2026 International Women's Day

Generations in Civil: Constructing Change Together

Join CCF Victoria for our International Women’s Day Brunch as we come together to celebrate the achievements of women across the civil construction industry and explore how different generations can work together to drive meaningful change.

This inspiring morning will bring industry leaders and emerging professionals together for thoughtful conversation, connection and reflection. Through shared experiences and perspectives, we will highlight the role collaboration plays in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future for civil construction.

Keynote Speaker:

Moana Hope

Not only is Moana Hope a powerhouse of Women’s Football; she is familiar to Australian audiences of Australian Survivor: Champions Vs Contenders (2018) and 3rd place winner on Australian Survivor: All Stars (2020). Most recently in 2024 Moana hosted her own digital radio show Entrepeneur Her on Disrupt Radio where she inspired her listeners with deep discussions on women in leadership, financial freedom and breaking through societal norms.

Moana knows what it takes to be a strong woman. She is an incredibly talented AFLW player, runs her own business, speaks out against sexism and rocks a suit like nobody’s business.

Hosts:

Ping Gangur and Chi Shankar

From registered builders to company leaders. Twin sisters Ping Gangur and Chi Shankar use construction law and operational leadership for better outcomes in the construction industry.

Panelists:

Andrew and Eliza Simpson - Simpson Construction

Andrew started Simpson Construction Company over 40 years ago, growing it into the successful civil construction company it is today. He has always been passionate about delivering complex, quality projects in a way that supports work-life balance and families. SCC has a staff of 40 including over 20 Engineers.

Eliza is the Tendering Manager at the family business, started by her dad. She grew up with her dad pointing out every project he built and now she gets to do the same with her own children, continuing a family legacy of pride in construction.

Ashleigh and Ben Higgins - State Plant Hire

Both Ben and Ash began at ground level to gain a thorough understanding of all aspects of the civil construction industry. Ben progressed through the business, obtaining the necessary certifications to become a Machinery Operator and he now plays a key leadership role within the business, focusing on the management of large-scale civil projects, resource coordination, and operational planning. Ash joined the family business in 2012, commencing as a Labourer and progressively advancing to a Machinery Operator, with experience primarily across dump trucks, rollers, and loaders. My responsibilities include managing key contracts and maintenance programs for our major client, Melbourne Water, with a focus on project OHS, environmental and quality compliance, documentation, and administration

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