The Housing Industry Association (HIA) Hunter has celebrated female leadership across the regional residential construction sector at the inaugural 2026 HIA Hunter Building Women Awards. Held before an audience of local builders, trade contractors, designers and manufacturers, the awards program recognised individuals and businesses advancing inclusion, business management and technical innovation across the Hunter.
Director and Head Electrician at Bourkelex Electrical, Holly Bourke was named the 2026 HIA Hunter Building Woman of the Year. Operating a commercial and residential electrical contractor across Newcastle and the Hunter Valley, Holly also received the HIA Hunter Tradeswoman of the Year award for her work in business operations, technical delivery and trade apprenticeship mentoring.
Category awards were presented across several professional disciplines, recognising:
- Administration Executive: Elizabeth Powell of MARS Building (Highly Commended: Tabytha Hipwell of Baxco Homes).
- Business Mentor/Leader: Zoe Pohlmann of Your Home Designs.
- Executive Leadership: Sharon Hill of McDonald Jones Homes (Highly Commended: Meegan Kelly of Buildcert).
- Professional Business Woman: Kellie Williams of Patioworld Central Coast & Sydney North.
Executive Director of HIA Hunter, Craig Jennion stated that expanding female trade and executive participation strengthens long-term capability across the residential housing market.
“The HIA Hunter Building Women Awards recognise the exceptional women who are driving innovation, leadership and positive change throughout the residential building industry,” Craig said.
“From tradeswomen and business owners to mentors, administrators and executive leaders, these award winners demonstrate the depth of talent, professionalism and dedication that exists across our industry. In recent years we have seen more women pursuing rewarding careers across every area of residential construction, and these awards are an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and inspire the next generation. We congratulate all winners and finalists on their achievements and thank our industry partners for their ongoing support of these important awards.”
The awards program reinforces HIA Hunter’s focus on promoting diverse career entry points across building, project management, corporate administration and trade services.
IMAGE | Holly Bourke named Building Woman of the Year at inaugural HIA Hunter Building Women Awards
