Regional Students Inspired at International Women’s Day Careers Breakfast

NE Tracks LLEN supports the Zonta Club of Wangaratta to host the annual International Women’s Day Careers Breakfast for Girls, held in the Oaks Room at the Wangaratta Turf Club on Thursday 5^th May 2026.

Many girls from across the region attended the event, representing schools including Rutherglen High School, Beechworth Secondary College, Wangaratta High School, Galen Catholic College and FCJ College Benalla among others.

The breakfast brought together a number of guest mentors from diverse industry sectors who shared insights into their own career journeys. Their stories were aimed at inspiring young women while demonstrating leadership, resilience and the many different pathways a career can take.

Many influential women and men from across the regional community attended to support the event and provide encouragement to students.

“It’s fantastic to see our regional schools supporting the event by bringing their students along,” said Renee Paola, Program Coordinator at NE Tracks LLEN. “The value of hearing directly from mentors and guest speakers goes a long way in helping young people develop career goals, aspirations and confidence in their future pathways.”

The event featured three special guest presenters.

Emma Merlot, CEO of the Wangaratta Turf Club, delivered an address highlighting her varied career journey across several industry sectors including beauty, hospitality and events, construction, and now leadership management as CEO. Her message encouraged students not to be afraid to try new opportunities or worry about not yet knowing exactly where their career path may lead.

The audience also heard from Sarah Thompson, Senior Development Manager – Regions at La Trobe University. Sarah shared her story of leaving Wangaratta as a young high school student to attend boarding school in Melbourne before undertaking an Arts degree at university. Her career has since taken her into program management roles across Australia and internationally. She spoke about the importance of dedication, perseverance and lifelong learning.

The third speaker, Teegan Allan from Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria, spoke about overcoming adversity after being diagnosed with a brain tumour which resulted in vision impairment. Teegan shared how she pivoted her future goals and discovered new career directions, particularly through sport and community inclusion, inspiring students with her resilience and determination.

The Oaks Room at the Wangaratta Turf Club provided an ideal setting for the growing event, with guests enjoying breakfast while engaging with mentors and speakers.

Members of the Zonta Club of Wangaratta welcomed guests, and committee representative Christine Haderick, who manages the annual event, encouraged young women to consider becoming involved with Zonta and to continue building their leadership and career pathways.

The Annual Boys Breakfast is also fast approaching on 19 March, with students encouraged to attend through their school coordinators.

NE Tracks LLEN CEO Tim Oliver said the event provides an important opportunity for young men across the region.

“This is a rare and valuable opportunity for the young men of our region to hear from male leaders outside of their usual networks,” Mr Oliver said. “The presenters truly engage and inspire these young men, and NE Tracks LLEN is proud to support this event.”