2026 Award Winners
Award 1: Young Achiever or Apprentice Award
WINNER: Morgan Dale – Graduate Builder, Hansen Yuncken
Morgan Dale represents the future of South Australia’s construction industry – capable, committed and already making a meaningful impact on major projects. Morgan has rapidly progressed from junior project roles at the Osborne Naval Shipyard to her current position as a Graduate Builder with Hansen Yuncken, where she is a key contributor to the ANI Skills and Training Academy Campus.
Known for her reliability, positive energy and strong work ethic, Morgan consistently goes above and beyond and stepping in to address safety risks, supporting team culture and embracing every opportunity to grow. She is also a passionate advocate for women in construction, sharing her journey with students and encouraging others to pursue pathways she once doubted were possible.
AWARD 2: Tradie of the Year
WINNER: Shaeleigh Owbridge – Painter, J & L Painting Services
Shaeleigh Owbridge is an emerging standout in South Australia’s trades workforce. A qualified painter whose courage, commitment and natural talent have set her apart early in her career. At 23, she made the bold decision to leave the pharmacy industry and pursue a trade, joining J & L Painting Services, where her capability quickly became evident.
Known for her reliability, work ethic and positive attitude, Shaeleigh is the kind of tradie every site wants: hardworking, self‑motivated, organised and eager to learn. She consistently demonstrates professionalism beyond her years and is committed to mastering her craft.
AWARD 3: Exemplary Office Professional
Winner: Kirri Fuchs – Business Support Manager, Need Trade Services
Kirri Fuchs is the operational heartbeat of Need Trade Services. A highly skilled and trusted leader whose influence reaches every corner of the business. Over seven years, she has progressed through every role within the Business Support Team, building deep, hands‑on expertise across Accounts, QHSE, HR, Technology, Systems and IT. Today, as Business Support Manager, she leads these critical functions with exceptional capability, structure and professionalism.
A natural mentor and culture‑builder, Kirri has shaped a high‑performing team defined by clarity, accountability and continuous improvement. She communicates with honesty and confidence, provides thoughtful challenge when needed, and consistently acts in the best interests of the business.
AWARD 4: Exceptional Site Professional Award
WINNER: Sadie Mason, Site Supervisor, Multiplex Constructions
Sadie Mason is one of South Australia’s most dynamic and respected site‑based leaders and the only female Site Supervisor for Multiplex in the state and a standout force in complex project delivery. Currently supervising a 10‑level hotel fit‑out above the live Adelaide Central Market, Sadie brings exceptional technical capability, calm leadership and an unmistakable on‑the‑ground presence that keeps one of the state’s most intricate construction interfaces running safely and efficiently.
A trained Mental Health First Aider and co‑founder of Multiplex’s Pride Network, Sadie is also a powerful culture‑builder. She champions inclusion, supports women on site, and fosters a collaborative, respectful environment where people feel valued and supported.
AWARD 5: Outstanding Leader or Business Owner
WINNER: Julie Durand, State General Manager, Burbank Homes SA
Julie Durand is a standout leader in South Australia’s construction sector, known for her strategic clarity, commercial strength and deep commitment to people. As State General Manager for Burbank Homes SA, she has transformed the business from a startup into a stable, profitable and fast‑growing operation. Julie leads more than 45 staff across construction, operations and sales, guiding the organisation through years of industry disruption with resilience, transparency and strong commercial judgement.
A champion for capability and culture, Julie mentors emerging leaders, supports women in non‑traditional roles and fosters an inclusive, high‑performing workplace. Her influence extends across the sector through board and committee roles with ATEC and the Construction Industry Training Board, where she contributes to skills development and long‑term industry sustainability.
AWARD 6: Champion of Change Award
WINNER: Nick Abley, Chief Executive, BADGE Group
Nick Abley is a Chief Executive who has moved gender equity from conversation to measurable, organisation‑wide change. With more than two decades of industry experience, Nick has used his influence to reshape policies and create meaningful opportunities for women.
Under his leadership, BADGE introduced one of the state’s most progressive paid parental leave policies, offering up to 22 weeks at full pay with superannuation and a gender‑neutral primary carer model. He has championed proactive sexual harassment prevention through leadership training and risk assessments, setting clear expectations for respectful behaviour and psychological safety across all levels of the organisation.
Nick has strengthened leadership pathways for women, supported capability‑building programs, and reshaped the Adelaide University BADGE SA Scholarship to include equity criteria already resulting in a female recipient. These actions have contributed to a measurable reduction in BADGE’s gender pay gap and a significant increase in women’s promotions, rising from an average of three per year to up to eleven.
As a member of SA Leaders for Gender Equity, Nick continues to advocate for industry‑wide reform, championing inclusive practices and stronger pipelines for women in construction.
Award Finalists
Congratulations to all the finalists in this year’s awards!
2026 Awards Luncheon
Almost 400 guests came together at Adelaide Oval on 19 June to celebrate the incredible women and advocates helping drive change in the building and construction industry.
Check out all the pictures from the event here.