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.

Bernadette Harris is the Manager, Communities & Social Performance (CSP) for the Winu Project at Rio Tinto Copper, based in Perth, Western Australia. She leads community, social performance, and Traditional Owner engagement activities, with responsibility for Indigenous and Community engagement, cultural heritage governance, social investment, economic development and local procurement, and stakeholder relationships. Bernadette has extensive experience working across resource sector projects to build respectful partnerships, support sustainable development outcomes, and integrate social performance into project planning and decision making.

Kate Holling is the General Manager of Rail at BHP’s Western Australian Iron Ore operations (WAIO). In this role, Kate is responsible for the operation and maintenance of BHP’s extensive heavy haul railway network in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. The privately owned network is comprised of more than 1000km of track and associated infrastructure, along with more than 10,000 pieces of rolling stock. The railway services five iron ore mining hubs which extend across the region from Newman to Port Hedland. Kate’s started her career as a geologist and after working in manganese and gold she joined BHP Iron Ore in 2008. Since then, she has held a variety of operational and functional leadership roles for BHP in Western Australia as well as BHP’s Minerals Australia division. She is a member of the Asset Leadership Team for WA Iron Ore, the Investment Review Committee for WAIO and is a Board Member for the International Heavy Haul Association (IHHA) and the Industry Advisory Committee for Monash Institute of Rail Technology (IRT) She holds a Bachelor of Science from The University of Melbourne and an LLD from INSEAD (Singapore), and speaks English and French. Outside of work Kate is a keen urban gardener, adventurer and outdoors enthusiast, taking part in an around-the-world yacht race in 2019 as well as regularly racing offshore in Perth.

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.

Lily Meneghel is General Manager of Dampier Salt Limited (DSL), a Rio Tinto business and one of the world's largest solar salt producers. With almost 20 years' experience in mining and resources, she has held leadership roles across operations, technology, remote operations and business strategy. Having built a diverse career spanning technology, operational and leadership roles, Lily is passionate about combining operational excellence with a focus on people, innovation and inclusion. In 2024, she received the CME WA Women in Resources People's Choice Award in recognition of her contribution to the industry. Today, she is focused on developing future leaders, fostering inclusive workplaces and building high-performing teams that deliver lasting value for business, communities and the resources sector.

Mayor Jacinta Behrend has lifelong involvement across local arts, sport, education and health, and was awarded the Town of Port Hedland Active Community Citizen Award in 2025. Jacinta is Chairperson of the Hedland Well Women's Centre, bringing strong governance, accountability and community leadership. She holds qualifications in law and business studies and is an AICD accredited board professional. Jacinta is guided by purpose, integrity, and accountability, and believes good leadership starts with listening and follows through with action.

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.

Briony Briskey is the General Manager of Port Operations at Cape Lambert for Rio Tinto Iron Ore, located ~ 40km’s north-east of Karratha, Western Australia. Briony began her career at Rio Tinto 20 years ago as a graduate engineer at the Gove Alumina Refinery in the Northern Territory and has since accumulated extensive experience across several portfolios including Aluminum, Salt and Iron Ore at Dampier Ports. In 2018 Briony moved to Rio Tinto Iron Ore’s Rail Division, as Locomotive Maintenance Superintendent and later Manager Rolling Stock Maintenance. Most recently Briony has been Manager at Rail Network Renewals (RNR), overseeing major track infrastructure projects across Rio Tinto’s vast Pilbara rail network.Briony has recently transitioned to General Manager, Ports Cape Lambert where her strong strategic oversight is invaluable as she leads the largest of the 2 Rio Tinto Iron Ore ports. The ports sit at the end of one of the most complex and stakeholder-intensive supply chain systems including interfaces with Marine, Rail, Utilities, Facilities, Integrated Scheduling and Asset Management. Briony is known for her collaborative and influential leadership style, and she has been recognised for her ability to transition from a deep technical expert to a strategic leader who empowers others and drives systemic improvement.

Relma Joyce Bule-Turner is a woman of Solomon Islands heritage who has been fortunate to call Port Hedland home for more than 20 years. Throughout her career across government, education, community organisations and the volunteer sector, she has been guided by a desire to support others and contribute to the wellbeing and growth of local communities. In her role as Hub Manager at Pilbara Kimberley University Centres (PKUC) in Port Hedland, Relma supports the operation of two Regional University Study Hubs and contributes to outreach initiatives across the Pilbara, including Newman. Through this work, she is privileged to help create pathways to higher education and support people from diverse backgrounds in pursuing their personal and professional goals. As a founding member of the Hedland Multicultural Association, Relma works alongside dedicated multicultural community leaders and volunteers to help foster a welcoming and inclusive community where people from all backgrounds feel respected, connected and valued. She is also a co-founder of the Hedland Taekwondo Club and serves as an internationally accredited Master Instructor and Examiner. Over the years, she has had the opportunity to teach and mentor students ranging in age from three to over 50, encouraging confidence, resilience, leadership and a sense of belonging through martial arts. Relma has been humbled to receive several awards recognising her contributions to sport and coaching, including Hedland Sportswoman of the Year (2018), Hedland Coach of the Year and Pilbara Coach of the Year (2021), and the Service to Sport and Coaching Award (2024). She regards these honours as a reflection of the collective efforts of the many students, families, volunteers and community members she has worked alongside. Guided by the principles of servant leadership, Relma is passionate about multiculturalism, inclusion and community empowerment. She remains committed to supporting greater access to education across the Pilbara and to working collaboratively with local families, organisations and community members to help build a connected and welcoming Hedland where everyone has the opportunity to participate, contribute and thrive.

Casey Fimmel is an experienced leader who brings more than 20 years of operational and leadership experience across the resources and automotive sectors. As General Manager Port & Rail at Hancock Iron Ore, Casey leads with a strong focus on safety, performance, accountability and building capable teams. Prior to joining Hancock Iron Ore, Casey spent 14 years with BHP, most recently as General Manager Operations Services, where he led broad operational portfolios across Western Australia. He has also held a range of leadership roles within BHP’s iron ore operations, including Manager Maintenance – Port Hedland, Manager Fixed Plant Maintenance – Newman, and Manager Processing Production – Newman, with responsibility across major port, fixed plant, beneficiation and processing operations. Casey began his career in automotive manufacturing with Ford Motor Company in Melbourne, where he held roles across engineering, operations, improvement and materials planning and logistics. His career has given him a broad perspective on leadership, operational excellence and the importance of creating environments where people feel supported to perform, contribute and grow. Casey brings a practical and authentic leadership style to the discussion on men in leadership, drawing on his experience leading diverse teams through complex operational environments.

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.

Paul Maney is Manager Operations at Dampier Salt Limited, with over two decades of leadership across mining, operations, safety, and innovation. He has held senior roles at Rio Tinto, BHP, Iluka Resources, and Amira Global, driving operational readiness, infrastructure, and strategic development. Paul also served as Vice President of Coogee Beach Surf Life Saving Club, reflecting his commitment to community. He holds a geology degree from Curtin University and brings deep expertise in resource development and operational excellence.

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.

Dan Mossman is an experienced mining and operations leader. Dan has been at BHP for more than two decades and during his time he has held a broad range of leadership roles across maintenance, planning and production across Australia and South America. Now General Manager Port in Port Hedland, Dan leads BHP's operations at the world's largest bulk export facilities. From managing major shutdowns in Chile to driving performance and operational excellence in Western Australia, his leadership is grounded in a clear focus on people, safety and reliability. Dan is passionate about innovation, strong community connections, and building a strong future for the Pilbara.

Shelby Noble is an Environmental Advisor with Pilbara Ports and has lived in Port Hedland for the past 4 years. She is passionate about environmental stewardship and supporting sustainable outcomes across the Pilbara. Outside of work, Shelby is a Rescue Skipper and Training Officer with Volunteer Marine Rescue Port Hedland. She joined Marine Rescue in 2024 and was appointed to Training Officer in 2025. Shelby is passionate about supporting her community and enjoys working with others to make a positive difference both on and off the water.

Kitty is the CEO of the Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry of WA. Kitty has previously held the positions of Presidents of both the RCCIWA (2005 – 2010) and the Kalgoorlie-Boulder CCI (2003-2005) and has owned two small businesses in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, the first one at the age of 21. Kitty’s involvement with a regional Chamber of Commerce began in 1991, and she is a strong and driven advocate for regional business communities. Kitty is a past Chair of the board of the Small Business Development Corporation and currently sits on the General Council of CCIWA and is a Non – Executive Director on the board of Keystart Home Loans and the Country Housing Authority.

Michelle is the General Manager of Rio Tinto's Dampier Ports & Marine Operations and leads a team of around 480 people who are responsible for keeping our port and marine operations running safely and efficiently. Her focus is putting tonnes safely on ships, delivering for our customers while ensuring Rio Tinto continues to be a valued part of the local community. Michelle has been with Rio Tinto for 18 years, working across a range of leadership roles in operations, technology, strategy, people and culture, and joint ventures. Before joining Rio Tinto, she built her career in accounting and finance. She's passionate about creating safer, more respectful and inclusive workplaces where people can learn, grow and do their best work. Michelle is also a strong advocate for understanding what drives people's decisions and behaviours, using those insights to make work simpler, safer and more effective.

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.

Dale Stewart has more than 40 years’ local government experience serving diverse and complex communities across Western Australia. He has led four local governments as CEO and held senior executive and consultancy roles across the sector, bringing exceptional capability in governance, financial management, strategic planning, and organisational development. Mr Stewart is recognised for delivering major capital works programs, long-term financial plans, award winning community initiatives and robust organisational reforms. He joined the Town of Port Hedland from Shire of Narrogin, where he was CEO for the past seven years.

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.