Telstra Tasmanian Business Woman of the Year

Donna Adams
Tasmania Police

“I have a strong work ethic and believe I can make a difference. I appreciate the importance of maintaining a contemporary understanding of the environment and am committed to lifelong learning and development.”

Donna Adams was the first woman to be appointed Assistant Commissioner in the 114-year history of Tasmania Police. In her 26 years as a police officer she has been recognised with an Australian Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Tasmania Police Service Medal for diligent and ethical service. Donna received a Commissioner’s Commendation for her work in the aftermath of the devastating 1996 Port Arthur massacre, and has been recognised by the Australasian Council of Women in Policing as an outstanding investigator.

Telstra Victorian Business Woman of the Year

Dr Tracey Brown
Alchemia

“My mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at the young age of 53. By supporting her through her devastating disease and chemotherapy I realised that there was a significant unmet need for better anti-cancer therapies.”

After experiencing personal loss from cancer, Tracey Brown decided to use her biomedical research background to develop a platform that could produce a range of tumour-targeted therapies. Tracey has identified a non-toxic way to deliver cancer therapies that target the tumour cells instead of healthy cells.  The first HyACT drug is anticipated to reach the market in 2016, with projected peak sales of approximately half a billion dollars a year.

Telstra New South Wales Business Woman of the Year

Susan Lloyd-Hurvitz
Mirvac

“Along the way, I’ve had some important mentors who have invested in me, taken a risk, held up the mirror for me and guided me.”

Susan has led complex businesses and strategies at top global companies such as LaSalle Investment Management, Lend Lease, and Macquarie where she established one of the first real estate funds to invest in Chinese shopping centres. Since joining Mirvac, Susan has successfully delivered on the group’s strategy and inspired her team of 1200 to make a difference for customers and shareholders.

Telstra Australian Capital Territory Business Woman of the Year

Samantha Kourtis
Capital Chemist Charnwood

“My success has been created by my ability to share my passion of community and healthcare with my team and by surrounding myself with people who are equally committed and excited about making a difference in these areas.”

At the age of 14, working after school in her local pharmacy, Samantha Kourtis knew she had found her vocation. After obtaining a degree, and with five years’ experience as a community pharmacist, she took the next step into management and then pharmacy ownership. In 2013 Samantha became a managing partner in Capital Chemist Charnwood. Her pharmacy is one of 35 in the Capital Chemist Group, all independently owned and managed.