Photo by Milco media + design.
Together we will elevate our South Australian women of today and our women of the future.
Since 2017, SA Woman has been here to create impact and shine a light on the contributions of women in South Australia and on the future, our girls.
We believe that all South Australian women and girls deserve the opportunities to forge their own path, in a business or in a career. We believe that connection is key to a sense of belonging, encouragement and empowerment. We believe that “we can’t be, what we can’t see”, and sharing the stories and paths of the women who walk beside us, is key to elevating the status of our women and girls and empowering us all to unleash our potential. .
“We can’t be, what we can’t see. SA Woman is here to show all women and girls what is possible.”
Meet an SA Woman.
Our members are the beating heart of all we do and believe in our vision of an empowered and equal future for our women and girls. Read and be inspired by a selection below or head to our directory to search and connect with a South Australian Woman.
Kate Byford – Wow Houseboats
As the Co-Founder and General Manager of Wow Houseboats, I’m proud to run a family-owned luxury houseboat business, offering unique self-drive experiences along the stunning lower to mid-Murray region. Working closely with stakeholders in the tourism industry, I’m also a board member of the Houseboat Hirers Association, where I contribute to the growth and promotion of the houseboat sector.
Beyond my role in tourism, my passion lies in health, social care, and community support, where I bring over 15 years of experience across Australia and the UK. With a Bachelor of Social Work, a Bachelor of Arts (Sociology & Social Sciences), and qualifications in Youth Work and CELTA English teaching, I’ve worked across public health, mental health, disability support, and community development.
Currently, I’m expanding my expertise by completing a Graduate Diploma in Counselling at the University of Tasmania. My focus is on providing trauma-informed and neurodivergent-inclusive care, ensuring individuals receive the support they need. I also work in the NDIS space through the Mable platform, assisting participants in navigating their journeys towards greater independence and well-being.
My career has been as diverse as my passions. I’ve worked in leadership roles in marketing, PR, HR, and senior management, and even spent time studying Naturopathy in London, which I hope to integrate into my counselling practice in the future. I also have a background in local politics, having served as the youngest Elected Member of Council in South Australia for the City of Prospect in the early 2000s.
Outside of work and study, I find balance through kitesurfing, wake-foiling, and off-the-grid camping with my partner, always accompanied by our loyal pooch and adventure buddy, Rosso. This year, I’m focusing on achieving better harmony between business, family, and personal growth, while continuing to create positive impacts in the industries I love.
I’m excited to connect with and support other inspiring women within the SA Woman network, sharing experiences, challenges, and wins as we all continue to grow.
Samantha Lane – Nelson Locksmiths
I’m a wife and mother of five, with deep roots in our family business, Nelson Locksmiths. My grandfather and father both worked for the company, and at 18, when I wasn’t sure what path to take, my dad suggested I work for him until I figured it out. Twenty-seven years later, as he begins to semi-retire, I’ve gained invaluable experience learning how to run a business from him. Along the way, I completed a university degree in Business Management, and now I’m transitioning into taking over the company, continuing our family legacy.
Beyond business, I’ve discovered a new love for fitness and have become an active contributing member of our local soccer club. At home, my three-year-old Moodle puppy, Ruby, is my constant companion—I couldn’t imagine life without her. I’m also incredibly grateful for my supportive husband, without whom I wouldn’t have been able to achieve all that I have. Above all, my five children are not only my greatest accomplishment but also my greatest teachers, shaping me into the person I am today.
Karen Leslie – KISS WP Websites (Keep It Simple Sweetheart WordPress Websites)
I’m originally a Londoner, who moved to South Australia in 2007 with my Irish husband. My first business in Australia was Mount Gambier Website Design, and as I added more services such as website maintenance, training and fixes the name no longer fitted. In August 2020 I became KISS WP Websites, and a couple of years ago when I was struggling with what to call myself one of my clients called me the WordPress Fairy Godmother and that stuck.
Now I live outside Mount Gambier on 8 acres with passing koalas and kangaroos and lots of birds.
Kelly Hody – Kelly Hody Mkt Etc
With more than 15 years of hands-on marketing experience, I am passionate about simplifying the complexities of marketing for small business owners and volunteer-led organisations. In a world where marketing can seem like an overly complicated puzzle, I aim to stand as a beacon of simplicity and success, because I passionately believe that with the right guidance anyone can implement effective marketing tactics to achieve their business objectives.
I have an MBA specialising in Marketing, a Bachelor of Business (Business Management), a Diploma in Digital Marketing and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, and run my own business as a freelance marketing consultant.
Harriet Walker – The Chiro Crew
Hi, I’m Harriet, and I’m delighted to meet you!
The philosophy of Chiropractic truly resonates with me: the body inherently knows how to heal itself when there is no interference to the nervous system. My passion is sharing this approach through adjustments and education, helping people live their best lives.
As of February 2024, I am the proud owner of The Chiro Crew — a place that holds special significance for me. I have been coming here since I was a little girl, and it feels incredibly meaningful to now be part of the practice that has been a cornerstone of my own health journey.
My journey with Chiropractic began in childhood when my mother brought my brother and me to her Chiropractor to ensure we grew up strong and adaptable. This early experience inspired me to become a Chiropractor myself.
Outside of the practice, I’m married to my wonderful husband, and we welcomed our little man into the world in October 2024. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing music, dancing, and exploring new culinary creations in my kitchen.
Tobie Herbert – Zyia Active
Hi!
My name is Tobie Herbert.
I am passionate about aging as gracefully as I can and to help women feel both incredible and comfortable in their own skin!
I am a wife/mother/daughter/sister/friend/comedian and business owner (just to name a few). You are more than likely some of these things too, and I am sure we have much in common.
Now that I am entering my 50’s my priorities have changed. Feeling good in my own skin and loving what I wear is now particularly important to me.
Want to be involved? Become an SA Woman member today!
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Acknowledgement of Country
SA Woman Australia acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which our events are held on across South Australia. We recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.