Lennie’s research focusses on curriculum development, pedagogy, and pedagogical leadership for effective early childhood. Embedded in this is her interest in the role digital technologies play in children’s learning, development and wellbeing, educator’s teaching and learning, and the connection and engagement of families.

In 2021, Lennie was named a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her service to tertiary education and early childhood teaching. In the same year, she was also named winner of Engagement Australia’s Outstanding Engagement for Research Impact. She is also a chief investigator on the Australian Learning Frameworks Update project 2020-2022 and Kindytxt, a digital literacy texting programme for families of kindergarten children.

Dr Barbara Baird’s life is a remarkable journey of purpose, compassion, contribution, and unwavering dedication to both people and the planet. Born in 1941 in Boddington, Western Australia, Barbara grew up in a family that instilled in her a deep respect for nature and a love of learning.

Barbara’s academic excellence was evident early on. She attended Presbyterian Ladies’ College as a member of Carmichael House and graduated in 1957 as the Dux of School. Her family’s connection to PLC spans generations, with the Baird family contributing to the school community since 1919. Barbara’s father, Mr Hugh Baird, served as Chair of Council from 1953 – 1965 and the Hugh Baird Sports Centre (formerly the Hugh Baird Gymnasium, built 1965) is named in his honour (built 1996). All past and future students in Baird House are part of the Baird family legacy, with the School’s fifth House being inaugurated in 1977 after Barbara had left.

At just sixteen, Barbara began a science degree at the University of Western Australia. Initially drawn to veterinary science, she ultimately chose to pursue medicine at UWA and was one of only five women in the course of 60 students. Entering a male-dominated profession, she forged a path as a specialist anaesthetist, working in leading hospitals around the world including Australia, Scotland, and 10 years in Norway. Barbara was also the first ever female doctor to work in Kalgoorlie. Her career has been distinguished by her technical expertise, compassionate care, and commitment to patients.

Barbara’s adventurous spirit has taken her around the world – from sailing to Naples to driving a Land Rover from Scotland to India across the Iranian desert.

In 1983, she made the bold and unconventional decision to retire early from her distinguished career in medicine. She purchased a 64.75-hectare degraded property in Victoria and began the immense task of restoring it. Living off-grid for many years, she transformed the land into a thriving sanctuary for native Australian wildlife.

Today, Barbara remains deeply involved in environmental advocacy through her work with ABC Friends Victoria and the Australian Conservation Foundation. She champions sustainable land care, biodiversity, and Aboriginal fire management practices, and continues to rescue and rehabilitate injured wildlife.

Dr Barbara Baird’s life is one of extraordinary achievement, fearless exploration, and profound compassion. She is a pioneer, a protector, and a powerful reminder of what we can do if we are bold enough to try.

Heather Barr graduated PLC in 1949 before embarking on a transformative career in education. Originally from Toowoomba, Queensland, she returned to PLC as the first Old Collegian to serve as Principal, a position she held from 1968 until her sudden passing in 1989. Under her leadership, the school flourished, fostering a legacy of selflessness, tolerance, and compassion.

Miss Barr became a founding member of the WA Institute of Educational Administration and became its first elected Fellow.

Miss Barr’s dedication to PLC is commemorated through the Heather Barr Memorial Bursary, awarded to Year 12 students who exemplify her principles and commitment to education. Her tenure as Principal left an indelible mark, shaping generations of students and cementing her place as a cherished figure in the history of the College​.

Fiona Boyce has excelled in both sports and academics, carving a path as an Olympian and lawyer. As a member of the Hockeyroos, Fiona represented Australia at the 2012 London Olympics, finishing fifth, and earned a gold medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi.

Known for her dedication and leadership, she retired from international hockey in 2013 after representing Australia in over 100 matches to focus on her legal career. Fiona holds a Bachelor of Law and Commerce from the University of Notre Dame and has balanced her professional achievements with a commitment to giving back to the community.

Caroline Brazier has forged a successful acting career spanning theatre, television, and film. Known for her versatility, she gained prominence as Chrissy Merchant in Packed to the Rafters and showcased her range with dual roles in the children’s series Parallax. Her theatre accolades include performances with the Bell Shakespeare Company in The Merchant of Venice and Antony and Cleopatra.

In 2012, she earned the Best Actress Award at the Sydney Theatre Awards for her role in I Want to Sleep With Tom Stoppard.

She also played the Superintendent in Accidental Death of an Anarchist (2018) at Sydney Theatre and appeared in the music video for Silverchair’s 1999 song Emotion Sickness.

In 2023, Brazier was named as part of the extended cast for the second series of Foxtel legal drama The Twelve. In 2024, Brazier was named in series 2 of Scrublands.

With a career that reflects her talent and dedication, Brazier remains a celebrated figure in Australian performing arts​.

Professor Wendy Carlin is a globally recognised economist renowned for her contributions to macroeconomics, economic policy, and education reform. A Rhodes Scholar, she pursued her doctorate at Oxford University, focussing on economic transitions and income distribution, laying the foundation for her distinguished academic career. Currently a Professor of Economics at University College London (UCL), she has revolutionised economics education as the leader of the CORE Econ Project, which integrates real-world data and applications into economics curricula worldwide.

Professor Carlin’s research spans macroeconomic modelling, institutions, and economic performance. She has advised prominent organisations, including the World Bank and the UK’s Office for Budget Responsibility, and co-authored influential textbooks. Her accolades include a CBE for services to economics and public finance in 2015 and election to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2022, underscoring her impactful work in academia and beyond.

Dr Megan Clark AC has forged a groundbreaking career in science, mining, and innovation. Her journey began as a geologist, defying barriers in a male-dominated industry at a time when women were prohibited from working underground. Megan’s unwavering commitment to safety and innovation in mining led her to prominent roles, including Technology Vice President at BHP Billiton and positions with Western Mining Corporation. As the first female Chief Executive of CSIRO, she advanced the organisation’s mission of delivering profound scientific and industrial impact, cementing her reputation as a global leader in applied research.

Currently serving as a non-executive director of Rio Tinto and chairing its Safety Committee, Megan remains dedicated to her mission of fostering a safer mining industry. Her contributions to science and innovation were recognised in 2014 when she was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC).

In 2024, Megan was appointed the first female Chancellor of Monash University. Her appointment reflects her remarkable contributions to science, technology, and public service. Since joining the Monash Council in 2015, Megan has served as Deputy Chancellor, and her unanimous selection as Chancellor highlights confidence in her leadership. 

Megan credits her time at PLC for instilling in her the confidence to take responsibility and embrace challenges, reflecting her philosophy: “When given a chance, always take it.” Through her leadership, Megan continues to inspire change, champion sustainability, and uphold the values of service to her country and community.

The Honourable June Craig AM has had a distinguished career in both politics and community service. June excelled academically and athletically during her time at PLC, notably representing WA in tennis. She pursued higher education in physical education at the University of Western Australia and the University of Melbourne.

Olivia DeJonge has gained international acclaim as one of Australia’s most talented actors. Known for her captivating portrayal of Priscilla Presley in Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis, Olivia’s performance was celebrated for its depth and authenticity, tracing Priscilla’s journey from a young girl in love to an empowered, independent woman.

During her time at PLC, Olivia’s early passion for acting was evident, laying the foundation for her remarkable career. Beyond Elvis, she has delivered standout performances in other projects, showcasing her versatility and dedication to her craft. Olivia’s achievements continue to inspire current PLC students, exemplifying how ambition and talent can lead to success on a global stage​

Diana has been heavily involved in the dance and ballet community locally and internationally. Diana has been the Principal Dancer with the West Australian Ballet (1962) and the Kalinka Dance Company (1972) and has danced with the Northside Ballet Company in Sydney (1972).

Diana created and ran the Diana deVos School of Ballet in New South Wales. In 1978, Diana passed the RAD Advanced Teachers Certificate examination and became a founding member of the Royal Academy of Dance Advisory panel of WA in 1982. She then in from 1997-99 was the chairperson of this panel and was the recipient of the Royal Academy of Dance President’s award in 2012.

In 1997, Diana co-founded the Terpsichore Dance Centre (TDC); a full-time dance school affiliated with the Northlake Senior High School to enable students to complete academic studies to TEE (HSC) level. Then, Diana became a lecturer of Dance at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) from 1999-2008.

Diana presented at the 26th Annual International Conference of the Association for Dance Medicine and Science in 2016 in Hong Kong where she presented on “The Role of Health in the Development of Classical Ballet in W.A. 1950 to 2016”.

In 2015, Diana was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for Services to the Performing Arts and in  2017, she was awarded a Fellowship of the Royal Academy of Dance.

Matija Franetovich has made a significant mark in music as a highly accomplished bagpiper. Serving as a Lance Corporal and Drum Major in the Australian Army Pipes and Drums, she has performed at prestigious events, including the ANZAC Day dawn service at Villers-Bretonneux in France, Gallipoli,  and the centenary commemorations of World War I battles. Matija was also a dedicated bagpipe tutor and Head of Pipe Band at PLC, inspiring the next generation of musicians and overseeing performances like the PLC Centenary Tune, which she composed. Her career is a testament to her passion and dedication, making her a celebrated figure in the global piping community.

Ruby Gherbaz is an accomplished ballroom dancer celebrated for her dynamic performances and international success. Beginning her dance journey at the age of 8, Ruby quickly rose to prominence, becoming a two-time undefeated Australian Youth Latin Champion. She has represented Australia on the global stage, achieving podium finishes, including third place at the Asian Pacific Competition in 2014. In 2017, Ruby moved to London to train with some of the world’s top Latin coaches. She now travels internationally with the acclaimed dance company Burn The Floor and performs as a professional dancer on Dancing With The Stars Australia. Ruby’s dedication and passion have made her an inspiring figure in the dance community.

Rebecca Gianotti is a distinguished environmental engineer with over 20 years of experience. Awarded the OCA Inspiring Woman accolade in 2021, Rebecca is currently with the Global Water Institute in Ohio, USA, where she develops programmes for water, sanitation, and income-generation initiatives in rural Tanzania as part of a national rehabilitation effort. Her impactful work reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing global communities and bettering society.

Justice Michelle Gordon AC has established herself as a trailblazer in the Australian legal profession. Appointed to the High Court of Australia in 2015, she became one of the youngest-ever appointees to the nation’s highest judicial office. With a distinguished career spanning nearly three decades, her expertise in tax, commercial, and constitutional law has earned her widespread respect.  After completing her law degree at UWA in 1986, Michelle began her legal journey with Robinson Cox in Perth before advancing to senior roles at Arthur Robinson & Hedderwicks and the Victorian Bar, where she was appointed Senior Counsel in 2003.

Justice Gordon credits her two formative years at PLC as instrumental in shaping her outlook, instilling values that continue to guide her. Reflecting on her career, she highlights the importance of aiming high and balancing life beyond work, lessons deeply embedded during her school years. Her achievements are a testament to her dedication and legal acumen, which saw her rise to the Federal Court of Australia in 2007 before her elevation to the High Court.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Justice Gordon is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the legal field. She emphasises the need for open dialogue to address barriers faced by women and minority groups in advancing their careers. Believing in the power of small yet meaningful actions, she works to foster change and create pathways for those historically underrepresented in the legal profession. Justice Gordon’s career reflects her commitment to excellence, equity, and the principles of justice.

Dame Alexandra Hasluck (Darker) was a renowned historian, author, and social commentator. Born in 1908 in Perth, she was a fifth-generation Australian and later became the first woman to be appointed a Dame of the Order of Australia for her contributions to Australian literature and history. Known for her meticulous historical works, such as Georgiana Molloy: Portrait with Background, Alexandra’s writings explored themes of colonial life and WA’s heritage. She was also an accomplished memoirist and short story writer, using her platform to illuminate the complexities of Australia’s past. Married to Sir Paul Hasluck, Australia’s 17th Governor-General, Alexandra played a significant role in public life, balancing her scholarly pursuits with her duties as the Governor-General’s spouse. Her legacy endures as a pioneer for women in Australian letters and historical inquiry​.

Minnie was born in West Leederville on 16 August 1908 and split her childhood between the family farm in Lake Yealering and their West Leederville home.

Minnie began nurse training at the Children’s Hospital (later Princess Margaret Hospital) in 1928.

Minnie Hodgson enlisted in 1941 and was treating wounded warriors in Singapore as a sister in the 2/13th Australian General Hospital when it came under siege from the Japanese Empire. She was one of the nurses on the SS Vyner Brooke, a Red Cross ship. She survived the sinking and the strafing of survivors in the water afterwards, and somehow made it to Banka Island (now Indonesia) where she was one of the 21 nurses murdered by the Japanese on 16 February 1942.

Minnie’s bravery has been immortalised with a park in West Leederville named in her honour.

Katie is a computational biologist specialising in infectious disease genomics, and a Professor at Monash University and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

Katie has a BA/BSc from UWA majoring in Biochemistry, Applied Statistics and Philosophy, with Honours in Genetics, a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of Cambridge and the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute on the genomics of typhoid fever, and a Masters in Epidemiology from the University of Melbourne.

Katie runs a computational genomics research group utilising genome sequencing to study the evolution and transmission of bacterial pathogen and hospital associated pathogens. Her lab is particularly interested in the global health crisis of multidrug resistant pathogens, and human and environmental microbiomes and their role in chronic disease, infectious disease, and horizontal gene transfer. They develop bioinformatics software when needed, including laboratory and computational methods for nanopore sequencing.

Josie Janz-Dawson is a distinguished leader and advocate, renowned for her commitment to Indigenous communities and her contributions to sports and education. As a proud Torres Strait woman, Josie has devoted her career to empowering youth, particularly through her roles in education and mentoring. She is a former elite netball player, having represented the West Coast Fever in the ANZ Championship. Her athletic career was marked by discipline, teamwork, and a dedication to excellence.

Off the court, Josie has been a passionate advocate for equity and opportunity for Indigenous Australians. Her leadership extends into her current work, which focusses on cultural education and fostering connections between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Her ability to bridge diverse groups reflects her deep understanding of cultural identity and social cohesion. Josie’s impact continues to resonate as she inspires individuals to celebrate diversity and strive for meaningful societal change​.

A respected teacher and champion of girls’ education, Dr June Jones AM (Eggleston 1948) came to PLC from St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School in 1940 until her final graduating year, when she was also Carmichael House Captain.

Dr Jones was Principal at St Hilda’s Anglican Girls’ School for 17 years, however, her three daughters were schooled entirely at PLC – Sarah Beshar (Jones, Head Prefect 1976), Katie Prevost (Jones 1978), and Alexandra Vines (Jones, Head Prefect 1985).

She also served on the University of WA Senate for 13 years and was the inaugural chair of the UWA Centenary Trust for Women, set up in 2002 to help disadvantaged women pursue an education.

Nina Kennedy has risen to become one of Australia’s top pole vaulters. Starting the sport at just 12, she quickly showcased her potential by breaking the world under-20 record in 2015 with a leap of 4.59m. Her career highlights include a bronze medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and a gold medal at the 2023 World Athletics Championships, where she made history by sharing the title after a dramatic tie at 4.90m. Despite setbacks, including injuries and mental health challenges, Nina’s resilience and determination have solidified her place as a leading figure in athletics, culminating in her 2024 Olympic gold medal—a first for an Australian woman in pole vaulting. Her achievements embody PLC’s values of courage and perseverance, inspiring future generations of athletes.

Min Kong is an industrial designer who has led an extensive range of high profile industrial design and strategic design projects across medical, consumer, transportation, infrastructure and experience design. Min’s commitment to high quality and innovative design thinking has been recognised by multiple prestigious awards including Australian Good Design Awards and Red Dot Award. 

Currently, Min is leading the industrial design and development of QANTAS’ Aircraft Projects including Project Sunrise, an ultra long-haul A350 fleet at Caon Design Office. Prior to this, Min enjoyed over a decade-long successful career at Blue Design Group and played a key role in the design and development of the Oracle Jet at Breville. 

Min graduated with honours from the University of New South Wales with a bachelor’s degree and is an active member of the Australian design community. Min has spoken at various Australian design forums and has been an invited jury member in Australian and international awards. Remaining in close ties with UNSW, Min has been teaching in the Industrial Design Programme since 2014. 

Kate Lewkowski has over 25 years of experience in clinical care, research, and innovation. Holding degrees in Computer Science, Mathematics, and Public Health, Kate has made significant contributions to hearing loss and tinnitus prevention, as well as the treatment of balance disorders. 

She has first-authored number academic papers in prestigious journals, including the ‘Medical Journal of Australia’ and has extensive experience in clinical and epidemiological research. Driven by a passion for the improving patient care, Kate founded Neurotologix, a MedTech start-up that has built a remote patient monitor for dizziness and vertigo using cutting-edge technology. This technology has won numerous awards and in 2022, the company was names WA Innovator of the Year. 

Kate’s career exemplifies the impact of interdisciplinary expertise in science and healthcare and she remains committed to pioneering innovations that enhances lives. 

Poppy Lissiman has emerged as one of Australia’s most original voices in fashion. What began in her Perth bedroom as a modest label in 2008, fresh out of school, has blossomed into an international accessories brand celebrated for its playful, statement-making designs.

After launching as a ready-to-wear label, Poppy made a strategic pivot in 2014 toward accessories, sunglasses, handbags, and jewellery, crafted entirely from cruelty-free materials. Her glamorous, quirky creations quickly went viral, propelled by iconic styles like her “Le Skinny” sunglasses and bold vegan-leather handbags adorned with kaleidoscopic prints. Her pieces have been adopted by cultural icons such as Beyoncé, Bella Hadid, Kylie Jenner, and Rita Ora, solidifying her status as a design maverick.

Beyond the aesthetic, Poppy’s brand champions ethical principles. She has committed to sustainable practices, using recycled rPET materials, recycled acetate, and continuing to produce timeless pieces that defy the traditional fashion cycle.

From her early creative experiments to runway success in Melbourne and international collaborations with CASETiFY and H&R Block Australia, Poppy’s journey is a powerful reminder to current PLC students that passion, resilience, and originality can open extraordinary opportunities.

Tessa MacKay (née McOnie) is an acclaimed hyperrealist artist whose monumental works have captivated audiences in Australia and beyond. One of her most notable pieces, a 30cm x 290cm hyperreal portrait of Wongatha/Pitjantjatjara/Nyungar actor Trevor Jamieson, reflects her dedication to combining technical precision with profound cultural narratives. The work, which has been exhibited at venues such as the State Buildings and PS Art Space Fremantle, was displayed at PLC’s 2021 OCA Art Exhibition, prompted by students who admired it as part of their studies. Tessa, whose artistic journey began during her time at PLC, expressed pride in having her painting showcased on the grounds of her alma mater, particularly within the Hazel Day Drama Centre—an apt location given her subject’s prominence as a performer and her fond memories of PLC’s Performing Arts programme.

Tessa is an Australian/New Zealand artist based in Fremantle. Overcoming challenges with dyslexia and non-attentive ADHD, she found refuge in painting as a means of self-expression and focus. Her training in Classical Realism at Claremont School of Art and mentorship under Richard Te Kuaha Merito honed her technical skills, culminating in her mastery of photorealism and hyperrealism. Winner of the 2019 Archibald Packing Room Prize, Tessa’s practice interrogates the value of imagery, recontextualising “low-value” sources like early digital photography into painstakingly detailed works that examine technological shifts in image-making. By blending her technical expertise with reflective conceptual inquiry, Tessa continues to push the boundaries of contemporary art, exploring how societal values shape the meaning we attribute to visual narratives.

Sara Macliver is one of Australia’s most accomplished classical vocalists. Renowned for her expertise in Baroque and Classical repertoire, she has performed extensively with leading orchestras, ensembles, and opera companies across the nation and internationally. Her contributions to music have earned her numerous accolades, including an honorary doctorate from UWA for her outstanding services to the arts. Sara Macliver has performed for Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, gracing some of the world’s most prestigious concert halls. 

Known for her radiant voice and deep musicality, Sara continues to inspire audiences while fostering a love for classical music in her home state of WA.

Robyn Sermon has made a significant impact as the CEO of the Royal Agricultural Society of Western Australia. Appointed as the first woman to hold this prestigious position, Robyn brings a wealth of leadership experience and a vision for fostering innovation in WA’s agricultural sector. She is also the newly appointed chair of the Wheatbelt Development Commission, where she plays a pivotal role in driving growth and sustainability in one of the state’s vital regions. Robyn’s achievements reflect her dedication to enhancing community engagement and championing regional development in Western Australia​

For more than three decades, Winks Shephard has been a quiet force for good within the PLC community and beyond. Known for her generosity of time, energy, and expertise, Winks has never sought the spotlight but has always been there – organising events, lending a hand, and strengthening connections.

Her commitment to service began at just 16, when she and her mother volunteered four nights a week at Rocky Bay, helping children with disabilities at mealtimes and offering companionship. The experience left a lasting impression, instilling a deep sense of empathy and responsibility to help others.

After a 15-year career in events management, Winks channelled her skills into co-founding Autism West in 2006, following the autism diagnosis of a close friend’s son. She recognised the need for opportunities beyond therapy – programmes that taught children to ride bikes, play music, and develop vital social skills. Over 11 years, she served on the Board, coordinated major fundraising events, and helped grow the organisation into today’s thriving charity, Spectrum Space.

At PLC, Winks has been equally dedicated. She first joined the Old Collegians’ Association (OCA) Committee in 2003, returning in 2017, later serving as Vice President (2020–2023) and elected President in 2023. In her first months as President, she introduced the ‘Parent Collegian’ keyrings for Year 12 families, a symbol of her vision to unite Old Collegians, parents, staff, and students as one lifelong PLC community.

From making jams for Open Garden Day to donating Shephard Hill wine at school events, Winks embodies the spirit of service. She describes herself as “blessed with a loving, healthy family” and believes it is her responsibility to look outward – to give back, support those in need, and help wherever she can.

Ms Shepherd is the Chair of the Board of Directors of World Vision International and the Managing Director of Creating Communities Australia.

She is a humanitarian, entrepreneur, and consultant. Her passion for social justice saw her move into international development, working with El Taller in Tunisia and lecturing in international development in masters programmes in the United States, Ecuador, and Australia.

At World Vision, Ms Shepherd launched the ‘It takes a world to end violence against children’ campaign in Addis Ababa in 2017.

In 2020, she was made a Member of the Order of Australia for her significant service to children through international humanitarian aid organisations.

Dr Kate Stannage has made an outstanding contribution to medicine as a leading orthopaedic surgeon specialising in paediatric trauma. Currently the Head of Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Perth Children’s Hospital, she is recognised for her expertise and dedication to improving outcomes for young patients. A strong advocate for professional growth, Kate is a mentor and trailblazer in her field. Reflecting on her journey, she states, “PLC instilled in me the confidence to pursue my dreams and to approach every challenge with resilience and determination.” Her career exemplifies the values of excellence and compassion fostered during her time at PLC.

Jacqui Swick has made waves in the rowing world. A member of Australia’s elite rowing team, Jacqui has competed internationally, including at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, where she raced as part of the Women’s Eight crew. This is the best result an Australian Women’s Eight has achieved at an Olympics.

Notably, she achieved a stellar first-place finish at the World Rowing Cup III earlier that same year, demonstrating her prowess in the sport.

Jacqui’s journey from PLC to representing her country exemplifies her dedication and tenacity. Reflecting on her achievements, Jacqui stated, “Rowing has taught me discipline, teamwork, and resilience – qualities I first nurtured during my time at PLC.” Her career continues to inspire future generations of rowers and students alike​.

Dr Michelle Telfer has had a remarkable journey from gymnast to trailblazing paediatrician. A talented athlete, she represented Australia in gymnastics at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, all while managing her academic commitments at PLC. Inspired by her interactions with medical teams during her athletic career, she pursued medicine at UWA.

Now the Director of the Gender Service at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, Dr Telfer is a leading advocate for transgender youth. She developed Australia’s first standards of care for transgender and gender-diverse children and played a pivotal role in legal reforms allowing access to hormonal treatment for those under 18. Her groundbreaking work has supported hundreds of young people, ensuring better healthcare outcomes and societal recognition for their needs, despite facing significant challenges and criticism. Her dedication exemplifies resilience and compassion in transforming lives.​

Joan Tully made significant contributions to Australian science. She began her career as a research officer with the Forests Department, where her work focussed on understanding and managing Australia’s native forests. Later, she became a plant physiologist with CSIRO in Griffith, New South Wales, where her research advanced agricultural practices, particularly in plant physiology. Joan’s dedication to her field exemplified her pioneering spirit, and she is remembered for her significant impact on environmental and agricultural science.​

A sail on STS Leeuwin was to change the life of an already spirited, teenaged Suzannah Vaughan.

Two years later, this experience would see the young Suzannah picked as Australia’s representative on a world voyage celebrating America’s 500^th anniversary since discovery. Indeed, the lure of sailing and the briny blue would never desert Suzannah and ultimately influence her rare and unusual career choice, particularly for a woman, as a ship’s captain.

The always adventurous, highly active and sporty Suzannah originally graduated in Physical Education, a career that quickly gave way to her even greater passion for sailing. In 1996, Suzannah would attend the Australian Maritime College in Launceston, qualifying to captain square-rigged sailing ships.

Adding to her CV a Diploma of Nautical Science, later an MBA from UWA, the then 33-year-old Suzannah would fund herself appointed the first woman and youngest-ever marine superintendent of an Australian offshore floating oil production facility, captaining these ocean behemoths of the international oil industry.

In an industry boasting female participating of less than one percent, Suzannah’s work ethic and style soon enough gained her wide admiration and respect including for her individual and humanitarian leadership style.

It saw Suzannah recognised by many industry and other awards, particularly notable her 2007 Veuve Cliquot award, this global tribute to women achievers named in honour of the feisty founders of the famous French champagne house.

At the time, Suzannah said: “I wish to make a difference to the world and improve our lives beyond the length of my time on this earth” – even Suzannah herself unaware how prescient were her words.

Continuing to work hard to achieve her ambition, including using and developing appropriate technologies resulting in lower emissions and greater fuel efficiency to ensure environmental sustainability in her industry, late in 2008 Suzannah would take the helm for the very last time.

Having only recently taken up a tanker captain’s commission for a Swedish company working in the Bay of Bengal, tragically 36-year-old Suzannah was to die in her sleep.

Ever remembered, her many close school friends fondly recall Suzannah’s extraordinary spirit, which they say is best summed up by Suzannah’s own favourite piece of advice: “There is always light at the end of the tunnel, even if you need to get out there and light it yourself!”

Ms Venter joined Shell as a graduate engineer and has been a trailblazer for women in engineering at the company.

Her role has taken her across the world and in the past few years she has worked on the Prelude FLNG, the first project of its kind to develop the world’s largest floating structure and the first floating LNG vessel.

Ms Venter’s most recent position as Reliability Engineer requires creativity and innovation for the FLNG, one of the most challenging oil and gas assets in the world.

Hannah Vermeersch has achieved remarkable success in rowing, representing Australia on the world stage. She made her Olympic debut at the 2012 London Games as the youngest member of the Australian women’s eight, earning the nickname “Motley Crew” for their tenacious spirit.

Beyond the Olympics, Hannah secured gold at the 2009 Junior World Championships and later added bronze and silver medals at senior World Rowing Cups. Her career highlights include victories at prestigious events such as the Henley Royal Regatta in 2018. Known for her resilience and dedication, Hannah has inspired the rowing community and continues to contribute to the sport through her achievements and legacy.

Kendall is the 2021 recipient of the WA Young Australian of the Year for her work in the establishment of the Blue Tree Project.

Driven by the suicide of her brother, Kendall started the Blue Tree Project to reduce the stigma of mental illness.

Blue trees can now be spotted throughout WA, Australia, and overseas. A former PLC boarder, her work is helping thousands of people to understand mental illness and prevent suicide.