver of success for Parker Coles Curtis.
The Directors say that their positive culture internally is critical – built on collaboration, authenticity, and care for others and the community. With 12 lawyers, including the Directors, on sta , the firm invests in the next generation of Canberra’s family lawyers with the launch of their Graduate Lawyer Program, o ering structured career pathways, handson learning with support and guidance a challenging area of the law requires for longevity.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
Family law is a dynamic and challenging space to work in. The team is trauma-informed and adopts the pillars of this approach with our clients and internally with sta . The goal of their work with you is to help you conclude a di cult chapter, so that you can move on and write the rest of the book of your life!
T: 02 5114 2660
E: hello@parkercolescurtis.com.au
W: parkercolescurtis.com.au
Parker Coles Curtis
@parker_coles_curtis
Parker Coles Curtis
Leading with heart in home care
JACINTA & KYLIEWi iams
Nurse Next Door Canberra & Batemans Bay
At Nurse Next Door Canberra and Batemans Bay, mother-daughter duo Kylie and Jacinta Williams are redefining what quality in-home care looks like. With compassion at their core and professionalism in their approach, they lead a dedicated team of over 100 nurses and caregivers united by one purpose: Making Lives Better.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
With a core purpose of Making Lives Better, Nurse Next Door Home Care Services believes that everyone should be able to live in their own home, on their own terms. As a Government Approved Aged Care Provider, we are here to simplify the journey of getting the care you need. Specialising in Home Care Packages (HCP), and soon to be a provider for the new Support at Home program, with a key focus to help you or your loved ones flourish with Positivity, Possibility and Purpose.
Nurse Next Door in Canberra and Batemans Bay was founded by local Kylie and later joined by her daughter Jacinta. Together, they built the business on a shared mission to help people remain in the homes they love, living life on their own terms. With a dedicated team of more than 100 nurses and caregivers, they provide a full spectrum of support, including NDIS and aged
care services, from social companionship to 24/7 nursing care.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Jacinta: My career has been a unique blend of “heart” and “process.” I’ve managed largescale cultural projects for the government and run community health programs for Indigenous students, which taught me how to deliver programs with genuine impact. I then honed my skills in systems, logistics, and leadership, managing IT projects and guest service teams at a fast-paced international resort.
Now, as a Director of Nurse Next Door Canberra and Batemans Bay, I get to bring it all together. It feels like my whole career was building the toolkit. Now, I get to use that toolkit for work I’m truly passionate about. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Kylie: It all starts with your ‘why.’ Follow that passion, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The business
community is incredibly supportive, and you can learn so much from those who have walked the path before you. The other non-negotiable? You must make time for yourself. A 24/7 business demands a 100% present leader, and you can’t be that if you’re burnt out. Taking time to recharge isn’t stepping away from your business; it’s a vital part of building it.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Jacinta: I absolutely love to travel and dive into new experiences. Whether it’s playing sports, trying out exciting new activities or restaurants with friends, or spending cherished moments with family, I’m always seeking ways to connect and create memories.
T: 1300 600 247
E: canberra@nursenextdoor.com.au
E: batemansbay@nursenextdoor.com.au
W: nursenextdoor.com.au
Left to Right: Bonny Hudson, Dipika Kapali, Sam Hyland, Jen Jackson, Amanda Cassidy, Jacinta Williams, Chelsea Stone-Heat, Narelle Jansen and Rakshya Khadgi. Absent: Kylie Williams.
RIANA WOMEN BUSINESS
Janse vanRensburg Aesthetic Medicine Canberra
Director/Dermal Therapist and Cosmetic Nurse
Redefining aesthetic care
With more than 30 years in the beauty and skin health industry, Riana brings deep expertise and a personal touch to every treatment. As Director of Aesthetic Medicine Canberra, she combines dermal therapy and medical aesthetics to deliver results-driven care that empowers confidence, blending science, artistry and compassion in every client experience.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I opened my Dermal Skin Care clinic in 2010, focusing on advanced dermal therapies and personalised skin treatments. In 2023, I rebranded and expanded the clinic into a Medical Aesthetic practice, introducing a wider range of cosmetic aesthetic treatments to meet growing client needs. As a sole trader, I manage all aspects of the business, from client care to operations, while continuing my main role as a Dermal Skin Care Therapist and Cosmetic Nurse. Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
My career began in 1988 when I qualified in Somatology and entered the beauty and skin health industry. Over the years, I gained extensive experience in advanced skin therapies and built a loyal client base. In 2010, I opened my own Dermal Skin Care clinic, where my focus was on personalised dermal treatments. Wanting to expand my scope, I completed a Nursing degree in 2023, which allowed me to rebrand into a Medical Aesthetic clinic, now offering both dermal and cosmetic aesthetic services. In 2018 I won the ABIA Hall of Fame Award for my
outstanding contribution towards the beauty industry.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
My key strengths lie in being highly focused, hardworking, and dedicated to delivering the best outcomes for my clients. I am committed to continuous learning, regularly attending advanced training courses to enhance my knowledge and skills. This dedication to professional growth led me to upskill to a higher qualification, completing my Nursing degree in 2023, which enabled me to expand my business into a Medical Aesthetic clinic and provide a broader range of treatments. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
My advice to the next generation of women in business is to choose a career that continually stimulates and challenges you, ensuring long-term passion and purpose. Success does not come overnight, but through consistent hard work, dedication, and perseverance, results will always follow. Never stop learning, remain adaptable, and embrace opportunities to grow. Believe in yourself, trust your abilities, and stay committed to your vision, as this will be the
foundation for a fulfilling and rewarding career. What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
I stay motivated at work by continuously researching new equipment, treatment methods, and products entering the market. This allows me to keep my services fresh, relevant, and exciting for clients. I focus on understanding what keeps clients engaged and motivated to return regularly, creating treatment plans that support their goals. As a sole trader, I set clear business objectives, celebrate milestones, and remain dedicated to personal growth, ensuring both my clients and business thrive together.
E: aesthetic.medicine.cbr@gmail.com
T: 0450525815
W: aesthetic-medicine-canberra.com
Instagram: @aesthetic.medicine.canberra
MONICA
DR. Sharma Molonglo Dental
Surgery
Principal Dentist/ Owner
Care that goes beyond the chair
Known for her tireless dedication and compassionate care, Dr Monica Sharma has built Molonglo Dental Surgery into one of Canberra’s most trusted family dental practices. With more than 390 glowing reviews and a 4.9-star rating, her commitment goes well beyond the chair, from easing dental anxiety in children to helping patients in pain, even late at night. Her approach is simple but powerful: lead with empathy, deliver with excellence, and treat every patient like family.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I work with Molonglo Dental Surgery, a private dental practice providing comprehensive patient care. I have been with the organisation since 2019, as the principal dentist, during which I have taken on responsibilities in patient care, day-to-day clinical management, staff coordination, and operational oversight. My role involves providing high-level patient care, overseeing daily operations, ensuring compliance with service standards, supporting staff development, and contributing to strategic improvement initiatives. I take pride in helping the organisation achieve its goals through effective teamwork and a commitment to quality outcomes.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
With more than 16 years of experience in dentistry, my career journey in dentistry has been a blend of clinical passion, patient care, and continuous learning. I began my professional path focused on developing strong clinical foundations — building my skills across preventive, restorative, and emergency dentistry. Early in my career, I realised that being a good clinician is not just about technical excellence, but also about communication, empathy, and creating a calm and trusting experience for patients.
Over time, I took on broader responsibilities, including mentoring junior staff, managing day-to-day operations, and contributing to workflow improvements in the practice. These experiences helped me understand the importance of leadership, teamwork, and patientcentred systems in achieving consistent, highquality outcomes.
In my current role, I combine hands-on dentistry with practice management — ensuring clinical standards, patient satisfaction, and team performance align with organisational goals. I’m particularly interested in integrating technology and evidence-based protocols to enhance
efficiency and patient experience.
Looking back, each stage of my career has deepened my commitment to both patient care and professional growth — and has shaped me into a dentist who values not just treatment, but trust, teamwork, and long-term oral health outcomes.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
I consider my key strengths as a Principal Dentist to be a combination of clinical excellence, leadership, and a strong focus on patient and team experience.
With years of hands-on experience, I’ve developed a high level of precision in diagnosis and treatment planning. I focus on delivering evidence-based, comprehensive care that balances function, aesthetics, and long-term outcomes. My ability to manage complex restorative and multidisciplinary cases confidently is a key strength.
I take pride in fostering a positive, supportive, and high-performing team culture. I believe in mentoring associates and support staff, encouraging open communication, and leading by example. My approach has helped build a cohesive team that consistently delivers quality care and patient satisfaction.
I prioritise clear, empathetic communication with patients—helping them understand their oral health needs and making them active partners in their treatment decisions. This approach builds long-term trust and retention, which I see as essential to a successful practice.
Beyond clinical work, I’m deeply involved in practice growth — overseeing operational efficiency, compliance, marketing strategy, and integration of new technologies. I enjoy streamlining systems and processes that improve both patient experience and team productivity.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
My advice to the next generation of women in dentistry is to believe in your capabilities and
trust your journey. You don’t need to have it all figured out from the start — growth comes through experience, reflection, and resilience.
Dentistry can be demanding, especially when you’re balancing clinical responsibilities, leadership roles, and personal life. Prioritise selfcare and never feel guilty for setting boundaries; you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Find mentors who inspire you and colleagues who support you — not just technically, but emotionally and professionally. Collaboration over competition will always take you further.
Most importantly, lead with empathy and integrity. Our greatest strength as women in this field lies in the way we connect with people — our patients, our teams, and our communities. Continue to raise the standard, lift others as you climb, and remember that your presence and voice can shape the future of this profession.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
As dentistry can be quite mentally and physically demanding, I make it a point to maintain a good work-life balance. After work, I like to go for a walk or a gym session to clear my mind. Spending time with my family and friends also helps me recharge and keep things in perspective. On weekends, I enjoy activities like cooking or travelling, which allow me to completely switch off from the clinical environment and come back to work refreshed.
T: 02 6287 1222
E: info@molonglodental.com.au
W: molonglodental.com.au
The power of people in property
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
H: I’ve been with LJ Hooker Kippax for three and a half years. I started as a sales associate with Sandra Masters, and about eighteen months later, I stepped into my own sales role. I now work as a sales agent and also help with training and o ce support.
What I love most about LJ Hooker Kippax is that our o ce is mostly women. I really value that, especially knowing that years ago, real estate looked very di erent. I am so grateful now to be able to have Holly McPherson, a driven young woman, as part of my own team now. It is truly exciting to both teach and share this journey with her! It’s inspiring to work with strong, supportive women who genuinely it each other up.
O: I’m proud to be part of the LJ Hooker Kippax team, where I’ve worked for just over two years. As a real estate agent within Team Ryan-Hicks, I play a handson role in helping buyers find their perfect property and ensuring sellers achieve outstanding results. LJ
LJ Hooker Kippax SchultzOLIVIA & GreenHANNAH
At LJ Hooker Kippax, Hannah Green and Olivia Schultz are part of a new generation of real estate professionals redefining what success looks like in the industry. Both driven, empathetic, and client-focused, they bring authenticity and energy to every interaction. Backed by a strong, supportive team, they’re proving that communication and care are just as essential to real estate as results.
Hooker is approaching its 100th year, a testament to its reputation as one of Australia’s most trusted and enduring real estate brands. Being part of that legacy is something I value deeply.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
H: Empathy, communication, authenticity, and drive. I’m open and expressive, and I always aim to see things from di erent perspectives.
O: I would describe myself as highly organised, communicative, and driven. I approach every task with structure, motivation, and a genuine hunger to succeed.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
O: We live in a time where women in business are more visible and supported than ever before but challenges still exist, especially in traditionally male-dominated industries. My advice is to back yourself fully, embrace your individuality, and lift other women up along the way. There is incredible power in collaboration and authenticity.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
H: I stay motivated because I genuinely love hearing people’s stories - whether it’s a seller, buyer, neighbour or colleague. Every client has a reason for where they are in their journey, and helping them through one of the biggest moments in their life is a privilege. How an agent supports them can completely shape that experience, and I love making people feel special through it.
On a personal level, I’m also motivated by my family. My partner Dan is a nurse at Canberra Hospital, and we have our dog Peaches. I’m so grateful for his support, especially when I’m working long hours; he knows how much I love what I do.
Driven by purpose and resilience, Jacinta Matthews channels her lived experience into empowering others through her two ventures: M2T Training and MOC Apparel. Through M2T, she’s developing training pathways and exploring government grants to support women affected by domestic violence in entering or rejoining the workforce. With MOC Apparel, inspired by her Polish heritage, Jacinta promotes strength, empowerment and the power to overcome adversity.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
M2T Training has been up and running for eight months. I am the training director. I am looking into Government Grants to help support vulnerable women of DV who enter the workforce or upskill, who may not have the ability to do so. MOC Apparel has been around for 12 months. I founded it through the inspiration of my Polish background and adversity.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Connection and customer service and making an impact. I wanted to do more empowering, meaningful work, so I came up with MOC. The word MOC is a Polish word meaning resilience, overcoming, empowerment and strength, all from my lived experience thus far.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
Storytelling and keynote speaking through my project, I have spoken to over 3,000 teenagers to date and was nominated for the Australian of the Year Award 2026.
T: 0458 262 235
E: training@m2ts.com.au
W: mocapparel.com.au
W: m2ttraining.com.au
PAMHowar
Queenies at Kingston
Raising the bar at Queenies
After nearly three decades in the insurance sector, Pam Howarth made a bold career pivot, swapping boardrooms for bar tables and spreadsheets for soul-filled jazz nights. As the owner and operator of Queenies at Kingston, Pam has built a warm, welcoming space known for its 100% gluten-free menu, live music and genuine community spirit. With the opening of her second venue, Eve by Queenies, she continues to create memorable experiences rooted in connection, inclusivity and good food shared among friends.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I purchased Queenies at Kingston in June 2023 and remain its sole Owner and Operator. Queenies is a restaurant and bar, with a 100% gluten-free kitchen, proudly supporting live jazz and blues music (not too loud) from Tuesdays to Saturdays.
I am delighted to announce our second venue, a boutique events space, Eve by Queenies opened this month. Located at 34 Giles Street in Kingston, Eve is the perfect space for your upcoming event for between 20 and 70 people. Like Queenies, Eve’s kitchen is 100% gluten-free.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Like many people, I had some experience waiting, behind the bar and as a dishy, but Queenies is my first Restaurant Operator role. Prior to Queenies, I spent 27 years in the insurance sector and am very grateful to the many (and varied) opportunities that industry provided.
Kingston area, the owners are present and engaged with customers and sta . That is the kind of owner I want to continue to be.
I am curious and look for unique opportunities. These are sometimes di cult and/or expensive to execute, but, in my opinion, worthwhile. Making the decision to create a 100% gluten-free kitchen in August 2023 involved research, customer feedback and sta engagement. We identified significant risks associated with the change and decided, as a management team, that we would go ahead. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
It has surprised me how many of the skills I developed in my previous career have translated to hospitality, particularly the confidence to engage with customers and the ability to manage risks across a business.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
I genuinely enjoy connecting with people, meeting new customers and catching up with existing ones. Many of my customers (in both insurance and hospitality) have become friends.
When I look at the successful venues just in the old
Seek out your workplace sisters and support each other. Find time to connect and maintain that network. My own network has pulled me through some very challenging times, particularly during my years in the insurance sector. Having a group of supportive women who understood the workplace context and had themselves overcome barriers made a real di erence.
I have had the honour of meeting Virginia Haussegger a few times and find her fight for gender equality inspiring. Gender bias remains a real issue in the workplace, and I wish that I had spoken up more when I experienced this behaviour. It isn’t always direct or obvious, so trust your instincts and be brave. We stand with you.
make the choice that will help you to be successful. What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
I am really proud of my team, who bring so much positive energy to the business every day. You can feel it when you walk into Queenies. It’s a great atmosphere.
Find the right employer. Having worked in businesses that are unapologetically misogynistic to organisations that truly value diversity, I recommend finding a workplace that shares your personal values. Your contribution matters! Know the value that you bring to an organisation and have the confidence to
Bringing a restaurant o ering that is safe for the Coeliac community has been far more rewarding than I ever anticipated. Customers have appreciated the fact that they can eat any of the dishes and not worry about becoming sick (or worse) afterwards.
I am constantly looking for new challenges, gaps in the market and opportunities to continue to build the business.
Owning your own business is a lot of work, but when you love what you do, it’s easy to stay motivated.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Checking out new restaurants and bars (of course), walking the dog and catching up with friends and family. Currently booking a holiday!
and then I graduated from the University of Newcastle, NSW, with a Bachelor of Oral Health. I began my career as a Dental Hygienist in Sydney. My first job was at a dental clinic in Woollahra. In 2010, I moved to Canberra with my family. My first job in Canberra was at a Periodontist Clinic. Since then, I have worked in various General dental and specialist practices. I am also a Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist, which is a practise that works with the muscles of the lips, tongue, cheeks and face and their related functions.
In 2020, the Dental Board of Australia introduced reforms granting oral health practitioners greater professional autonomy, enabling them to establish their own practices. This change inspired me to pursue my long-held goal of opening my own dental clinic. Drawing on years of experience working alongside dentists, dental specialists, and multidisciplinary teams, I was able to create a practice founded on patient-centred care.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
AFRA
My Dentist Canberra Practice Owner
Building a community of healthy smiles
My key strengths are providing high-quality customer care and service. As a result, many of my patients continue to follow me when I change workplaces. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
First, one must love the profession they choose, whatever it may be. Then, they should gain enough experience in their chosen field. After that, they can consider starting their own business. It’s important to do research and talk to experts. They should not get discouraged by naysayers, if deep down they truly believe they can do it, they should go for it. What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
Afra’s story is one of determination, resilience and purpose. As the owner of My Dentist Canberra, she brings more than 16 years of experience and a deep commitment to patient-centred care. After overcoming barriers to education in Iran, Afra migrated to Australia, where she fulfilled her dream of becoming a dental professional. Opening her own clinic in Bruce in 2024, she now leads a team dedicated to providing exceptional oral health care while creating a welcoming environment built on trust, compassion and community connection.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I am a Dental Hygienist with 16 years of experience. I opened my dental clinic in December 2024. My role is to work as a Dental Hygienist, manage the clinic and support my sta .
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Growing up as a Bahá’í in Iran, I was denied the right to higher education by the Islamic government. After migrating to Australia, I was finally able to pursue my education.
As a result, I studied a Bachelor of Applied Physics from the University of Western Sydney
Patient satisfaction and happy co-workers motivate me at work.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Running a business, one can never totally unwind from work. However, I use my spare time to go to the gym, meet friends and cook.
36/21 Thynne St, Bruce, ACT 2617
T: 6225 2855
E: info@mydentistcanberra.com.au
W: mydentistcanberra.com.au
mydentistcanberra
@mydentistcanberra
@mydentistcanberra
ANITA NIKKI
Curves Jamison Gym O'Meara E ema
Co-Owners &
Empowering women through strength
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
We are the owners and operators of a Curves gym, where we have proudly served the community for the past 17 years. In our roles, we oversee all aspects of the business, including leadership and team management, member engagement, program delivery, and community outreach. Our focus is on creating a welcoming and supportive environment where women can achieve their health and fitness goals while building confidence and connections.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Our career journey has been driven by a passion for health, fitness, and empowering women. We started by working in the fitness industry, learning the importance of creating welcoming and supportive environments for women of all ages and abilities. Over time, we developed skills in leadership, business management, and
For Anita and Nikki, Curves Jamison is more than a gym, it’s a community built on strength, support, and self-belief. For 17 years, the pair have empowered women of all ages to take charge of their health in a welcoming, judgment-free space. Their mission extends beyond fi tness, fostering confidence, connection, and lasting wellbeing through encouragement, accountability, and the power of women supporting women.
community engagement, which naturally led us to take on the role of a Curves gym owner 17 years ago.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Our advice for the next generation of women in business is to lead with passion, purpose, and perseverance. Believe in yourself and the value you bring — confidence is key to building credibility and inspiring others. Surround yourself with supportive people who lift you up, and don’t be afraid to take risks or make mistakes; that’s where the biggest growth happens. Stay true to your values and your “why,” because authenticity will always shine through. Most importantly, remember that success isn’t just about profit — it’s about making a di erence, empowering others, and creating a positive impact in your community. When women support women, incredible things happen.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
our gym has on women’s lives every day. Seeing members grow stronger, more confident, and healthier continually inspires us. We set both personal and business goals to keep ourselves challenged and engaged, and we celebrate achievements — big and small — with our team and members. Staying connected to our community through fundraising, events, and local partnerships also keeps our work meaningful and rewarding. Most importantly, we remind ourselves of our “why” — empowering women to feel their best — which continues to drive our passion and commitment after 17 years in business.
T: 6251 1111
We stay motivated by focusing on the positive impact
E: info@curvesbelconnen.com.au
W: curves.com
Curves Jamison
BEATRICE DR. Tonks
Canberra Plastic Surgery
Cosmetic Doctor and Cosmetic Medicine Lead
Modern aesthetics with heart
At Canberra Plastic Surgery, Beatrice blends medical expertise with empathy to redefine modern aesthetic care. She is helping shape the next chapter of a clinic that has been trusted by Canberrans for nearly three decades. With a background in intensive care medicine, her approach balances scientific precision with genuine compassion. Beatrice focuses on honest, personalised treatment planning that helps patients feel informed, confident, and empowered, ensuring every experience is as reassuring as it is transformative.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Canberra Plastic Surgery has been a trusted clinic for 27 years, providing care for the Canberra community. There has been a lot of advancement in non-surgical aesthetic technology and treatments in recent years, so I joined the practice earlier this year as the clinic’s first Cosmetic Physician to bring more focus to this part of our practice. My day-to-day involves consulting with patients, planning their treatment journey and administering cosmetic treatments. I also manage the expansion of the services and technologies we offer to ensure we stay up to date with all these new, exciting therapies and can give our patients the best advice for their concerns.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
I have had a bit of a roundabout journey to where I am now. After growing up in Canberra, I spread my wings and completed my medical degree in Newcastle, before working all throughout New South Wales and eventually training as an Intensive Care doctor in Sydney. As you can imagine, it is a high-pressure job, but I found it very fulfilling, and it honed my attention
to detail and focus on evidence-based practice. As I progressed along, my priorities shifted. My favourite part of medicine has always been getting to know my patients and working closely with them, and my lifelong interest in skin health and skincare led me to transition to Cosmetic Medicine. It was an exciting change and my work every day brings me satisfaction. I love the reaction from our patients when we help them achieve their aesthetic goals and it is a great collaborative environment.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
I think my key strengths are honesty and empathy. In cosmetics, the most important aspect is listening to our patients’ concerns and planning together so we can reach the best outcomes. There is a lot of information about aesthetic techniques and treatments out there. People come in with a lot of questions and ideas, it’s vital to be open and take the time to understand someone’s story to help educate and reach aesthetic goals together. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Don’t be afraid to take a leap and take a lesstravelled road. If you have a passion and the drive to work towards it, there is no limit on
what can be achieved. It’s a fast-paced world, which means there is always room for the next innovator or leader. There are a lot of people around who can give guidance or help. Nobody has all the answers, so stay curious and seek support from wherever you can. What methods do you use to unwind from work?
We are so lucky in Canberra to be surrounded by such beautiful nature, with the mountains and beach at our fingertips. To unwind, I love to go out camping and exploring with my partner and our lovely pup Indy. It helps to reset my brain and keep things in perspective.
T: 02 6282 4868
E: reception@canberraplasticsurgery.com.au
W: canberraplasticsurgery.com.au
@canberraplasticsurgery
Canberra Plastic Surgery
By Dr Tony Tonks
ELLEN DR Canberra Psychology Services McKenzie
Director/Clinical Psychologist
Creating space for healing and connection
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Canberra Psychology Services (CPS) was established in 2017. Initially, it was a ‘one man band’ – a single therapy room and I did the administration and clinical work. Over the years, CPS has grown in o ce space and our clinical team. We currently house a range of other successful businesses from our premises (canberrapsychologyservices.com.au/ our-team), allowing us to provide a hub of multidisciplinary services, including psychology, social work, speech pathology, craniosacral therapy, and previously also psychiatry. These days, I feel like I have the best of both worlds –my role is split between directing the practice by
At Canberra Psychology Services, Ellen leads with empathy, experience and adaptability. Since founding the practice in 2017, she has transformed it from a single-room operation into a multidisciplinary hub supporting the wellbeing of Canberrans. Balancing leadership with clinical work, Ellen continues to find purpose in helping others navigate life’s challenges while fostering a supportive environment for practitioners to grow and connect.
supporting our clinicians while still being able to do clinical work for a small number of clients. It always feels like a privilege to sit with and support people while they’re dealing with the challenges of life.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
Being adaptive has helped refocus the business over the years, depending on the sector needs at the time. CPS has changed business models to meet the needs of the community, and I’ve had to learn to evolve with the industry over the last eight years.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business? Just go for it! Sometimes you need to just take the leap of faith to succeed. I can say with
absolute confidence that you learn just as much from your failures in business, so nothing ever really “fails” – it’s just an opportunity to grow. What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
Remaining connected to the broader clinician community helps keep me passionate about the work. This can be through training, the supervision of students, supporting clinicians with new start-up businesses/sole traders, and organising networking or social events. It reminds me of the world outside of CPS and helps bring new ideas back to keep the practice fresh.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
It’s hard to practice what you preach, but it’s the simple things that always work for me: exercise, eating well, creativity, and being present as a mum.
T: 0412 856 988
E: admin@canberrapsychologyservices.com.au
W: canberrapsychologyservices.com.au
SARAH
Burrows
L3 Coaching
Founder, CEO, Coach and Trainer
Guidance that inspires growth
Since founding L3 Coaching in 2021, Sarah has combined her background in science with her passion for people to help others live with greater clarity, confidence and purpose. Guided by her philosophy, Live Life Love, Sarah empowers her clients to reconnect with themselves, build authentic leadership skills and create meaningful, lasting change.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
L3 Coaching was founded in 2021 and has been a powerful journey of growth, transformation and selfdiscovery. I’m the founder and lead coach, working primarily one-on-one with clients to help them reconnect with themselves, clarify goals and create the life and career they truly want.
L3 stands for Live Life Love — a philosophy that anchors my work: live with intention, life with momentum, and love as a daily practice. My approach blends Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Matrix Therapies®, Hypnosis and Emotional Intelligence, turning insight into action. I’m also a certified Trainer of NLP, delivering practical workplace programs in authentic leadership, communication, sales performance and high-performing teams. I partner with SMEs and the Australian public sector, and offer delivery as single-day intensives or three-day blocks to fit operational needs.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
After completing a science degree, I began in pharmaceutical sales, where I discovered a love for
communication and human behaviour. Early in my career, I encountered Stephen Covey’s leadership work, which planted a seed that kept nudging me forward. Years later, revisiting that training showed me how deeply it had shaped my work, success and relationships.
A brochure about becoming a coach sat on my desk for eight years. When I finally enrolled with The Life Coaching College, everything changed: my career path, my confidence and, most importantly, my connection with my children and myself. Coaching became the place where my science mindset and people-first purpose met.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
Tenacity, empathetic yet direct communication, and an ability to build deep, trusting connections. I’m kind and clear, which helps clients feel seen, supported and constructively challenged — whether we’re coaching one-on-one or working with teams. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Not everyone will believe in you, sometimes even people you love. Follow your gut and do it anyway. When it gets hard (and it will), pause, regroup and keep going. Breakthroughs often sit on the other side of discomfort.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
I genuinely love this work. Watching clients let go of what’s been holding them back and step into their potential is incredibly energising. I also keep learning, being in training rooms with growth-minded people keeps my practice fresh and effective.
What methods do you use to unwind from work? Mediation, Bush walking, gardening and trampolining — they keep me grounded, present and playful.
If you would like to find out more, please book a free 30-minute consult using the QR code provided.
E: sarah@L3Coaching.me
T: 0404 085 023
W: L3Coaching.me
L3Coaching Australia
@L3Coachingme
Sarah Burrows
L3Coaching
Live the Life you Love - ready for change
CARROLL & O’DEA
Diana Farah & Olivia Mailian Partners
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Diana and Olivia: Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers has provided exceptional legal services for more than 126 years. We are Partners at the firm. Diana has been with the firm for over 36 years and was the first female Partner appointed in the firm’s history. Olivia has been with the firm for 19 years. We are both litigators predominantly in Personal Injury law and are dedicated advocates for our clients. We are also very active in driving change in the profession by supporting and mentoring women in law. We share a steadfast commitment to achieving justice for our clients.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Diana: I always wanted to be a lawyer. This desire was fostered by a lawyer friend leading me to undertake a Bachelor of Laws from the University of NSW. During my time at The College of Law, one of the Partners presented and mentioned there was a vacancy. I applied, and the rest is history. During my initial period at the firm, I did a lot of work representing clients who had sustained catastrophic injuries and whose lives were turned upside down. The devastating impact such injuries have on people’s lives and their loved ones steered me towards Personal Injury litigation. It has always been important for me to be able to give these people a voice and restore their self-worth, dignity and independence in the face of life-changing circumstances. I also have the privilege of acting for a Defendant client. Acting for both Plainti s and Defendants has given me a unique perspective on how to approach cases and has strengthened my skillset.
Lawyers
At Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers, Diana and Olivia bring experience, empathy and integrity to their work as litigators in personal injury law. Together, they advocate for justice while championing mentorship and leadership within the profession. Diana, the firm’s first female Partner, and Olivia, a dedicated advocate for fairness, continue to shape the firm’s legacy through compassion, professionalism and a shared commitment to empowering others.
When I was 10 years old, I witnessed a schoolmate being bullied, and it crystallised in me a need to help others and to defend what I knew to be right. I worked in journalism and public relations prior to entering law, but was continually pulled by the need to advocate for others in need. I followed my calling and entered law to be a voice for people who may feel unempowered and are unable to advocate for themselves.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
Olivia: Thinking back to my childhood, I was an intensely shy child, yet had a strong sense of fairness.
Diana: My integrity, negotiation skills, good judgment and attention to detail. No stone is left unturned to achieve the best possible outcome for my clients. I am also not afraid to take calculated risks, and over the years, I have taken on many risky and challenging cases. Securing justice for my clients, no matter the hurdles or challenges, is paramount.
Olivia: I think my greatest strengths are resilience, a strategic mind and adaptability. Through experience and age, I have built a strong sense of resilience and a thick skin. My mentors have taught me strategies that have promoted success in the Courtroom, and my innate optimism has assisted me in ensuring that I can adapt and change my focus and strategy when I need to.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Diana: Follow your passion. Never compromise your principles. Integrity and respect should be paramount. Embrace change and keep learning. Use technology and flexible work arrangements to progress your career while maintaining balance in your life. Women are needed in our profession; they make a real di erence. Women trailblazers all share common traits: a drive to help others, a strong sense of self, and an ability to never lose sight of the human element. Choose a mentor that you admire and learn from, be it male or female. My mentor was a man, and after almost four decades in the law, I continue to
develop and strengthen my skills every day. Focus on building relationships and communicating e ectively with clients, colleagues, and opposing parties. Olivia: I think one of the key pieces of advice I would share is to remain grounded within the community. Always look for opportunities to give back by being an active participant in society. It is a privilege to be a lawyer, and we have a civic responsibility to give back and help make our society a better place. What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
Diana: Achieving the best outcomes for my clients and taking on complex and challenging cases keep me motivated. I am also motivated by being involved with the new generation of lawyers coming through the firm. The privilege of mentoring and supporting them as they establish their careers is very rewarding. Olivia: I love a good challenge and getting out of my comfort zone. I am not one to shy away from a di cult case and I set the bar high for myself. I find mentoring is also helpful. Going back to basics and sharing knowledge with younger practitioners is very rewarding.
Olivia
T: 02 9291 7168
E: omailian@codea.com.au
W: codea.com.au/lawyers/olivia-mailian
Diana
T: 02 9291 7100
E: dfarah@codea.com.au
W: codea.com.au/lawyers/diana-farah
Diana Farah (left), Olilvia Mailian (right)
JENNIFERLang
Jennifer Lang Australia Director
Beyond the books
From solo bookkeeper to leading a dynamic financial services team, Jennifer Lang has built her business on clarity, trust, and genuine connection. As Director of Jennifer Lang Australia, she empowers small businesses with practical financial insight, not just the numbers, but the stories behind them. Her hands-on, grassroots approach bridges the gap between bookkeeping and strategy, helping clients grow confidently with a clear view of their financial future.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Jennifer Lang Australia started out as a small local bookkeeping business back in 2017. The business o ered only very basic bookkeeping services back with only one sta member… me! Working with many di erent types of small businesses, I learned how to utilise my unique skill sets and provide a wider financial service to clients. Since then, the business has gone from basic bookkeeping by one person to o ering bookkeeping, management accounting, CFO and strategic financial services by a team of four.
Our team has a combined 45 years of experience, each of us with our own specialisations, from payroll to financial management, financial system setups and process optimisations.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
I was a seasoned accountant and analyst for 15 years, working in many high-level corporate roles. I got to a point where I realised that to make a di erence, I needed to be working at the grassroots level, learning
and understanding businesses from the ground up, not just looking down from above. This is why I chose bookkeeping initially. It isn’t until you have visibility of every transaction that you can understand exactly how the business operates, what the trends are and how it can be improved. Working from the grassroots level, I was able to really get to know my clients individually. I didn’t want my business to follow the model of only seeing clients once a quarter or once a year; I really wanted to be an ongoing presence in their business to provide financial guidance and support.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
One of my key strengths and something that di erentiates our business from other financial services is being able to communicate financial information in an easy-to-understand, relatable way for our clients.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Don’t underestimate the work involved in starting a new business. Starting your own business takes long hours, sacrifices and a lot
of hard work. This isn’t because women are disadvantaged or don’t have the resources to do it, it is just the reality of being an entrepreneur. Starting a business requires you to go ‘all in’, but the rewards you get from this achievement are totally worth it.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
I commit time to family and hobbies. Work/life balance is hard to strike when you own your own business, though, within my busy schedule, I try and make time to do things that are not work-related to unwind and reset. Aside from spending time with my family, I am a recreational pilot. Being 8,000ft in the air allows me to clear my head and really focus on the challenge of flying a plane and, most importantly, enjoying the view!
T: 02 6111 2906
E: info@jenniferlangaustralia.com.au
RichardsMICHELLE
Michelle Richards Hearing
Director/Clinical Audiometrist
The power of listening
After years in the hearing health industry, Michelle set out to create something different: a clinic built on ethics, empathy and genuine care. A fully accredited audiometrist for more than 20 years, she leads Michelle Richards Hearing, an independent practice dedicated to helping Canberrans reconnect through sound.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I’m the Director and Principal Audiometrist at Michelle Richards Hearing, an independent hearing clinic proudly serving the Canberra community. We specialise in comprehensive hearing care — from hearing assessments and tinnitus management to hearing aid fitting and rehabilitation — with a focus on genuine, personalised care rather than sales targets. I founded the clinic in February 2024 to provide a more ethical, patient-first alternative to the large corporate chains, where clients are treated as people, not numbers. Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
My career began in education before I transitioned into hearing health — a shift that allowed me to combine my love of language, communication, and helping others. Over the years, I’ve worked with a broad range of clients, from veterans and pensioners through the Hearing Services Program to families supporting loved ones with hearing loss. That experience shaped my mission: to create a clinic that delivers independent, evidence-based hearing care with heart. Ethical. Local. Independent.
What do you consider to be your key strengths? Empathy and integrity are at the core of everything I do. I take time to truly listen — not just to hearing test results, but to each person’s story. I also have a strong commitment to clinical excellence and ongoing education, ensuring every recommendation is based on the latest evidence, not on brand affiliation. My clients trust that the advice they receive is honest, transparent, and tailored to their needs.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Back yourself, and don’t be afraid to carve your own path. Success isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room; it’s about showing up with consistency, authenticity, and care. Build your business on values, not trends, and surround yourself with people who uplift rather than compete. Women bring a powerful mix of empathy and resilience to leadership — lean into that.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
I’m motivated every day by the incredible transformations I witness — from the moment someone hears their grandchild’s laughter again, to the relief of finally managing tinnitus. Those moments remind me why hearing care matters. I also stay
energised through professional development and collaboration with local care facilities, GPs and allied health professionals — it keeps my practice dynamic and connected. What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Balance is essential in such a people-focused profession. For me, that means time at the gym, taking my dog Versace for walks, catching a good movie, and heading to the snow whenever I can. Kangaroo Valley is my happy place. Movement and nature help me recharge so I can bring my best self back to my clients.
T: 02 6281 0222
E: michelle@michellerichardshearing.com.au
W: michellerichardshearing.com.au
Michelle Richards Hearing
Michelle Richards
N Side
Community Service
Ashleigh Bellingham, Executive Manager – Children’s Services. Abbegaile Guanzon, Centre Director Harrison Early Childhood Centre. Nazish Mushtaq, Centre Director Majura Early Learning Centre. Melissa Crawford, Centre Director Treehouse in the Park. Chris Butterworth, Centre Director Yurauna Early Childhood Centre.
Nurturing community from the very beginning
At the heart of Northside Community Service is a shared commitment to inclusion, education, and connection. Through its five early childhood centres across Canberra, Northside provides nurturing, high-quality care that supports children, families, and community. Led by a passionate team of early childhood professionals, the organisation empowers children to learn, grow, and thrive in environments built on respect, curiosity, and belonging, shaping bright futures from the very beginning.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Ash: Northside Community Services delivers services to members of the Canberra community who are experiencing vulnerability, seeking connection and looking to access high-quality education and care. I have been with Northside for around 3 years; I am the Executive Manager of Children’s Services.
Nazish: Along with other services, Northside Community Service provides exceptional early learning to give the best start in life to our children in our care. I am working as the centre director at Majura Early Childhood.
Chris: As Centre Director at Yurauna Early Childhood Centre, I lead a team committed to nurturing children in a culturally safe and inclusive environment. Yurauna supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families by creating a space where children feel strong in their identities, while their parents pursue further studies.
Mel: I have been with Northside for seven years and currently serve as the Centre Director at one of our early childhood centres.
Abby: I’ve been with Northside since March 2019, working across various roles. I’m currently the Centre Director at Harrison Early Childhood Centre.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
including family daycare, Cranleigh School, supporting children with significant intellectual disabilities and autism, and other organisations across Canberra. I began my journey with Northside as an educator and have been fortunate to grow into leadership roles over time. Each experience has shaped my practice and led me to my current role as Centre Director, where I feel honoured to support children and families every day.
Abby: I began as a Team Leader in our preschool classroom, then progressed to Assistant Director in 2021, and later that same year stepped into the Centre Director role. Mel: Early childhood education has been my lifelong passion and the only career I’ve pursued. With nearly 20 years of experience in the sector, I’ve had the privilege of working in various roles that have deepened my understanding of child development, leadership, and community engagement.
Ash: With my mum working in Early Education, my teen years exposed me to the world of education. An apprenticeship in an Early Learning Centre was my next step. I knew this was for me at the age of 14. Having worked in casual, Lead and Management roles over the past 20 years, I am now in my most important and impactful role yet!
Nazish: My journey started as an educator at Northside, and I have been in a variety of roles before taking over the centre director position at Majura.
Chris: I’ve been an Educator for around 20 years, working across a variety of settings
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Ash: Don’t wait for someone to open the door for you, put on your favourite shoes, smile and open it yourself – opportunity waits for no one, go get it!
Nazish: The advice for next generations of women is to know your worth and surround yourself with people who inspire, challenge and support you and keep learning and evolving.
Chris: My advice is to embrace the mistakes; they’re part of the journey and some of the best learning comes from those moments. Don’t be afraid to lean on your colleagues when you’re feeling vulnerable; you’re never alone. “There’s always sunshine after the storm, so keep going and back yourself.” My mum told me that quote once, and I live by it.
Abby: Always be open to learning and growth. Stay positive and embrace challenges as opportunities.
Mel: Surround yourself with mentors and peers who uplift and challenge you. Don’t be afraid to take up space, ask questions, and advocate for what matters to you.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Ash: Spending time with my family out in our garden, feeding the chooks and exploring our community parks -unwind time is usually a busy time with twin 5-year-olds!
Nazish: Methods I use to re-wind from work, listening to music, go for walk and talk to family and friends who recharge me through active listening and positive intent.
Chris: I love to cook and try out new recipes to feed family and friends. I don’t mind having a couple of glasses of my favourite red either.
Abby: I prioritise life-work balance by making time to relax and disconnect, allowing space for personal wellbeing.
Mel: To unwind, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading a book or watching my favourite comfort show.
have a natural ability to bring people together and create environments where others feel safe, seen, and inspired to connect with like-minded people.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Back yourself fully, especially when your choices come from a place of authenticity and alignment. Your business needs to work for you, supporting your goals, vision, and the lifestyle you want to create for you and the community. Trust yourself, trust the process, and don’t be afraid to lead in a way that feels true to you. Make decisions from a place of integrity and alignment. If what you’re trying to implement, change, or create doesn’t feel right at your core, it will feel like hard work — and more often than not, it won’t succeed.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
Owner/Director
Balancing body, mind and community
At the heart of Canberra’s wellness community, Liz leads Change Yoga & Wellness with compassion, clarity and purpose. As owner and director, she leads two welcoming studios in Scullin and Forde dedicated to holistic wellbeing. Through mindful movement, community connection and a philosophy that wellness extends beyond the mat, Liz empowers others to find balance, growth and genuine fulfilment in their everyday lives.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Change Yoga and Wellness is a sanctuary for yoga, Pilates, and holistic well-being, with two welcoming studios in Scullin and Forde, ACT. We nurture personal growth, health, and vitality through mindful movement, breath awareness, and community connection, o ering classes, events, and retreats for all experience levels.
In early 2024, I became the owner of Change Yoga and Wellness — a natural continuation of
my passion for movement, mindfulness, and holistic living. My focus is on creating spaces where people can reconnect with themselves, find balance, and experience transformation — both on and o the mat.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
My key strengths are heart and smarts — I lead with compassion and intuition, while also thinking strategically and making well-informed decisions. I bring heart into everything I do, but I also balance it with grounded, intelligent action. I
Passion is always my driving force. I’m motivated to take action when what I’m doing aligns with something I truly care about. Alongside that, I have an internal drive to keep things moving and to succeed. On a day-to-day level, staying motivated comes from practices that connect me to my body and mind — movement, breathing exercises, and meditation all help release stress, bring clarity, and spark inspiration. Staying motivated also comes from fuelling myself properly: eating well, nourishing my body, and keeping energy levels balanced so I can focus and think clearly.
E: info@changeyoga.com.au
T: 0472 571 163
W: changeyoga.com.au
Change Yoga & Wellness @changeyogaandwellness
BIANCA
home.byholly and Called It! Emery
Residential Sales Specialist, Auctioneer and Director
A people person with passion
Dynamic, creative, and deeply people-focused, Bianca thrives where connection meets confidence. As a Director, Auctioneer, and Residential Sales Specialist with home.byholly and Called It!, she’s built a career around storytelling, authenticity, and impact. Known for bringing energy and clarity to the property world, Bianca’s passion lies in helping people move forward with purpose.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I joined home.byholly as a sales agent in January 2020. We are a boutique real estate collective that focuses on connection, creativity, and community. I am passionate about supporting people move through their property journey, guiding them with care and enthusiasm.
I’m also the Director and Auctioneer of Called It!, a business I created to bring authenticity, energy, and inclusivity to the auction space. It’s now grown into a service that supports agents and sellers across Canberra. I love bringing confidence, clarity, and momentum to auction day.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
My path hasn’t been linear, but every step has shaped what I do now. I started in real estate when I was 19, but went on to work in training and systems delivery for government, learning the value of structure and communication.
From 2013-2019, I was a Marriage Celebrant, which taught me how to speak with purpose and calm under pressure, skills that have become
vital in auctions and client negotiations.
When I joined home.byholly, it felt like I had found my people. The brand’s creative spirit matched how I wanted to work, and from there, Called It! became a natural extension of that, which blends my love of public speaking, advocacy, and leadership into a business the industry needed.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
Communication is at the heart of everything I do. Whether it’s storytelling, guiding clients, or calling auctions, I focus on helping people feel seen and understood.
I’m strategic and creative, always looking for ways to make each campaign stand out, and I’m tenacious. Real estate can be high-pressure, but I stay grounded by focusing on purpose and people.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Be unapologetically yourself. There’s power in doing things your way. Ask questions, find mentors who challenge and support you, and back yourself when it matters most. Confidence is built through action, showing up, learning, and trusting yourself even when
the path feels terrifying!
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
I set big goals and love to challenge myself. I stay curious by constantly learning and evolving my craft, and I draw motivation from the people around me, my clients, my team, and my community remind me daily why I love this work.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
My two children are my biggest source of joy and balance. Unwinding for me looks like days in the garden, movie nights at home, or dinner with friends. It’s less about escaping work and more about filling my life with things that keep me grounded and inspired.
T: 0403 650 128
E: bianca@homebyholly.com.au
Bianca Emery - Real Estate Agent @biancaloveshomes
ELOISE Higgins Daydream Machine
Manager
Championing neurodiversity through creativity
As Manager of Daydream Machine, Eloise helps lead a creative and inclusive space where neurodiverse youth can explore their talents in music, art and technology. Since joining Daydream Machine, she has seen firsthand how connection and creativity can transform confidence and foster community. Guided by empathy and purpose, Eloise is dedicated to supporting young people to grow, learn and express themselves in an environment where everyone belongs.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I work at the amazing Daydream Machine – an after-school care and enrichment program for neurodiverse kids to explore their interests and talents in music, arts and technology. Daydream Machine has really met a need in the ACT community, which is reflected in the degree to which it’s grown since it was first established in 2022 by Luke Ferguson. Daydream Machine now has over 140 students enrolled across 8 sessions per week, running over 6 days, plus a school holiday program.
We have 12 members of staff, including the founder, 2022 ACT Local Hero, Luke Ferguson and amongst the staff are people who were students in the program and are now Assistant Educators themselves. This is
something we’re particularly proud of, not only for the benefits to those individual students but to the positive impact this has on our broader Daydream Machine Community.
I’ve been working at Daydream Machine for over two years. I started out as an Assistant Educator and earlier this year, I became the Manager.
As the Manager of Daydream Machine, my role includes rostering, inventory management, planning activities and supervising sessions.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
I started working at Daydream Machine when I was 16 and had never really had a proper job before. I had no idea how much I would love this job and where it would take me.
As a neurodiverse person myself, it’s been wonderful to make a positive impact on the lives of young people like me, and to be so embraced by their families and the broader community.
What started as just a casual job has turned into something that really does feel like a calling. After working at Daydream Machine for a little while, I combined my love of maths with my passion for working with neurodiverse kids, and I started maths tutoring. This has led me to pursue formal study in education and I am undertaking a Bachelor of Secondary Education, Mathematics. At the start of 2026, I’ll be running a weekly math class at Daydream Machine.
E: admin@daydreammachine.co
W: daydreammachine.co
@daydreammachine1
@daydreammachine1
LAUREN Su erland
The SketchingTipsyClub
Founder & Creative Instigator
The Tipsy Sketching Club
Blending creativity with confidence and a splash of fun, The Tipsy Sketching Club is redefining what it means to draw outside the lines. Founded by Lauren, the club turns traditional life drawing into a relaxed, social experience, complete with good company, a drink in hand, and an atmosphere of openness and laughter. What began as a casual side project has become a thriving movement across three states, celebrating art, body positivity, and connection in the most delightful way.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role withini it.
I launched The Tipsy Sketching Club in 2022, as a creative side hustle aimed at bringing life drawing into social, welcoming, and accessible environments–our local pubs. Life drawing can often be seen as a taboo art form due to the element of nudity; however, I enjoy breaking the misconception that nudity is inherently sexual and championing diverse body types and abilities. What started as a once-monthly event amongst friends has, three years later, turned into my full-time job, running about 12 events a month across three di erent states.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
My career to date has been working in hospitality and tourism–a path that took me from waitressing in 2005 to a hotel General Manager in 2018. In 2020, there was an opportunity to work as the Operations Manager at the Canberra
& Region Visitors Centre, a role I couldn’t turn down, so I made the jump across to the public service. This role allowed me the work/life balance that hospitality didn’t, and the creative part of my brain fired up and started getting hungry. The Tipsy Sketching Club came about while I was modelling for an art class, and sitting still in the nude, I decided that I’d like to see how I could take this amazing art form to a larger audience.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
once you start believing that the only limitations are our imaginations (ok, maybe money plays a part as well!), you can really start to grow. What methods do you use to unwind from work?
I’m an extrovert through and through–just ask anyone I’ve ever interacted with. I like to think I’m also quite emotionally intelligent, and I know when to pull people out of their shells and when to leave them alone. I’m enthusiastic, encouraging, positive, and not afraid to have a laugh at myself.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Don’t think that a side hustle can’t become a full-time job. We are our own worst enemies, but
Walking the dogs on any number of Canberra’s great walking tracks, listening to a long-form true crime podcast, a Pilates class at Dance Sculpt, a glass of wine and time with friends.
Cass Smith (Left), MJ Liddicoat (Middle) and Peta Demczyszyn (Right)
Freedom to build, protect and prosper
At the helm of Freedom Financial Solutions and Freedom Financial Partners are three women driven by purpose and experience: founder Cass Smith and managing directors Peta Demczyszyn and Mary-Jane Liddicoat. Together, they’re helping Australians take charge of their finances and build stronger futures for their families. From superannuation and self-managed funds to asset protection and succession planning, their approach combines education, empowerment and empathy to create financial freedom that truly lasts.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
With decades of awarded public and private financial and accounting experience, Cass Smith founded Freedom Financial Solutions FFS in response to the increasing financial challenges and pressures that everyday Australians have faced since 2020.
Under the Freedom Financial Partners umbrella, three women with decades of experience — founder Cass, and managing directors Peta and Mary-Jane — help Australians take control of their families’ finances, especially their superannuation and intergenerational wealth.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Cass and Peta are lifelong financial experts and accountants dedicated to helping men and women control their financial energy for their families — now and for generations.
Peta is the Managing Director of sister company Freedom Financial Partners. As a qualified accountant with more than a decade of experience in the industry, Peta brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise and a passion for helping people achieve financial security in retirement.
As a dedicated SMSF accountant, Peta specialises in SMSF accounting and compliance. Peta possesses an in-depth understanding and knowledge of the complex SMSF regulatory landscape and stays up to date with the latest industry trends and changes.
Beyond her technical expertise, she excels at building strong relationships with clients and is committed to providing exceptional service and going the extra mile and enhancing business systems to make it even easier for clients to stay on top of their finances.
Cass is a highly accomplished, multi-qualified financial professional with over three decades of experience across taxation, business, SMSFs, finance, mortgages, property, and share market investing. She is a qualified accountant, registered tax agent, mortgage broker, licensed real estate agent, property adviser, and a specialist in Succession, Asset Protection & Estate Planning (SAPEP). Her career spans both public and private sectors, including over 11 years at the Australian Taxation O ce, where she served as a Senior Fraud Investigator and Director. A recognised leader in her field, Cass was named the 2019 Telstra Business Woman of the Year (ACT) and has received more than 50 awards across the ACT, NSW, and national levels for excellence in financial services.
Committed to standing up where it counts, she ran as a candidate in the 2022 and 2025 federal elections and is regularly invited to speak online and on stage to community groups to empower them to create meaningful change.
Mary-Jane joined FFS in 2022 to expand the SMSF Setup Division and now serves as Managing Director. In 2025, she published ‘Gold (and Silver) in your SMSF: Ownership Must Knows’ and was awarded SAPEPAA’s “Entrepreneur of the Year”.
With decades of experience across public, private and international sectors — including service as a senior public servant and diplomat — she brings deep cross-cultural, negotiation and education skills and is an internationally recognised author. An award-winning small business owner and community advocate, MaryJane has led major human rights initiatives and was invited to run as a candidate in the 2022 and 2025 federal elections.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Own your niche and set your standards; Walk the talk — practice the ‘do as we do’ model, not the ‘do as we say’; Speak plainly and educate clearly; Build solid processes, ensure quality is checked; Choose partners who match your commitment; Price to reflect your value.
About Freedom Financial Partners
Who we are: Founder Cass Smith and managing directors Peta Demczyszyn and Mary-Jane Liddicoat: three women, decades of combined experience
What we do: Empower Australians to take control of their families’ finances, especially their superannuation and intergenerational wealth, including through self-managed super funds (SMSFs) and succession, asset protection and estate planning strategies. FFS has particular expertise in ensuring clients are compliant as they transform digital super assets into tangible assets like gold and silver. SMSF interest in bullion has skyrocketed since 2021 — as have bullion values — and FFS has become a compliance leader in this field.
The team’s client-first vision is practical: build robust asset-protection and estate-planning structures — SMSFs, trusts and succession guardrails — that hold under stress, not just on paper.
How we work: Education first, then a clear, compliant plan and disciplined execution
Why it matters: Tax-only structures often fail under stress; we prioritise control, succession and protection for family generations to come
Based in Canberra, serving people Australia-wide T: 1300 333 121
E: enquiries@freedom s.com.au W: freedom s.com.au
NADIA Pe aro i
Pulse8 Strategies. The People Initiative. Bruton Basketball Foundation
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I am a Director across several businesses, with my primary consulting agency being Pulse8 Strategies. At Pulse8, we focus on business improvement through people, taking a holistic approach with our clients. Our services span HR, People and Culture, leadership coaching, executive and board advisory, workforce planning, and business advisory, complemented by a strong design, marketing, communications, and PR arm.
Our clients are diverse, ranging from notfor-profits, SMEs, and government agencies to large organisations of over 1,000 employees. I founded and have led Pulse8 for more than four years and I am proud to sponsor the YWCA She Leads Conference each year. My passion lies in helping people reach their full potential, with a strong belief that the key to success in business is a successful team — The People.
I love bringing out the best in others, always balancing empathy with commercial acumen. My motto is to use my powers for good, which inspired the creation of The People Initiative two years ago — a non-profit recruitment company where profits go back to the community. Our
Turning passion into purpose
For Nadia, leadership is driven by people, purpose and positive impact. As Director of Pulse8 Strategies and The People Initiative, and Chair of the Bruton Basketball Foundation, she combines empathy with strategic insight to create meaningful change. Whether empowering teams, supporting communities or mentoring future leaders, Nadia’s work reflects her belief that true success comes from lifting others.
motto, Power to the People, reflects our mission, and we are proud to o er some of the most competitive recruitment rates in Australia, operating nationwide.
My other passion is my role as Chair of the Bruton Basketball Foundation (BBF), where we work with disengaged and disadvantaged youth across Australia, particularly in Indigenous communities, helping them develop life skills both on and o the court. I am very lucky as I work closely with NBL Hall of Famer Cal Bruton OAM, who is the CEO and Founder of BBF. Bringing his vision to life is one of the most rewarding roles I have ever had.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
My key strengths centre around leadership, connection, and strategic thinking. I have a natural ability to bring out the best in people, creating environments where individuals feel valued, supported, and inspired to perform at their best. I’m known for my emotional intelligence, commercial acumen, and ability to see the bigger picture while keeping people at the heart of every decision.
Ultimately, my strength lies in balancing empathy with accountability — I care deeply about people, but I’m equally driven by
achieving meaningful and sustainable business outcomes. My motto, use my powers for good, really sums it up — I lead with purpose, passion, and integrity.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
It’s hard — but it’s absolutely worth it. My biggest advice is to back yourself and trust your gut. You will make mistakes, but that’s where the real growth happens. Listen to feedback, take it on board, and use it to evolve — you don’t have to know everything, and you will find that people are often willing to help if you’re open and genuine. I do find that the next generation don’t take feedback well, they see it as an attack – we need to understand feedback is a positive; we have to learn from feedback. We don’t have to take it all on, but we need to listen and reflect to continue to improve.
T: 0416 270 194
E: contact@pulse8strategies.com.au
W: thepeopleinitiative.au
W: brutonbasketballfoundation.com.au
The People Initiative
Bruton Basketball Foundation BBF
Serhan Irene
& Mackey Canberra Advice Financial Planning
Placing your financial stepping stones
Founder and Principal Adviser
A compassionate, inquisitive woman equipped with a Master of Business and Master of Financial Planning along with extensive experience in financial services, Serhan Mackey established Canberra Advice Financial Planning in May 2021 to help Canberrans manage their finances so they can take control of their futures.
equipped to reach them.
What is Financial Planning?
To me financial planning is about people and processes, not products and profit. It’s a lifelong process of learning and adapting people’s financial habits and investments to suit their needs and empowering them to a ord their wants. It incorporates many di erent disciplines to do this, which can be overwhelming to navigate on your own. What does a Financial Planner do?
Financial planners help to demystify and combine these disciplines in ways that help to create a long-term, sustainable financial outlook. A financial planner is someone who can help you map a financial blueprint of your life in its current form and into the future. They can take you from this moment, to next month, next year, a milestone event, or even into and past your retirement and ensure that your finances are as considered as possible along the way.
There’s a common misconception that financial planners are only for people with savings to invest. On the contrary, financial planning is integral to developing some savings in the first place! Savings start with one small step after the other. Consistency is the key when building your savings, so we will help you to form and stick to short-, medium- and long-term savings goals and make sure you’re properly
You might want to save for a holiday, celebrate your retirement, pay for a grandchild’s education, put a deposit down on a home, or simply protect yourself and your assets. Whatever your aspirations, a financial planner can help you consider your outlook and place the stepping stones in front of you to reach your goals.
Tell us about your journey in business. What inspired you?
Ever since the 2019 Financial Services Royal Commission I’ve wanted to set up my own practice to help redefine financial advice. Two years later, I did just that. I created a business that puts people ahead of products because my passion has always been giving people the tools to help themselves. At Canberra Advice Financial Planning, we have reframed financial advice in terms of life management because we believe taking control of your money means giving yourself options to live the way you want. We are transparent and driven to simplify complexity in our clients’ financial lives. What are some important qualities required to excel in finance?
Empathy and compassion are top of mind for me, as I think they should be for all advisers. Empathy is an important quality in finance because clients are often in stressful or uncomfortable relationships with their
money. Being empathetic allows us to better understand and connect with our clients, which is necessary to come up with tailored strategies and solutions. I think compassion is also needed to properly engage with clients’ problems and find solutions that involve teaching them habits and skills they can use to help themselves along the advisory journey while respecting their individual situations. What are your specialties?
We have advisers with a range of experiences, but we are particularly happy to help with Government Defined Benefit Schemes (MSBS, DFRDB, PSS, CSS and SASS), Tertiary Defined Benefit (UniSuper), public service redundancies, Australian Defence Force (ADF) transition and retirement advice, and the financial processes involved with DVA determinations. No matter your age or life-stage, we’re here to help simplify the securing of your finances now and into the future so you feel empowered to live the life you want.
Contact details
To see how Canberra Advice Financial Planning can help you to secure your financial future, contact Serhan Mackey on 0422 354 617 or email serhan@canberraadvice.com.au
WOMEN BUSINESSin
LloydCARLIE Collins Booksellers Queanbeyan
Co-Owner
A new chapter built on passion and purpose
Special Events Manager PieperEMMA
The Show Room Canberra Home & Lifestyle Show
Creating Canberra’s most memorable events
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
For Carlie, opening Collins Booksellers Queanbeyan was about rediscovering purpose and passion. After more than a decade in the corporate world, she took a leap of faith to turn her lifelong love of reading into a new chapter of business ownership. Alongside her brother Scott, she now runs two family-owned bookstores, creating spaces that celebrate community, connection and the joy of getting lost in a good book. enjoy your job,” that it all clicked. That simple observation was the lightbulb moment I needed: it was time to make a change.
We’re an independent, familyowned business that opened its doors in May 2025. I co-own this store and the Collins Booksellers Wagga Wagga with my brother, Scott.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
I spent 13 years with the same company, taking on every opportunity I could to grow and develop my career. It was a great organisation, and for a long time, it felt like the right place to be.
But eventually, I realised I wasn’t feeling fulfilled anymore. My role no longer aligned with my sense of purpose, and it became harder and harder to stay motivated. I kept telling myself I should be happy — after all, I was in a good job, surrounded by good people. So I took on side projects, leaned into personal development, and looked for new ways to stay engaged.
It wasn’t until someone said to me, “It sounds like you just don’t
Ever since I first learned to read, I haven’t stopped. So when the opportunity came up to open a bookshop in Queanbeyan, I couldn’t say no. Leaving the stability of my corporate role was both terrifying and thrilling — but right now, I couldn’t be happier. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Instead of letting your environment keep you down just to show ‘them’ how much you can take, change your environment so you can thrive. What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Read a book!
E: queanbeyan@collinsbooks.com.au
T: 02 5127 6036
W: queanbeyan.collinsbooks.com.au
With more than 25 years in the events industry, Emma Pieper has established herself as one of Canberra’s most experienced and respected Special Events Managers. Known for her creativity, professionalism, and dedication, she has played a major role in shaping some of Canberra’s most-loved community events.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I’ve been creating events in Canberra for over 20 years and am currently the Owner/Event Manager of The ShowRoom Canberra Home & Lifestyle Show. It’s incredibly rewarding to see events I am involved with become a permanent fixture on Canberra’s annual calendar. My role covers everything from concept design and exhibitor engagement to logistics, marketing, and post-event analysis. Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
My career has taken me across a wide range of industries, including hospitality, retail, travel, horticulture, pets, as well as the not-for-profit, corporate and community sectors.
I’ve been privileged to work on events such as the RSPCA ACT Million Paws Walk, Lifeline Women of Spirit Awards, The Big Boys Toys Expo Canberra, Floriade’s Dogs Day Out, A Pooch Affair and, most recently, The ShowRoom Canberra Home & Lifestyle Show. What do you consider to be your key strengths?
I’m dedicated, relationship-driven, personable, and detail-oriented. I pride myself on being approachable
and communicative, working closely with exhibitors, sponsors, and clients to ensure their success.
I’m passionate about keeping my events fresh and evolving by always introducing new elements to the event each year.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
It’s incredibly rewarding to see businesses succeed through being part of the events I manage, with many exhibitors returning each year after achieving great results. Seeing new elements of the event come to life and receiving feedback from attendees who have genuinely enjoyed the event is what keeps me passionate about what I do.
The ShowRoom Canberra Home & Lifestyle Show
14-15 March 2026 I Exhibition Park in Canberra
E: hello@theshowroomcanberra. com.au
T: 0410 544 069
W: theshowroomcanberra.com.au
The ShowRoom Canberra @theshowroomcanberra
A cut above in care
Owner VERAVujic Coco Hair & Beauty
For Vera, hairdressing has always been about more than beautiful hair; it’s about connection, confidence, and care. As the proud owner of Coco’s Hair in Watson, she’s spent the past 15 years building not just a thriving salon, but a community. Known for her artistry, warmth, and dedication to education, Vera believes that true success comes from continual learning and inspiring others to grow. Her passion shines through every client transformation and every stylist she mentors along the way.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Fifteen years ago, I joined Coco’s Hair when the opportunity arose to become a partner in the business. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. This journey has helped me grow into a more confident person and inspired me to mentor and support other stylists in getting the most out of what we do and understand why we do it.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Being a hairdresser means so much more than cutting or colouring hair. We listen, we care, and we create. Whether it’s a simple trim, a full restyle, or a complete colour transformation, the true reward is seeing the smile on a client’s face when they look in the mirror.
Over the years, I’ve attended many courses to refine my craft and expand my knowledge in all areas of hairdressing. This year, I am especially proud to have joined the prestigious Wella Colour Expert Course, the most advanced level of colour education o ered by Wella Professionals.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
At Coco’s Hair, I am strongly committed to ongoing education. In our industry, learning never stops, and I encourage my team to continually develop their skills. Nothing makes me happier than seeing them return from workshops inspired and excited to share what they’ve learned.
Shop 3 Watson Place, Watson
T: 02 6241 1510
E: cocoshair06@gmail.com
W: cocoshair.com.au
SOPHIE
Your Property Pro ts Director Mclean
Bringing out the best in every home
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Your Property Profits is a Canberrabased renovation company dedicated to helping homeowners create beautiful, functional spaces they love — whether they’re preparing to sell or simply want to upgrade their home. We specialise in strategic renovations designed to maximise value, improve market appeal, and give homeowners confidence in their financial future. Many people want their home to look its best but lack the time, funds, or expertise to manage the renovation themselves. That’s where we step in. From cosmetic updates to full structural redesigns, we manage every aspect using our trusted trades team and market insight. We cover costs upfront, with payment deferred until settlement for those selling, making renovations accessible to all. Our goal is more than just improving homes — we empower clients navigating life changes, remove renovation stress, and help people focus on what comes next. By working locally and sustainably, we also support Canberra communities while raising standards in property presentation.
work, but didn’t have the cash, time or know-how to make it happen. That’s when I realised there had to be a better way. I started Your Property Profits to take that pressure o homeowners. We manage and fund the entire renovation upfront, and our clients simply pay us from the increased profit once the property sells. It’s a true partnership — we only succeed when they do. Now, I get to combine my love of design, project management and property strategy to help people achieve better financial outcomes and move forward with confidence — all while creating homes that buyers and homeowners fall in love with.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
I’ve always loved property and design. I bought my first investment property at 23 and quickly became hooked on transforming tired houses into something beautiful and profitable. Over the years, I’ve renovated and flipped more than 70 properties across Australia — from small cosmetic updates to full structural transformations — and learned exactly what adds real value and what doesn’t. What I kept seeing, though, were homeowners who wanted to sell but couldn’t a ord to fix up their properties first. They knew the house needed
For Sophie Mclean, success in property is about more than profi t. It’s about helping people move forward with confidence. As Director of Your Property Profi ts, she transforms tired homes into standout spaces that deliver real results. By managing and funding renovations upfront, Sophie removes the stress for homeowners and ensures every project reaches its full potential, creating beautiful homes, boosting value and making clients genuinely happy.
setbacks aren’t failures; they’re lessons that make you stronger, wiser, and better prepared for what’s next.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
My biggest strength is seeing potential where others don’t — I can walk into a tired home and instantly see what will add the most value. With nearly two decades of hands-on renovation and property experience, I know how to spend strategically for the best return. I’m passionate about helping people unlock the true worth of their homes with honesty, integrity and understanding of their circumstances and needs. I combine smart design, clear communication and solid project management to create transformations that look beautiful, deliver real profit, and make the process simple and stressfree for my clients.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
My advice to the next generation of women in business is to trust yourself and take bold action. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone — the biggest opportunities often come from doing something others might shy away from. Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you, and never let anyone else define your value. Remember,
Seeing a homeowner walk away with more profit or a transformed space they love is incredibly rewarding and really motivating. There’s nothing better than seeing a family who really needs help walk away with more money in their pockets than they thought possible, or a family totally in love with their new home. I also set clear goals for each project, which keeps me on track and gives me a sense of progress. Surrounding myself with a strong, supportive team helps too – I work with great people and we have a lot of fun together. And finally, I make sure to celebrate the small wins along the way; even small milestones remind me why I do what I do.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
I am very lucky to have a beautiful family who bring endless support and fun. So coming home and being with them is the greatest way to unwind. I also have a property just out of town where I can sit with my donkeys and a cold bevy and relax!
T: 0411 648 908
E: sophie@yourpropertyprofits.com.au
W: yourpropertyprofits.com.au
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Hot Shots Photography has been running for over 30 years. I am the founder and Senior Photographer. Hot Shots is the go-to for corporate headshots, events, family portraits, weddings, and staff training for workplace photo systems.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
I picked up Photography as a course in college, developing my first roll of film and seeing images appear in front of me in the darkroom had me hooked. YES, I am that old!!
I was one of the first studios to adopt the digital camera from the USA when it was first introduced to my industry.
JODIShepherd
Hot Shots Photography & Media Services Director
Framing moments that matter with a smile
For over 30 years, Hot Shots Photography & Media Services has captured Canberra’s people, events, and stories with creativity and heart. Founded by director and senior photographer Jodi, the studio is known for its professionalism, warmth, and ability to make every client feel comfortable in front of the camera.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
Personality plus, putting people at ease, always smiling and conversation – many say I am never quiet, even in my sleep!
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Engage with or stick by a mentor — they don’t need to be in the same industry as you; they simply need business knowledge, resilience, and motivation. Support others wherever you can, network at every opportunity, and keep moving with technology to stay relevant and adaptable in a changing world.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
I stay motivated by taking long lunches with good friends and continually learning by attending every seminar and training opportunity that comes my way.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
I’d love to say travelling, but in reality, catching up on house chores and Netflix. Also, walking my dog Bear, socialising, and eating great food with family and friends.
T: 0417 200 780
E: mail@hotshotsphotography.com.au
W: hotshotsphotography.com.au
South.Point
Shopping Centre
Carole Arulantu - Marketing Manager
Ritchelle Navaja - Accounts Assistant
Susan McAndrew - Office Manager
Erin Hume - Concierge Supervisor
Jaymie Dean - Concierge
The women keeping South.Point connected At South.Point Shopping Centre, it’s the people behind the scenes who make every visit a welcoming and memorable experience. From marketing and management to customer care and concierge services, this dynamic team of women brings passion, creativity and professionalism to everything they do. Together, they create a space where community, connection and convenience come to life, ensuring South.Point continues to be the heart of Tuggeranong.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Carole: I started my career as a performer in Malaysia, after which I moved to Canberra and worked as an Events and Entertainment Manager. I then became the Senior Producer at Canberra Theatre Centre and extended my tenure there as Front of House Manager for a further four years.
After 28 years of working in the world of performing arts and event management, I accepted the role of General Manager at the National Dinosaur Museum. The thought of managing a dinosaur museum was an exciting challenge and resulted in the museum winning bronze in the 2024 National Tourism Awards. In July 2025, I accepted another challenge as Marketing Manager at South.Point. Working alongside my fantastic team, I am eager to inject fun and provide customers with unique experiences.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
Susan: Leadership, team management, customer and stakeholder engagement, adaptability, versatility, and strong problem-solving skills. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Jaymie: The advice I have for the next generation of women in business would be to stay true to yourself, lead authentically and define your own success. Lift others up as you grow because there is room for everyone to succeed, and the real reward is not just succeeding and achieving your own goals but knowing that you’ve helped others believe that they can achieve theirs too. What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
Erin: I stay motivated by focusing on the joy that comes from helping others. When I remind myself that even small acts, like returning lost car keys or helping an elderly couple find each other, can make someone’s day better, it keeps me positive and engaged. I come to work each day with the mindset that I’m here to help, and that sense of
purpose drives me to do my best. And of course caffeine! I am able to be my best self after a good cup of coffee.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Ritchelle: To unwind, I enjoy experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen; cooking is a creative outlet that allows me to express myself and relax. I also love watching documentaries and spending quality time with my partner and close friends; it’s how I recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance. A peaceful walk by the lake after work is another ritual I cherish- it gives me time to reflect and reconnect with nature.
T: 02 6293 1000
E: reception@southpointcanberra.com.au
W: southpointcanberra.com.au
From left to right: Susan, Ritchelle, Carole, Erin and Jaymie.
Middleton Funerals Funeral Director Middlet CHLOE WOMEN BUSINESSin
Heartfelt care through life’s hardest moments
For Chloe, being a funeral director isn’t just a profession — it’s a calling built on compassion, respect, and genuine care. As the owner and operator of Middleton Funerals, she provides families with a comforting, personal space to honour their loved ones.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I am proud to be the owner and operator of Middleton Funerals, a traditional ‘funeral home’ operating from a dedicated home on our small acreage. We recently incorporated Grantley Perry and Sons Funeral Directors, who proudly served Canberra and surrounding regions with quality funeral service for over 30 years. Our funeral home allows families to gather to honour and remember loved ones in the peace and tranquillity of our unique environment.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
I began as a funeral director in 2008 and quickly found my purpose and belonging as a professional. I am fortunate to have had valuable, hands-on experience in all aspects of funeral business management during my considerable years in the industry. I also met my now-husband in the industry in 2011 and, since then, we have dreamed of operating our own funeral home.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
One of the key lessons you learn very quickly in my work is that life is short and the future is uncertain. If you are fortunate enough to have found a passion in life – something that truly gives you a sense of purpose and belonging – keep hold of it until you can pursue it as a career. Spend the life you have doing things you love and that make you proud. Being happy in life is vital!
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
Providing families with the support and care they need during di cult, and highly emotive times, is all the motivation I need. Every person who comes into our care has a di erent story, and I love hearing these stories and learning about each person that we care for.
T: 02 6188 8695
E: care@middletonfunerals.com.au
Chri ensenCHRISTY WOMEN BUSINESSin
Total Body Contouring Managing Director
Sculpting confidence, inside and out
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Total Body Contouring continues to grow its presence in Canberra, with a brand-new clinic opening in Gungahlin. Led by Managing Director Christy, the locally owned business has built a strong reputation for helping clients look and feel their best through advanced, non-invasive aesthetic treatments. With a focus on personalised care, cutting-edge technology, and empowering confidence from the inside out, Total Body Contouring is redefining what it means to feel comfortable in your own skin. for a gym before returning home to manage teams of up to 25 people in the optical industry. Later, as a multisite manager in the health sector, I developed a deeper understanding of business operations and customer care. Eventually, I decided it was time to channel my passion for beauty and my entrepreneurial spirit into something of my own — and that’s when I found the perfect opportunity with Total Body Contouring. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Total Body Contouring is an advanced aesthetic clinic dedicated to helping people look and feel their absolute best. The clinic was founded nine years ago, and we proudly took over in August 2023. Since then, I’ve been the Director — but my role goes far beyond the title. I’m the heart of the business, guiding our clients through their transformation journey, leading and training our incredible team, and making sure every person who walks through our doors feels seen and cared for. I’m also hands-on with marketing, including creating reels and introducing new treatments.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
My career began at a young age, starting out in the hospitality industry, where I learned the importance of hard work and connecting with people. From there, I joined Foot Locker and quickly rose to a management position, discovering my natural talent for leadership. I then moved to the USA, where I gained valuable experience working
My advice to the next generation of women in business is to believe fiercely in yourself, stay focused on your goals, and don’t get distracted along the way. Be brave enough to take risks, make mistakes and learn from them.
T: 02 6239 7347 or 0437 087 769
E: info@totalbodycontouring.com.au
W: totalbodycontouring.com.au
Total Body Contouring
@totalbodycontouringcanberra
@totalbodycontouring
Christy Christensen
hold a Master of Science (Coaching Psychology) from the University of Sydney, a Bachelor of Business (Human Resources and Psychology), a Graduate Diploma in Education, and a Diploma of Business.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
SIMONEEY
Citron Consulting
Being able to leverage strong stakeholder engagement and strategic leadership to build e ective and purposefully authentic working relationships. I engage with individuals and teams using behavioural change techniques and strategies, such as positive provocation and cognitive behavioural coaching, to adaptively deal with systemic issues. My focus is to utilise psychologically sensitive practices with pragmatic business goal outlooks.
Devising innovative solutions and striving to adapt to enable high performance is what inspires and drives me – it is core to my professional purpose and my DNA. I have used this approach to continue to strive and develop myself personally, professionally and my career. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Managing Director
Where psychology meets performance
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Citron Consulting is a Canberrabased coaching psychology, mediation, human resources and organisational development business. We o er services to individuals, teams and organisations trying to tackle demanding situations, striving for balance, making tough decisions and looking to achieve high performance. We are also accredited Mediators and can assist clients to resolve disputes with a behavioural focus. We
Getting out there and having a go is incredibly important – if you have a dream, start with some planning, but then have the confidence to move yourself o the couch and into some action. You will have setbacks, and sometimes they hurt, but pick yourself up and keep going. As Wayne Gretzky (US Ice Hockey player) once said, “You miss 100% of the shots that you don’t take!” What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
At the helm of Citron Consulting, Simone combines behavioural insight with strategic leadership to help individuals, teams and organisations thrive. Since founding the Canberra-based consultancy in 2016, she has empowered clients to navigate challenges, improve performance and build stronger, more authentic workplaces. With a foundation in coaching psychology and human resources, Simone’s approach bridges science and strategy to drive meaningful, lasting behavioural change.
link behavioural psychology with experienced human resources know-how to build e ective leaders, cultures and strategies.
Coaching Psychology is a new domain of psychology that uses coaching to achieve proactive, results-focused, and client-centred behavioural change. We leverage sports, organisational, clinical, counselling and coaching psychological models to assist clients to deal with their issues, plan for success and achieve goals.
I am the owner and Managing Director of Citron Consulting, which I established in 2016. I
Balance my work. I am enjoying a portfolio approach to my work, which keeps things interesting and means that I am constantly experiencing new clients and issues. Currently I am working with a range of clients from individuals to small and large businesses, government councils and commonwealth departments, universities and sporting teams.
E: simone@citronconsulting.com.au
T: 02 6169 75 79
T: 0422 377 146
W: citronconsulting.com.au
BRYDENCampbe
Brand Rebellion
Helping brands come to life
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
I co-founded Brand Rebellion almost four years ago with my husband, David. We wear many hats, but my favourite one is strategy and creative development.
We help organisations look at their brand from both a workforce and marketing perspective, understanding the market they operate in, and redesigning their strategy, image and approach to create a happier, more productive workforce and a more engaged audience.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
There have been a few defining moments in my career, most of them from being thrown in the deep end.
Founder and Managing Director
For Bryden, the magic happens when strategy and creativity collide. As Founder and Managing Director of Brand Rebellion, she helps organisations rethink how their brand and people work together, because the strongest brands start from within. Her passion lies in sparking ideas, building alignment and helping teams see themselves in the brand they represent, because when people believe in what they do, performance and perception move together.
I learned quickly, often in complex environments, and discovered that being outcome-focused was a skill worth building.
Feeling isolated in some roles also shaped how I lead today. It made me determined to build a workplace where people belong, not just fit in. At Brand Rebellion, culture isn’t an afterthought; it’s part of the strategy.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
People often describe running your own business as freedom, but for me, it’s about responsibility. Flexibility exists, but when you have a team, you’re accountable for their livelihoods as much as your results.
Running a business is relentless yet rewarding. The key is defining what success means to you and setting boundaries around it.
My advice? Surround yourself with women who inspire you, talk about
innovation, and celebrate creativity. Don’t downplay your ideas. Showing up, taking risks, and learning as you go is innovation. It’s not about being fearless; it’s about being open to growth.
What
strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
What lights me up is when ideas start feeding o each other, when the team is energised and there’s that spark in the room. Presenting a brand strategy and watching it resonate with a client is also incredibly rewarding.
When motivation dips, I reconnect with the bigger picture, why we do what we do, and the impact we’re creating for our clients and team.
I find that inspiration comes from movements, having conversations, running workshops, or bouncing ideas around. That energy keeps me going. What methods do you use to unwind from work?
I treasure our family time. My husband and I have two little ones, and those moments together help me stay grounded and grateful. Whether we’re at athletics, out for a walk, or simply enjoying the beautiful chaos of everyday life, that time fills my cup.
Switching o fully is something I’m still learning, but I’ve come to see rest as the space where creativity breathes again. When ideas drift in during those quiet moments, I take it as a gentle reminder of how much I love what I do.
E: hello@brandrebellion.com.au
W: brandrebellion.com.au
ADELE & PENE
The Reindeer’s Retreat
Adele – Chief Merry Maker Pene – Head Elf
Canberra’s home of Christmas magic
Where Christmas spirit meets social purpose, The Reindeer’s Retreat is bringing festive joy with heart to Canberra. Founded by Adele and Pene, the Narrabundah-based social enterprise is more than a Christmas store. It’s a wonderland of lights, laughter and love, where every ornament, tree and workshop helps empower people overcoming hardship to find confidence, connection and a little magic of their own.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
The Reindeer’s Retreat is Canberra’s home of magic with meaning — a Christmas-inspired social enterprise that turns festive shopping into a feel-good experience. We opened in October 2024, so we’ve just celebrated our first birthday!
Each year, our Narrabundah store transforms into a dazzling Christmas wonderland — Canberra’s ultimate destination for all things Christmas. Think themed trees, twinkling lights, creative workshops, gifts and décor that fill your home (and heart) with festive cheer. Adele, our Chief Merry Maker, dreams up the vision and keeps the sleigh on course, while Pene, our Head Elf, brings the magic to life in-store with warmth, laughter and endless creativity. Together we lead a team of (sometimes mischievous) elves — young domestic-violence survivors and people with intellectual or physical disabilities — who are overcoming significant adversity. Through coaching, mentoring and meaningful employment, they gain
skills, confidence and purpose… and of course, they absolutely love Christmas!
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
We’re both experienced Christmas campaigners — we’ve enjoyed more festive seasons than we’d care to count! Between us, we’ve worked across retail, design, community development, government and consulting — experiences that shaped our belief that business can be both strategic and soulful. We share a deep love for creating spaces that bring people together, build connection and confidence, and empower people to grow.
The Reindeer’s Retreat is the realisation of a dream many years in the making — a celebration of Christmas and all that it brings, blended with the idea of social purpose.
This year marks the next evolution for The Reindeer’s Retreat. As the shop continues to grow, we’re introducing festive workshops, expanding our themed displays, and finding even more creative ways to share the joy of Christmas with our community.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
At The Reindeer’s Retreat, we live by a simple mantra — progress over perfection. Some days are about big wins; others are about simply showing up — and both matter.
To women more broadly: you are full of untapped possibility and potential. The world tries to tell you to be more beautiful — but naturally so; more confident — but only through consumption; more caring — but never tired; more successful — but never intimidating.
In a world of contradiction, we say to women: who you are is enough for this world. Just be you.
Unapologetically, authentically you. Shine bright, your way, and don’t let anyone ever dull your sparkle.
45 Boolimba Crescent, Narrabundah
T: 02 6262 0483
E: enquiries@ reindeersretreat.com.au
W: reindeersretreat.com.au
The Reindeer’s Retreat @reindeersretreat
Queanbeyan Players President H t JENNA WOMEN BUSINESSin
B a KYM WOMEN BUSINESSin
Fostering creativity on and o the stage
As President of Queanbeyan Players, Jenna brings a blend of creativity, leadership and collaboration to one of the region’s longest-running community theatre groups. With a background in both music and project management, Jenna combines artistic passion with organisational expertise, helping the group continue to inspire, connect and showcase local talent on stage.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Queanbeyan Players is a community theatre group. Established in 1965, they present a diverse range of plays and musicals, fostering local talent and engaging audiences from the region. Our productions are held at The Q - Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, and the group is known for its welcoming spirit, encouraging participation from people of all backgrounds and ages. I have served as president on the executive board for the past three years and executive committee for six, which is an incredibly rewarding experience. Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
I began my career as a musician before transitioning to Project Management within the IT sector. The skill sets I have learnt in these roles have coincided nicely and have been immensely helpful to my contribution to leading the operational and governance requirements of Queanbeyan Players. Even though on paper those two roles are very di erent,
there are many overlapping qualities, including teamwork, collaboration and communication. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
I urge the next generation to use their strengths, work together, and stay adaptable. Cultivating emotional intelligence, seeking mentorship, and never shying away from leadership opportunities. Above all, create supportive networks and ensure to celebrate both individual and collective achievements. What methods do you use to unwind from work?
My joy in life is music. I have the immense pleasure to lead two ensembles within the Canberra City Band Inc organisation, as well as contribute as a percussionist in the flagship Concert Band and Canberra Brass.
E: queanbeyanplayersinc@gmail.com
T: 0432 322 352
W: queanbeyanplayers.com
VPA Support Pty Ltd Director/Founder
The woman behind business success
Every great business needs a trusted ally behind the scenes, and that’s where Kym comes in. Through her business, VPA Support, she partners with coaches and consultants to simplify systems, streamline workflows, and keep their operations running smoothly.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
VPA Support Pty Ltd is my business, built from the ground up over the past eleven years. As the founder and lead strategist, I assume multiple roles, including operations expert, workflow creator, client cheerleader, and systems whisperer. I support established coaches and consultants by handling the behind-the-scenes work that keeps their businesses running smoothly.
Can you share your career journey so far?
I started in executive support, working with high-level leaders who needed more than just admin. They needed someone who could think ahead, solve problems and keep things moving. That experience taught me the power of operational clarity and emotional intelligence.
My realisation of the significant impact I could make in the background led to the creation of VPA Support.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Back yourself. Don’t wait for permission or perfection. Build
a business that reflects your values and your idea of success, not someone else’s blueprint or showreel. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your voice, your story and your way of doing things matter. What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
I anchor everything to purpose or seeing the ‘bigger picture’. When I see the ripple e ect of my work - clients gaining clarity, launching with confidence, celebrating wins - it fuels me. I also break down big goals into smaller, manageable actions, celebrate progress, and keep things playful. A good playlist and a cup of co ee (or two) never hurt either.
E: kym@vpasupport.com.au
T: 0438 078 088
W: vpasupport.com.au
VPASupportServices
@vpa_support
KymBina
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Ability Matters has been an NDIA-registered service provider since 2018. As co-founders, we specialise in support coordination, focusing on listening to and tailoring our services to each participant’s needs. We take pride in linking clients with the supports they choose and prioritising “choice and control” in every aspect of their care.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
We both began our careers as support workers and later progressed to team leader positions
Co-founders Zheng MARY & Ismael IANA Ability Matters
Building
stronger connections through
care
Co-founders of Ability Matters, Mary Zheng and Iana Ismael, share a vision built on compassion, collaboration and empowerment. Since establishing their NDIA-registered service in 2018, the pair have focused on providing tailored support coordination that places clients’ needs, goals and choices at the centre. Drawing on their hands-on experience as support workers and team leaders, Mary and Iana understand the importance of trust and connection, helping individuals navigate the NDIS with confi dence and creating pathways toward greater independence and quality of life.
before establishing our own business. These experiences gave us a deep understanding of client needs and the importance of collaboration with both clients and stakeholders, which continues to guide how we operate today.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Running a business while managing a family is a monumental undertaking. We encourage women to design a business model and work schedule that aligns with their faith, family’s needs and personal energy levels. Success isn’t just about financial gain; it’s about fulfilment, impact and creating a life that truly works for you.
E: admin@abilitymatters.info
T: 0434 255 833
W: abilitymatters.com.au
Where good people make great homes
Kokic Schmidt NATALIE & Ana RACHEL
Partners of Goodhaus Property Goodhaus Property
Built on trust, teamwork, and a shared vision, Goodhaus Property is the result of family collaboration and a passion for people. Co-founded by sisters-in-law Rachel Anasson and Natalie Kokic Schmidt alongside Jason Anasson, the boutique Belconnen-based agency focuses on connection, integrity, and exceptional service. With over 20 years of industry experience between them, Rachel and Natalie have created a supportive, driven environment where both clients and colleagues thrive — proving that good people really do make a great business.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
N: I am the Director of Goodhaus Property. My real estate journey began 20 years ago, straight out of high school. I started in an admin position and now co-own my own business with my husband, Jason Anasson, and sister-in-law, Rachel Anasson. We’ve been open for over 12 months and o er both property management and sales services. I predominantly focus on the property management side, though I still look after long-term sales clients and referrals.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
R: My key strengths have to be my client relationships and relationships with our team, helping those around me thrive. I am grateful for the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people in our industry.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
N: It’s not easy, and you don’t need to feel pressured to ‘have it all.’ Think about what truly makes you feel successful, and work toward that. Success doesn’t always have to be about money and power — it means something di erent to everyone. Surround yourself with people who accept you for who you are, not who they think you should be. Just be — and just be you.
R: Follow your passion and it will reward you. Be strong, intentional, and persistent in your vision, be curious and ask the right questions. You are one conversation away from the next step towards your goal. Be humble in the process and if anyone tells you it is easy, they are not doing it right. Women are phenomenal humans; we wear many hats, and that is something to celebrate.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
R: We have intentionally created an environment
of exceptionally driven and ambitious humans who work hard, the energy is motivating. I personally structure my day to ensure I bring big energy where it is needed and allow down time when my energy may need a re-set.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
N: It’s very cliché, but I like to get up early and exercise, walk my dogs when the sun is up in the morning and know that when I get home, I get to spend time with my son and two elderly sta es. I also have breakfast with Lucia Marzano (sales agent at Goodhaus Property), and I look forward to this each week.
64/1 Beissel Street, Belconnen T: 6210 9103
E: hello@goodhausproperty. com.au
W: goodhausproperty.com.au
Goodhaus Property @goodhausproperty
Natalie Rachel
KAVITHA DR Vegunta
Dental Sleep and TMJ Therapy
Director/Owner
The power of persistence
For Kavitha, success hasn’t come from following a formula; it’s been built through courage, persistence, and faith in her own vision. As Director of Dental Sleep and TMJ Therapy, she has grown her practice from humble beginnings into a thriving clinic with a loyal patient community. Guided by grit and grace, Kavitha’s journey is one of perseverance, transformation, and the power of embracing every challenge along the way.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
“If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you”
I am the Principal Dentist, Owner and Director of Dental Sleep and TMJ Therapy. I have been practising dentistry for more than 15 years and established my dental practice, Precision Dental Care, in 2012, and Dental Sleep and TMJ Therapy in 2024.
Apparently, there are three rules to running a successful business. Fortunately for me, I didn’t know any of them. Along the way, I’ve been fortunate to have the support of Dr Kamini Tiwari and Dr Deborah Elijah, who have been an integral part of my growth and the clinic’s success. Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Like many women from a conservative country as mine, I grew up sheltered with minimal exposure to
matters of business or finance. Once I achieved my Australian qualification, I took a gamble and started o on my own. I began with a single employee in rented premises carrying a huge financial commitment, a young family and a husband who was in training to specialise in a demanding medical speciality that meant frequent night shifts and very little room to cover any exigencies. It was a path less trodden and predictably filled with potholes. I fell repeatedly, dusted myself o each time and kept going to reach where I am now, a successful dental practice with more than 20 employees and a large, loyal patient community that I am insanely proud of.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
What I have come to realise is that achieving perfection is a relentless pursuit, the process being more important than the result. My advice to women entering business would be, cliched as it sounds, the outcome is almost always assured if one sticks to the process… What this process entails
varies depending on the circumstance, but always involves the intent, an objective, a game plan and perseverance.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Long walks, books and music are how I unwind. In times of uncertainty and anxiety, my fallback is always the Family – at times exasperating, even infuriating, but always loving and nourishing one back to strength, as it should be.
T: 02 6106 9307
E: reception@dentalsleeptherapy.au
W: dentalsleeptherapy.au
Dental Sleep & TMJ Therapy Canberra
Dr Kamini Tiwari (left), Dr Deborah Elijah (right) and Dr Kavitha Vegunta (seated).
COURTNEY Smi
Compassion in every venture
Completely Group
Completely Rescued, Completely Taylored, Completely Property, and Completely Dogcare
Founder & Director
For Courtney, success has never been about titles or turnover; it’s about impact.
As the Founder and Director of the Completely Group, she leads four purposedriven businesses spanning accounting, property, dog care, and animal rescue. At the heart of it all is Completely Rescued, a registered charity providing safety, rehabilitation, and hope for vulnerable animals across the region. What began as one woman’s mission to make a di erence has grown into a thriving network of enterprises united by compassion, community, and meaningful change.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Completely Rescued began in 2023 due to my personal passion for animals and from a simple but urgent need. The number of animals being surrendered or abandoned in our region was rising rapidly, and rescue groups were stretched beyond capacity. Many of these animals required specialised medical intervention, behavioural support, or intensive care that most organisations did not have the resources to provide. I founded Completely Rescued to ensure that vulnerable animals received not only safety, but comprehensive care and the best chance at a healthy, fulfilled life. Since our inception, we have rehomed more than 350 animals and supported countless others within the community through vet assistance, training pathways, and education.
I lead several interconnected enterprises across accounting, property, doggy daycare and my animal rescue charity within the Completely Group. Completely Taylored delivers specialised bookkeeping, trust accounting and financial analytics. Completely Property manages and sells residential assets across the ACT and NSW. Completely Dogcare is a purpose-built doggy daycare facility that delivers personalised enrichment and care for dogs and supports the rescue completely, o ering spots for rescue animals to learn social skills, feel challenged, loved and secure.
Completely Rescued is the heart of the group. It was built from a personal love of animals and a passion.
As Founder and Director of all businesses, I oversee strategic direction, operational management, compliance, finance, and most importantly, people and animal welfare outcomes. Every entity reflects a single mission: to create businesses that are values-driven, community-focused, and capable of meaningful social impact.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Taylored after having my first child, Taylor. I was made redundant due to health issues Taylor was su ering, and I was not able to return to work at the 12-month mark. I was left with no job but a hell of a lot of motivation.
Over time, I identified opportunities to innovate and solve pain points for small businesses, especially those operating in highregulation environments. My knowledge within the real estate industry led me to then branch out and open Completely Property, a boutique real estate agency.
My career began working at McDonald’s, which spanned 6 years. After this incredible training and management position, I moved into working in real estate. Both of these industries were implicitly client-focused, and I just knew I had to keep working in customer service industries as I loved helping people! I then found I had a deep interest in the operations of business and this is where my passion for starting my own business grew. What I didn’t realise is that this passion would lead me into bookkeeping, trust accounting, and compliance, which saw the birth of Completely Taylored. I started Completely
Running these businesses was a challenge, rewarding and exciting, but I still felt this burning desire to do more. I did some soul searching and felt I needed to do something that aligned with my deep love of animals. This is where Completely Rescued became an idea that quickly turned into a fully-fledged organisation and registered Charity.
Completely Dogcare then evolved as a sustainable revenue model to support the rescue’s mission long-term and help fund it so that I didn’t have to continue to put my hand into my own pockets, something that had become unsustainable as the organisation grew rapidly. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Most importantly, embrace authenticity. You can be empathetic and ambitious at the same time. Strength never requires sacrificing kindness.
Lastly, never ever give up; every setback or failure is only an opportunity for growth. Use it to build yourself up and learn from it. What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Unwind….. haha this makes me laugh! Unwinding is something I am constantly trying to work on. Running multiple businesses, I do find it hard to switch o , relax and take time for myself. Owning your own businesses does come with perks, like flexibility, but also takes up a lot of your mental space. If I am being honest, I love to unwind with some wine, time with my partner, children, and my own animals, which all help reset my energy. But this is a work in progress, so maybe ask me again in a year!
Do not wait for permission. Opportunities rarely arrive fully formed. Build them.
Advocate for yourself early. Ensure that your worth is recognised and compensated. Surround yourself with people who challenge you to grow. Seek mentors who expand your perspective and networks. Learn to read financial statements because confidence in numbers creates confidence in decision-making.
E: court@completelygroup.com.au
W: completelyrescued.com.au
W: completelyproperty.com.au
W: completelydogcare.com.au
W: completelytaylored.com.au
Underground Spirits CEO R ley CLAUDIA
Raising the spirits of Canberra
From humble beginnings in Canberra to a nationally recognised name in premium Australian spirits, Underground Spirits is built on creativity, innovation, and community. At the helm is CEO Claudia Roughley, whose passion for storytelling, collaboration, and craft has helped shape the brand into one of Canberra’s proudest exports.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
We started Underground Spirits in 2017 with innovation and the idea to make smooth, world-class spirits right here in Canberra. I love what I do and get handson with everything from product development and collaborations to events like our annual Gin Garden at Floriade. The joy is in seeing ideas that begin as concepts turn into something people can taste, experience, and remember. Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Before launching Underground Spirits, I spent over two decades in the events and venue management industry in both Sydney and London. That world taught me the power of storytelling and experience, and the importance of detail and presentation.
With Underground, I wanted to bring that same sense of creativity and polish to Australian spirits. We started and succeeded as a local and that sense is very much who we are, and now we continue to grow the brand that’s proudly local and recognised nationally.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
I’d say vision, creativity, and connection. I love bringing people together, whether that’s through a product collaboration, an event, or a great cocktail. I also have a knack for spotting opportunities and turning them into something tangible and exciting.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Back yourself and keep showing up. Build relationships, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to say yes. You will learn by doing, so do. What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Family time is everything. I love exploring and being on our farm at home with my husband, kids, and our dog. We live in such a beautiful part of the world, and there is so much to enjoy.
T: 04 7355 0542
E: claudia@undergroundspirits.com.au
W: undergroundspirits.com.au
Williams REINÉ
Tranquil Architecture Director, Architect and Thermal Performance Assessor
Creating comfortable, sustainable and delightful homes
Reiné Williams loves using her design skills and thermal performance knowledge to help Canberra families renovate, extend or knock down and rebuild their homes to create beautiful, functional, cost-effective and healthy homes that genuinely improve their lives.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
We are a small family business, and I work alongside my husband, Paul, who is an ex-engineer turned thermal performance assessor. We pride ourselves on utilising our combined construction knowledge and experience to create simple, cost-effective and functional homes. We manage the design, approvals, tendering and builder engagement for our clients to ensure the best possible outcome for them.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
I was born in Canberra and studied both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Architecture at UC. I had a science/maths background at school and was always interested in solar passive design, Passivhaus and the performance of homes, so I also trained as a thermal performance assessor 15 years ago. I incorporate that knowledge into all my work to ensure the health, comfort and sustainability of the homes we create.
Unit 10, 2-10 Oatley Court, Belconnen
E: reine@tranquilarchitecture.com.au
T: 0420 763 695
W: tranquilarchitecture.com.au
MenakayaJULIET
Junic Eyecare Coombs
Director
Clear vision, compassionate care
rewarding journey. After completing my Doctor of Optometry degree overseas, I moved to Australia to further my studies, earning a master’s in public health from the University of Sydney and a Master’s in Orthoptics from UTS.
I successfully passed the OCANZ examinations, which allowed me to practise as an optometrist in Australia and later gained endorsement as an ophthalmic prescriber through the Ocular Therapeutics program. This means I can diagnose and treat eye conditions, including prescribing medications — something I’m very proud of.
Before founding Junic Eyecare Coombs, I worked in both hospital and research settings, including the Ophthalmology Department at Canberra Hospital and the John Curtin School of Medical Research at ANU. Those experiences inspired me to create a practice that blends medical expertise with genuine, personalised care.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Junic Eyecare Coombs is a locally owned and operated optometry clinic dedicated to providing high-quality, personalised eye care to the Canberra community. Since opening our doors in 2020, our goal has been to combine clinical excellence with genuine compassion — ensuring every patient feels cared for, informed, and valued. We o er a full range of optometry services, including comprehensive eye examinations,
My advice for the next generation of women in business is to trust your expertise, embrace leadership opportunities, and never underestimate the value of your voice. Be bold in pursuing your goals, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to combine your professional skills with your unique perspective—whether that’s in business, clinical work, or any field you’re passionate about.
At Junic Eyecare Coombs, Juliet leads with both medical expertise and genuine compassion. Since founding the locally owned clinic in 2020, she has built a trusted space for comprehensive, patient-focused eye care. With nearly two decades of experience, Juliet’s approach blends advanced knowledge with warmth and understanding, ensuring each patient feels seen, valued and empowered in their journey toward better eye health.
children’s vision care, dry eye spa (detailed diagnosis and management), and a curated selection of eyewear.
As the Director and Owner, I oversee the overall operations and direction of the practice, ensuring that our team continues to deliver exceptional service and uphold our standard of excellence in community eye health.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
My career in eye care began nearly two decades ago, and it’s been an incredibly
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
To unwind from work, I focus on activities that recharge both my mind and body. I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends, exercising to stay active, and engaging in hobbies that spark creativity. Taking time to pause and reflect helps me maintain balance and return to work feeling energised and focused.
E: eyecare@junic.net.au
T: 02 6152 8585
W: juniceyecare.com.au
WOMEN BUSINESSin
RHONDA Arna
The Chameleon Ice Creamery Owner
Crafting ice cream with imagination
At The Chameleon Ice Creamery, Rhonda Arnall turns her lifelong love of food into inventive, small-batch ice cream creations. A chef by trade and an artist at heart, she blends decades of culinary experience with creativity and flair, crafting unique flavours that surprise and delight, from classic favourites to floral and unexpected twists. Her dedication to quality has earned her multiple awards at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in the Cheese and Dairy section, recognising her excellence in handcrafted ice cream.
Can you share your career journey so far?
I grew up on a farm, so hard work has always been part of who I am. I started my career as a chef apprentice at a hospital, back when it was tough for women to get such opportunities. I learned everything — from making meals that could literally sustain life to pastry work — and ended up being named the top apprentice out of 600 people that year, the first female chef to ever win the award.
After that, I worked overseas in New Zealand, London, and Israel, soaking up new culinary experiences. Back in Canberra, I became the first female pastry chef at Old Parliament House and later ran my own restaurant, The Chameleon, for ten years. I loved being creative — designing themed menus, experimenting with flavours, and finding new ways to surprise people with food. Around the same time, I started making ice cream, which eventually became another passion.
Today, I work as a chef at embassies and continue creating
unique ice cream flavours on weekends and for special events. Whether it’s a garden party with lavender and rose petals or something completely unexpected, I channel my creativity into everything I make.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
I’d say my strengths are resilience, creativity, and adaptability. I’ve faced challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field, learned from every experience, and found ways to innovate wherever I go. What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Work hard, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to get creative. Take risks, keep learning, and follow your passion — determination can take you further than you think.
T: 0418 323 236
E: chameleonicecreamery@yahoo. com.au
The Chameleon Icecreamery
Founder / Director Jenn gs CAROL WOMEN
WaterWombats
Creating equal access, one splash at a time
Making waves for inclusion, WaterWombats is more than just an aquatic therapy program; it’s a community built on compassion, connection and movement. Founded by health professional and volunteer Carol, the organisation o ers water-based therapy and recreation for people of all abilities across four Canberra locations, helping children and adults alike find confidence, freedom, and joy in the water.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
My journey with WaterWombats began from my own lived experience with disability and neurodiversity, and a simple but powerful goal — to create equal access to water-based therapy and recreation for people of all abilities. As the Founder and Volunteer Director, I have led the organisation’s growth from a small local program to a leading aquatic therapy service operating across four Canberra locations.
WaterWombats was born from my deep belief that every person deserves access to water, to movement, and to joy. As a long-time health professional and advocate for people with disabilities, I saw a gap in the Canberra community: families were struggling to find inclusive aquatic programs that supported both physical rehabilitation and mental wellbeing. Too often, therapy options were medicalised, expensive, or simply not accessible to children with complex needs. I founded WaterWombats to bridge that gap.
For me, volunteering isn’t an extra — it’s at the heart of who I am and why WaterWombats exists. I started this organisation as a volunteer because I believe that leadership begins with service. Many of the families we support are already stretched thin by the financial and emotional pressures of living with disability. Many families need support, but do not have access to NDIS or other supports; therefore, we o er scholarships to access our programs for free. What would be my wages goes to support these families in the program. O ering my time, skills, and energy freely was my way of saying, “You’re not alone — this community will stand beside you.”
WaterWombats specialises in evidence-based aquatic therapy, blending physiotherapy, exercise physiology, and adapted swimming instruction to improve both mental and physical health outcomes. Our sessions focus on building confidence, coordination, and independence through structured yet playful movement in water — a medium that reduces physical strain while enhancing emotional regulation and sensory integration.
T: 0413 139 018
E: waterwombatscanberra@gmail.com
W: waterwombats.com
WaterWombats | Belconnen ACT
@waterwombatsaquatictherapy
Bush basil pesto pasta
This has to be one of the simplest and freshest everyday meals. If you want an easy meal that celebrates one of our unsung native ingredients, this is a winner.
Serves 4
Ingredients
300g pasta of your choice
½ cup (40g) fresh bush basil, roughly chopped
1½ cups (75g) basil leaves
½ cup (80g) pine nuts
2 garlic cloves
½ teaspoon salt
Pinch of pepperberry powder
70g parmesan cheese, grated, plus extra to serve
Juice of ½ lemon
½ cup (125ml) extra virgin olive oil
To serve
Fresh bush basil leaves
Method
Bring a large pot of water to the boil and cook the pasta according to the packet instructions.
Before draining the pasta, scoop out ½ cup (125 ml) of the water and set aside.
In a high-powered blender, combine the bush basil, basil, pine nuts, garlic, salt, pepperberry, parmesan, lemon juice and olive oil to form a paste and pour it into a bowl.
Add a drop of water to the blender and shake well to get out the last little bit of the paste, pouring it into the pesto bowl.
Stir the pesto through the freshly drained pasta.
Add a drop of the reserved pasta water at a time, mixing well, until the pasta is well coated and the sauce is a silky, smooth consistency.
Serve with fresh bush basil leaves and extra grated parmesan cheese.
Tip: For extra flavour and a touch of richness, stir through a handful of chopped roasted macadamias or a spoonful of wattleseed when blending the pesto. Both pair beautifully with the native bush basil and add a subtle nutty depth.
Images and text from The Australian Ingredients Kitchen by Elder Bruno Dann and Tahlia Mandie, photography by Alicia Taylor. Murdoch Books RRP $39.99.
Miguel Maestre’s Banana Bread for Diabetes Australia
“Your favourite homemade bake just had a healthy makeover! My banana bread is lower carb but still has a perfect amount of sweetness. It’s moist, light, and makes a satisfying afternoon treat when you’re looking for a little pick me up. Best served warm and enjoyed with a cuppa.” - Miguel Maestre
Serves 12 | Prep 10 minutes | Cook 60 minutes
Ingredients
250g almond meal (about 2 cups)
1/4 cup oats
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1tsp vanilla extract
6 ripe bananas (about 450g peeled), mashed
125ml olive oil
1 1/2 tbsp maple syrup
2 eggs, separated
Method
Preheat oven to 175°C.
Add almond meal, oats, and baking powder into a large bowl. Add the cinnamon, and stir until evenly combined.
In another bowl mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the olive oil. Add the two egg yolks, vanilla, and maple syrup, and mix until smooth.
Add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
Take the two egg whites and beat well to fill with air. Fold gently into the banana batter.
Pour the batter into a greased and floured 11cm loaf tin.
Top with the sliced banana and drizzle with the additional maple syrup and put it in the oven to bake for 60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean.
Recipe and image from Miguel Maestre’s Delicious & Diabetes-Friendly.
Notes: Overripe bananas are the key to the best tasting banana bread. They will be easier to mash, sweeter and more flavoursome. Because they have so much natural sweetness, you can use more bananas, and less sugar!
Booktalk
Jeff Popple reviews three interesting books about penguins, cats and why birds sing. More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs. com
An Inconvenience of Penguins by Jamie Lafferty
Wildfire, $34.99
In the midst of the COVID pandemic, while on the Galapagos, award-winning travel writer Jamie Lafferty decided to reinvigorate his career by embarking on a quest to see all eighteen species of penguin. It proved to be a challenging task that took Lafferty to some of the planet’s most inaccessible and difficult landscapes. From African guano fields to the Falklands to Antarctica and Australia’s Phillip Island, Lafferty tells a fascinating and entertaining story of his travels and the penguins he met. Fleshing out the account are historical accounts of penguins, the dangers facing their survival and beautiful photos of each species. Recommended.
CANBERRA WEEKLY COMPETITION WINNERS
The winners in Canberra Weekly’s latest round of competition draws are: Ausdance: I. Health, Downer; S. Kong, Karabar First Strike Laser Tag: I. Petty, Flynn
Great Writers & the Cats Who Owned Them by Susannah Fullerton Bodleian, $34.99
In the ninth century, a German monk was so distracted by his cat that he penned a love poem to it, instead of transcribing holy scriptures. That poem has survived the years and is an early encapsulation of the affectionate relationship between cat and writer. From Charles Dickens to Muriel Spark to Raymond Chandler and Dorothy L. Sayers, who rescued her kitten from a Blitz bombsite, cats have consoled and inspired writers down the centuries. In Great Writers & the Cats Who Owned Them, Susannah Fullerton tells the enchanting stories of seventeen great authors, and the cats captured their hearts. A terrific Christmas gift for literary cat lovers.
Why Do Birds Sing? by Dr Gráinne Cleary Allen & Unwin, $32.99
Birds are a vital part of our environment and have long fascinated humans, particularly with their enchanting birdsongs. In Why Do Birds Sing? Melbourne-based ecologist Gráinne Cleary sets out to answer the complex question about why and how birds sing. From why birds call in the morning, to how baby birds learn their songs by listening and remembering their parents’ sounds, to the range of songs and calls that birds make, Gráinne provides interesting explanations about bird communication. An insightful and engagingly written book that will change the way you listen to birdsong. A must for anyone interested in birds.
1st & 2nd November 2025
9.30am - 4.30pm at Crookwell Public School
10 beautiful gardens located in & around Crookwell: including ‘Markdale’, an Edna Walling designed garden, acknowledged as one of the great country gardens of Australia. Plants, Tools, Garden Art & so much more
Tickets are available online 123 tix or at the Garden Lovers Market For an additional $20pp book on bus trip to ‘Markdale’ and Binda Gardens - bookings for bus on 123 tix 1st November 8.30am - 2pm
$30pp for 10 Gardens (18 years & under free)
New company Off the Ledge wants to revive Australian plays
by NICHOLAS FULLER
Over the last century, young theatre director Lachlan Houen explains, Australian theatre has produced fantastic productions of British and American plays — but struggled to build an Australian repertoire.
His independent company, Off the Ledge Theatre, launching at The Q next month, wants to set that right: to “solidify the Australian canon and make it a genuine presence — not only in this country, but across the world”.
The new company is dedicated to Australian and queer plays that challenge audiences and make them
WIN! The Almighty Sometimes double pass
think — “bold, gritty, and contemporary works confronting uncomfortable truths and the complexity of modern life”.
Those uncomfortable, complex truths include mental illness, the subject of their first production, Kendall Feaver’s multi-award-winning The Almighty Sometimes (19-23 November).
“What better way to start than with a play that is probably the best piece of writing I’ve ever read?” Houen said. “It blew me away.”
Funny and heart-rending, it is “a loving portrait of a mother and daughter, a coming-of-age tale exploring the perils of growing up, a bracing look at what it means to live with a mental illness and the ethics
Winner of the Judges’ Award in the prestigious Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting (UK) and the NSW and Victorian Premier’s Prizes for Drama, Kendall Feaver’s captivating play is a profound and compelling study of a young woman trying to discover where her illness ends and her identity begins.
With heart and humour, Kendall Feaver’s tender portrait echoes conversations happening at dinner tables across the country, while tapping into the universal tension between a mother’s care and a child’s independence.
CW has one double pass to see The Almighty Sometimes at The Q on Wednesday 19 November, 7:30pm.
ENTER TO WIN!
To enter, scan the QR code or visit canberradaily.com.au and click on the ‘Entertainment’ tab to ‘Competitions’, find the competition you wish to enter and follow the entry instructions. Entries close 9am Friday 7 November 2025 and winners drawn same day. One entry per person per giveaway. Entrants must be aged 18+. To enter, you must be subscribed to a Canberra Daily newsletter.
of the mental health profession”. It won the 2015 Judges Award in the Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting (the largest playwriting competition in Europe), the 2018 Best New Play at the UK Theatre Awards, and the 2019 NSW and Victorian Premiers’ Prizes for Drama.
“For me, the company is about second and third productions of Australian works that we want to continue to see, so that we can build them into the canon”, Houen says. “It provides the option to see fresh Australian work that we don’t often get the chance to. It’s bringing these great stories back to life.”
Hundreds of Australian plays written this century are buried, Houen says; he has seen fewer than half the plays cited in Julian Meyrick’s Australia in 50 Plays (2022).
Although the Melbourne and Sydney Theatre Companies and Belvoir Street Theatre have commissioned Australian works, “a lot of them get produced and done, and then forgotten about, put on the shelf”, Houen says.
And yet, Houen argues, many of those plays are wonderful. For instance, Caroline Reid’s Prayer to an Iron God, about the aftermath of a suicide in an outback town, is “phenomenal”, but it was last performed in 2010. Almost everybody knows Louis Nowra’s Così, the comedy about mental hospital patients staging a Mozart opera; few know the other two plays in the Lewis Trilogy. And these plays please audiences: when Belvoir revived Melissa Reeves’s
Furious Mattress (a true crime drama about an exorcism in rural Victoria) this year, the reviews were enthusiastic.
“We can’t all be David Williamson, but there are a lot of playwrights that have as much skill and not nearly enough recognition,” Houen says. “The mission is to go: ‘Let’s pull that one out; it’s exciting; people need to know about it. Hey, look at this — bet you didn’t know about this; it’s an important work, let’s try to make it a core part of the canon.’”
Eventually, Houen wants to get to a point where the neglected 30 plays Meyrick lists are well known, staged by local community theatres, small companies, and Off the Ledge itself.
Next year, Off the Ledge will produce Grace Chapple’s Never Closer, a play set in the Irish Troubles that premiered at the Belvoir in 2022, while Houen will also direct Adam Fawcett’s Every Lovely Terrible Thing, about queer, non-binary identity and family trauma — “All the fun stuff!”.
In the long-term, Houn sees Off the Ledge ‘floating’ — performing in different Canberra and Queanbeyan venues — but always making highquality theatre that is contemporary, Australian, queer, and makes people think.
“That’s something we don’t get enough of in Canberra; that’s what we’re here for,” Houen said.
The Almighty Sometimes by Kendall Feaver, 19–23 November 2025, The Q — Queanbeyan. Tickets: offtheledge. com.au
Lachlan Houen aims to put Australian stories back on stage with his new independent company, Off the Ledge.
Now sh wing
Frankenstein (MA15+)
In the North Pole, an expedition crew works feverishly to dislodge their trapped ship. Soon, the crew finds the gravely injured Baron Victor Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac) and brings him aboard. After fending off a terrifically strong Creature (Jacob Elordi) who demands Victor be handed to him, the good doctor reveals that he is the Creature’s maker before telling his sorry story.
Director Guillermo del Toro introduced the wider world to Hellboy (2004) and won four Oscars for monster love story The Shape of Water (2017). It is not surprising, then, to learn that Frankenstein is Guillermo’s dream project, which he has been holding off on for the last
few decades in fear of completing it and having to let it go.
As expected, the set design and costumes are lavish and opulent. In line with Guillermo’s cultural sensibilities, the movie is a sumptuous and operatic gothic romance, showcasing the emotive aspects of the parental story over the more horrific elements. The performances are heightened, with Victor playing an eccentric, egomaniac rockstar and Elizabeth (Mia Goth) playing an empathetic, maternal figure to our Creature. Jacob Elordi disappears into the Creature, a pure soul that
is in danger of being corrupted by the world he has been shocked into. While there are some creative tweaks to the story, fans of the source material will find them to be fresh additions, while newcomers will still get the heart of the piece.
A sprawling, beautiful, epic gothic romance that needs some room to breathe.
1-30 NOVEMBER
40+ events covering family-friendly days out to after-dark dance floors, from quiet moments of reflection to loud, proud festival energy.
• Catch live music showcases,intimate gigs, drag performances, comedy events and variety shows.
• Dive into art exhibitions, film and theatre.
• Find workshops, talks and community gatherings.
• Lace up for fun-runs, sports/social games and roller disco.
SpringOUT is bursting with colour, connection & celebration, and welcomes everyone!
Verdict:
- Luke McWilliams. themovieclub.net. Viewed at Dendy Cinemas.
Oscar Isaac stars as Baron Victor Frankenstein.
Heart of resilience: Dion Perry shares his remarkable transplant journey
When Crookwell author Dion Perry was 45, life was moving along as normal, until it suddenly wasn’t. What began as a routine doctor’s visit for what was thought to be asthma soon turned into a life-changing diagnosis: viral myocarditis, a rare inflammation of the heart muscle that would ultimately lead to heart failure.
In his new memoir, New Heart: One Man’s Journey of Being a Heart Transplant Recipient, Perry shares an unflinching account of survival, recovery and spiritual reflection. What began as shortness of breath and fatigue spiralled into a fight for life, first requiring a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) before the ultimate lifeline: a heart transplant in 2023.
Written with honesty and insight, New Heart explores the strength it takes to endure not only heart failure, but also the secondary challenges
that followed, including kidney failure and the demanding routine of dialysis three times a week. Perry’s story is one of both physical and emotional resilience, as well as a reflection on Australia’s healthcare system and the human spirit that carries patients through adversity.
“I want to be clear that I did not write New Heart to elicit sympathy from anyone,” Perry says. “It is my hope that it will inspire those who are suffering from a long-term illness or caring for someone who is.”
Born in Townsville and now living in Crookwell with his wife, dog and cat, Perry’s life before illness was one of movement, hard work, and creativity. From operating heavy machinery in Tasmania to studying sociology and Aboriginal studies at university, his path has been as diverse as it is inspiring.
Date: Location:
Perry will discuss his memoir and share insights from his extraordinary journey at an author talk at The Blue Cow Bookshop, 47 Jardine Street, Kingston, on Wednesday 12 October from 6pm. Signed copies of New Heart: One Man’s Journey of Being a Heart Transplant Recipient will be available for purchase on the night.
What’s on!
COMMUNITY
Open Gardens
Canberra
1 - 2 NOV
Make it a day out visiting two picturesque country gardens.
95 MORRISON ROAD, BYWONG, NSW. This 40-acre property includes spectacular lake vistas, native and exotic plants, an abundant vegetable garden, an orchard and much more. Refreshments available.
109 McDONNELL DRIVE, BUNGENDORE, NSW. This is a two-acre property with dense tree plantings, shrubs and groundcovers. Permaculture garden includes an orchard, a kitchen garden and a woodland walk.
Non-member entry $10 for visitors 18 years+. 1-2 November, 10am-4pm, more information and membership; opengardenscanberra.org.au
EXHIBITION
lynne johnson … she who knits etc
1 - 14 NOV
Lynne has been stitching, knitting and crocheting for as long as she can remember. Rugs, shawls, garments, hats and tea cosies, along with stories in stitches – skills she learned in her family and has built on since, translating traditional ideas in astonishing ways.
Canberra Textile Works, Chifley, 1-14 November, Saturdays and Sundays 10am-4pm, Tuesdays to Fridays 10am-2pm; canberraspinnersandweavers. org.au
CARS
Terribly British Day
2 NOV
Thinking about buying a Classic Jaguar? Learn before you Leap! Members of the public are invited to meet our members at the JDCC (Jaguar Drivers Club of Canberra) Marquee at Terribly British Day! Our members have lots of good advice and would love to help you make the leap! Don’t miss out! Come see our members this weekend and take advantage of this opportunity!
Queanbeyan Park, Lowe Street, Sunday 2 November
Find more listings at canberradaily.com.au
HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP?
Contact Anand on 0432 887 457 or anand@newstimemedia.com.au
THEATRE
Grease vs Rocky Horror
7 NOV
Join Anita Spring, Jonny Gardiner, and their costumed band for a night of high-octane nostalgia, camp, and chaos. From leather jackets to fishnets, Grease vs Rocky Horror celebrates the music and fun of these two cult classics in one epic interactive showdown.
The B, Queanbeyan, Friday 7 November, 7:30pm; qprc.sales.ticketsearch. com/sales/salesevent/153452
FUN
ACT Scale Modellers’ Society
8 - 9 NOV
The ACT Scale Modellers’ Society is holding a two-day scale modelling event and competition, Scale ACT 25 at Thoroughbred Park. Come and see one of Australia’s largest model competitions, a variety of displays, swap & sell, various vendors and expert workshops. Free build activities for kids, catering and various displays and activities make this a fun family day.
Saturday 8 November from 10:30am to 5pm and Sunday 9 November from 10am to 4pm. Thoroughbred Park; actsms.asn.au
health & wellbeing
Tech giants agree to teen ban but give dark warning
by TESS IKONOMOU, AAP
Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok will comply with Australia’s looming social media ban for children under the age of 16 but claim the restrictions will push young people into “darker corners” of the internet.
Kids who do not meet the age requirement will be booted off social media platforms from December 10, but there will be exceptions for health and education services including WhatsApp and Meta’s Messenger Kids.
Tech executives were grilled
during a parliamentary inquiry hearing on Tuesday, saying although they did not agree with the age restrictions they would implement the ban.
TikTok public policy lead Ella Woods-Joyce said the company shared the concerns of experts that the “blunt” age bans won’t work or resolve the concerns the laws aim to address.
“We support evidence-based sensible legislation that improves safety standards for all internet users ... a ban will push younger people into darker corners of the internet where rules, safety,
tools and protections don’t exist,” she said.
Jennifer Stout, a representative from Snapchat’s parent company Snap Inc, said the platform believed the ban had been applied unevenly and risked undermining community confidence in the new rules.
company of Facebook and Instagram - to appear at the inquiry into online safety after they were no-shows at an earlier hearing.
The law puts the onus for compliance on the companies to “detect and deactivate or remove” accounts from underage users.
Simon is an experienced podiatrist who provides expert, high-quality care.
• General Nail Care
• Diabetic Foot Care
• Ingrown Nail Treatment
• Custom Orthotics
• Children’s Podiatry
• DVA Podiatry
“For teens, connection and communication are strong drivers of happiness and well being, taking that away does not necessarily make them safer and it may instead push them towards other messaging services that lack Snapchat safety and privacy protections,” she said.
Meta regional director of policy Mia Garlick said compliance presented challenges because 16 was a “globally novel age boundary” as existing technologies were built to identify the age milestones of 13 and 18 years.
“Distinguishing 13 from 16 is inherently less reliable and it also found greater challenges at the 16 age boundary with age estimation technologies,” she said.
Platforms face fines of up to $50 million if they do not take reasonable steps to comply with the ban, but there won’t be penalties for young people or their families if they gain access to the platforms.
Greens senator Sarah HansonYoung previously threatened to force executives from TikTok, Snapchat and Meta - the parent
This will mean about 1.5 million accounts on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Threads and X will be deactivated in less than two months.
Tech giants Apple and Google removed OmeTV from their app stores this week after being alerted to concerns predators were using it to groom and sexually exploit Australian children.
OmeTV instantly connects individuals with random strangers for a video chat.
The app’s Portugal-based parent company Bad Kitty’s Dad, LDA did not comply with requests sent by eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant in August to introduce protections for Australian children.
The tech giants have since banned the app and are expected to review all others available in their Australian stores.
“This is an app that randomly pairs young children - with pedophiles,” Ms Inman Grant told ABC News on Tuesday.
“This app will no longer be able to reach Australians and they will no longer be able to make money off children’s misery.”
A social media ban will push young people into dark corners of the internet, a TikTok official says.
Photo: Dean Lewins/AAP Photos
Talking to teens about risk-taking, without the lecture
wi DR VIVIENNE LEWIS ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST AT UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA
Adolescence is a time of experimentation and identity-building, which can sometimes mean taking risks such as driving too fast, vaping, sneaking out, drinking, or trying drugs. As adults, it’s tempting to react with alarm or launch into a lecture. But the most e ective conversations come not from panic, but from connection. Teens are wired to push boundaries. Their brains are still
developing, particularly the part responsible for decision-making and impulse control. Combine that with a need to fit in and a belief that nothing bad will happen to them, and you’ve got a recipe for risky behaviour. But here’s the good news: your influence as a parent, carer, or trusted adult still matters – a lot. Here are a couple of research-backed tips to help you. Start early – and keep it going: Talking about risk-taking doesn’t have to be a one-o ‘big talk’. In fact, it’s much better if it isn’t. Start early with age-appropriate chats and keep the lines of communication open through the teen years. Ask what they’ve heard at school or seen online. Be curious, not judgmental.
Use real-life examples: The news, a scene from a show, or something a friend is going through can be great conversation starters. “What do
you think you’d do in that situation?” or “How do you think their parents reacted?” helps teens reflect on choices without feeling like they’re under a spotlight.
Stay calm – even when you’re not: If your teen tells you something confronting, try not to react with anger or shock. That’s hard, especially if you’re scared for their safety. But staying calm increases the chance they’ll come to you again. It also models the kind of self-regulation we’re hoping they’ll learn.
Talk about values, not just rules: Rather than just listing what they’re not allowed to do, talk about what matters to your family and why. “We respect our bodies,” or “We look out for our friends”, can be more meaningful than “Don’t ever drink.” Teens are more likely to make healthy decisions when they understand the why behind the
guidance. Make it safe to fail: Teens will make mistakes, just like we did. Let them know they can come to you, no matter what. That doesn’t mean there are no consequences, but it means they won’t be shamed or rejected. You’re their safety net, not their prosecutor. When to seek help: If your teen seems withdrawn, secretive, or is taking increasingly unsafe risks, it might be time to talk to a psychologist, GP or school counsellor. And if you’re unsure how to have these conversations yourself, there’s support for you too. Here are a couple of helplines, as well as thinking about contacting your GP or school wellbeing team.
Parentline ACT: 02 6287 3833; Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 (kids and parents can call); or visit headspace. org.au
Classic home with modern appeal
Kaleen 31 Tyrrell Circuit
Positioned in the heart of Kaleen, this beautifully updated family home blends classic 1970s charm with contemporary comfort and style. Privately built and thoughtfully renovated, it’s a perfect opportunity for families looking to settle in one of Belconnen’s most loved suburbs.
The home’s character shines through its timeless design features, while modern touches ensure effortless living. A standout is the bay window at the rear, framing peaceful views across the expansive backyard — the perfect backdrop for relaxed afternoons or family gatherings. Inside, a smart control
air-conditioning system keeps every room comfortable year-round, adding a layer of convenience to the home’s inviting warmth.
Ideally located, the property offers direct access to nearby ovals and is within easy reach of Kaleen’s highly regarded schools, local shops and transport links.
Combining an enviable location with modern upgrades and family-friendly space, this home is a rare chance to experience the best of Kaleen living — where heritage character meets contemporary ease.
4 2 2
EER 0
Auction: Wednesday 19 November
View: As Advertised and By Appointment
Agent: Tim Russell
Mob: 0416 087 834
Agent: Jackson White-Brettell Mob: 0421 479 376
LJ Hooker Kaleen | 6241 1922
‘Wild’ $2m forecast for nation’s priciest house market
by BEN MCKAY, AAP
House prices are rising at their highest pace in four years with Sydney poised to hit a once-unthinkable median of $2 million by the close of 2026.
After bumper growth of 3.4 per cent in the September quarter, the median harbour city house value sits at $1,751,728.
If that growth repeats over the next year, Sydney house prices will sit at $2 million before the end of 2026.
It was only 12 years ago the city, Australia’s priciest housing market, broke through the million-dollar benchmark, Domain economics chief Nicola Powell said.
“It’s wild to think that Sydney’s median house price could breach $2 million,” she told AAP.
“Sydney has always been the most expensive
capital city, with high-priced land, high levels of competition.”
Domain’s latest house price report reveals the average house price grew in every market over the past quarter and year.
In city markets, house prices grew by 2.9 per cent in the September quarter, with regional growth outpacing the eight capitals at 3.7 per cent.
Already running at its fastest pace in almost four years, Dr Powell was bullish on even stronger performance to come in the capitals.
“Because we’ve got momentum building, I think we’re going to see a larger number next quarter,” she said.
“What’s clear this quarter is that we’ve seen the housing market shift into a higher gear.
“We’re likely to see momentum still feeding through markets like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra, because Canberra and Melbourne aren’t
Living the dream only minutes from the heart of Canberra
Sydney’s median house value could reach $2m in 2026 if current levels of price growth continue.
even at record highs yet.”
Underpinning growth are the Reserve Bank’s interest rate cuts in February, May and August, low stock levels and improved confidence.
The government’s new five per cent deposit scheme for new homebuyers would also fuel demand for cheaper homes, she added.
AUSTRALIA’S MEDIAN HOUSE PRICES
Sydney: $1.752m - up 3.4% in the quarter, 6.3% annually
Brisbane: $1.101m - up 3.7% quarterly, 10% annually
Canberra: $1.1m - up 2.4% quarterly, 2.7% annually
Melbourne: $1.083m - up 2.2% quarterly, 6.2% annually
Adelaide: $1.049m - up 3.3% quarterly, 10.5% annually
Perth: $981k - up 1.6% quarterly, 10% annually
Hobart: $745k - up 4.7% quarterly, 8% annually
Darwin: $659k - up 5.3% quarterly, up 7.3% annually
Regional: $698k - up 3.7% quarterly, 11.5% annually
*Source: Domain’s September quarterly house price report
Don’t settle for a small expensive block of land when you can choose a large affordable block in Elm Grove where you can design and build the ideal home for your family that you’ve always dreamed of A games room, guest bedroom with ensuite, theatre room, large outdoor alfresco, swimming pool, 3-car garage... At Elm Grove you can have it all!
-
Photo: Bianca De Marchi/AAP Photos
Find your new home at The Borough Ready to move in.
1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments available in the heart of Denman Prospect, each with spacious floorplan and custom Flexi-Space design. Visit our display apartments at
1 Carden Street, Denman Prospect.
For more information, call LJ Hooker on 0417 668 668.
Built
• Oversized, executive residences ranging from 182m2 to 235m2 of living space offering multiple living options
• Luxurious customised interior with multiple choices for nishes and ttings
• Bathrooms and ensuites with Villeroy & Boch ttings, complemented by under-tile heating
• Reverse cycle ducted heating and cooling
• 5KW rooftop solar system to each residence
• Kitchen with Smeg appliances, stone benchtops and opulent butler’s pantries
• Up to 3.5 metre ceilings in many living areas
• Landscaped courtyard and gardens, many with access to the heritage trail
• Dual lock-up garaging with remote access and provisioning for EV Charging
• High energy rating of minimum 6.1 EER
STELLA YOUNG WAY DENMAN PROSPECT THUR & FRI: 2pm — 4pm SAT & SUN: 11am — 3pm
luton.com.au
‘Bongalong’ – Historic Homestead
Iconic country estate with timeless character
Positioned in the heart of the picturesque Muttama Valley, 'Bongalong', 612 Finlays Lane, Muttama NSW 2722 is a distinguished circa-1865 home stead set on 55 ha* (135.5 acres*) plus 10.45 ha* (25.82 acres*) of lease land. The propert y is centrally located just 25km from Cootamundra and Gundagai, 4 hours to Sydney and 1.5 hours to Canberra.
Key Features
Elegant f ive-bedroom homestead with heritage character and m odern functionality
3.5 bathrooms, sunroom and large office/studio, ide al for remote working or artistic pursuits
Established gardens with mature trees, potting shed , and three-car garage
Abundant water security with 2.5 km of Muttama Creek frontage, bore, and rainwater storage Horse arena, six stables, hay shed, and machinery s hed
estate
29 Timber Barge Lane Batemans Bay
Waterfront Acreage Retreat
• Expansive Open plan
• Ideal for boats, vehicles or caravans
• Country style fireplace & air conditioning
• Abundant water storage, mains power and solar
• Two fully fenced paddocks
• Separate two bedroom shed
• Private jetty providing direct boat access to the Clyde River 4 2 6
For Sale $ 1,870,000 Agent Bill Nugent Mob 0487 712 288
Email bill@neptunereality. com.au
Neptune Realty 02 4471 2283
320 Beach Road Batehaven
A RARE COASTAL OPPORTUNITY - WALK TO TWO BEACHES!
Perfectly positioned - 105m to Corrigans Beach and 245m to Caseys Beach. Lovingly held in the same family for over 41 years, this classic coastal home boasts light filled interiors with glimpses of the water, reverse cycle a/c, separate dining room and spacious living area. Three generously sized bedrooms, all with builtin robes. Plenty of room for vehicles and toys including a high-clearance carport perfect for a boat or caravan.
Trades & Services Guide
Trades & Services Guide
Trades & Services Guide
Trades & Services Guide
Trades & Services Guide
Trades & Services Guide
U P H O LST E RY
Sometimes in today’s modern world we can forget the beauty in artisanal craftsmanship. Get in touch to start your dream project today.
✓ Re-Upholstery & Restorations
✓ Custom-Made Furniture
✓ Commercial Fit-Outs
✓ Bedheads and Wall Upholstery Call or email us today! 0422 073 665 / 6181 3511 toni@twinstitchupholstery.com.au
Free public transport for students, seniors and concession holders
Cook and its ongoing impact, offering readers a meaningful and engaging reflection on history and identity.
Selected from a strong field of 56 eligible nominations, Warra Warra Wai was recognised for its powerful and original storytelling.
The ACT Book of the Year Award recognises excellence in contemporary literary works by ACT authors and includes works of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry that have been published in the previous calendar year.
Cost-of-living & housing drive demand for ACT community services
Demand for community services across the ACT has soared amid rising living costs, housing pressures, and worsening mental health, according to new research from the ACT Council of Social Services (ACTCOSS).
suburbs For all your tiling
Call Alex today 0475 000 528 localtilingact@hotmail.com
Antoniak Tiling and Renovations
Email: Bantoniak051@gmail.com | 0417 092 760
Brodie Antoniak
Owner and contractor ABN 14724243822 Reference
Students, pensioners, and concession card holders will soon enjoy free public transport all day, every day, after an ACT Greens motion passed the Legislative Assembly unanimously.
Greens transport spokesperson Andrew Braddock MLA called for all concession travel to be free regardless of the time of day; all students to be eligible for concessions; and any remaining funding from Labor’s Fare Free Fridays trial (which ends next month) to be used to reduce prices for concession fares from December.
Currently, most concession card holders travel for free during off-peak periods, while seniors over 70 travel free at all times. However, Mr Braddock said, that leaves out people who need to travel at peak times, including pensioners, school students, and part-time tertiary students.
“This is a win for Canberrans feeling the pinch of rising transport costs,” Mr Braddock said. “Parents will have a cost-free way to get their kids to school; pensioners can travel to the shops or visit loved ones without worry; and university students no longer have to stress about affording the trip to work or class.
Their 2025 State of the ACT Community Sector Survey found that 83 per cent of community organisations reported an increase in demand during 2024, up from 67 per cent two years earlier.
“This survey’s findings demonstrate the long-term worsening of socioeconomic conditions facing many Canberrans, with community organisations playing a critical role in responding to basic community needs,” ACTCOSS CEO Dr Devin Bowles said. “But the sector can’t keep up with this increasing demand.”
The top three drivers of this increased demand are cost-of-living pressures, lack of access to affordable housing, and/or experiences of homelessness and inadequate mental health support.
Community organisations are also supporting clients with more complex needs. In 2024, 76 per cent of organisations reported a rise in client complexity, up from 69 per cent in 2022. This is due to the increase in mental health conditions; insecure housing, overcrowding and/or homelessness; poverty; family and domestic violence; and difficulty accessing government supports.
The number of organisations observing an increase in levels of poverty and disadvantage increased from 56 per cent of respondents in 2022 to a “staggering” 82 per cent in 2024.
The book presents a collaborative First Nations’ perspective on the arrival of James
Warra Warra Wai by Darren Rix and Craig Cormick has won the 2025 ACT Book of the Year Award.
Spring Fair Orana Steiner School
& Learning Journey
11am - 3pm
Sunday
16 Nov
fun & games for all ages music performances curry, cakes & chai secondhand books market stalls plant sale ice-cream &more!
