2024 Women to Watch
This year we showcase over 80 South Australian women to watch throughout the year. From business, to careers, arts to science. This year’s selected women highlight the depth and diversity of the women in our state and also the vast array of opportunities to develop a business or career in South Australia. Find our more about our inaugural Women to Watch initiative here.
I have worked as a registered nurse for 20 years. In this time I have worked in a number of locations and settings (ranging from paediatrics, general medical/surgical, aged care and mental health).
// Favourite inspirational quote
The mind is like a parachute… it works best when it is open – Frank Zappa
// Let’s get to know you
I am 40 years old, married to a farmer, Robert, and a busy mother of 4. Frances 10, Matilda 8, Beatrix 6 and Theodore 3. We own, work and live on a 14,000-acre property in the Flinders Ranges in SA. I work as Registered Nurse at the local hospital, which is predominantly aged care. I have nursed for 20-years in a number of locations, doing a number of roles. I spent time working with the Aboriginal Health Council, I’ve worked rurally as a general nurse and also in a busy metropolitan mental health hospital. I love being a nurse. From a young age I knew I wanted to go into a role where I could care for people and show compassion and sensitivity as well as empathy. I like to think that at the end of my shift I have helped someone, somehow, even if only minutely in the grand scheme of things.
I am very involved in the local community. I’m a member of the local progress association which caters for local functions What started out as returning to netball after a 9-year hiatus, turned into coaching, playing, umpiring and taking on the president role for the club. Netball allows us the opportunity to appreciate some down time, but more importantly it affords us the opportunity to come together socially. Living in a rural community during tough times, it is sometimes our sport which brings us closer together. I was also part of the inaugural little athletics committee.
Supporting my children in their education is important to me. I have been the secretary for the Governing Council at the local school for 6 years and after covid saw the school canteen close, I felt it was important to extend the privilege to the students again, so now I also manage the school canteen. It is something that i love and enjoy doing, making friendships with the students and I love giving back the community.
// What makes you a Woman to Watch?
There are so many exceptional women in my local area, many more deserving of this nomination than myself! I just wake up each day thinking of ways I can give selflessly my time or myself to the community and help it be a successful and thriving community in which to live. I’m just continuing giving back to the community by helping in any way I can.
// What would being a Woman to Watch in 2024 mean to you?
It is both humbling and embarrassing to be nominated. I’m not undeserving of this award, but there are so many other women who are more deserving. I don’t do the things I do for recognition, I do them to help people and make sure my little piece of the world is functioning happily without too much drama. I am so honoured that someone thought to nominate me. To be a “woman to watch” would be one of the most amazing things that have happened in my life.
// What do you love most about your current role?
I love being a nurse. You are forever learning new skills and ways to do things. You meet so many different people from all walks of life and they all have hopes and dreams and families and friends, and getting to be a part of that and being strong for them when they are in crisis or their health has failed them, it is humbling and rewarding. To know that I can and do make a difference keeps me grounded and happy.
// What would you like to see for the future of South Australian women and girls?
More women celebrating women! It is so good to have awards like this that recognises women for their contributions to society, to see this continue would be amazing.
Get in touch with Lauren:
To contact Lauren, please reach out via: support@sawoman.com.au
Check out all of the incredible Women to Watch for 2024 here as their profiles are uploaded throughout the year.
To become an SA Woman Member, check out our Membership Options here.