Looking back over her career, Ashley Corradi thanks her uninterrupted view of her home town, in one of the biggest industries fuelling the region.
Stepping into Wilmar Sugar and Renewables in 2013 in the laboratory, Ashley moved into the Safety Advisor role at Pioneer Mill after a few years, which is a role she loves, and has her learning firsthand the day-to-day operations of the facility.
“There are so many aspects to the sugar milling sector, which means there is so much to learn,” Ashley explained.
“I’ve lived in the Burdekin my whole life and it wasn’t until I started with this business that I realised how much opportunity there was to develop my career in my home town.”
Flourishing within Wilmar and the agriculture sector, Ashley is proud of the teams she has worked with, for site audits and improving safety standards.
“There is no better feeling than working as a team towards a common goal and getting a good outcome for the site,” she said.
Working within a male dominated industry, Ashley advocates for women to just give it a go.
“Go for it and learn as much as you can, there is so much opportunity within this industry and you never know where your career might take you.
“Rural Women’s Day recognises the critical role and contribution that rural women make in our society. This day in itself gives rural women a platform to share their stories and knowledge, to inspire the next generation. When women support each other, incredible things happen.”
It is easy to see Sally Rizzi’s passion for people, for encouraging their growth and supporting individuals every way she can.
This is why her position with Wilmar Sugar and Renewables, as People and Culture Senior Coordinator is the perfect fit for her.
Having been a venue manager in Brisbane for 17 years, Sally looked to other opportunities that would keep her in the industry.
“I was looking for a change that still allowed me to interact with people but with better working hours,” Sally explained.
“So, I went back to university and studied my Masters in Business in HR Management whilst working full time. I worked in HR for a manufacturer in Brisbane before moving back to the Burdekin where I grew up.”
Moving back to the Burdekin was an easy decision for Sally, particularly shifting into a position closely associated with agriculture and farming.
“I love the learning. There are times when I sit in an interview for a different position and, through the questions and discussions between the candidate and the hiring manager, I learn something different about the role for which I’m recruiting or the sugar manufacturing process.”
All in all, Sally loves Wilmar Sugar and the mills.
“I would have to say a highlight is my current People and Culture team within the Burdekin mills. I engaged each of these ladies for their position at the sites, and they have proven to be capable, witty and dedicated women who are a joy to work with daily.”