Join us to celebrate International Women's Day 2025 at the stunning Plantation House, where we unite to #AccelerateAction in the pursuit of women's equality. We would be thrilled if you could join us for an inspiring day full of connection, empowerment and celebration.

Hosted by Judith Brinsmead, AM, Principal & Owner of Tropical Fruit World and Plantation House, this marks the third consecutive year of hosting this impactful event, bringing together extraordinary regional leaders to share their stories and inspire change.

Your ticket includes:

Inspirational speakers: Hear from trailblazing leaders across diverse industries.
Welcome cocktail: Enjoy a refreshing welcome cocktail on arrival, inspired by Tropical Fruit World
2-hour drinks package: Savour a curated selection of locally crafted beers and wines.
Gourmet two-course lunch: Indulge in a beautifully crafted dining experience by award-winning fine dining restaurant, Fins.
Tropical Fruit World gift pack: Take home some gifts from the farm to remember the special day.
Photo opportunities: Capture the moment with local leaders and peers at this remarkable event.
Entertainment: Enjoy live entertainment by a local artist – this will be announced soon.
Networking session: From 3-5pm, mingle with fellow guests on the front lawn of Plantation House (cash bar available).

Guest Speaker & MC
Award-winning leader and speaker, Lucy Bloom, is confirmed as our guest speaker for this year’s event. She’s a change-maker, exceptional communicator, and business fixer with the best mohawk in the business. Lucy led an advertising agency for 20 years before she held CEO roles leading international aid organisations. She’s the founder of an education start-up and the author of four books.

Our MC for the day is the wonderful Jane Laverty, Regional Director for Business NSW based in the Northern Rivers, who will ensure the day flows beautifully and we hear from each of our speakers.

Panelists: confirmed so far, we have…

Major Chris Cherry – Mayor of Tweed
Chris Cherry is the current Mayor of Tweed Shire, having served as Deputy Mayor from 2016-2018 and 2019-2020. A trained biophysicist, Chris studied at Sydney University and UNSW, with research in plant membranes and salinity at Adelaide University and UNSW.

A proud Tweed local, she spent ten years managing a holiday park in the region. As an independent Councillor, Chris is committed to community-driven decision-making.

Julia Foyster – CEO & Founder of Tweed Real Food
Julia Foyster blends global marketing expertise with entrepreneurial success. With a Master’s in International Business and Marketing, she’s worked on international marketing strategies for top brands like Apple at TBWA.

With over 20 years of experience, Julia grew Tweed Real Food into a 7-figure business and co-owns an 8-figure Agri-Business.

As Head of Programs at SHE-com, she empowers women in business through data-driven e-commerce coaching that combines psychology and technology.

Lisa Sheridan - Program Manager at Boeing
Lisa is currently employed as a Program Manager for Boeing’s C-17 Training Systems and International Field Services Programs. She joined Boeing Defence Australia in 2021 as a Capability Manager in the Product Support, Training and Maintenance Team.

A proud 25-year veteran of the Royal Australian Air Force, Lisa served as a Signals Operator Linguist, specialising in Asian languages, including fluent Indonesian and proficiency in Malaysian and Mandarin. Her passion for languages and culture continues, learning at least 12 phrases in each non-English-speaking country she visits.

Secure your tickets today and don’t miss out on this unforgettable event!

If you have any questions, please reach out to us at events@tropicalfruitworld.com.au and we’d be happy to help.