The Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) celebrated 2023 International Women’s Day (IWD) with another sold-out breakfast event at Hillstone, St Lucia Golf Links in Brisbane on Wednesday, March 8.
With the theme ‘Embrace Equity’, the premier IWD event in the country for the transport industry once again attracted a sell-out this year.
MC Lisa Fraser, QTA membership manager, introduced the theme by asking why we are still talking about embracing equity, and that current mindsets need to be challenged and actioned to lead change.
QTA chief executive Gary Mahon said: “We are proud to hold Australia’s leading IWD event for transport and logistics and it was a fantastic turnout from industry. The event continues to attract tremendous support from sponsors and with the event being oversubscribed this year, it’s a great indication that the event hits the mark with industry.”
First on the program was Melira Lister who was awarded the 2022 QTA Trucking Woman of the Year honour.
Lister is currently working as a national key account manager project services, Qube Heavy Lift, QUBE Bulk. She has successfully managed the logistics operations on some of the country’s largest projects, including the Sydney Metro, Toowoomba Second Range Crossing, The Level Crossing Removal Project in Melbourne, the Gympie Bypass, as well as countless renewable and infrastructure projects nationwide.
Lister delivered in a determined manner and was honest as she described the barriers, challenges and bias she has faced as a female, working in a male-dominated industry and as a working mum. Although she has encountered some tough situations in the industry, she is determined to pursue her quest to succeed and encourages other women to do the same.
“If you’re like me and love your job and you are committed to what you are doing, keep at it for no one other than you,” she said.
“As an industry we are moving forward, and we are changing attitudes as to what the industry looks like. You may not be where you want to be at this very moment in time; you may be doing circles or even feel like you are going backwards.
“Stay strong, be yourself and persevere through it. Take that winding road and see more things. Nothing will be as disappointing as giving up.”
Belinda Brosnan, executive coach and change agent, took the audience through key changes impacting leaders in 2023 and why embracing equity means being clear on how your beliefs, values and experiences of the world, shapes the way you engage with others personally and professionally.
“What if leading yourself first, is in fact, the game changer for creating connection, wellbeing and progress in a world where ‘business as usual’ is a thing of the past?” she said.