Minister for Women congratulates Telstra’s Queensland Business Woman of the Year

Minister for Women Margaret Keech said the announcement of the overall Telstra Queensland Business Woman of the Year at the Sofitel Hotel in Brisbane today had brought together a high calibre of female business leaders.

“As Minister for Women, I am encouraged by the level of talent highlighted at the award today.

“The 25 Queensland finalists, all successful business women, represented a diverse range of business backgrounds who played key business decision making roles in their field.

“It was pleasing to see Professor Paula Barrett, Director of Pathways Health and Resource Centre at West End named overall 2008 Telstra Queensland Business Woman of the Year winner.

“Professor Barrett was recognised for her contribution to the community through the delivery of a range of programs aimed at addressing the treatment and prevention of anxiety and depression in children and youth.

“Professor Barrett is also widely recognised for her development of empowering inspirational talks, seminars and workshops aimed at building more resilient families and communities.

“Her organisation’s FRIENDS for Life program has been recognised by the World Health Organisation as the best practice for the prevention and treatment of childhood anxiety and depression through the building of emotional resilience.

“As Child Safety Minister, I am acutely aware of the need for such services for children and young people.

“I will be watching with interest to see who will be announced the overall national winner of the Telstra Business Woman of the Year when it is announced in Melbourne next month.

“I am confident that Professor Barrett is a strong contender with her academic background as a researcher in the field of child psychology and her reputation as an internationally acclaimed keynote speaker,” Mrs Keech said.

Minister Keech said the awards were in line with the Toward Q2 strategy aimed at creating a fairer and smarter state.

ENDS

Contact: Lisa Taylor at Minister Keech’s office on 3224 7081