Jessica Evans is a Registered Nurse and the founder of Pilbara Cosmetic and Wellness. She works with women across regional and remote communities, focusing on practical health, hormones, and overall wellbeing. Jessica is known for her clear, no-nonsense approach. She helps women understand their bodies and build simple habits that support energy, mood, and long-term health. Through workshops, clinics, and community programs, she supports women to take control of their health in a way that feels realistic and sustainable.

Tess Jasmine is the founder of Connect & Empower, a Karratha based coaching and education practice working with women, mothers, and teens across the Pilbara. Her background spans teaching, advocacy work, and coercive control education, giving her a rare cross sector view of what actually holds women back and it is rarely a knowledge gap. It is conditioning. She also brings the credibility of 14 years running her own successful photography business, and is co founder, alongside Dr Sam Casey, of the Pilbara Women in Business Network, so the advice she gives on business and identity comes from lived experience, not theory. Tess believes the real work of empowerment does not stop at the individual. Once a woman sees the pattern that has kept her small, the next step is turning around and making space for the woman behind her, through mentoring, honest conversation, recommendations, promotions and backing other women publicly rather than just privately.

Morag Lowe arrived in Port Hedland exactly 21 years ago thinking that it would be interesting and challenging to spend around 5 years in the Pilbara managing the real estate business she had just bought! Since then, Hedland First National as grown in stature in the real estate industry, initially developing a strong local presence, and today is recognised as an innovative and performance driven industry leader at both state and national levels. HFN employs over 45 staff, with many long- term employees enjoying amazingly successful and rewarding careers. Morag has been involved in the real estate industry for nearly 40 years and during that time has experienced every aspect of the industry including property development, residential construction, project management and of course business management. She is also a committed supporter of local community groups, viewing HFN’s involvement less as a branding opportunity and more as appreciation of the time and effort not-for-profit organisations spend enhancing the amenity of our town.

Sinead Booth is the GM Decarbonisation Program at Fortescue, tasked with an ambitious goal of removing all emissions from Fortescue’s Pilbara Operations by 2030. Sinead won the Women in Industry (Excellence in Mining) award in 2024 and was recognised by the Australian Financial Review as a BOSS Young Executive winner for 2024. With experience working across Australia and Asia, Sinead has more than a decade of experience spearheading initiatives that have shaped the mining industry. Sinead recognises the unique opportunity that the energy transition represents to improve diversity and equality as the industry decarbonises.

John Brereton is the General Manager, Hedland Operations at Fortescue. With a focus on leading high-performing teams and driving change, he has been instrumental in safely delivering operations, maintenance functions and the decarbonisation transition, across both port and rail, since April 2023. John commenced his career within the health sector and has completed a Masters of Medical Science at UWA, along with Bachelor of Health Science and Post Graduate Diplomas in Critical Care and Occupational Health and Safety. With 19 years’ experience across the construction and resource sectors, John has dedicated the last decade to Fortescue, holding several senior leadership positions, including GM Health and Safety Iron Ore, GM Health and Safety Projects, and Health and Safety Manager Hedland Operations.

Lee Furness has decades of experience in Government and non-Government organisations developing and implementing strategic planning initiatives. Project planning, governance and project management are her key areas of expertise. Her strengths are in developing innovative strategies to deliver quality outcomes and a commitment to collaboration to achieve strong results. Lee has been the Town of Port Hedland’s Director of Infrastructure since December 2019. With substantial experience in project planning, governance and project management, Lee drives the Town’s delivery of key strategic infrastructure projects. Lee’s team has successfully completed infrastructure projects worth hundreds of millions and is now planning for the next phase of growth with substantial capital investment planned over the next 15 years

Daiva leads the regional development strategy for RDA Pilbara, a region that contributes $100 billion to Australia’s GDP annually with a population of only 60,000 and holds some of Australia's oldest living cultures. Her work focuses on building a Pilbara that grows beyond its resource base, with stronger economic diversity, better regional connections, and growth that includes everyone.

Susan Grylls is CEO of the Pilbara Kimberley Universities Centre (PKUC). Previously, she served as the General Manager of Corporate Services at multinational shipping and logistics organisation. 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. The PUC provides access to a range of online and in-person educational programs in the Pilbara and Kimberley regions. PUC aims to facilitate higher education access while fostering regional growth in the Pilbara & Kimberley regions.

Kelly Gudgeon landed in the north west of Western Australia after travelling the country in a caravan with her family for around three years. After stopping in Karratha for a planned 12 month work break she fell in love with the lifestyle of the Pilbara. She has been in the region now for more than eight years and loves everything about the place; the people, the lifestyle, the incredible environment, and even the weather. Graduating from the University of Technology Sydney in 2000, armed with a degree in journalism, Kelly travelled and worked in a variety of locations in both media and government across the country. Kelly was the presenter of the ABC Pilbara Breakfast program for around eight years, only recently giving up the 4am wake up for the far more civilised hours working as the Communications Manager for the Westerman Jiliya Institute, and working with renowned Indigenous psychologist Tracy Westerman.

Kelly Howlett is a respected regional leader, environmental advocate, and governance specialist with more than two decades of impact across Western Australia’s Pilbara. She founded the Care For Hedland Environmental Association in 2003 at age 26 and served as its volunteer Chairperson for over 20 years, guiding the organisation from a grassroots group into a sector‑leading voice for sustainability, waste innovation, and coastal conservation. A former Mayor of the Town of Port Hedland (2009–2016), Kelly is widely recognised for championing transparent governance, community-led solutions, and strategic planning in regional contexts. Kelly has held multiple board and advisory roles throughout her career. Kelly was inducted into the WA Women’s Hall of Fame in March 2018 and appointed a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia (General Division) as part of the June 2023 Kings Birthday Honours in recognition of her lengthy contribution to the local Hedland environment and community. In October 2025 Kelly was awarded the 2025 WA Coastal Excellence Coastal Champion Award for significant contributions to the protection of Flatback turtles in Port Hedland.

Kate James is an Operations Manager Rail - West at DT Infrastructure who has been instrumental in growing DT Infrastructure's presence in the Pilbara region. Kate has been key to the success of the Rio Tinto re-rail project since joining DT Infrastructure in September 2022 and more recently has led the team delivering Track Maintenance Services for Fortescue near Port Hedland, Western Australia. Relocating from the UK to Perth, Western Australia, she has balanced FIFO work in Karratha and Port Headland, Western Australia with family life while driving significant project improvements. Kate's leadership reduced safety incidents, enhanced efficiency, and set new records in project delivery. Her client-focused approach and strategic initiatives have solidified DT Infrastructure's reputation as a trusted partner, making her a standout leader in the industry, a recognition that was affirmed when she won the National Association of Women in Construction WA Business and Leadership Award in 2023.

Tui Magner is the Co‑Founder of Karlayura Rodeo Inc., the organisation behind the rapidly growing Roebourne Rodeo a sell‑out inaugural event recognised nationally in 2025 with the Australian Bushmen’s Campdraft & Rodeo Association Committee of the Year award. Building on this success, Karlayura Rodeo Inc has expanded its footprint across the Pilbara, delivering the second Roebourne Rodeo in August 2026 and launching the first Newman Rodeo under its banner. As the driving force behind event delivery, Tui leads the strategic planning, partnerships, governance, and on‑the‑ground execution that have positioned Karlayura Rodeo Inc as a standout example of how regional events can strengthen local identity, elevate community pride, and create meaningful social and economic impact. Her leadership centres on building community‑driven events that bring people together and leave a lasting legacy for remote towns. Alongside her rodeo commitments, Tui works as the Community Economic Development Manager (Pilbara) at Many Rivers, supporting remote Indigenous communities, Traditional Owners, and corporations to build sustainable economic pathways grounded in self‑determination, Traditional Owner empowerment, and community‑led success. A mother of four and a proud Pilbara woman by choice, Tui is known for her grounded, community‑first approach and her ability to unite people to deliver projects that create long‑term impact.

Virginia Miltrup is an accomplished CEO and Company Director with a strong record of leading organisations through complex change. She brings deep expertise across strategy, corporate services, and operational leadership, with experience spanning local government and major multinational companies. A third-generation local government executive, she is committed to strengthening community outcomes and driving sector-wide improvement. Her executive career includes senior transformation roles at CBH Group, Synergy, Unisys, and Thomson Reuters. Virginia is a Local Government Grants Commissioner, overseeing $400 million in federal funding for WA local governments, and a Trustee of the 100 Women charity, supporting projects that advance the wellbeing of women and girls. She holds a Master of Leadership and Management, a Bachelor of Commerce, is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management.

Having grown up in the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia, living, working and playing in regional communities is where I am happiest. I lived in Tom Price for nearly 10years when my children were in primary school and was one of the founding members of the Tom Price Bush Fire Brigade. Having moved to Port Hedland four years ago I joined both the Hedland Bush Fire Brigade, where I was Captain in 2024-25 and the Port Hedland Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service where I am currently Captain. Volunteering has been a focus in my life since a young age, following in the footsteps of my parents, supporting my own and my children’s sporting endeavours, local country agricultural shows and of course fire brigades. I also ran a successful home business in Tom Price alongside working full time, raising my children and volunteering. I have been fortunate (or not) to have been provided opportunities across a large range of industry sectors throughout my working life, adapting to life circumstances and learning to sink or swim. My list of careers seems to be never ending, though I have found that skills transfer across companies and job roles. Some of my roles have been: Residential College Supervisor, Youth and Community Development Officer, Small Business Centre Manager, Local Government employee and Shire Councillor, Bank Manager, Operations Manager for an Aboriginal Corporation, Project Manager – Demolition and Asbestos Removal, Education Officer NGO and Mental Health Patient Safety and Quality. I have held many mentor and education roles throughout my career supporting young people to discover their passions, understand work ethic and navigate their future paths. I believe that a village raises a child, and it is up to all of us to selflessly pass on our knowledge and skills as others did for us. I am forever learning and striving to understand more and hope that I have touched a few lives along my journey.

Originally from Tasmania, Jade came to the Pilbara seeking adventure and, like many people, thought she’d only stay for a short while. Instead, she found opportunity, community and a place to call home. Today, Jade is the owner of Soak in Dampier, where she operates a successful café and catering business supporting local events and organisations across the region. Her journey from newcomer to business owner reflects the unexpected opportunities that can come from stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing life in the Pilbara. When she’s not running Soak, you’ll find her embracing routine, discipline and early mornings – these days, with a little more wisdom under her belt, she’s waking up for the sunrise rather than still being awake from the night before.

Jodie Swaffer is the Deputy Mayor of the City of Karratha, a small business owner, community volunteer and proud Pilbara local. Having called Karratha home for more than 16 years, she is passionate about creating opportunities for people to live, work and thrive in the region through every stage of life. Jodie has built and operated multiple local businesses and worked across the mining and government sectors. She has also dedicated many years to community organisations, schools and sporting groups, with leadership roles across basketball, education, and local advocacy. A strong believer in the power of community, Jodie is committed to supporting a Pilbara where families can put down roots, young people can pursue opportunities close to home and future generations can enjoy the lifestyle the region offers. Outside of her professional and volunteer roles, Jodie enjoys time with her family, often on the basketball court, fishing or making the most of the outdoors that make the Pilbara home.

Joanne Waterstrom Muller is a proud Pilbara woman whose 30 years of volunteering reflect in the power of women to strengthen and uplift regional communities. As the Deputy Local Manager of the Karratha State Emergency Service, Joanne plays a key leadership role in preparing the region for severe weather, coordinating emergency response, and supporting volunteers during high‑pressure operations. She is an experienced Team Leader in Road Accident Rescue and a qualified Instructor in Chainsaw Operations, Advanced First Aid, and Radio Communications, helping train and mentor the next generation of SES volunteers — especially women stepping into emergency services for the first time. Joanne’s community contribution extends far beyond SES. She has volunteered across local sporting groups, supported wildlife rescue and short‑term care for unwanted animals, and served on school boards and P&Cs, strengthening education, wellbeing, and community connection for Pilbara families. She has also helped shape the region through her eight years as a City of Karratha councillor, contributing to local development, community priorities, and long‑term planning. Today, she continues her commitment to regional growth as the Operations Manager at the Pilbara Kimberley University Centres, supporting access to higher education across the North West. Joanne’s long‑standing service has been recognised through major honours, including being named City of Karratha Citizen of the Year and receiving the National Medal for sustained commitment to emergency services. She embodies the spirit of Pilbara women — capable, compassionate, community‑minded, and always ready to step forward when others need support.

Jessica Wilson is a proud Yindjibarndi and Njamal woman from Ieramugadu (Roebourne), with ancestral connections spanning Njamal Country through to Yindjibarndi Country. Her deep connection to Country is the foundation of Bugarrba’s vision and purpose. Jessica has built a career across the Pilbara mining industry, Aboriginal business, and community development. As Managing Director of Bugarrba and Group Director of Wirlu-Murra Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation and Wirlu-Murra Enterprises, she is passionate about creating opportunities for Aboriginal people. A proud mother of three, Jessica is driven to teach her children the value of hard work, resilience, and culture, believing that life’s challenges help shape us into stronger versions of ourselves.

Jessica Wilson is a proud Yindjibarndi and Njamal woman from Ieramugadu (Roebourne), with ancestral connections spanning Njamal Country through to Yindjibarndi Country. Her deep connection to Country is the foundation of Bugarrba’s vision and purpose. Jessica has built a career across the Pilbara mining industry, Aboriginal business, and community development. As Managing Director of Bugarrba and Group Director of Wirlu-Murra Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation and Wirlu-Murra Enterprises, she is passionate about creating opportunities for Aboriginal people. A proud mother of three, Jessica is driven to teach her children the value of hard work, resilience, and culture, believing that life’s challenges help shape us into stronger versions of ourselves.