2025 Local First Nation's Women in Business - Toowoomba

TSBE is proud to host the Local First Nation’s Women in Business event in Toowoomba on Thursday, 5 June 2025, sponsored by Windlab. Join us as we highlight local First Nation businesses leading the way, as well as other enterprises with programs supporting women and First Nations people.

Join us in celebrating the remarkable First Nation women in small businesses and their vital contributions to Queensland's economy and communities. With over 482,000 small businesses representing 97% of the business sector and contributing approximately $117 billion to the state's economy, their impact is immense.

Hear from our guest speaker PLUS a panel of First Nations women as they share their experiences and expertise while providing a platform for locals to network and engage. Meet the speakers below!

Kate Russell, Chief Executive Officer, Supply Nation

Kate Russell is a proud Awabakal woman from Lake Macquarie and is committed to empowering her community. Kate draws on her extensive experience working across public and community sectors and is driven by a desire to promote opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples - making sure to approach all programs, policies and initiatives through an intersectional lens. Kate is passionate about engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities to co-design programs and services using international best practices to make tangible changes in policy.

Courtney Hodder, Brisbane Lions 

Courtney Hodder is one of the premier small forwards in the game. Kicking 11 goals in Season 7, Hodder is not just dangerous around goal. An underrated part of Hodder’s game is her tackling pressure through the forward half and willingness to do the one-percenters.

Crystal Wagner, Wagner Civil

Crystal Wagner is an experienced executive with over 15 years in business management, human resources, finance and marketing. Her diverse background spans the construction industry and public accounting sector, where she has held senior leadership roles driving growth, culture, and performance. Crystal holds degrees in Accounting and Human Resources Management, is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA), and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. She is passionate about supporting women in leadership and fostering inclusive, high-performing workplaces.

Lisa-May Rossington, Founder, Red Sand Sisters

‘Red Sand Sisters’ was inspired by the land on which we were born in Charleville QLD on the sleepy banks of the Warrego River meaning ‘river of sand’ . We are a proud “Kamillaroi Kooma” family-owned business created by two Miimi’s (Sisters) Natasha and Lisa-May Rossington.

Our family and stockists offer a range of traditional weaving, art, carved artefacts, jewellery accessories, bush foods, body products, clothing, and home décor. We love collaborating with other artists, makers, and creators.

Barb Walker, Barb's Weaving 

Barb Walker is senior Wiradjuri woman from Wagga Wagga NSW, now living in Pittsworth Qld on Giabal Country. She is a retired midwife, having worked in most states and territories in Australia. Barb has completed Certificate 1, 2 and 3 in Wiradjuri Language.

Barb dyes her own raffia using available fruits, vegetables, spices and plants from her garden, or food colouring from the supermarket. She loves to teach her Wiradjuri ‘Wadya Waybarra’ (coiling weaving) to all who wish to learn.

Janet Suey, Owner, Deadly Jibbitz  

Janet is a proud Mardigan woman and owner of Deadly Jibbitz, a family-owned business.

Established last year, Deadly Jibbitz sells Jibbitz—small, colourful charms that attach to Crocs shoes. You can find Deadly Jibbitz at the Toowoomba PCYC Sunday markets from 7am to 12pm.

Janet has also worked with SWIN, the Aboriginal Legal Service, Downs Housing, the Department of Youth Justice, and Mercy Family Services, mostly in supportive roles to aid people.

The Indigenous Business Connector program is delivered by Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise. The social investment program is supported by Shell’s QGC business and joint venture partners Tokyo Gas and CNOOC as part of our commitment to supporting stronger First Nations.

View the TSBE General Attendance Terms and Conditions.