Following our announcement of the Women in Defence Awards 2026 finalists, ADM will be introducing each of our amazing finalists across the categories in more detail. Today we are focusing on the finalists in our Operations category.
In this category, the judges were looking for entries that demonstrated outstanding operational skills, well above and beyond the roles defined by their position descriptions, in logistical, service and support roles with Defence and defence industry during 2024. The finalists in this category all overcame significant personal and/or professional obstacles to shine in their chosen fields. They also contributed to the wider community through their volunteer and mentoring roles.
The winners and Hall of Fame inductee will be announced at a gala dinner at The National Arboretum, Canberra, on 29 October 2026. Book your tickets here – we hope to see you there!
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Anne Kennedy In 2025, Anne served as Surveyor-in-Charge on two six-month HydroScheme Industry Partnership Program campaigns, each requiring the introduction of new survey capability into active Defence operations. Anne developed mobilisation, operational and quality-assurance workflows, enabling a first-time vessel operator and survey platform to meet requirements and delivered charting standards across a complex multi-vessel operation while qualifying a new operator and vessel to Defence requirements. |
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Brodie Sweeney As Roulette 6 within the RAAF Aerobatic Display Team, Brodie demonstrated the highest standard of airmanship and composure under pressure. At the Central Flying School, Brodie served concurrently as Deputy B Flight Commander and Officer in Charge for KC-30A instructor category checks and instrument ratings. Through her visibility, professionalism, and engagement, she has inspired young Australians, particularly girls, to view Defence aviation as an achievable career pathway. |
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Chloe Lowndes In 2025, Chloe was deployed as Plans Officer, Liaison Branch, Multinational Force and Observers, Sinai, Egypt. She built and led a high-performing team of officers from seven nations. Her inclusive approach also strengthened collaboration across 14 troop-contributing countries. She was entrusted to support a female officer from another nation who had unexpectedly assumed command of an entire contingent. She became that officer’s principal mentor. Her support helped stabilise the contingent, enabling the new commander to succeed. |
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Lisa Ryan In 2025, Lisa Ryan was deployed to the Middle East Region, partnering with US SPACECENT in support of operations across the US Central Command area. Her contribution supported missile warning systems that safeguarded the daily transit of approximately 15 million barrels of oil, reinforcing global economic stability. She trained and mentored US, UK and Canadian coalition personnel, significantly improving their understanding and integration of space capabilities into joint operations. |
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