Officers from Queensland's public safety and associated agencies have come together today (March 6) to celebrate International Women's Day.
Women from across Queensland's public safety and associated agencies celebrating International Women's Day
Today's event, held in Brisbane, provided an opportunity to recognise the exceptional service of the women who work in the Queensland Police (QPS), Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES), Queensland COrrective Services (QCS), the Public Safety Business Agency (PSBA) and the Inspector-General Emergency Management (IGEM).
The theme for this year's event was Be Brave, Be True, Be You; focusing on authenticity and bravery within the agencies.
Attendees heard stories from extraordinary women including manager of the Federal Court of Australia for Northern Territory and former serving QPS Officer Helen Rose, who spoke about her experience with Post Traumatic Stress and her journey to recovery.
Another keynote speaker was Diane Ames, who faced enormous hardship when she was told her husband would die of a wide-spread infection if he did not have surgery to remove both his arms and legs. She told her story and explained how she is now able to enjoy every day.
Entertainment was provided by Australian country music singer-songwriter Amber Lawrence, with News Presenter Georgina Lewis being Master of Ceremonies for the event.
The charity partner for this year's event was Drought Angels, which provides personalised support for Australian farmers and their families that have been impacted by drought. By the end of the event, more than $20,000 was raised to support the organisation.
Not only did attendees enjoy hearing the stories and insights from this year's keynote speakers, but several exceptional women in public safety were awarded for their strength and dedication to the community.
The QPS award recipients were:
The award recipients are:
Trailblazer Award Karen Monk
Mentor of the Year Award Lindsay Whiddett
Integrity and Courage Award Natasha Anthony
Most Outstanding Female Leader Award Danielle Lanson
Most Outstanding Female Investigator Award Jessica Hordern
Most Outstanding Female Practitioner Award Alicia Coyne
Most Outstanding Female Administrator Award Sharon Atuatika
Most Outstanding Female Intelligence
Practitioner Award Rebecca Wyatt
Excellence in Law Enforcement for Women
Initiatives Award Kerry Lindgren
Excellence in Research on Improving Policing
for Women Award Siobhan Allen, Claire Irvine,
Tara O'Meara
Champion of Change Award Kim Kellaway
