Tales of Transformation

Join us for an inspiring evening as we spotlight the remarkable journeys of regional business leaders who have transformed their industries through innovation. This event will also launch the first cohort of the Accelerating NQ Female Founders Program, bringing together a dynamic network of entrepreneurs, SMEs, government organisations, and innovators.  

Our special guest speakers include Candy MacLaughlin, General Manager of Skybury Farms, who has driven growth and diversification in agriculture and agri-tourism, and Stephanie Bofinger, founder of Fempro Armour, whose entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach to protective gear are breaking new ground across multiple industries.

This event is not only an opportunity to hear these powerful stories of transformation but also to connect with the first cohort of female founders in our program, offering a unique chance to network and collaborate with North Queensland’s vibrant business ecosystem.

Don’t miss this chance to be inspired and to forge new connections that could shape the future of innovation in our region.

Proudly supported by the Advance Queensland Initiative

Meet our guest speakers:

Stephanie Bofinger, CEO and Founder - Fempro Armour

A pioneering company dedicated to educating women about self-protection and providing innovative protective gear tailored to their needs. Originally from Germany, Stephanie migrated to Australia through her professional swimming career, arriving in Brisbane with a one-way ticket and no English skills. She taught herself the language by watching Australian TV shows and, driven by a desire for independence, began her entrepreneurial journey. Fempro Armour was launched in Feb 2021, after a motorcycle ride through the Simpson Desert, where she discovered that her personal issue with protective gear was being shared amongst the other 12 women. Stephanie's company focuses on creating high-quality protective gear for women in Impact Sports, Defense Force, Law Enforcements and into Aged Care, challenging industry norms and overcoming scepticism from established manufacturers.In May 2023, Fempro Armour moved from a 3-bedroom townhouse in Brisbane into the original Peanut factor in Kingaroy, where we proudly employ locals to manufacture all our apparels, which gives allows up to give back & grow our community.

Candy MacLaughlin, General Manager – Skybury Farms

The oldest of three siblings, Candy returned to the family business in 2019 to oversee the day to day operations of papaya production, quality assurance, sales and distribution. Her role has expanded to include HR, marketing, compliance, value-add and agri-tourism which includes a purpose-built café & roastery. Candy is currently responsible for day to day coordination of operations with Tropical Fruit Direct (TFD). TFD is a joint venture between Skybury Farms and the Jetbest group, established in 2019 to provide transparency for produce sales while building relationships with the major retailers and independents. In 2022 Candy was appointed Chair of the Jetbet Groups Senior Leadership Team, bringing the farmer squarely into focus. In 2024 the role of Treasurer for the Australian Grown Coffee Association was also added to her portfolio. Candy has a degree with honours in Communication and Design and has worked both in the UK and Australia. Candy lives on the farm with her three children.