A person’s postcode or bank balance shouldn’t be the barrier to good health, says Diabetes Australia Group CEO, Justine Cain. 

“As part of our mission to eliminate the impact of diabetes, we’ve created multiple channels that connect Australians living with diabetes, and those at risk, with support services and trusted information,” she says. 

“One Australian is diagnosed with diabetes every five minutes. That’s a shocking but very real statistic.

“One of the ways we can help to stem this rising tide is through advocacy and awareness.” 

Justine says seeing a difference in the lives of clients is what she loves most about her job. 

“Everyone at Diabetes Australia is 100 per cent focused on our goal of eliminating the impact of diabetes for Australians,” she says, 

“That shared purpose is what drives the whole team, including myself, to perform at the highest levels.” 

Diabetes Australia has a membership base of 417,000 members, a figure that Justine says continues to rise.

“It’s a privilege to hear and share stories of hope, resilience and the daily challenges faced by people living with diabetes,” she says. 

One way that Diabetes Australia provides support is through Diabetes YOUnited, a free membership that supports Australians living with, but not limited to, type one, type two and gestational diabetes. 

With two million Australians living with diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes, costing the health system $9.1 billion a year, Justine says providing the right information at the right time is pivotal for an individual’s health. 

“This is about improving lives and creating a healthier future for all Australians.” 

Diabetes Australia. Tenant B, 19-23 Moore Street, Turner. Call 1800 177 055 or visit diabetesaustralia.com.au 

 

Suzy’s success in making women look and feel their best

Awarded the best brow technician in Tuggeranong in 2025 and a finalist for the ACT Salon of the Year at the Australian Beauty Industry Awards for 2024 and 2025, About Face Beauty & Anti Aging Salon owner, Suzy Mooney says these acknowledgements are not only a huge milestone, but also a testament to the passion, hard work and commitment to everything they do. 

“Our mission has always been about more than just beauty treatments,” she says. 

“It’s about creating a space where women feel empowered, valued and confident in their own skin.”

Suzy started her business in a small salon after years of struggling with her own skin. 

“From that moment on, I was hooked,” she says. 

“This career has allowed me to combine my personal experience with professional expertise to truly make a difference for my clients, and that’s something I’m incredibly proud of.”

Today, Suzy’s salon is three times larger than when she started, employing a team of five professionals, including a nail and brow technician. 

Facials and advanced anti-aging treatments are at the core of what Suzy and her team does, with professional-grade peels, LED Light Therapy and Microdermabrasion tailored to target concerns such as pigmentation, fine lines, acne and dullness. 

Their newest addition is a High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, a cutting-edge, non-invasive treatment that stimulates collagen production to deliver lifting and tightening results. 

“From targeted skin treatments to the perfect brow, we pride ourselves on offering services that are both luxurious and effective, helping our clients look and feel their best,” she says. 

About Face Beauty & Anti Aging Salon. 1/146 Scollay Street, Greenway. Call 0488 932883 or visit aboutfacetuggeranong.com.au 

 

Christy is about building body confidence

Family owned and locally operated, Total Body Contouring owner Christy Christensen says she is proud to be working with cutting-edge technology to help Canberrans feel like the best version of themselves. 

“We are Canberra’s trusted local choice for body contouring, offering expert care and results our clients love,” she says.

With years of collective experience within the organisation, Christy says they are constantly keeping up to date with new and revolutionary technology to create a pain-free experience. 

Currently offering a $300 fat-freezing treatment using Cooltech technology, Christy says they can target up to 40 per cent of fat in the area within two to three months of use. 

“There’s no downtime required,” she says. “It’s non-invasive and we provide free consultations prior to treatment.” 

New to the salon are their Benda Wrap treatments, that has a lipolytic, draining and sculpting effect by activating the splitting of adipocyte membranes and normalising the process of fat metabolism. 

“For professional and restorative draining treatments, the Bendra Wrap treatment is aimed at reducing the manifestations of cellulite and fat deposits,” she says. 

Christy says Total Body Contouring is about building body confidence.

“We give a personalised experience and journey, everyone is different,” she says.

Total Body Contouring, Shop 3/22 Franklin Street, Griffith. Call 6239 7347 or visit totalbodycontouring.com.au 

 

Dr Jeannie is there to share the journey to better health

Championing women’s health and wellbeing at her Queanbeyan practice, Queenbee Women’s Health, Dr Jeannie Ellis says her 30 years of experience in health as a primary care practitioner has given her valuable insight into the health gaps that need to be filled regarding women’s health. 

“I’m passionate about women feeling comfortable in a safe environment and having a really good health care service to address issues such as pregnancy, menopause and fertility,” she says. 

“Women have a specific set of challenges that the other 50 per cent of the population don’t have, and I think women need a safe space to be able to talk to other women.” 

Queenbee specialises in menstrual problems, contraceptive choices, PCOS and endometriosis, pelvic pain, miscarriage management, pregnancy choices, ultrasounds, fertility and preconception, antenatal care, menopausal concerns and issues, health checks, migraines and iron transfusions. 

Dr Ellis says the practice has been her dream for the past 10 years. 

“Being in the clinic is more than just going to get an illness fixed,” she says. 

“It’s about what we can work on together. It’s a journey to better health.” 

Queenbee Women’s Health. 69-71 Monaro Street, Queanbeyan. Open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9am to 5pm. Visit queenbeewomenshealth.com 

 

Sarah’s dream for early childhood education 

For more than 40 years, early childhood educator Sarah McCulloch had been working towards owning and operating her own centre. 

A qualified teacher with experience teaching kindergarten to year 4, Sarah’s dream has always been to put her own personal touch on an operation. 

Working across three different boutique centres, she says each location has been carefully designed to feel like a “home away from home”.

“As one family put it, it feels like a family daycare on steroids,” she says. 

“Relationships are foundational, so we want our areas to feel homely, calm and relaxing to reduce high levels of anxiety.” 

Operating for five years, Galileo Early Learning has had the same staff, many of whom followed Sarah’s dream from the start.

“Ninety per cent of our families found us through recommendations,” she says. 

“We also get many schools advising us that these children are entering into the system exceptionally confident in themselves and their ability to tackle new things.”

It is this confidence that Sarah says they are constantly pursuing. 

“We are getting them school ready, for them to know that they can do it.” 

One of Galileo’s centres, the Galileo Spanish Australian Preschool, on 28 Astrolabe Street in Red Hill, features a culturally inclusive curriculum where teachers speak English and Spanish with the children. 

“Every child comes with an invisible backpack, and it is up to us to unpack it and make their load a little easier by providing inclusive and supportive care,” says Sarah. 

Galileo Early Learning, 19 Astrolabe Street, Red Hill (call 0433 461300), 3 Carleton Street Kambah (0447 757475). Galileo Spanish Australian Preschool, 28 Astrolabe Street, Red Hill (0483 931860) or visit galileoearlylearning.com 

 

Suzanne’s a passionate advocate for lifestyle financial planning

Tribe Group director, financial planner and accredited aged-care professional, Suzanne McIntosh recognised a demand for more tailored financial solutions and expanded her expertise into financial planning. 

She was finding clients asking “What’s next? What are the next steps?” after moving from a phase of wealth accumulation to a stage of reflection and strategic planning, 

“As a passionate advocate for lifestyle financial planning, I take great pride in helping clients liberate themselves from financial constraints, allowing them to focus on what truly matters,” she says. 

“My approach centres on creating personalised, clear and realistic strategies that empower clients to achieve their objectives and navigate the complexities they face with confidence.” 

At the core of her work, Suzanne says she believes that by setting healthy, realistic expectations, she can build trust and provide meaningful guidance, ensuring her clients are well-equipped to make informed decisions at every stage of their financial journey. 

With more than 20 years of experience as a chartered accountant in high-net-worth individuals and business clients, she says she’s gained a profound understanding of the challenges faced during significant wealth transitions. 

Working with other talented women, Suzanne says she believes in the value of diverse perspectives within financial planning, and understands that both male and female advisers play important roles. 

“The balance between genders often appeals to a wider clientele, “ she says. 

“Ultimately, I prioritise creating an environment of trust and mutual respect, recognising that the right fit for each client is paramount.” 

Tribe Group, 25/105-119 Newcastle Street, Fyshwick. Call 6274 0400 or visit tribegroup.com.au 

 

Joanna’s framing work is picture perfect

A quality picture framing service comes down to three things: design, implementation and reliability, says Civic Proframe owner, Joanna Lees. 

Taking over ownership of the shop in July, Joanna says it’s a privilege to be a part of the vibrant community along City Walk. 

“I’ve been lucky to meet so many wonderful clients and I want to thank them for trusting me with their stories and artworks,” she says. 

“Every piece that comes through the door brings something special into the shop.” 

Women make up 35 per cent of the picture framing industry in Australia, and as an industry that values creativity, detail and relationships, Joanna says women bring strength in those areas. 

“Having women in leadership shows the industry is open, inclusive and evolving, it also means the next generation can look at this career and see a future for themselves in it,” she says. 

Joanna began as a graphic designer at a small framing shop, learning about the craft as she went. Later, following another career path, it was fate when the previous owner of Civic Proframe retired, leaving her with an opportunity to return to the industry she’d fallen in love with. 

“What I love most about framing is the many layers of meaning it carries,” she says. 

“As office workers walk past the gallery windows, I see their surprise and delight when a piece of art catches their attention.

“It’s a small moment, but it reminds me that the work I do can brighten someone’s day.” 

Civic Proframe, 8/240 City Walk, Canberra. Call 0492 992509 or visit canlabproframe.com.au 

 

Dr Sarah empowers women with knowledge

Whether it’s guiding a mother through her breastfeeding journey, helping a family navigate complex health decisions or being a trusted voice when a patient is feeling overwhelmed, medical director of The Mother Hub Dr Sarah Bombell says she feels privileged to be a part of those moments. 

“Every day is different and I’m constantly inspired by the resilience, strength and courage of the women I work with,” she says. 

“I believe that workplaces that support women are the workplaces of the future. 

“At The Mother Hub we are building not only a centre of healthcare excellence, but also a family-friendly workplace where clinicians can thrive professionally while balancing their own family commitments.” 

Passionate about being a role model for the next generation of women in medicine, Dr Bombell says she hopes to show that leadership, family and compassion can co-exist. 

“It’s at the heart of what I do,” she says. 

“So many women tell me they’ve felt dismissed or overlooked.

“Empowering women with knowledge about their bodies, their choices and their health allows them to step into motherhood and womanhood with confidence.

“Where women feel empowered, families and communities thrive.” 

The Mother Hub, 175 Strickland Crescent, Deakin. Call 6196 6722 or visit themotherhub.com.au 

 

Kim says renovation is more than bricks and mortar

More than just “bricks and mortar”, Renovation Matters owner, Kim Persson, says her work is about people, trust and meaningful results.

“I wanted to create a service that truly takes the stress out of renovating and selling,” she says. 

Seeing too many situations where people in difficult circumstances were taken advantage of, Kim says there was a clear gap for a service that offered genuine support, trustworthy advice and reliable trades. 

“Renovation Matters was born from my passion to help clients not only achieve the best possible results when selling, but to also improve and enjoy their own homes if they choose to stay,” she says. 

Every client that Kim sees is different, making each renovation project individualised.

“I enjoy shaping each project to meet goals and bring out the best in every property,” she says.

Kim’s reward comes in seeing the transformation of not just the home, but of her client’s outlook. 

“Watching someone walk into their freshly renovated space and knowing that my work directly helps people sell faster, for more, or simply enjoy their homes more, makes it all worthwhile,” she says. 

Traditionally in a male-dominated field, Kim says she’s proud to represent women in the industry and show that they can deliver high-quality work, manage complex projects and build trusted relationships with both clients and trades. 

“My goal is not just to complete renovations, but to create a community where people feel supported, educated and empowered throughout the process,” she says. 

Renovation Matters, call 0427 696 662, or visit renovationmatters.com.au

 

Jan recognised for service to strata management

Recipient of the 2024 Australasia Leadership Award from the Strata Community Association, Bridge Strata co-director Jan Browne says she has seen many changes in her 37 years in the industry.

As an authorised strata management trainer, Jan says she gets satisfaction from training and mentoring.

Managing some strata plans for more than 30 years, she says she’s developed a rapport with committees and owners over that time. 

“Quality service means knowing the legislation and providing the correct information and service to our clients.”

Within NSW, there are close to 1.3 million people living with strata, and it is predicted that 20 per cent of the population within the ACT and NSW will be living in strata over the next couple of years. 

With more work-life balance available with flexible work arrangements and supportive policies to assist women in the strata workforce, Jan says it is incredibly important to see female representation in leadership roles.

Originally working for Woodger’s Real Estate many years ago, Jan has found herself back working in the same building she started in at Bridge’s Queanbeyan office. She sees it as a sign this career “chose” her. 

She says it’s important to know when to switch off at times and regularly coaches basketball and volunteers on various community committees. 

Bridge Strata, 95-97 Monaro Street, Queanbeyan, Call 6109 7700, or visit bridgestrate.com.au

 

Shannon’s hard work wins gold at Floriade 

Five years into owning her own business, Panacea Landscapes owner, Shannon Blackbourn, is an award-winning landscaper, recently taking out gold for her garden design at this year’s CIT Floriade display competition. 

Inspired by the Science and Nature theme, Shannon’s design, ‘”The Ponder Pond”, is a space to reflect and connect with the landscape while giving the opportunity to “explore the limitless possibilities of scientific discovery”. 

Featuring the geometric renditions of the Fibonacci sequence, kinetic energy, molecular structures, DNA and the atom, Shannon says the garden blends natives with herbs and annuals, inspiring viewers to wonder and learn. 

Shannon also won bronze at the 2025 Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show in the Balcony Garden Competitions, following her first place prize the year earlier.

Now leading her team of six other landscapers, as well as other contractors, what had initially started as an opportunity to work flexibly to accommodate a young family, has expanded into working more than an average nine-to-five. Luckily, Shannon says, she loves it. 

“This is my calling,” she says. “It’s a lot of work, and you’ve really got to love what you do, but the more that I keep at it, the more that it all falls into place.” 

Being her own boss has given Shannon the opportunity to seamlessly slot her two passions together. 

“I’m still able to be a mum and go support my kids,” she says. 

“I’m lucky to have a great team helping me out.” 

Panacea Landscapes, visit panacealandscapes.com or call 0498 287789.

Law firm principal Aarti brings a ‘modern twist’

Joining the Mazengarb Arora Family Lawyers team in 2020 and appointed a partner in 2023, Aarti Arora was made principal at the firm in July.

Heavily involved with the firm before her appointment, she specialises in family law and family violence matters. 

Aarti says her new position, and the practice’s name change to Mazengarb Arora Family Lawyers, “works with the firm’s commitment to helping clients live well in the community”.

“It’s about solutions, as well as, what modern technology brings,” Aarti says.

She says Mazengarb legacy – which started in 2007 – will continue to help the region.

Aarti brings extensive experience from operating and managing a business to working her way up in the legal profession.

“If you’re hit with a family dispute, you need the right advice to ensure you and your rights and those of your children are protected,” she says.

Aarti says her team understands that finding a lawyer you can feel comfortable with is an essential process associated with family breakdowns.

“We try to become the lawyer you appreciate, any problem and the solution we propose,” she says.

Mazengarb Arora Family Lawyers, Level 3/10 Rudd Street, Civic. Call 6243 0199, or visit mazengarblawyers.com.au

 

Dr Henriette’s passion for dental growth

In business, Dr Henriette Macri-Etienne says she has always looked for opportunities to combine her passions for growth and learning.

She has founded and grown dental practices in Lithgow and Katoomba as well as her practice in Civic – Integrated Dental Canberra (IDC). 

She has also grown her own skills to assist patients with dental anxiety – something for which she has been recognised through national awards and a cover spot on the dental industry magazine Bite. 

Dr Macri-Etienne established IDC in 2022 and has grown the business into a practice recognised in the September edition of Bite for its combination of “gentle dentistry and outstanding clinical results”.

“One of my passions is to offer the best approaches to managing dental anxiety and phobia, drawing from western medicine, but also eastern modalities where those can assist,” Dr Macri-Etienne says.

“Options are varied and patients are an empowered, active part of the process. These are things that motivate me in the work of running a business.”

Dr Macri-Etienne’s passion for growth also led her this year to form a partnership with the Smile On Clinics group, a leader in high-end cosmetic dentistry and dental implants.

She says the partnership helps to establish IDC as a stand-out in providing customised care for anxious and other patients and high-end services, including cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics and implants.

Integrated Dental Canberra, 5/16 Moore Street, Canberra. Call 6249 8551 or visit integrateddentalcanberra.com.au

 

Claudia steps in, building confidence and community

Teaching more than 3000 Canberrans how to Nordic Walk, Capital Nordic Walking director Claudia Martin says the activity is a safe, effective and accessible exercise for all ages, fitness levels and health conditions.

Combining exercise, health, wellbeing and community, Claudia says she chose this career as a way of helping people stay active, reduce pain and feel connected with others. 

“Building a place where thousands of Canberrans can move with confidence and form friendships is exactly the kind of work I hoped to do,” she says.

“It’s a low-intensity, high-impact, total-body workout that’s ideal for rehabilitation and for managing arthritis, joint pain, diabetes and even neurological or cardiovascular conditions.”

Bringing fresh ideas, compassion and a focus on wellbeing, Claudia says having leading women within the industry shows that exercise and health initiatives can be inclusive and community-driven, making the activity accessible and meaningful for everyone involved. 

“It’s rewarding to watch someone who might have felt limited by pain or illness discover that they can move freely and confidently again,” she says. 

“I see people build strength and balance, feel less pain and regain a sense of independence.” 

Claudia says she is often told that the exercise has helped clients stay active when nothing else has felt possible.

Capital Nordic Walking offers a community outreach program of supported walks, run by dedicated volunteers, Claudia says they are always on the lookout for more helpers (known colloquially as “Angels”) to welcome walkers and offer companionship. 

No experience is required, just a friendly spirit and love of community. 

Capital Nordic Walking, call 0423 789614, email [email protected] or visit capitalnordicwalking.com.au

Sherina brings Lucid Body Acting to Canberra

Emerging actor, writer and producer Sherina Bahk-Meyers is the founder and director of her one-woman micro-business, Bahk-Meyers Productions, an independent production company and creative studio.

Still in its infancy, Sherina says her ultimate goal is to produce films and plays, but has started strong with the introduction of new workshop concepts led by industry experts. 

“While a big part of performing arts is about creativity and storytelling, what I love about the work that I do is getting to play a part, however small, in contributing to the growth of the creative industry,” she says. 

Sherina’s latest creative endeavour brings the Lucid Body Acting Workshop to Canberra. 

Developed in the US and taught at some of the world’s top performing arts schools, such as Julliard and Yale, Sherina says Lucid Body is designed in a way that is suitable for anyone seeking self-expansion and self-knowledge to elevate their presence, listening and communication. 

Robert Maxwell is Australia’s first certified Lucid Body instructor and a highly respected and sought-after acting, voice and movement coach based in Sydney.

“I am so excited that Rob has made Lucid Body available as a Canberra-intensive program, where participants will walk away having completed the Lucid Body Basics in two weekends, over four days,” she says.

Pursuing her passion as a storyteller, Sherina says seeing correct representation in the industry is important. 

“We’ve come a long way, but there’s so much more to be done around diversity and availability of narratives around women from different backgrounds, especially in Canberra.” 

“It took some time, but I’m here now, paving my way.”

Bahk-Meyers Productions, visit Instagram at bahkmeyers_production or Facebook at Bahk-Meyers Production

 

Dr Iyengar and Raffy are empowering diverse women

At the National Portrait Gallery on September 20, IWiN (Initiatives for Women in Need Inc) launched its ORANGE Skirt Social Enterprise Project – an initiative designed to empower culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) women across Canberra to step into leadership and business. 

The event was delivered in collaboration with community partners, including Raffy Sgroi, of Sage Advice, whose expertise in business and leadership development is helping shape the project’s delivery.

The launch coincided with the graduation of 14 women from IWiN’s NETRI Leadership Program, a first-of-its-kind culturally responsive leadership program designed and delivered by IWiN Chair, Dr Madhumita Iyengar.

“NETRI means ‘The Woman Leader’ in Sanskrit, and the name reflects the spirit of this program: to empower women to lead with courage and vision,” Dr Iyengar says. 

“Evidence proves that NETRI has provided a culturally safe space where CALD women can strengthen their voice, grow their confidence, and step into leadership roles that influence their communities and society at large.

“The ORANGE Skirt Project ensures this leadership continues, creating lasting social and economic change.”

Dr Iyengar says the symbolism of the project runs deep. 

“The ORANGE Skirt Project is an initiative driven by the values of empowerment, justice, and inclusion,” she says. 

“For me, the ORANGE Skirt is more than a project, it is a promise to create a new generation of women entrepreneurs who dare to realise their dreams against all odds.”

Raffy Sgroi says: “We are honoured to partner with Dr Iyengar in launching the ORANGE Skirt Project.

“Together, we’re committed to empowering women and driving meaningful change through this transformative program.”

Initiatives For Women In Need, call 0432 261541 or visit iwinact.org

 

Jenn helps women stand out, for all the right reasons

There’s a lot of psychology behind the way you dress that influences emotions and levels of confidence, says Peak Women founder and designer, Jenn Cowley. 

“I noticed in my workplace that women talk about job opportunities and their outfits in a similar manner,” she says. 

“It was all negative, so I created something that is both inspiring and feminine, and is designed to boost confidence in women to aspire for new opportunities.” 

Building her own clothing brand 18 months ago, Jenn says her greatest wish is to inspire women to find themselves and know their own worth through their outfits. 

“We’ve taken the female body into consideration with the design,” she says. 

“From adjustable waistlines, wider sleeve ends, as well as inside and outside pockets, our blazer and trousers are designed to be mix-and-match.”

Hidden affirmations have been printed into the lining of the blazers as a subtle reminder for the wearer that they are capable, worthy and belong. 

“We want women to stand out for all the right reasons,” says Jenn. 

“Women shouldn’t feel like they belong on the sidelines and be ignored.”

Jenn’s models are all real customers, representing and showcasing the very “real” women of Canberra. 

Her new collection releases in October. 

Peak Women, visit peakwomen.com.au or Instagram at peakwomen

 

Sarah’s family values shine bright in business

InDepth Landscape Construction CEO Sarah Bateman, the 2024 Business Person of the Year in the Canberra Region Local Business Awards, says she’s exactly where she was meant to be. 

After taking long service leave from her public service job in 2020, Sarah helped establish InDepth with her husband, something she says she has never looked back on. 

“Dad was a builder, so I was used to being surrounded by the trade,” she says. 

“Every day is different and I really enjoy the client engagement.” 

What had originally started as a family business now employs 35 workers, all of whom Sarah considers “part of the family”. 

“We have continued our family values and are so proud of the team and their hard work,” she says. 

Sarah says it is important that they are bringing the face of construction back to the tradies, through thorough and clear communication. 

“It all comes around to our team,” she says. 

“You can only be what the team delivers, so fostering a sense of community and connection within is so important.” 

Mum of three boys, Sarah says she is proud to show them that anything is possible, regardless of background.

InDepth Landscape Construction, Unit 3/1 Sawmill Circuit, Hume. Call 6293 2257 or visit indepthlandscaping.com.au  

 

Cassandra’s compassion in funeral services

Bringing a sense of calm and structure to families during what can often be the most turbulent period of their lives, operations manager for Invocare ACT Cassandra Proctor says it is a privilege to guide and assist families through the process of honouring their loved ones. 

“Each individual has a unique story, and I cherish the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life, learning about these stories and crafting a lasting tribute that truly reflects who they were,” she says. 

A traditionally male-dominated field, Cassandra says women bring a fresh perspective, increased empathy, nurturing and compassionate approach for grieving families. 

“This representation is vital for the future, encouraging diversity of thought and enabling us to better serve the needs of our community,” she says. 

“Seeing women in varying death-care roles demonstrates that anyone can succeed in this field, from embalmers and morticians, directors to consultants, regardless of gender.”

Tobin Brothers, one of Invocare’s funeral branches, upholds the values of family, honour, trust, respect, commitment and loyalty.

“We stand on a foundation built by a long-standing tradition of compassionate and personalised service, setting us apart with our unwavering commitment to honouring each individual’s life with the utmost respect,” says Cassandra. 

Knowing that her work helps families rest easy while their loved one is cared for with the utmost dignity gives Cassandra a feeling of pride and purpose. 

“It’s about connecting with families during their difficult time and guiding them toward closure through a personalised service,” she says. 

Tobin Brothers Funerals, 101 Nettlefold Street, Belconnen, or 310 Anketell Street, Tuggeranong. Call 6295 2799, or visit tobinscanberrafunerals.com.au 

 

Accountants Gail & Bethany lead a team of ‘amazing people’

Gail Freeman and Co is a family business, a firm of chartered accountants that specialises in taxation, superannuation and financial planning, says director Gail Freeman.

“I first started the business in 1987,” she says.

“My daughter, Bethany Freeman-Chandler is a senior accountant at the firm, and helps to make up a team of amazing people.

“Being able to work together as a mother-and-daughter team is really special.”

Gail specialises in tax and superannuation, she says, and Bethany focuses on accounting and computer programs.

“We have different strengths, so we can help a wider variety of people,” says Gail.

“I love what I do, every day, and I find working with a team who are really special makes life so much easier.

“The work is ever changing and I’m always learning, and both of those things work for me.”

Gail Freeman and Co, 9/71 Leichhardt Street, Kingston. Call 6295 2844, or visit gailfreeman.com.au 

 

Heidi heads her all-women team of top property managers 

Built on a foundation of specialist knowledge, unwavering compliance and a strong culture of care and consistency, Little Bird Properties’ director, Heidi Rosin, says the company stands out as Canberra’s largest property management-only agency. 

Heidi says her all-women team of dedicated property managers brings a depth of experience and professionalism that has earned them a reputation for excellence. 

“Our strength lies in focus,” she says. “We don’t do sales, just property management, and we do it exceptionally well. 

“We’ve built a close knit team of specialist property managers who are fully compliant, experienced and passionate about what they do.”

Heidi says the agency prides itself on having one of the lowest staff turnover rates in the industry, something she attributes to its strong, supportive culture and shared values. 

“The fact that our team genuinely enjoys coming to work makes a huge difference to the service we deliver,” she says.

With a consistent record of 100 per cent legislative compliance, Heidi says Little Bird Properties has proven its ability to stay ahead of regulatory changes while safeguarding clients’ interests. 

“It’s about being proactive and prepared,” she says. 

“We’ve invested in the right systems, training and technology to ensure that every property we manage is in safe hands.

“Little Bird Properties continues to set the benchmark in the Canberra region [by being] dedicated, knowledgeable and ready to lead the future of property management.”

Little Bird Properties, 4/16 Bougainville Street, Griffith. Call 6153 3173 or visit littlebirdproperties.com.au

 

Wanda & Aimee like to put a face to a name

With more than 20 years of experience within the accounting sector, WWAcounting business owner, Wanda Wojciechowska, says her journey of owning and successfully running an accounting firm was fuelled by hard work, determination and support from family and friends.

“Starting accounting while raising children was hard. Once the kids grew older, I found the courage to start my own business,” she says.

Wanda’s daughter, Aimee Kohler helps her manage their small accounting team.

“I’ve worked with mum for 10 years,” says Aimee, “Friendships formed with clients make my job more fun.”

WWAccounting specialises in individual and business taxation/accounting, bookkeeping and corporate services for individuals, companies, trusts and partnerships.

“I was fuelled by seeing – in my previous jobs – the lack of personal service that the clients deserved. I needed to work in an environment where I could put my heart into it,” Wanda says. 

“Back then, accounting was a male-dominant industry, but here I was, a woman determined not to let anything talk me out of my ultimate goal of owning/running my own business.”

According to Wanda, it was the best decision she ever made and encourages all women of any age and experience to pursue their dreams and goals.

Wanda says the goal to a good workplace is by upholding old-fashioned service through meeting clients, putting a face to a name and maintaining great relationships.

“The secret of our success is being passionate, reliable and listening to our clients and actually hearing them. It’s the personal touch that stands WWAccounting apart.”

WWAccounting. Call 0400 083 938 or [email protected]

 

Dr Maryse takes the time to listen to her patients

Canberra Family Health Centre’s founder, Associate Professor Dr Maryse Badawy, is the principal practitioner at her Deakin clinic, where she manages the clinical responsibilities of a practitioner and oversees the day-to-day operations of the practice. 

“There is no small amount of joy to be had from daily interactions with patients,” she says. 

“I’ve had the privilege of rejoicing with my patients whilst sharing their happiness and successes, and crying with them when sharing their sadnesses and crises.” 

A Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine in the Discipline of Family Medicine, Dr Badawy also holds a Master in Family Medicine and a Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine to complement her Bachelor Medicine/Bachelor Surgery degree.

She is also a Member of the Australasian Menopause Society. 

Dr Badawy says she is committed to providing a patient-centred approach by taking the time to listen to her patients, understanding their concerns to develop personalised treatment plans with one-hour appointments.

“I believe in being thorough and taking the time to get to know my patients and their needs,” she says. 

“Trust is a key foundation and it is a privilege knowing you’re trusted and that patients can come to you.

“At Canberra Family Health Centre, we treat the whole person and cater to their entire needs.” 

Canberra Family Health Centre is accepting new patients. 

Canberra Family Health Centre, Peter Yorke Building, Suite 6, Level 3, 173 Strickland Crescent, Deakin. Call 5133 7112 or visit cfhc.com.au

 

Julie’s leading the way in indigenous health care

Julie Tongs has been the CEO of Winnunga Nimmityjah, an Aboriginal community controlled health service, for more than 25 years. 

She says her vision has always been for Winnunga to be a leader in the provision of primary health care.

“Winnunga is a leader in providing comprehensive primary health care and is pivotal to the overall health system in the ACT and surrounding NSW region,” she says, with the Narrabundah-based health centre providing more than 60,000 occasions of service a year. 

Alongside clinical services, an Australian Family Partnership Program and social health campaigns, Julie says they offer immunisations, testing clinics, telephone consults, walk-in services to GPs, as well as psychologists, psychiatrists, podiatrist, optometry, physiotherapy, dieticians, drug and alcohol help and mental health nurses.

Clients come from all walks of life, Ms Tongs says.

“They come to us because they feel safe here and not judged.”

Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health and Community Services, 63 Boolimba Crescent, Narrabundah. Call 6284 6222 or visit winnunga.org.au

 

Rebecca offers clients a ‘toolbox’ to fight chronic pain

For 11 years at Arthritis ACT CEO, Rebecca Davey has been advocating for people living with chronic health by providing support services and facilities. 

“It’s our job to show them that their life isn’t over just because they have chronic pain,” she says. 

More than half of her team lives with chronic pain themselves, which she says is important. 

“It’s really important that our patients are treated by people who know what they are going through and can provide the right level of care,” she says. 

Previously working in nursing and midwifery, Rebecca says her past has played a pivotal role in her journey. 

“I love what I do, and I love the team and our clients as well,” she says. 

Coming from a background of someone living with chronic pain herself, Rebecca says it’s important that her clients know that just because things change, or can become harder, it doesn’t mean that they’re not important.

“People come in lost, and I help them unpack everything and give them a path forward,” she says. 

“We are giving people a toolbox to move forward.”

Rebecca says work doesn’t feel like work when she’s doing something she’s passionate about.

For her, the greatest joy comes from hearing back from their patients and hearing that they can “do this now”. 

“It’s the little things that matter,” says Rebecca. “Our goal is to turn negative things into positives.”

Arthritis ACT, 170 Haydon Drive, Bruce. Call 1800 011041, or visit arthritisact.org.au