Glenelg Shire Mayor Karen Stephens
Glenelg Shire Mayor, Karen Stephens, was presented with the Inspiring Excellence Award at the Women in Wood Fibre event hosted by Australian Bluegum Plantations in Dunkeld, marking the world-wide event. Source: The SE Voice
Cr Stephens, who is also renowned for her leadership role with the Casterton Kelpie Association and as a former local businesswoman, won the award for her tireless work advocating for the sector over many years.
“I am truly honoured to win this award,” she said.
“The food and fibre industries are major contributors to the Glenelg Shire economy and our role as council is to advocate for them when needed to help them and our Shire to thrive – that advocacy is at all levels of government.
“I would also like to thank Australian Bluegum Plantations for organising such an inspiring event today.”
Hosted by Australian Bluegum Plantations (ABP), more than 100 industry members joined by political and agricultural leaders enjoyed a High Tea celebration at the Dunkeld Community Centre, recognising the achievements, resilience and contributions of women across the plantation sector and local community.
ABP Human Resources General Manager, Sheri Tarr said the sector was working hard to promote inclusive practices and policies, creating pathways to support female leadership and career progression.
“Creating gender equality starts by achieving a positive workplace culture, where everyone feels valued and respected,” she said.
“This is a primary objective for ABP and our broader industry which today has 30% of its executive roles filled by women, matched by an ongoing increase in female employees, with a growth rate of 10% per year since 2021.
“It’s important we celebrate this progress whilst recognising there is still more that can be achieved – we must collectively lead and champion this change.
“Creating opportunities for women is not just about fairness, we must liberate the talent within our workforce, challenge the bias and barriers that holds us back, to create a more progressive and productive community where women can live, work and prosper without limits.”
Victorian Agriculture Minister, Ros Spence said the forestry industry was an important part of Victoria’s economy and the increasing number of women in the sector, was encouraging.
“Plantation timber plays a vital role in supplying critical building materials for the housing and construction sector in Victoria and delivers a world class supply of wood chips for the pulp and paper industry,” she said.
“It’s encouraging to see more women taking up roles in this essential industry, especially in leadership roles.”
