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Posted by Daily Cargo News
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9 March, 2026
SUPPLY chain and logistics professionals were encouraged to rethink how the industry is described, to better reflect its openness to diversity.
Speaking at the ASCLA International Women's Day luncheon in Sydney on Friday, Kari Banick, chief operating officer of Blackwoods (a Wesfarmers company), said the sector should be referred to as "predominantly male", rather than "dominated by men" highlighting the many male colleagues who act as sponsors, supporters and allies.
Fellow panelist, Nicole Dixon, chief product & technology officer at Ofload, spoke passionately about authenticity at work, while John Kelly, CEO of Logic Health, called for accessible childcare, flexible schedules, and free school lunches to help families transition back into the workforce.
The Sydney luncheon, attended by more than 200 people, was a lighthearted, engaging and fun event - featuring a live auction to raise funds for OzHarvest. Guests enjoyed networking, conversation, and a positive atmosphere while supporting a worthy cause.
The luncheon also presented the inaugural ASCLA NSW IWD Award, recognising an outstanding change-maker in NSW or ACT, with the 2026 honour going to Renee Emery from TAFE NSW.
The event acknowledged the continued efforts of ASCLA State Committees (with special mention to Megan White for her entertaining auctioneering!) and long-term supporters Vanderlande, WiseTech Global, Visy, and the Freight & Trade Alliance for their ongoing commitment to charitable industry initiatives
Part of a nationwide series of Women’s Day lunches, the luncheon highlighted how supply chain and logistics organisations can combine celebration with meaningful discussion about diversity, inclusion, and workplace culture.
Donations to OzHarvest can still be made here: https://events.ozharvest.org/sclaa
