WHERE:
Voco Brisbane
85-87 North Quay
Brisbane City QLD 4000
Parking: Please note there is no onsite parking available. Public transport, share ride and surrounding parking is recommended
WHEN:
Friday 13 March 2026
TIME:
11.30am Registration
12:00pm Event Start
2:30pm Conclusion
YOU’RE INVITED
Since the first IWD in March 2018 over 2553 AWESOME women and men have attended this event. Many of you have returned each year to join in the fun and to hear from a wide variety of guest speakers.
Due to a change in venue for the 2026 event, there are only 450 seats available. This event sells out quicker and quicker each year. Don’t leave it too late to get your seat!
EMCEE
Manuela Andrew
Manuela Andrew is an educator, speaker and women’s health advocate, and the creator of Midlife with Mani. With roots in the construction industry and a passion for making complex health information accessible, she helps women navigate midlife with confidence—and brings warmth, clarity and energy to the stage as today’s MC.
PANEL SPEAKER
Fiona Howell
Fiona Howell is the National Key Account Manager and Business Development Manager at A&L Windows, with nearly 20 years in construction. Known for her relationship-first, solutions-focused approach, she’s also a dedicated mentor, actively championing and developing the next generation of female sales leaders in a traditionally male-dominated space.
PANEL SPEAKER
Taylah Smith
Taylah Smith is a fourth-year electrical apprentice with Ergon Energy in Cairns, working across fault response, maintenance and renewable battery systems while completing an Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering. A proud AWIC Young Achiever, she’s using her voice and visibility to shift perceptions of women in trades and open doors for the young women coming behind her.
PANEL SPEAKER
Stephen Gates
Stephen Gates is the General Manager of TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech and a long-time advocate for women in trades. Drawing on his own apprenticeship background, he leads major training initiatives, celebrates female apprentice excellence and works at a systemic level to create more inclusive, future-focused pathways for women across construction and engineering.
PANEL SPEAKER
Shannon Boyle
Shannon Boyle is Head of Department – Vocational Education and Pathways at Yeppoon State High School. Through mentoring, innovative programs and industry partnerships, he is actively creating new pathways for female students into welding, engineering and construction, turning interest into real opportunities, apprenticeships and long-term careers in the trades.
Interested in sponsoring our awesome events?
Platinum Event Sponsors
GOLD EVENT SPONSORS
LOLLY BAR
SPONSOR
TABLE CENTRE PIECE
SPONSOR
AWESOME Women Lights Sponsor
Exclusive Accommodation Offer for AWIC IWD Event Attendees!
Planning to attend this year’s AWIC IWD event? Our partner, VOCO, is offering special partnership rates just for you!
15% off discount off best flexible rate. Guests will simply need to select the dates they wish to stay + click search and the discount will automatically be applied.
Secure your stay now via the link below: