CCF SA's Women in Civil Festive Lunch
Description
Join CCF SA’s Women in Civil Committee for a festive lunch celebrating the achievements, connections and contributions of women across South Australia’s civil construction industry.
This special end-of-year event is an opportunity to connect with industry peers, celebrate the year that has been, and look to the opportunities that lie ahead.
Guiding us through the afternoon as emcee will be Belinda Heggen, with an inspiring keynote address from Jo Farrell, Founder of Build Like a Girl, followed by an industry panel discussion featuring:
Bonnie Ortiz - 3rd Year Apprentice, Civil Apprenticeships & Careers Ltd
James Lemon - Surfacing Manager, Downer
Jodie Hawkes - CEO, Bowhill Engineering
Bringing together women and industry colleagues from across South Australia’s civil construction sector, the lunch offers an opportunity to connect, share experiences, strengthen relationships, and celebrate 2026 achievements.
Guests can also book a complimentary professional headshot in at the event with photographer Kelly Barnes at the event, proudly sponsored by Pickles. This is a great way to give your LinkedIn profile a makeover. Sign up here for your headshot photo before the event or jump in the queue once you're there.
This year we are partnering with the Women’s & Children’s Hospital Foundation to make a difference in the lives of children and families facing some of their toughest moments, helping ensure every child has every chance. A charity raffle will be held as part of the afternoon.
Come along for great food, festive cheer, meaningful connections, and an inspiring conversation with one of the industry's passionate advocates for women.
Bring your colleagues, clients, and industry connections and join us for great food, inspiring conversation, networking and festive celebrations as we look ahead to 2027.
Thank you to our Major Event Partner, Downer, our Photo Partner, Pickles, and our Charity Partner, the Women’s & Children’s Hospital Foundation. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available - contact ccfsa@ccfsa.com.au to enquire.
Event program

Emcee: Belinda Heggen
Founder of FLUENT Media, Belinda Heggen is one of Australia's most experienced and well-respected media and presentation trainers and corporate event hosts, drawing her expert insights from more than 25 years as a news journalist and presenter across TV, radio and print (Network Ten, FIVEaa, The Advertiser), and as a media advisor to high-profile corporate leaders and senior politicians. A trusted advisor, she specialises in developing confident and inspiring leaders who seek to build their profile and elevate their personal brand to drive professional growth. She is regularly in demand across Australia as an engaging and polished MC and corporate facilitator of events, including black-tie gala balls, industry conventions, conferences and business functions. Her clients include ASX-listed companies, industry associations and prominent business leaders.

Keynote Address: Jo Farrell, Founder and Chair of Build Like a Girl
Jo Farrell founded Build Like a Girl with a simple but powerful goal: to create real opportunities for women in construction and to show that there’s a place for everyone on the tools. Driven by her own experiences in the industry, Jo is passionate about breaking down barriers, building confidence, and connecting women with the training and support they need to succeed. She believes in the strength of community and the importance of visibility, as when women see others thriving in construction, they’re inspired to follow their own path. Through Build Like a Girl, Jo is helping to change perceptions, create pathways, and build a more inclusive future for the industry.

Panel Discussion facilitated by Belinda Heggen
An engaging panel discussion with representatives from across industry including: • Bonnie Ortiz - 3rd Year Apprentice, Civil Apprenticeships & Careers Ltd • James Lemon - Surfacing Manager, Downer • Jodie Hawkes - Chief Executive Officer, Bowhill Engineering
Professional Headshot Photography
Guests can also book a complimentary professional headshot in at the event with photographer Kelly Barnes at the event, proudly sponsored by Pickles. This is a great way to give your LinkedIn profile a makeover. Sign up for your headshot photo before the event (see link above) or jump in the queue once you're there.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity






