Women forging new paths in the hardware industry
IN a realm traditionally dominated by grease and grit, Ultimate Fasteners is rewriting the narrative. This hardware powerhouse is proving that strength, knowledge, and success are not gender-specific attributes.
Leading the charge is Kaylene McCormick, a seasoned professional who has been the backbone of Ultimate Fasteners' operations for seven years. With a career spanning irrigation and banking, Kaylene has developed a resilience that allows her to thrive in male-dominated environments. Her humour and ability to adapt have been instrumental in building strong working relationships.
Sophie Dervish, another key member of the team, brings a fresh perspective to the frontlines. Her sales acumen and unwavering confidence have shattered stereotypes and earned her the respect of clients and colleagues alike. Sophie's experience highlights the growing number of women entering the hardware industry and making a significant impact.
Carole Moore, with her extensive engineering background,
is a testament to the evolving landscape of the industry. Her journey at Ultimate Fasteners reflects the positive shifts in workplace culture. Carole's story is a reminder of the progress made in breaking down gender barriers and creating more inclusive work environments.
These women are not merely employees; they are trailblazers. Their contributions to Ultimate Fasteners are
reshaping perceptions and inspiring future generations of female professionals. As the industry continues to evolve, the voices and experiences of women like Kaylene, Sophie and Carole, will be essential in driving innovation and growth. It's clear that Ultimate Fasteners is more than just a hardware supplier; it's a platform for women to excel and redefine industry standards.
HARDWARE PATHWAYS... Ultimate Fasteners is rewriting the narrative for women in the trades. From left, Carole Moore, Kaylene McCormick and Sophie Dervish are not merely employees; they are trailblazers. Their contributions to Ultimate Fasteners are reshaping perceptions and inspiring future generations of female professionals. Photo: Supplied
Sophie Dervish
Kaylene McCormick
Carol Moore
Designing a career with solid foundations
NICOLA Enright and Chathuri Bandara are key professionals at Bruce Mactier Building Designers, one of the most successful and diverse firms of its kind in the state. Driven by personal ambition, focus, and a spirit of collegiality, both women play a crucial role in the firm's achievements, while working hard to obtain career aspirations.
With 15 years of industry experience, Nicola is a senior draftsperson and interior designer with a lifelong passion for design. From sketching floor plans as a child to thoroughly enjoying visual communications in high school, her passion for design has remained a constant.
“It has also been exciting for me to broaden our interior design projects providing our clients with a holistic service”
Currently working part-time at Bruce Mactier, Nicola not only designs for, and liaises with, commercial and residential clients but coordinates with outside consultants to streamline a variety of services for customers. Valuing greatly her workplace’s emphasis on collegial support, mentoring and professional development, Nicola relishes the opportunity to grow through challenging projects that progress her outside her comfort zone.
NICOLA ENRIGHT INTERIOR DESIGNER
residential homes as well as commercial projects that have included contract administration and project management. It has also been exciting for me to broaden our interior design projects providing our clients with a holistic service.”
“In the last couple of years I’ve been involved in some exciting projects, including high-end
With a background in engineering, Chathuri is a draftsperson on the cusp of entering her fourth year at Bruce Mactier. Acquiring essential skills and knowledge through on-the-
job training and support, Chathuri aspires one day to design and build her own home.
“I’ve learnt a lot of things while working at Bruce Mactier. The job can be complex but the guidance and instruction from the senior staff ensures that employees develop their work by learning on the job. I want to continue to evolve my skill set to build my profile as a draftsperson, incorporating projects that range from units, to houses and commercial buildings.”
When asked how she would promote her profession to young women who were considering a future in the industry, Nicola said: “Give it a go! The industry has certainly changed a lot over time. At Bruce Mactier, we almost have equal numbers of women and men, it’s no longer the male-dominated field it once was when I started. There are flexible workplaces out there, and when you find those, you can really build a successful career.”
LED BY CHALLENGE, DIVERSIFICATION OF SKILLS AND PERSONAL MOTIVATION... Senior draftsperson and interior designer Nicola Enright (left) and draftsperson Chathuri Bandara are two professionals who form part of the sizeable team at Bruce Mactier Building Designers. Driven by a love of design, the two colleagues thrive on challenge, professional development and collegiate support, elements that are in abundance within their current work culture. Photo:NatashaFujimoto
Find comfort and style with the women who know furniture
DISCOVER style and comfort with the women at Harvey Norman Furniture’s vast selection of lounge suits, dining and outdoor furniture and BBQs. Proprietor Becc Fischer aspires to run a business where she continues to grow and build a team that grows alongside her, where passion and drive can be reflected onto their customers and the service they receive.
The fresh-faced Becc stepped out of high school at 18 needing a full-time job and landed on the sales floor of Harvey Norman.
“I didn’t see Harvey Norman as a career at first, it was a little while along the way that I realised how much I loved what I was doing and I wanted more, I wanted to be more than just a Furniture Salesperson, I wanted to work my way up and run a store of my own,” said Becc.
“I didn’t see Harvey Norman as a career at first, it was a little while along the way that I realised how much I loved what I was doing and I wanted more”
BECC FISCHER
HARVEY NORMAN SHEPPARTON PROPRIETOR
and work in Shepparton. I was still young, only 23 at the time and sometimes it’s difficult to be taken seriously in your younger years– but to be honest, looking back and seeing how far I have come and how much both myself and my team have grown over the years, that continues to be my biggest achievement,” said Becc.
Five years later she packed her bags for Shepparton and hasn’t looked back.
“I think I was most proud of when I was first granted the opportunity to come
“We strive to provide our customers with exceptional service, but we also want to offer more for our customers than to be a one-time purchase. We want our customers to leave with the confidence and trust that our service is ongoing and when inspiration
strikes, they can turn to us to help find the products to suit their needs and space.”
You can find Becc and the team from
Harvey Norman Furniture at 8025 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Kialla at Riverside Plaza.
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE... Harvey Norman Furniture Shepparton’s proprietor Becc Fischer aspires to run a business where she continues to grow and build a team that grows alongside her. From left, Belinda, Becc, Chloe and Vicki. Photo: Emma Harrop
Pictured from left to right are Belinda, Becc, Chloe and Vicki.
Lush Skin + Laser clinic celebrates excellence on the world stage
small regional clinic like LUSH could achieve such phenomenal success is truly unbelievable”
CAT ARMSTRONG
AT LUSH, Clinic Director Cat Armstrong and her team are committed to delivering real results and never compromising on quality and efficacy and it’s clear that their clients appreciate this dedication.
Cat has led Lush Skin + Laser Clinic to be awarded the top-performing IS Clinical Skin Clinic in Australia. This honour reflects the high-quality aesthetic treatments and services offered by the clinic.
Lush Skin + Laser Clinic has become synonymous with excellence under Cat’s lead by combining scientific advancement and personalised care.
LUSH’s remarkable achievements don’t stop there.
Cat and Alicia have just returned from an unforgettable trip to Orlando, Florida for the IS Clinical 2024 Global Advanced Seminar and Global Innovator Awards, where LUSH was recognised as a Blue Diamond Innovator award winner. An award is given to only 40 clinics across the globe from 9000 potential winners. This award highlights that Lush Skin + Laser Clinic is a global winner in the skin industry known for pioneering techniques and excellent customer results.
Her passion to empower her clients and team can be seen in every aspect of the clinic’s success. Cat’s leadership is not just shaping the future of skincare, but also inspiring the broader business community
“The fact that a small regional clinic like LUSH could achieve such phenomenal success is truly unbelievable. This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support and trust of our wonderful local community here in Shepparton. We want to express our heartfelt thanks to every client who has supported us. We have cherished every moment shared with you and look forward to many more”
LUSH partnering with IS CLINICAL has been a life-changing experience not just for the clinic, but for their clients as well. Their sciencebacked, clinically proven luxury skincare has made an incredible impact on the community.
Opened doors to promote women’s health
PASSIONATE, compassionate and highly accomplished Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr Monika Trivedi has acquired an abundance of local and international experience and is pleased to be consulting at her new practice in Mooroopna.
A boon for women’s health in the region, the opening of Greater Shepparton Gynaecology Clinic welcomes both private and public patients (with a GP referral) and promotes a culture of excellence as it aims to provide holistic care to women in the region. Long based in Shepparton, Dr Trivedi provides Gynaecological and minimally invasive surgery and procedures at Shepparton Private Hospital, Kyabram District Health Services as well as obstetrics at Bendigo Health (part-time). Bringing her wealth of skill, expertise and local knowledge to her new clinic, Dr Trivedi said:
“I provide a complete range of services from young girls right through to post-menopausal women including chronic pelvic pain, endometriosis, vulva conditions, hormone replacement therapy and have started complete keyhole of uterus and cervix (total laparoscopic hysterectomy) at Shepparton Private Hospital. I also provide contraceptive services and early pregnancy options and management.”
Putting the importance of women’s health front and centre, the Greater Shepparton Gynaecology Clinic is located at 161 McLennan Street, Mooroopna. For more information about the clinic, you can email your enquiries to info@drmonikatrivedi.com or call 03 4800 5699. In addition, you can also visit www.drmonikatrivedi. com.au to read more about this exceptional doctor.
The pay gap
WORKPLACE gender equality Agency (WGEA) has completed a new analysis of the pay gap between men and women in Australia, which shows women must work on average an extra 50 more days in a financial year than men to earn the same amount.
Last year, WGEA estimated women needed to work 56 extra days, so the pay scale is slightly on the improve, but there’s still a large discrepancy.
“Every time it comes down it’s positive, but 50 days is still
a lot of days. That's a lot of extra work that women are doing just to earn the same, on average, that men earned in the previous year,” WGEA CEO Mary Wooldridge told SBS news.
The WGEA total remuneration average gender
pay gap is 21.7%. For every $1 on average a man makes, women earn 78c. Over the course of a year, that difference adds up to $26,393.
WGEA used Australian Bureau of Statistics data from February to calculate its findings, and the analysis doesn’t include bonuses, superannuation or overtime.
Selling a dream environment for women in business
THE camaraderie and exceptional work delivered by Gagliardi Scott Real Estate is in large part due to the female members of the team who provide great customer service and satisfaction for their clients across both their Shepparton and Numurkah offices.
Accounts administration manager, Nicole Gapes knows strong leadership builds a culture that is rich with encouragement, support, and growth opportunities for those who seek them.
“There is diversity among our team and our directors set a great example of treating all staff members equally and giving us great opportunities to continue to grow and learn,” Nicole said.
“In the years I have worked here, the environment has always been supportive of all the women in our many and varied roles and encouraging of career development.”
For anyone contemplating buying or selling property in the region, Gagliardi Scott Real Estate is located at 182 High Street Shepparton and 70 Melville Street, Numurkah and can be contacted on 5831 1800.
ENCOURAGING CAREER DEVELOPMENT... Gagliardi Scott Real Estate pride themselves on building an environment that has always been supportive of all the women in our many and varied roles and encouraging of career development. From left, Karen Malerba, McKenzie Sinclair, Nicole Gapes, Jenna Connally, Chloe Earle, Paris Morgan, Bree Byrne, Jess Sabri, Alysha Magazinovic, Ash McMahon, Madison Gagliardi and Natalie Ford. Photoby:EmmaHarrop
IMPORTANT NEWS FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH... With an abundance of local and international experience, Dr Monika Trivedi has opened the new Greater Shepparton Gynaecology Clinic at 161 McLennan Street, Mooroopna. Providing a range of services for women of all ages, Dr Monika welcomes both public and private patients (with a referral from the GP). Photo:EmmaHarrop
Saluting the contribution of women in business across the region
My heartfelt congratulations to The Shepparton Adviser for spotlighting the extraordinary achievements of the remarkable women in business throughout our community.
Their stories and successes are truly inspiring and deserve our greatest recognition.
As I reflect on my career in business and politics, I am filled with a profound sense of pride and joy. Being part of Lovell’s Shepparton Newsagency—a long-standing and successful local business, has been a source of immense satisfaction to me.
My journey began in the world of small business, and I was fortunate to engage deeply with community initiatives through organisations such as Rotaract, Friends of GVBH, and the Fairley Leadership Program.
My involvement with Rotaract was transformative, fueling my commitment to community service and guiding me toward a career in public service as a member of the Victorian Parliament.
Serving as your Member of Parliament
for over two decades has been a tremendous honour. The trust and support from this vibrant community have been invaluable, allowing me to make meaningful contributions to Northern Victoria.
In my roles as Minister for Housing and Minister for Early Childhood, I was privileged to introduce impactful programs like the Education First Youth Foyer Program and to drive advancements in Early Childhood Education.
Our region is graced with many exceptional female leaders who make significant strides in politics, business, and community service.
I pay tribute to these outstanding women and am confident that the future will bring even more inspiring female leaders.
“Our region is graced with many exceptional female leaders who make significant strides in politics, business, and community service”
BUSINESS...
takes
opportunity to acknowledge the significant achievements of the many women in business throughout the region. Photo: Supplied
WENDY LOVELL MP STATE MEMBER FOR NORTHERN VICTORIA
A 40-year shift for women in business
THE history of women in the workforce as
Source: 2021-22, Australian Bureau of Statistics
The women with the personal service to sell or buy your dream home
WHEN selling your home, upgrading for a growing family, or looking for a solid investment, experience the point of difference from a smaller, caring & local team.
Jackie Shipton took over Your Sold Real Estate in April last year, and quickly established a brilliant team around her in her first year as owner/director.
“I am proud to say the business is slowly expanding. I am finding myself reconnecting with previous clients and enjoy working with new clients just as much,” said Jackie.
“Your Sold Real Estate stands out for its personalised, hands-on approach, ensuring each client receives dedicated attention and customised solutions tailored to their specific needs.
“Being a woman in business has made me more resilient and driven, pushing me to approach challenges with creativity and a strong sense of empathy. Success to me is about achieving my goals while staying true to my values, both in my career and in my personal life.”
You can find Your Sold Real Estate at 187 Corio St, Shepparton, or phone 5831 6633.
CONVEYANCING
MADE EASY...
Rachel and the team from Shepparton Conveyancing are here to help when buying and selling property.
from
are
Women conveying real estate
BUYING your dream home or selling your family home is not something you do every day, so you need a team that understands how the selling process works and how to make the transition as easy and stress-free as possible.
The team at Shepparton Conveyancing Services (SCS) are not only the trusted team when it comes to selling and buying a new home, they’re leaders in breaking gender roles and leading the way for women in business.
Rachel Nugent has worked in conveyancing most of her life and has seen it evolve from a male-dominated industry to more femaleorientated. She began SCS over 15 years
ago from humble beginnings in her garage which she converted into an office before opening the Wyndham Street office.
SCS’s dynamic team of five, Caitlyn, Amanda, Stephanie, Don and Rachel, know that face-toface personalised service is important and a must for one of life's most important purchases, which at times can be stressful for all involved.
“We always have a chocolate box for the stressful days – well every day actually,” said Rachel.
You can find Shepparton Conveyancing Services at 382-384 Wyndham Street, Shepparton or call them on (03) 5891 2301.
Pictured
left
Caitlyn Hansen, Amanda Corish, Stephanie Wilkinson and Rachel Nugent. Photo by: EmmaHarrop
Celebrating the strength, resilience, and determination of the region’s women in business
WHEN I see so many incredible women in business in our region, I’m reminded of the strength, resilience, and determination that drives them. Whether they’re starting a new business or leading an established one, these women are making a significant impact in our communities.
In my own journey, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges and rewards that come with running a business. For nearly 28 years, I owned and operated a business in the service and training industry, and during that time, I was fortunate to be surrounded by supportive women and a community who helped my business thrive.
Being a woman in business is about more than just achieving personal success, it’s also about creating opportunities for others, sharing knowledge, and being part of a network that uplifts and empowers. I’ve always believed in the importance of mentorship and support, and I’ve seen the difference it can make. When women come together to support one another, incredible
things happen. My own journey has shown myself and others, that hard work, passion and the right support can take your business to new heights, and for me that was even on a national scale.
So, to all the women in business, I want to say this: Keep believing in yourself and your vision. Don’t be afraid to take risks, to innovate and to lead. And remember, you’re not alone on this journey. There’s a whole community ready to support you, cheer you on, and celebrate your successes.
“Being a woman in business is about more than just achieving personal success, it’s also about creating opportunities for others, sharing knowledge, and being part of a network that uplifts and empowers.”
KIM
O’KEEFFE MP NATIONALS MEMBER FOR SHEPPARTON
HARD WORK, PASSION AND THE RIGHT SUPPORT... The Nationals Member for Shepparton, Kim O’Keeffe MP, owned and operated a business in the service and training industry for nearly 28 years. Surrounded by supportive women and a community who helped her business thrive, Ms O’Keeffe understands that success in enterprise is about more than personal success, its about creating opportunities, sharing knowledge and being part of a network that uplifts and empowers. Photo: Supplied
