Held in Geelong on April 3 with the theme, ‘An Industry Evolving’, the successful event was a celebration of women’s contributions to the wool industry.
“The energy and enthusiasm were phenomenal,” Women in Wool board member Bianca Heaney said.
“This conference created a ripple effect of inspiration and action — and it’s just the beginning.”
During the conference, attendees engaged in discussions covering themes such as sustainability, mentorship, inclusion and innovation.
It opened with a keynote speech from leadership expert Cynthia Mahoney, who encouraged attendees to embrace emotionally intelligent leadership, neuroscience-backed practices, and a focus on wellbeing to navigate change and disruption.
Other highlights included:
- Stacey McKenna (Meat Business Women), on progressing gender equity in agricultural industries.
- Vikki Templeman (member of Women in Wool), offering a ‘Horizon Scan’ to help future-proof the wool industry.
- Marnie Briggs (AWH), on the power of mentorship in advancing your career.
- Robyn Clubb, emphasising the importance of preserving diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
- A panel on Australian sustainable textiles featured Lynne Yearwood (LoomTex), Liz Miles (Sustainable Living Fabrics), Penny Rundle (Waverley Mills) and Sherri Symons (WoolGrow Australia).
Warrick Long from ABC’s Victorian Country Hour broadcast live from the event, highlighting remarkable success stories — from Liz Miles outfitting seats at the Sydney Opera House with wool, to fifth-generation farmer Sherri Symons transforming wool into innovative horticultural products.
The conference culminated in a gala awards night celebrating excellence and leadership. Two outstanding women were honoured:
- Raelene Laidlaw, recipient of the Women in Wool Legacy Award, for her enduring and influential contribution to the wool industry.
- Kate Methven, recipient of the Emerging Excellence Award, recognising her outstanding impact as a rising leader in the field.
Plans are already under way for the next Women in Wool event, with organisers aiming to grow the platform even further.
For more on Women in Wool, go to: https://www.womeninwool.com.au/
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