Meegan Taylor - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

⭐ Meegan is a positive, engaging and dedicated leader with in-depth understanding of human resources, general business management and specialist experience in Senior Executive HR Management roles. As Business Services Manager for Desert Blue Connect and Co-ordinator of the Chrysalis House Women’s Refuge in Geraldton, Meegan is a godsend to women and children in need. Chrysalis House provides safe accommodation for women and children who are escaping family violence or are at risk of being homeless as a result of crisis. I am always so very impressed with the lengths Meegan and her staff go to in order to protect those who need their help, with the refuge being staffed 24/7. Meegan prides herself on being an extremely good communicator who enjoys new challenges, her ability to always go above and beyond to achieve positive outcomes is an inspiration ⭐

An interview with Meegan

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

Believe in myself – nobody was born an expert. Learn and absorb and be authentic – don’t change who I am and embrace my difference. Surround myself with people who will bring out the best in me, use my voice and don’t be afraid to speak up. Lastly, find a mentor – a woman who inspires, encourages and believes in me.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

Bev Jowle – My former CEO at South Coastal Women’s Health Services. Bev taught me all there is to know about feminism and in turn, I passed this knowledge on to my daughter and have watched her grow into an incredible woman. Also my late mum Lyn Cunningham. Her strength and resilience was inspirational. She encouraged me and believed in me.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Approachable, hands-on, transparent, authentic, kind and compassionate.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

Women from regional, rural, and remote areas of Western Australia, you stand as the cornerstone of your communities, illuminating paths for future generations. Embrace the tight-knit bonds you share, and harness their profound strength and resilience. Dare to venture forward, embracing new experiences, welcoming change, and staying true to yourselves.

We thank you Meegan, for what you achieve for your community and regional, rural and remote Durack 💙

Pauline Bantock - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

⭐ As President of Victoria Plains Shire and secretary of Mogumber Outback Club (MOC), Pauline is right at the beating heart of Mogumber, a tiny township of only 58 people located in the Wheatbelt region of Durack. MOC was established as a community social group and has gone from strength to strength in recent years, with members calling Pauline “A champion for our small rural town.”  In 2022 Mogumber locals rallied together to buy the town’s historic tavern, saving their beloved pub from disrepair and transforming it into a community hub. The 130-year-old pub is undergoing an extensive renovation with money raised by the club and hours of labour from Pauline and a team of volunteers. The club’s major fundraiser is the Mogumber New Year’s Eve Rodeo, which has been running since 2013 and is now a sellout every year. Pauline has a background in hospitality, runs a Wheatbelt farm with her husband Dave and is well known for being highly dedicated to her community and to bettering the lives of those around her ⭐

An interview with Pauline

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

If plan A doesn’t work out, find plan B, or C or D. And I would probably tell my younger self to enjoy your time with family and friends more, the to do list can wait. Keep chipping away, but don’t work so hard that you leave your family life behind.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

My Great Grandmother Vera Hammer was part of my life until I was 15 and even at this early age, I absorbed her strength and commitment. I’ve since learnt more of her stories as the 11th woman to join local government in Western Australia. She joined the Coolgardie Road Board at age 40, giving to her community even when she ran a business and had 3 children, all while her husband was being held as a prisoner of war following the fall of Singapore in WW2. Her Daughter, Topsy, is another role model for me. She turned 99 this year and is so resilient and positive. My Grandmother still provides me with such wonderful advice. And of course, my Mother, Judy. She puts 100% effort into everything, has so much patience and has taught me to see the best in people. Outside of my own family, I’m really inspired by Michelle Payne, the first woman to win the Melbourne cup. I was lucky enough to meet her in person last year. She has true GRIT!

What word/s describe your leadership style?

I’m a hands-on leader. I like to lead from the trenches. It’s the best way to witness the strengths. Learn why this is important to your community. Everyone has a strength they can contribute and leadership is needed to harness that power for the benefit of the entire community. I believe in doing the right thing, which might not be the most popular thing at times, but popularity is not my goal.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

In the long run, grit and determination will mean more than money and talent.

We thank you Pauline, for what you achieve for your community and regional, rural and remote Durack 💙

Dee Van Beek - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

⭐ Dee has worked in the community service industry for over 20 years. During this time, she has supported clients in numerous areas, including disabilities, mental health, palliative care, dementia, domestic violence and bereavement. While Dee is still passionate about these areas, her main focus now, is to empower and support women through the Karratha Women’s Place (KWP). Dee moved to Karratha in 2009 and quickly realised just how socially isolating it could be for women living there, as they are often alone while partners work long shifts. As a result, Dee made the decision to actively make a positive change for the community and fill a gap that effected women, by establishing KWP. Although she lacked funding and organisational backing, Dee was determined to make her dream a reality, so that women now, as well as in the future, are supported in Karratha. After many years of Dee’s hard work, in 2019, KWP opened its doors to women of all ages, cultural backgrounds, religions and sexual orientations. Since then, KWP has continued to grow with the service supporting numerous women and offering a range of free monthly programs ⭐

An interview with Dee

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

With enough determination and hard work, anything is possible. If something doesn’t work the first time, don’t give up, try again taking into account what worked and what didn’t work, think outside the square, be inventive and be resilient.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

While there are many inspiring women I have met over the years and I am inspired by other women who, like me have been through traumatic times in life, I haven’t really had any specific role models. Instead, when I think back to starting my journey and career in the community services, as a single mum of 3 daughters, I wanted to set a good example, be a role model to them and show that they could achieve whatever they wanted to in life. So, following my divorce and, up until then being a stay-at-home mum for nearly 20 years, I started a new chapter of life in my 40s and enrolled in TAFE, then studied at Uni all while working full time and continuing to raise my daughters.  In addition, I drew strength from the song “I am Woman” by Helen Reddy, I always feel very empowered after listening to the song and it’s a great one to have playing in the car on the way to work, to help get me get into the right mindset for the day.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Inclusive, creative, passionate, supportive, caring and democratic. I always endeavour to make sure that all members of my team feel equally important and are given an opportunity to participate and share ideas. While Managers may have the final say in decision making, all team members should be encouraged to have a voice. 

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

I think it is really vital to keep in mind that things in regional, rural and remote WA work very differently compared to how things work in metro areas. As a result, it is extremely important to be resilient, believe in yourself and don’t give up when something might not work the first time. It took me around 10 years to make the Karratha Women’s Place not just a dream, but a reality. During this time, I faced multiple hurdles, but I never gave up and now we’re getting ready to celebrate our 5th birthday.

We thank you Dee, for what you achieve for your community and regional, rural and remote Durack 💙

May Doncon - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

⭐ May has worked in the crucial and ever-growing mental health sector for over 20 years. Now the proud manager of headspace Geraldton, May has been an early intervention worker, a social worker with WA Country Health Service and a manager of mental health programs with WA Centre for Rural Health and 360 Health. May is a proud advocate for women’s rights internationally and arrived in Australia as a child after spending time as a refugee after her family fled their home country of Iran. May is also a volunteer firefighter at Cape Burney Brigade and is passionate about fitness and health, with martial arts being just one of her varied interests.  I applaud the work that May does in developing mental health and community development programs and am so pleased to have her spearheading the Geraldton headspace centre. As May has said herself, she is passionate about the delivery of high-quality health care to rural, remote and regional areas of Australia ⭐

An interview with May

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

You are stronger and more resilient than you think. Trust in yourself and believe inyour abilities. Challenges will come and go but you will overcome them with time, perseverance and patience.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

The people who have inspired me the most are not famous or in the public life but every day people who have overcome adverse life circumstances, demonstrated courage in difficult situations and have used their experiences to help others. I’m also inspired by community volunteers who give so much of their time and personal resources to local community organisations

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Supportive and empowering. People can only grow and improve with encouragement, support and opportunities.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

Never underestimate your power to create positive change in your life and your community.

We thank you May, for what you achieve for your community and regional, rural and remote Durack 💙

Durack Housing Shortages

We are facing a housing crisis nation wide and all throughout my electorate of Durack. The Albanese Labor Government is bringing more people into the country than ever before and at the same time, fewer houses are being built. More people, fewer houses; fewer houses, more people. Why can't Labor understand that their strategy is driving up housing prices? It is simple economics.

Sophie Cooke - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

⭐ Sophie is a Kimberley star from Kununurra who has a very diverse career and background, including the achievement of her master’s degree in education, focusing on special education. Sophie’s multi-faceted career includes being the Chair of her family’s agricultural venture, the Cooke Agricultural Group, her role as a Small Business Advisory Consultant for the Kimberley Small Business Support program and being a Thrive Support Teacher at Scotch Global. Her leadership extends to Ord Valley Events, where significant achievements, such as securing a gold win at the WA Tourism Awards for the Ord Valley Muster, highlight her strategic planning acumen. Initiatives like launching the Taste of the Kimberley event and transforming a local rodeo association into one of the country's largest showcase her diverse skill set, including successful marketing campaigns like the Jabiru Mangoes ⭐

An interview with Sophie

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

Keep your focus and determination strong and don’t waver. I would also say, you can’t be 100% at everything at once, life is long and you have time to do ALL the things you want to, they don’t have to be done in one decade. I would also tell her, the children don’t stay little forever, kiss their heads and dance in the kitchen because one day you’ll have PLENTY of time to do all the other things.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

Brene Brown, Kemi Nekvapil, Rosa Storelli (my high school Principal), My Mum and without sounding super sucky, Melissa. I think she’s been an incredible advocate for Durack and I thoroughly enjoy her leadership and intelligence every time we interact.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Inclusive empowerment. I believe in bringing people into my team with the qualities and strengths that are needed and then mentoring them in their roles to ensure they are achieving the best for themselves as an individual and the best for the organisation as a whole.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

Keep doing what you do, and make it loud. We are some of the most resilient, capable, adaptable and innovative women on the planet. Our voices have great value. Lets keep using them.

We thank you Sophie, for what you achieve for your community and regional, rural and remote Durack 💙

Charlene Senior - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

⭐ Charlene is the Pilbara Manager for Anglicare WA, operating our vital headspace centres across the Pilbara and providing crucial early intervention mental health services to young people with mental health challenges affecting their wellbeing. Charlene has also worked to implement various programs across the Pilbara in primary healthcare, mental health, disability services, suicide prevention and chronic disease and has been instrumental in setting up the Pilbara headspaces, with the new Karratha facility, opened last year, being the 150th centre in Australia. Charlene is committed and dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of her community and lives by the motto of ‘Supporting Pilbara People to Thrive’.⭐

An interview with Charlene

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

No, you’re not imagining it! You are being underestimated. But knowing this empowers you to approach, create and develop opportunities to grow your career. There will be strong women who see your potential, who don’t underestimate you and reflect back the best of you; listen to them, follow their lead and they will take you to amazing new places. Remember how at the end of a training session, when you were so exhausted you couldn’t lift your arms and your state netball coach would tell you to go and post up and practice shooting? Getting accuracy for the tired shots, the ones that will make or break a tight game, was an important life lesson. It taught the importance of creating good habits which have a powerful impact on life because these good practices become an unconscious part of your routine, like brushing your teeth. The key habits to develop for leadership are sleep, eat for health, regular exercise, learn mindfulness, have gratitude, be compassionate to yourself and others and always learn new things. If these are all part of your routine, you’ve got a really strong foundation to build on. My last bit of advice for my younger self is that leadership is a difficult metric to self-measure. You can’t determine whether you are a good leader or not, only your team can. Listen to those around you and be guided by them.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

I am inspired by so many people! My mum invested so much of herself to build my self-confidence and resilience in my younger years. Both my parents taught me that success isn’t anything particularly glamorous, it’s about not giving up on your goals, but also knowing when changing up your approach is the right thing to do. At Anglicare WA, I work with remarkable women who model strength, resilience, compassion, intelligence, ask great questions and simultaneously consider the big picture while being attentive to the small details. I am incredibly grateful for these inspiring women whose leadership inspires me to lift my expectations of myself and to achieve more for this region. When I am looking for inspiring words to help me frame a situation, Maya Angelou is my go-to, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Is the quote that I use to guide my actions in leadership.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Democratic. I’m working to create psychological safety across our widely dispersed teams in the Pilbara and can only achieve that by getting input from the people on the ground. Our staff are incredible people! They are literally some of the best humans I’ve ever known, and the work they do across our Pilbara communities is changing people’s lives. Their input is gold. It is a privilege to work with these amazing people and I am incredibly grateful that when I do make an error, the team will tell me so that we can discuss it as a group, make any changes needed and move forward together.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

Women in the regions are strong, resilient, adaptable and we don’t sweat the small stuff. We prioritise authentic connections, we find ways to laugh when things are tough, and we care for our communities. Our resilience and authenticity are a highly valuable skillset that we all have because without it, we don’t stay here long. Whatever you want to achieve, you’ve got this!

We thank you Charlene, for what you achieve for your community and regional, rural and remote Durack 💙

Leonie Noble - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

⭐Leonie holds the position of President on the National Rural Women's Coalition and Network board and is Immediate Past President of the WIN - Women's Industry Network in Seafood. Leonie is a born and raised Geraldtonian and is partner in a crayfishing business and former Deputy Chair of the Regional Development Australia - Mid West & Gascoyne Board. Leonie also chaired The Rural, Regional, Remote Women's Network of Western Australia, which feeds policy into the state government, for 5 years. Leonie sits on the National Fishing Advisory Council and is a past director of the Western Australia Fishing Industry Council. One of the first women inducted into the National Seafood Hall of Fame, Leonie was inducted into the Australian Financial Reviews Alumni for Australia’s 100 influential women 2019. Leonie works at community, state, federal and international levels to empower women’s voices ⭐

An interview with Leonie

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

Be Brave, dont automatically say no to opportunity until you have really thought it through because the more you say no the quicker opportunity dries up. Listen more and talk less, do your homework, you will not always automatically be right and the more you know the easier it is to stand up and back yourself.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

My Parents and grandmother, in the early days, their honest wisdom, patience and encouragement made a huge difference in how I approached life and work. In the later years it was the women (and some men lol) that had the same belief systems as I have and who worked so hard to ensure a place at the table for other women.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Inclusive, supportive and brave! At least thats what I have always tried to be.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

If a noisy girl from Geraldton can be accepted in the arenas that I have been able to wield some influence in and be given the opportunity to speak at the United Nations in New York on several occasions, there is nothing to stop anyone who has a burning passion to make a difference in what ever sphere they want to, it just takes hard work. Stop saying No to opportunity if it fits your belief system, the time commitment fits your lifestyle and you have a passion for the subject. Believe in yourselves, back your authentic self and get a mentor when you need one.

We thank you Leonie, for what you achieve for your community and regional, rural and remote Durack 💙

Geraldton Emergency Rescue Helicopter request REJECTED

Today in the House I spoke on the recent careless decision by the WA State Labor Government to reject the establishment of an emergency rescue helicopter based in Geraldton, Durack’s largest population base.

The Voice. Where is Labor's Plan B?

The Albanese Government promised everything with The Voice. Yet it’s been more than four months now since the referendum, and we are still waiting on the Government to announce their Plan B. Today in the House I spoke on my recommendations with Indigenous Affairs moving forward.

Sylvia Kelly - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

⭐ Founder and stalwart of the Gingin Care Group, Sylvia is renowned for being a caring and deeply involved member of her community. The Gingin Care Group have a unique blueprint to provide holistic care to the members of the Gingin community. Among other services, the Group provides transport to and from medical appointments, and a variety of in-home support. Sylvia is always very humble about the amazing work she does in supporting her fellow residents, I would like her to know that she is an inspiration to many and I admire and respect her dedication to others ⭐

An interview with Sylvia

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

All my life, young and older, I have got involved in many varied ways when I saw a need.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Inspiring other people to explore needs and be focussed on meeting them. Never giving up no matter how many leads go into a blank wall. Inspiring others to find their caring selves.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

Always be open to any input from group members...never have a need to be in control. Don’t have fixed ideas and be open to any suggestions or observations. Make sure you allow people the freedom to give as much or as little as they can.

We thank you Sylvia, for what you achieve for your community and regional Durack 💙

Susan Grylls - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

⭐ Director of the Pilbara and Kimberley University Centres and general all round community superstar, Susan is well renowned in the Pilbara and Kimberley regions for being a leader and a forward thinker. Susan has been recognised for her outstanding efforts in the business and education sector and was awarded Businesswoman of the Year at the Karratha District Chamber Commerce and Industry Business Excellence Awards in 2022. Susan is highly dedicated and involved in her community and has an admirable vision for the future of Durack constituents in our north. ⭐

An interview with Susan

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

Always keep your moral and ethical compass – no matter the consequences. In the end it is always turns out to have been the right pathway. Be yourself and enjoy the battle. Fight and never give up! Never be afraid to start at the bottle and make mistakes. Don’t take yourself too seriously but take your job and your passions as seriously as you can. And don’t forget to laugh.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

My mother, Michelle Obama, Margot Fonteyn, Leanne Benjamin, Amal Clooney, Marie Curie

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Gosh I have to laugh at this one. I think my leadership style has evolved over the years (as I have observed my mistakes and learned from them). I think nowadays it is mixture of a number of styles that are relevant to the situation and I think you have to be like that now – you have to be flexible, you have to be reactive to changing scenarios and the people around you. I try to lead by example and bring people around me on the journey so it’s a team play rather than it being an autocratic, egotistical experience for others involved.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

Living in regional, rural and remote WA has been the most wonderful thing that ever happened to me. I grew up in Perth and planned to settle in San Francisco as a corporate lawyer. However life took me down a different path and I could not be happier! Regional, rural and remote WA offers incredible opportunities for everyone - to make friends, to explore, to challenge yourself, to be big, bold and visionary! It is not always easy and you have to be flexible, resilience and innovative. However it is worth it. Nothing and I mean nothing beats living in regional, rural and remote WA!

We thank you Susan, for what you achieve for your community and regional, rural and remote Durack 💙

Cristelle Stott - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

Cristelle Stott

⭐ Cristelle is the owner operator of Autism Horses, an equine therapy group who help people from all walks of life with capacity building and independent functioning. Cristelle and her team understand the challenges that being a parent or caregiver of a specific-needs person are and their programs are developed for the participant as well as their support network by providing a ‘no demand stimulus’ therapy environment. Autism Horses aim to support members of the community who experience their environment hypo-reactively, reducing the sensory experience which can be overwhelming. Cristelle is highly involved in her community and cares deeply about the work she does ⭐

An interview with Cristelle

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

I would tell my younger self that I’m so proud of her courage to be authentic in this world as a woman. The ability to be authentic is a fantastic ‘filter’; because the people that don’t align with your message will naturally drop away when you centre yourself in your authenticity. To always listen to her ability as a woman to be receptive to her intuition, because women are a portal for energy, information and abundance, when they are both authentic and intuitively centred. Finally, to act on her intuition, because who, what and where you surround yourself with, will become you. There are no mistakes when you align yourself with yourself; so don’t stay, do or be anything that is not authentic and intuitive in that moment you make decisions, there are no accidents, no mistakes; there is only learning and growing. You are the only one that is with you, your entire life; so if you act from these principles you will always respect yourself.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

I respect and gravitate to people who are value driven and moral orientated, with grit and drive who don’t give up. They are everywhere and sometimes you only get just a glimpse. We call this ‘glimmers’. Glimmers of hope in humanity. My current favourite role model is my 12 year old daughter.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

As a micro-noticer, I am equipped to lead gently from behind. I encourage my team to think and only bounce off me after they have made relevant choices and decisions. I notice strengths before challenges in my team; adjust the team member workload to suit, and set them up to thrive. I set up an environment that is an open learning exploratory and stimulating environment; with challenges suited to team members, but also with the expectation that team members perform at their highest level. I scaffold well to this. I am aware I am human, a female human with combination Autism and adhd; so I can appear cold due to being in my reporting brain, and grumpy. However I only ever get grumpy with my team when team members do something they know they should not do. I protect my team and absorb challenges not directly related to team and individual performance. You will never get in trouble for making a mistake. I think I just answered that in a really long winded way, so I will say I think I’m a good balance between the three leadership types; autocratic, democratic and laissez-faire.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

You are not a man; nor should you try to be one. When women do things they don’t want to do, or have no choice but to ‘play’ roles determined by others outside of themselves, they produce testosterone. Let the men be men and produce the testosterone. Withdraw from the game presented to you by others by understanding that you have way more creative control than what you give yourself credit for. In any circumstance, the reality you experience is the one you activate by responding to the thoughts you have about it. Seek to be an ‘activated’ woman; even in any and all pain you experience. Don’t run from the pain, it is your highest learning. The world needs connection, depowered language and deconstruction of archaic social narratives. Women need to lead like women. As a woman, you have the innate and natural ability to lead via empowerment through noticing others. Never forget the power of your attention or lack thereof; even without saying a word. Women can naturally design and create new paradigms, and are an expression of the abundance of life—-only if your own cup is full first!! Never ever never ‘dim your light for anyone’ or pour from an empty cup, that won’t serve your culture, community, your passion, your family at all. Old system thinking doesn’t solve new world problems, so recognise the process is top-down by putting you first; then address society, culture, community; down to family. But you make sure you’re at the top, Queen. Nobody can do this without you. The whole world is waiting for this swing back from patriarch to feminism, to the balance of empowered persons. Then we can united tackle the real problems. Your people are watching you, and they need to see you vibrant, resourced, and inspirational. Make that happen, and everything else will fall in.

We thank you Cristelle, for what you achieve for your community and regional Durack 💙

Debbie Dowden - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

Debbie Dowden

⭐ Debbie is the owner and operater of Challa Station, a beef cattle enterprise based in the Southern Rangelands of WA that has been in the Dowden family since 1888. Debbie and her family understand the need to rehydrate farm lands, repair historical degradation and restore the natural environment for future generations. Debbie is the Interim Chair of the Southern Rangelands Pastoral Alliance, a Fellow at the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation, holds her Masters degree in Environmental Science and overall, is widely recognised as a leader in sustainable production ⭐

An interview with Debbie

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

Put the voices of doubt aside and know that you are stronger and more capable than you think.  Don’t focus on the challenges, focus instead on the contribution that you can make, understanding that women have been leading since the beginning of time but often push their men into the limelight. Be brave and step into that light yourself.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

As a teenager I was inspired by Margaret Thatcher, because she was a powerful woman who lead a country, and she broke a lot of moulds. These days, good people with passion, a positive mindset and a strong work ethic inspire me. People like Professor Fiona Wood and aviator Nancy Bird, and also people closer to home like rural leader Sue Middleton and pastoralist Annabell Coppin.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

People often underestimate me, so I would say surprising best describes my leadership style. After that, my leadership style could be seen as positive, democratic and very often situational.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

We are incredibly privileged to be living in regional, rural and remote areas. There are so many opportunities to be your authentic self and to lead from the heart. You live in a strong community where people care and matter, and where the ‘vision splendid’ still exists.

We thank you Debbie, for what you achieve for your community and regional, rural and remote Durack 💙

Sandy Dann - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

Sandy Dann

⭐ Sandy is a proud Nyul Nyul woman from Broome who is deeply connected to the Kimberley community and is well respected as a radio broadcaster, both locally and nationally. An inspirational local figure who has celebrated over 30 years in broadcasting, including many years dedicated to the famous Radio Goolarri, Sandy brings a wealth of insight and perspective to her community and beyond. After contracting congenital rubella at a young age which led to vision impairment, Sandy has said that “she has a coloured world even though her eyesight is limited”.⭐

An interview with Sandy

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

Advice I would give to to my younger self would be - don’t think every one will like you, respect is there to be earned. 

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

My Mothers, Aunties, Sisters and nieces ensure that I am grounded as role models amongst the women I meet and work along side that keep me growing.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

I have always taken note to find your own within and do not follow others or they can lead you astray.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

To any lady/girl - be your self, work on the gifts you are born with, life is never too hard, we just got to find another way.

We thank you Sandy, for what you achieve for your community and regional, rural and remote Durack 💙

Angelina Calver - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

Angelina Calver

⭐ Angelina is a born and bred Geraldtonian who commenced life as a mortgage broker back in 1998 and has built a fantastic reputation in her community since. She is renowned for her friendly and bubbly demeanour, taking care to always ensure her clients get the right advice on what’s best for them. Angelina’s knowledge and experience have helped countless people over the years achieve their home ownership or investment dreams ⭐

An interview with Ang

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

To have confidence and faith that you can achieve what you set your mind to.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

Every successful hard working woman.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Don't expect someone to do what you would not do and lead by example.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

Have faith in your ability to achieve what other people do not believe you can, in regional WA we have a lot of opportunities. You just need to look for them and have faith in your ability.

We thank you Angelina, for what you achieve for your community and regional Durack 💙

Tina Scott - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

Tina Scott

⭐ General Manager of the Port Hedland Chamber of Commerce, Tina has been a Port Hedland resident for over 12 years and was previously board member and treasurer of the Chamber. Tina has been recognised for her commitment to her community with various accolades, including Port Hedland Employee of the Year and Best Business at the Business Excellence Awards. Tina has an extensive background in finance, real estate and business development. With a passion for all things Pilbara and for her community, Tina is heavily involved with various boards and local fundraising events.⭐

An interview with Tina

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

I would tell my younger self that making mistakes is a natural part of life and a valuable opportunity for learning and growth. Be yourself! Don’t be afraid to ask the questions that you want to ask and seek the answers. Stand tall and be proud of who you are and always come from a place of “Yes”  You can figure out how to make id happen along the way. And never be afraid to be bright and wear PINK !

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

Over the years I have many, Julie Bishop, Dr Catherine Hamlin , Bethenny Frankel , who I am meeting in March. My personal role models are the powerful resilient females in my life, My Mum, my girlfriends, and colleagues. The women who support you every day, women who support women in life’s daily challenges all trying to make a difference.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Fast and Furious, with stilettos!

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

Grab every opportunity and have a go, Hedland / Pilbara is the land of opportunity and being remote should not be a barrier for reaching your goals, you may need to pivot to achieve them. Be involved , engage in community and be present. Volunteer , attend events and make meaningful connections

We thank you Tina, for what you achieve for your community and regional, rural and remote Durack 💙

Sharni Foulkes - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

Sharni Foulkes

⭐ CEO of the Broome Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc., Sharni is a true blue Broome local who is highly involved in her community. She has worked in various fields as a Business Adviser, a Director, a Regional Manager and now a Chief Executive Officer for the past 2 years. Sharni is an inspiration to her community and indeed, to all women striving to achieve in regional, rural and remote areas of Durack ⭐

An interview with Sharni

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

I was very young when I took on my first leadership role, managing multiple sites with a number of staff. From day one, I was told that I would only ever be as good as my team, but what I didn’t know at the time was how hard working and loyal staff could be. I wish I had known what motivated my team and what actualy mattered to them. And I wish I had known that what motivated me (money and free travel) did not necessarily motivate them. And that all good people excel when they are treated as just that, good people. Trust and empowerment always goes a long way in any situation/workplace/leadership position.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

I’ve had many good role models in life, but one thing I wish I had of done earlier, was actually reaching out to the people I admire and asking them if they would mentor me. What I learnt and the connections and opportunities from seeking support and having someone to look up to created was in valuable.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Passion and empowerment -  you have to love what you do and you have to love who your working with! Leading a team that feels empowered and has the confidence and aspiration to succeed is on another level and together you can truly conquer whatever you set out to achieve!

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

This is a tough one, yet the easiest and simplest question to answer. Have each others backs! Co-sign, work together, collaborate and be inclusive. We are so much bigger when we are banded together in force, so embrace the remoteness and make sure when you go in to bat, your batting with the support and the backing of all the other regions!

We thank you Sharni, for what you achieve for your community and regional , rural and remote Durack 💙

Lara Sadowski -Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

Lara Sadowski

⭐ Director of the Geraldton Property Team, Lara was born and bred in Geraldton and has excelled in the real estate industry for over 15 years. Lara and her team are consistently recognised as the #1 Agents in the Geraldton real estate market, achieved through professionalism, experience and strong commitment to the Geraldton community ⭐

An interview with Lara

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

"Find a mentor" would be the advice when instructing my younger self on professional growth. My grandmother used to say that one can learn something from absolutely anyone. Her advice served me well, as it provided the lens for looking into the world as an ongoing learning opportunity. What I didn’t recognize at the time was that she was my first mentor along with my mother.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

My Mother whom passed away at a young age from illness. She was selfless and gave everything to her family. Coming from an Eastern European background, you were taught to work hard for what you wanted and give to others before you give to yourself. Eastern Europeans are a gritty, intense, and supernaturally sturdy people. Communism, wars, and winters have sculpted their tradition of getting by with little. They'll endure any hardship and overcome any challenge with a stoic and grim determination.

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Independent, fearless, determined, caring, Resilient, adaptable, ambitious, confident and inspirational.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

Never give up! You can do what you put your mind too. I love manifesting and focusing on what I want to achieve and when your mind is right/focused, you can achieve anything. Don’t let location dampen your dreams and goals. Look for opportunities to travel and attend conferences/seminars  to meet like minded people that will give you the stimulation and drive to keep following your dreams and goals.

We thank you Lara, for what you achieve for your community and regional Durack 💙

Karen Chappel AM - Inspirational Women of Durack

❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️

Karen Chappel AM

⭐ President of the Shire of Morawa and the Western Australian Local Government Association, Karen was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia 2023 for her significant service to local government and the community of Morawa ⭐

An interview with Karen

What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?

To believe in myself and to embrace every opportunity, do not be intimidated by history or expectations. Accept that life doesn’t always sail smoothly and let the bumps along the way make you stronger and more determined. Always call out poor behaviour, stand up for yourself. Accept that leadership is not a popularity contest, it is about doing what is right. That there are 24 hours in a day, use them wisely.

Who are the role models that have inspired you?

Ita Buttrose, as a child reading the Australian Womens Weekly editorial I idolised Ita’s column. Then of course my own mother Jean King,   my mother was State President of the CWA and a recipient of the Churchill fellowship. 

What word/s describe your leadership style?

Authentic, collaborative and caring. I do not judge anyone if I am not prepared to walk in their shoes.

What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?

Always be proud of being a girl from the country, we are known to be resilient and practical. Do not let the tyranny of distance become a barrier to participation in whatever passion or cause you believe in. Perseverance is the key, keep going until the right people listen or let you in. Trust in yourself, you know who you are and what you are stand for. 

We thank you Karen, for what you achieve for your community and for regional and rural Durack 💙