Women in Building

08/06/2026

Job Vacancies in Construction Cairns

28/05/2026

Today I woke up to the exciting news that I am a finalist in the Cairns Business Women's Club – Business Manager of the Year Award.

What an incredible journey the past 8 years has been with Mark Fletcher Solid Plaster & Texture Coatings PTY LTD

I want to encourage anyone considering a career change or starting an apprenticeship as a mature-aged apprentice to just go for it.

I changed careers from hospitality management into construction in my late 30s and commenced my apprenticeship in my mid-40s. I was able to transfer my skills in leadership, training, workforce development, problem solving, and systems management into an industry I’ve grown incredibly passionate about.

Those skills, combined with an amazing team culture, have contributed to our workforce receiving recognition through awards including Master Builders Residential & Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Queensland Training Awards Small Employer of the Year, and Mark Fletcher’s well-deserved AWIC - Awesome Women in Construction –Male Advocate of Change award.

As a busy mum to a very sporty and social 9-year-old, I’m incredibly grateful that from day one Mark gave me the flexibility to continue growing professionally while still being present for my son and the important moments in his life.

Alongside my role as Business Manager and apprentice, I also sit on the Master Builders Queensland FNQ Committee representing subcontractors and apprentices, as well as Build Cairns. Last year we helped launch the first interactive construction zone for high school students at the Cairns Showgrounds, giving students hands-on opportunities to try different trades, including solid plastering. We are excited to be doing it again next week at the Cairns Showgrounds.

A big thank you to Construction Skills Queensland - CSQ for helping make this event possible.

During my time as Master Builders Queensland Industry Champion, I became passionate about promoting wet trades and helping young people better understand the opportunities within construction. Many trades are facing significant skill shortages, and I believe we need to continue changing outdated perceptions around the industry.

Construction is not just for disengaged kids. It is for people who want to build careers, lead teams, own businesses, solve problems, and be part of creating something tangible.

I also started my TikTok platform, Women in Building, to showcase my journey as a business manager, mature-aged apprentice, and mum working within the construction industry.

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/?_r=1&_t=ZS-96jcliy104b

If anyone is interested in learning more about my journey, here is my finalist submission video:

https://youtu.be/gOVwY1z6e0E?si=k-Y47kFtfJ23MKhk

15/05/2026

Today I was lucky enough to see and hug my industry mentor. Sharon Vella , our Regional Manager for Master Builders Queensland , has always been there to pick up the phone in times of need, whether for advice, support, or just answering general questions. She has seen me through both the good and the tough times in my career and has always lifted me up and encouraged me to keep going.

What makes today even more special is reflecting on my very first project when I started as an apprentice - a project that is now nominated for an award. It’s a full-circle moment that reminds me how important mentorship, support, and belief in yourself can be throughout your journey in this industry.

I highly recommend that women in building sign up to a mentorship program. Having a mentor has been something I truly needed as I continue to grow and progress in my career, and I’m so grateful for the guidance and support along the way.

28/04/2026

Say yes… even when it feels uncomfortable.
That’s where growth is.

Say no because you’re scared? That’s just holding yourself back.

Dive in and figure it out as you go.

You only live once — no regrets.

Nothing to lose, everything to gain.

Big news coming soon 👀

F**k it… I’ve got this and so do you 💪🫶💯

15/04/2026

I love my local Palooka not only for the coffee but the service. This just made my early morning on site worth it. Now armed with my favourite coffee for payroll.

Thank you Van you are the best

26/03/2026

I am directing this question to Government and housing decision makers because the conversation around housing keeps missing a critical group of Australians.

I am advocating for the working locals who are now facing homelessness because they earn too much to qualify for social housing, but not enough to afford to buy or compete in the current rental market.

These are not statistics. These are the people who build our communities and keep our regions functioning — construction workers, hospitality staff, administration teams, young families and essential service workers.

Right now investors are purchasing the very apartments that used to be the entry point for first home buyers and local families. At the same time, we are seeing increasing overcrowding, with families forced into one and two bedroom units simply because there are no affordable alternatives.

So my question to Government is simple:
What is the housing strategy for the working “missing middle”?
Not social housing. Not luxury developments.
Affordable, accessible housing for the people who actually make our local economies work.
What policies are being introduced to: • Increase affordable housing supply for working families
• Protect long-term rentals from being lost to short-stay accommodation
• Ensure developments include housing diversity for families, not just investors
• Support pathways into home ownership for essential workers

As someone working within the construction industry, I know the capability exists to build these solutions. What is needed now is leadership, planning reform and policy settings that prioritise community stability.

Housing is not just an economic issue. It is a workforce issue, a community issue and a future planning issue.

I will continue to ask these questions because regional communities cannot afford to lose the very people who keep them running.

12/03/2026

✨ Do you have a creative flair? Ever thought about a career in Architecture or Interior Design?

Not all careers in building and construction mean working on the tools. There are amazing creative pathways where you can design, plan and bring spaces to life.

Ever wanted to learn programs like SketchUp, AutoCAD or Revit? These are the tools designers use every day to turn ideas into reality.

Women in Construction - FNQ hosted another fantastic networking event with Koru Furniture & Homewares and Studio K Interior Design.

We met the talented young women Ebony and Felicia from Koru, who shared their passion for design, creating mood boards, retail styling and working with customers to create beautiful spaces. They also spoke highly of their head designer Bronte and the supportive team environment they work in 👏

Career pathways into Interior Design can include:
• Certificate III in Design Fundamentals
• Certificate IV in Interior Decoration
• Diploma of Interior Design
• Bachelor of Interior Design

There are so many opportunities for women in construction beyond the traditional roles.

✨ Design. Create. Build your future.

12/03/2026

Representing for Subbies

Mark Fletcher and I had the pleasure of catching up with Queensland Building and Construction Commission - QBCC Commissioner Angelo Lambrinos during his return visit to Far North Queensland.

These opportunities matter. Having the chance to continue the conversation about the real challenges facing our building industry and to advocate for subcontractors — is incredibly important.

Angelo took the time to listen and understand the concerns being raised from the ground level of our industry. Strong leadership starts with genuine conversations, and it’s encouraging to see that happening here in FNQ.










Master Builders Queensland

06/03/2026

What a great pleasure to attend the Cairns Business Women's Club luncheon celebrating International Women’s Day alongside Sharon Vella from Master Builders Queensland and Amanda Stock from Construction Skills Queensland - CSQ

The guest speakers shared inspiring insights into their journeys and success here in Cairns. The panel featured an incredible group of leaders including Pip Woodward, Director of the The CaPTA Group ; Henrietta Marrie AM, Elder of the Gimuy Walubara Clan of the Yidinji People; Therese Plath, Director of Ray White Cairns Cairns South; and Rita Zappulla, Rotary District Governor.

A powerful discussion celebrating leadership, resilience, and the impact of women across our community and industries.

26/02/2026

Another ticket under my belt ✔️ I’m now certified to operate scissor lifts.
I was the only female in the class, but my classmates and trainer were incredibly supportive and made the experience a great one. Grateful for the opportunity to keep learning and growing in this industry.

Pro-Lift Training FNQ RTO 40817
Mark Fletcher Solid Plaster & Texture Coatings PTY LTD
Construction Skills Queensland - CSQ
Master Builders Queensland