In recognition of her outstanding contribution to the region, Katie Brassil has etched her name in the Business Hunter (BH) history books.
The trailblazing advocate is the first women to receive Life Membership within the organisation, joining a select group of individuals.
Initially appointed as a director to the board in 2008, Ms Brassil served until 2014, completing an impressive six-year term.
During this time, she also acted as BH’s representative on the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) committee, a responsibility she maintains to this day.
Working with former CEO Kristen Keegan, she was instrumental in establishing the Hunter Business Mining lunch series, too, which launched in March 2012 and still endures to operate as a forum for discussion, collaboration and knowledge sharing across the broader theme of energy.
Ms Brassil admitted she was humbled to receive the award.
“I am truly surprised and thank Business Hunter for bestowing such a huge honour,” she said.
“I appreciate the significance while also acknowledging in the Hunter we are blessed with an abundance of business leaders who are just as deserving.
“Being a passionate ambassador and advocate for the Hunter is easy with our rich and proud history, diverse regional economy and a future full of exciting new opportunities and projects that will see us continue to be NSW’s powerhouse.”
Outgoing Business Hunter president Tony Rhodes acknowledged Mr Brassil’s exceptional service.
“Life Membership is reserved for those who have left a profound imprint, not just on our organisation but the broader business community that we exist to serve,” he said.
“Threads of Katie’s immense legacy are still evident at Business Hunter.
“She takes her place among the greats and we’re delighted to take this opportunity to thank her for her service.”
Meanwhile, Business Hunter also announced its new board at its annual general meeting.
Lauren Eyles was appointed to the role of president, becoming the second female to hold the title in the organisation’s 136-year history.
She hopes her appointment will help more young women identify pathways to positions of leadership.
“It shows that everyone is welcome at Business Hunter – we are here for everyone in business,” Ms Eyles said.
The panel, which will serve for a term of two years, is Lauren Eyles (president), Glenn Thornton (senior vice-president), Holly Martin (vice-president), Tony Rhodes (immediate past president), Hennie du Plooy (director), Natalie Mitchell (director), Ashleigh John (director), Seamus Burke (director), Genelle Scotts (director) and Peter Lawrence (director).
For more business stories:
- Aussie Ark, Hi-Vis Group big winners at Business NSW awards
- Hunter business operators shine at NSW tourism awards
- Lake Mac business cuts down rivals in awards triumph
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