The achievements of Australia’s most influential women were celebrated last night at the 2026 Women in Industry Awards, an event showcasing excellence across a range of fields.
Bringing together innovators, trailblazers, and changemakers from across the nation at Doltone House Darling Island Wharf in Sydney, the occasion recognised the achievements of women who are breaking barriers, driving innovation, and shaping the future of Australia’s industrial sectors.
Following a record number of nominations and attendance of more than 350 industry professionals, supporters, and guests at the gala dinner, the event was the largest since the program’s inception.
In her opening address, Prime Creative Media Head of Events Marketing, Molly Hancock, praised the calibre of this year’s nominations, and reflected on the growing influence of the awards in championing achievement, leadership, and innovation among women.
“The quality of nominations received this year has been exceptional. Every nominee and finalist has demonstrated excellence in their field, a commitment to delivering outstanding results, and a determination to make a positive difference within their organisation, industry and community,” she said.
The 2026 Awards featured 15 categories celebrating outstanding achievement across leadership, emerging talent, workplace safety, and excellence in a diverse range of industries. This year’s program introduced four new award categories: Women in Leadership, Marketer of the Year, Excellence in Health and Medicine, and Tradeswoman of the Year, expanding recognition of women’s contributions across these key sectors.
The 2026 Women in Industry Awards winners:
- Tradeswoman of the Year: Shannen Jeffery, Newmont
- Women in Leadership: Karlie Zec, Tiny Tins
- Mentor of the Year: Laura Canning, Komatsu
- Excellence in Transport: True Ross, Ross Transport
- Excellence in Mining: Brooke Adamson, Newmont
- Industry Advocacy Award: Tatiana Delendik, Grundfos
- Rising Star of the Year 30 years and under: Caitlin Barlow, JATEC Transport
- Business Development Success of the Year: Yuan Yuan, Sykes Group
- Excellence in Health and Medicine: Dr Sarah Crowe, OOXii
- Marketer of the Year: Caroline Luczynski, SMEC
- Excellence in Energy: Louise Bishop, Zinfra Operations
- Excellence in Construction: Alysse Reedy, Fulton Hogan Construction
- Excellence in Manufacturing: Charline Siccardi, Argon & Co
- Safety Advocacy Award: Sarah Barnbrook, Away from Keyboard Inc.
- Excellence in Engineering: Hoda Ehsani, Fortescue
Brooke Adamson from Newmont took home the program’s highest honour, the Woman of the Year Award.
In accepting the award, Brooke highlighted the ability of women to work while taking on family responsibilities.
“In my work life, I am an all-processing manager looking after about 300 people, and multi-billion dollar copper concentrators. I look after Australia’s only molybdenum plant, all the services operations, and heavy haulage,” she said.
“In my personal life, I have seven children. Five of those are stepchildren, but my youngest is one year old. If you think you can’t have a career and be a mother, I am proof that you can.
“But I couldn’t do it without the support of my family, or also my partner, who has sacrificed part of his career to support me.
“There are so many phenomenal women, and also men, that play a key role in mining and industry in general that support women. And without a lot of those sponsors and advocates for myself, giving me the confidence to put my name forward and know I can do it, I wouldn’t be here.”
Beyond recognising outstanding achievements, the Women in Industry Awards serve as a platform for fostering connection, collaboration, and progress. The event brings together women from different industries and career stages, creating valuable opportunities to build networks, share experiences, and inspire future leaders.
For more information, go to womeninindustry.com.au
