Following our announcement of the Women in Defence Awards 2024 finalists, ADM will be introducing each of our amazing finalists across the categories in more detail. Today we are focusing on the finalists in the Rising Star Category.
In this category, judges were looking for the best and brightest women under 30 who achieved a remarkable level of success in 2023, as well as demonstrating clear effort to promote Defence above and beyond the scope of their roles or to promote inclusion within their organisations. In addition, judges also looked for entries that evidenced the overcoming of personal challenges on their way to success.
The winners and Hall of Fame inductee will be announced at a gala dinner at The National Arboretum, Canberra, on 17 October 2024. Book your tickets here – we hope to see you there!
Shanae Lay
Corrosion Scientist
Defence Science and Technology Group, Department of Defence
Shanae’s work in 2023 benefited not only future - but current - Defence capability. During 2023, Shanae investigated the suitability of the piping that will be installed in the Hunter class frigates and took part in work to understand the source of heavy metal contamination within the Supply class's potable water supply. Due to her efforts, the defects onboard the Supply class were able to be mediated, making a direct contribution to Defence capability. Throughout the year, she also mentored graduates placed inside Defence Science and Technology Group, as well as students undertaking Summer Vacation Placements.
Brenda Palmer
Engagement Director, Downer Professional Services
Downer Defence
In 2023, Brenda designed and developed a bespoke Command, Control, Communications, Computers Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance data schema for Defence, enabling the organisation to track the critical technological enablers of capability across the Integrated Force. The solution, which has been adopted across Defence, has been highly commended by those who use it. During the year, Brenda also spent time engaging with high school students interested in STEM, under the philosophy that they can’t be who they can’t see.
Bridie Searle
Facilities Assets and Training Coordinator
Thales Australia
In 2023, Bridie transferred out of a traineeship with Thales Australia and took on responsibility for managing a maintenance site involving more than 500 contractors involved in maintaining and upgrading the Royal Australian Navy’s surface fleet. Through her work, Bridie built strong relationships with outside stakeholders, including the relevant System Program Offices within Defence as well as other prime contractors. She also acted as a conduit between the workforce and Thales Australia management, where she communicated female employees' concerns and feedback. Throughout the year she also took the time to give back, by working with the federal and state governments to plan and promote traineeships, and other vocational pathways.
Gabrielle Singe
Supply Chain Manager
Royal Australian Navy
In 2023, Gabrielle acted beyond her rank on multiple occasions, including through engagements with the Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment and Commercial Auxiliary Systems Program Office (AORCASPO). She also took on the role of her supervisor for six weeks and, despite having no formal qualifications or training to undertake the work, performed admirably. The same occurred when she volunteered to take on additional responsibilities from the AORCASPO. On top of it all, she took the time to engage with and mentor junior sailors, supporting them through difficult personal circumstances.
Alexandra Steele
Graduate engineer, Larrakeyah Defence Precinct Redevelopment Project Barracks Redevelopment Project
Laing O’Rourke
In 2023 Alexandra Steele moved to Darwin to deepen her knowledge of Defence and expose herself to the broader Defence ecosystem. As a Graduate Engineer with Laing O’Rourke, she flung herself into the Larrakeyah Defence Precinct Redevelopment Project, where she worked as a site engineer. In addition to her full-time work, she also created a nationally recognised Inspiring STEM+ program for high school-aged girls and young women in Darwin, which exposes them to construction and allows them to connect with the industry. In addition, she recruited, mentored, and onboarded four women into the organisation throughout the year.
Isabella Yan
Marine Engineer Officer Submariner
Royal Australian Navy
During 2023 Isabella commenced training at HMS Sultan in the United Kingdom as part of the first cohort of Royal Australian Navy Officers to take part in the Royal Navy’s demanding Nuclear Reactor Course. While there are only very few female Marine Engineers within the submarine force, Isabella was among the first six Royal Australian Navy officers selected to undertake nuclear training with Australia’s AUKUS partners. She was not only the Dux of her course, but also a valued compatriot for the other participants, who she supported throughout their studies, demonstrating outstanding performance.
