At SPORTENG, we believe that fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace is not just a goal—it’s a core value. To mark International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, our social committee hosted an engaging and thought-provoking event, bringing our team together both in person and online to celebrate, learn, and reflect on how we can continue to drive equality in the workplace.

A Panel of Inspiring Women

We were thrilled to welcome three incredible speakers who shared their professional experiences, challenges, and wins in traditionally male-dominated industries:

• Amy Dingle – Turf Agronomist Specialist at SPORTENG
• Mardi Cuthbert – Future QLD Team Lead at SPORTENG, with over 10 years of experience
• Kate Kennedy – Senior professional at Trafficworks, bringing 20+ years of expertise

Over tea, coffee, and morning treats, and with remote attendees tuning in online, we delved into crucial discussions about workplace equality, mentorship, and breaking stereotypes.

Progress, but More Work to Do

While workplace dynamics have evolved over time, industries like ours remain male-dominated. The panel explored how perceptions are slowly changing, especially as more men become advocates for gender equality. However, we acknowledged that barriers still exist, and we must continue to challenge outdated norms.

Mentorship Matters

One resounding theme was the importance of mentors in professional growth. Our speakers shared their own experiences:

• Amy credited John Neylan, her mentor at SPORTENG, who supported her growth without bias towards gender or age.
• Mardi spoke about how her mentors, mostly men, both supported and challenged her, providing honest advice that helped her navigate her career.
• The group agreed that having mentors with different perspectives adds value, helping individuals navigate industry challenges with fresh insights.

What Can We Do to Create Change?

Beyond mentorship, our discussion highlighted actions—big and small—that can make a real difference in fostering equality:

• Challenging stereotypes in the office and ensuring roles aren’t automatically assigned based on gender.
• Men actively supporting women by introducing them at conferences, reducing workplace awkwardness, and advocating for equal opportunities.
• Encouraging women to step forward and claim the positions they aspire to, rather than waiting for permission.
• Providing equal parental leave options, recognising that both men and women benefit from a balanced approach to work and family responsibilities.
• Addressing challenges like expensive childcare, which still disproportionately affects women’s career progression.

Looking to the Future

To conclude the event, our team participated in an interactive exercise: The Future Me Letter. Each person wrote a note to their future self, capturing either a piece of career advice they want to remember, a goal they want to achieve or a workplace behaviour they want to change.

These letters will be revisited at our Christmas in July event, where we’ll reflect on progress and identify actionable steps to further improve workplace equality.

A Step Forward, Together

International Women’s Day is more than just a moment to celebrate—it’s a call to action. Through events like this, we continue to challenge stereotypes, support each other, and drive meaningful change within SPORTENG and beyond. Thank you to everyone who participated, shared their insights, and contributed to making this a truly impactful event.

Let’s keep the conversation going and ensure that every step we take moves us closer to true workplace equality.