Shayna Reeves celebrates female empowerment at the Weipa International Women’s Day luncheon at the Albatross Bay Resort on 8 March. Photo: Louise Montafia.
SHAYNA REEVES – 2025 Weipa Citizen of the Year/CAPS president
What is the best piece of advice a woman has ever given you, and who was it?
The best advice I have received came from my mum: “Remember, you can’t keep everyone happy, but you have to do what feels right.” I’ll be honest — I haven’t quite mastered this yet. I still take on more than I should some days, trying to help everyone, but I’m learning that setting boundaries doesn’t mean I care less; I just need to take care of myself, too. One day, I’ll fully follow my mum’s advice, but for now, I’m a work in progress.
Do you think the connections, support systems and advocacy for one another is greater in a remote area like Weipa? What aspects do you love, and what else would you like to see available for women on western Cape York.
Yes, living in a small community like Weipa strengthens communication and support among women. There’s real advocacy — people look out for each other in ways big cities often lack. Families connect easily, and women uplift one another in daily life and tough times.
With workplace initiatives from Rio Tinto and Queensland Health, and career programs starting in schools, there’s strong support for women in the workforce. Expanding mentorship programs and networking events could further enhance opportunities for women to connect, support each other, and grow personally and professionally.
Why is IWD special to you?
I am incredibly fortunate to work in two distinct, women-driven workplaces where empowerment isn’t just a buzzword, but a lived reality. These environments have several women who continuously inspire me, and reinforce the importance of collective support and solidarity.
For me, this day is not only about celebrating my own independence — it’s a call to action and uplift women in my life, ensuring that our shared progress and achievements are celebrated and duplicated for the future.
Judey Haeusler thanks the women in her life that have shaped who she is today. Photo: Supplied.
JUDEY HAUSLER – Rio Tinto Weipa operational excellence manager
What is the best piece of advice a woman has ever given you, and who was it?
That we can do anything we want to do, just not all at once. This is always a grounding reminder for me. I think we often put a lot of unnecessary pressure on ourselves to perfect parenthood and career all at once. We need to be more kind to ourselves.
Do you think the connections, support systems and advocacy for one another is greater in a remote area like Weipa? What aspects do you love, and what else would you like to see available for women on western Cape York?
I absolutely love the Weipa spirit and that we often rally to support our own in times of need, however, more regular connection and networking would be wonderful to see. Weipa Town Authority Chair Jaime Gane has tried to establish a Cape Connections program in collaboration with the National Rural Women’s Coalition. The idea was to create regular opportunities throughout the year for women to come together to network, learn and empower. Despite multiple efforts to generate support to get up and running, there wasn’t enough interest in the end. More people need to be involved to support and drive these types of initiatives to be sustainable.
Why is IWD special to you?
To me, International Women’s Day is a great prompt to pause and acknowledge some incredible women in our community. It also reminds me to reach out and thank those in my personal life that have had such a meaningful impact on who I am today.
Maine King reflects on growing up with pride in who she is and where she comes from. Photo: Supplied.
MAINE KING – Ma’s Rides owner
What is the best piece of advice a woman has ever given you, and who was it?
Best advice a woman has given to me is to be proud of who I am and where I come from, and to value my worth, from my mother.
Do you think the connections, support systems and advocacy for one another is greater in a remote area like Weipa? What aspects do you love, and what else would you like to see available for women on western Cape York?
In remote areas like Weipa, the sense of community and mutual support is definitely stronger – the community rely on each other more. I love the community’s willingness to help one another. To improve more resources and opportunities for women in Weipa, I think a development and access to healthcare would be beneficial, and more social activities.
Why is IWD special to you?
I love International Women’s Day because it brings all the women together to meet and tell all their stories about who they are and where they come from.
Shiona Budby hopes she is an inspiration for her three daughters in becoming whoever they want to be. Photo: Louise Montafina.
SHIONA BUDBY – Rio Tinto Weipa production superintendent
What is the best piece of advice a woman has ever given you, and who was it?
My manager and mentor, Claire Sabatino, shared this piece of advice with me during our first meeting before I took on the role at Amrun: “If you can see her, you can be her.” This simple statement made me reflect on various stages of my life. I realised that I had never encountered someone like myself in a role like the one I was about to accept, and it has held so much meaning to me, especially because I have three daughters of my own.
Do you think the connections, support systems and advocacy for one another is greater in a remote area like Weipa? What aspects do you love, and what else would you like to see available for women on western Cape York?
I think there’s a bit of both – yes, because in our work setting, we’re fortunate to have so many knowledgeable women to connect with. However, one thing I’d love to see is a social club where women in our area can connect and socialise outside of work and home. It would be a great way to build even more supportive networks and relationships.
Why is IWD special to you?
Empowering women to come together and celebrate our resilience, regardless of who we are or where we come from.
