A sell-out crowd gathered to celebrate leadership, mentorship and opportunity across the plantation and wood fibre sector at the third annual Women in Wood Fibre event, held yesterday as part of International Women’s Day celebrations.
Leaders from across the forest, ports and logistics supply chain joined government, local government and industry representatives for the popular event, which continues to grow in influence and attendance each year.
Australian Bluegum Plantations CEO Darren Shelden said the sell-out event highlighted the strong momentum behind building a more inclusive and future-focused industry.
He acknowledged the event reflected a broader commitment across the plantation sector to “recognise talent, support leadership pathways and strengthen our regional communities”.
“Women in Wood Fibre is a statement about the kind of sector we’re building — one that recognises talent wherever it exists and understands that resilient businesses and strong regional communities are created when women are supported to lead, innovate and influence decisions,” he said.
The event’s keynote address was delivered by filmmaker, farmer and author Leila McDougall, who shared insights on resilience, leadership and backing yourself even when the path forward is uncertain, taking learnings producing the internationally acclaimed film Just a Farmer. Regional broadcaster and advocate for agriculture and regional Australia Kirsten Diprose returned as the event MC.
Mr Shelden said women now represent more than 30 per cent of permanent roles at Australian Bluegum Plantations, including senior leadership positions, reflecting a broader trend across the plantation sector.
“Those numbers matter, but what matters more are the real pathways behind them. Throughout my career I’ve seen mentorship turn potential into confidence and experience into leadership. When women are supported, when pathways are visible and when mentorship is genuine, momentum builds and the whole sector benefits,” he said.
“Women in Wood Fibre is about leadership, innovation and collective progress. By investing in people and supporting each other to succeed, we are building a stronger, more resilient future for our industry and our regional communities.”
With growing interest and attendance, ABP are already planning to expand the Women in Wood Fibre initiative in 2027 and beyond working in partnership with the Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub.
To see the event pics visit www.austgum.com.au