The event, held at the Boulevard Brasserie in the Novotel at Sydney Olympic Park, attracted 31 of the industry’s women for a night of connection and networking.

The group enjoyed taking part in The Great Australian Women’s Quiz, while indulging in delicious canapés, prosecco and other drinks, and, of course, making new connections and renewing old friendships. 

Donations were also accepted for Share the Dignity’s ‘It’s in the Bag’ campaign, capping off a year of support for the charity, which supports girls and women who are experiencing period poverty.

The event also provided the perfect stage for the announcement of two new Women in Print Patrons, following the organisation’s call-out for applications to fill vacancies in Queensland and New South Wales.

Karen Lawler, Business Development Manager for industry-leading grand-format printing company Cactus Imaging was named the new Patron for NSW, replacing Debbie Burgess. Kerry-Anne ‘KA’ Boyd, co-owner of Sign Right Australia, will bring her many talents and well-documented determination to the Queensland role, which was previously held by Morag Pugh. 

The two new Patrons not only bring their significant talents to their new roles, but also add solid wide-format, sign and graphics credentials to the Patron mix, ensuring Women in Print can continue to champion the next wave of women in print, packaging, signage and broader visual media industry, says Women in Print Chair, Stephanie Gaddin.

In welcoming Karen to the role for NSW, outgoing NSW Patron Debbie Burgess said her time as Patron had been ‘a pleasure and a privilege’. “I wish Women in Print nothing but the best, and know it is in supremely good hands,” she said.

Women in Print Chair, Stephanie Gaddin, thanked Debbie for her outstanding contribution to the role. “You have led the NSW chapter of Women in Print with purpose and passion, helping us to drive meaningful change within our sector, and connecting with so many among our membership,” Stephanie said. 

“We will miss you in this role, but are definitely the better for your time in leadership. I know you will continue to champion the cause of the industry’s women and I hope very much that we will continue to see you at Women in Print events.”

Welcoming Karen and KA, Stephanie said both brought a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to their Patron roles. 

“Karen and KA embody the mission of Women in Print to empower and uplift women in our industry,” Stephanie says.

“They led a field of impressive applicants who threw their hat in the ring for these positions, a response which speaks to the enthusiasm and commitment of women within our sector.  

“We welcome KA and Karen to the Women in Print executive and are looking forward to their contribution. With them, and our other amazing committee members, sponsors and supporters, I am confident that 2025 will build on our momentum, fostering an environment that creates tangible benefits for our members and deliver even more value to our community in the coming year.”

Incoming NSW Patron, Karen Lawler from Cactus Imaging.

KA Boyd from Sign Right Australia has been named as the new Queensland Patron.

Joy Skeels from Visual Connections, catches up with Clementine Taggart-Holland and Marian Taggart-Holland from Ecolease.

(From left): Sarah Moore from Visual Connections with Debbie Burgess, Bright Print Group, Carmen Ciappara, Print Media Group and Nicole Jandik, IVE Print Group.