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Ballarat Business Women

BBW Board Update!

Ballarat Business Women (BBW) is pleased to announce a significant leadership transition as the organisation enters an exciting new chapter focused on growth, connection, and deeper support for women in business across the region.

New Chair Appointed – Carolynne Smith

The Board proudly welcomes Carolynne Smith, CEO of Healio Care, as the newly appointed Chair of Ballarat Business Women. Carolynne brings extensive experience in leadership, organisational development, community impact, and strategic growth. Her values‑driven leadership and passion for empowering women align strongly with BBW’s mission and longstanding legacy.

Carolynne’s expertise positions her to guide BBW into its next phase, supporting both established members and the next generation of women in business.

Continuity in Leadership – Bec Ware Returns as Vice‑Chair

BBW is delighted to confirm the return of Bec Ware as Vice‑Chair. Bec’s ongoing leadership, strategic insight, and strong connections across the Ballarat business community remain invaluable to the organisation. Her continued involvement provides essential stability as the new Board commences its work together.

Introducing the 2026 Board

The Chair and Vice‑Chair are supported by a Board of talented and diverse women, each contributing valuable experience across governance, small business, finance, community development, education, design, health, entrepreneurship, and professional services.
We are excited to celebrate both familiar faces and fresh perspectives on the BBW Board. Welcoming back Margi Cousins, Lisa Caruana, Felicity Pascoe, and Bianca Brehaut and acknowledging their ongoing contributions.

We are equally thrilled to introduce our newest Board members: Jodi Parkinson, Sarah Wooden, Cheryl Bromfield, Tamica Banks, Abbey Wardley, Paula Doran, and Samantha Aitken.

Together, the team is committed to strengthening BBW’s impact, expanding opportunities for members, and delivering high‑quality events, networking opportunities, and professional development initiatives.

Honouring an Exceptional Legacy - Thankyou Margi Cousins!

The incoming Board extends heartfelt gratitude to Margi Cousins, who has concluded her role as Chair after an extraordinary period of service.

Margi dedicated more than 18 consecutive years (excluding one year) to shaping and leading Ballarat Business Women. As a founding member, her vision, tenacity and dedication have been central to building BBW into the respected and thriving community it is today.

Throughout her leadership, Margi championed women’s empowerment, the value of strong networks, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces where women can learn, grow and succeed. Her legacy will continue to inspire the organisation well into the future.

Looking Ahead – A Future Built Together

As BBW embraces this new era, the Board remains focused on its core purpose: to connect, support and uplift women in business through leadership, collaboration and community. The organisation aims to honour the foundations laid by Margi and the founding members while continuing to evolve to meet the needs of today’s dynamic and diverse business community. Stay tuned for our announcement about of EmpowerHER program as well.

 Invitation to Members: 
​Join Our Co-design Session!

Invitation to Members: Join Our Codesign Session

In the spirit of collaboration and shared leadership, BBW invites all current members to participate in a special Co-design Session.

This session will directly inform the future direction of the organisation.

Participants will have the opportunity to:

  • Have your say and contribute ideas that shape BBW’s strategic direction
  • Acknowledge our legacy and celebrate the contributions of members across generations
  • Recognise the strength and diversity of today’s BBW community
  • Help design future events, initiatives and opportunities
  • Build the next chapter of BBW together

Event details will be released soon, and all women in business across the region are warmly encouraged to attend, visit our Facebook or Eventbrite for details.

See our events here!
Our Mission

Ballarat Business Women is open to all women who own or work in a business in the Ballarat region.


We provide opportunities for networking with like-minded women, educating and empowering women to achieve both professionally and personally. 

Ballarat Business Women will address issues that are important to us, enabling equality for women in all aspects of life.

Meet the Board


Note: This section will be updated soon, with our 2026 Board Member appointments!!

Ballarat Business Women is managed and operated by an all-volunteer board of local business owners and professional women.

If you have any comments, feedback or questions for the board, please feel free to get in touch.