25 Feb 2025
by Meat Business Women

One to Watch Australian 2025 Finalists

Meet the Finalists of our Australian One to Watch Award

Meat Business Women (MBW) Australia is thrilled to announce the six talented finalists for its annual One to Watch Award - a celebration of young women under 35 who are making remarkable strides in the meat supply chain. This award not only recognises their achievements but also shines a light on their potential to shape the industry’s future.

Meet the 2025 Finalists

Get to know the rising stars who are leading the way in innovation, leadership, and dedication:

  • Elizabeth Bradley, Manager - Quality, Policy and Compliance, Integrity Systems Company
  • Jen Colditz, Outback Beef Pilbara Representative, Outback Beef
  • Nickola Cox, Automation Team Leader, Hilton Foods
  • Rachel Gartshore, Production Planner & Analyst, Kilcoy Global Foods - Ruprecht
  • Rebecca Bennett, Adoption Specialist, NRG-ONE
  • Suzanna Roeger, Training Manager, FS Alliance

Selected by an independent panel of industry experts, these finalists were recognised for their passion, innovative thinking, and commitment to driving the meat supply chain forward. The ultimate winner will receive a $5,000 AUD prize, generously provided by Marel, to support their personal and professional growth.

Why This Award Matters

MBW’s Australian Chair, Stacey McKenna, shared her thoughts on the award’s impact saying
“The One to Watch Award is more than a trophy - it’s a catalyst for confidence, growth, and opportunity. By celebrating these women, we not only recognise their achievements but also inspire others to pursue their goals and break barriers within the industry.”

April Warman, Regional Managing Director - Asia Pacific at Marel, praised the exceptional talent showcased by the finalists saying “The dedication and passion these women bring to their roles is truly inspiring. At Marel, we are proud to support this award because we believe in empowering women at every stage of their careers, helping them to grow, lead, and leave a lasting impact.”

This award is a key part of MBW’s mission to address the “broken career ladder” identified in its 2023 Gender Representation Report. The report found that women hold just 27% of first-line management roles compared to 73% held by men, with challenges like limited flexible work options and workplace culture hindering progression. By supporting women at this critical stage of their careers, MBW aims to create a more diverse and resilient industry.

What’s Next?

The winner of the 2025 Australian One to Watch Award will be revealed at the Australian National Conference on 5th March, 2025. Stay tuned as we celebrate their success and watch their journey unfold.

 

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