Women shaping local industry
This year’s International Women’s Day Business Networking Event will shine a spotlight on local women who are challenging expectations, building capability, and creating new pathways across diverse industries. One of those speakers is Brooke Kreuzer from Jenera, a manufacturing business based in the Bayswater Business Precinct.
Taking place on Wednesday 4 March 2026, the event will bring together business owners, professionals and leaders from across Knox for an evening of conversation, connection and shared learning. Attendees will hear directly from women working across manufacturing, sustainability and social enterprise, exploring what leadership looks like in practice, not just in theory.
Brooke’s story is one of growth, courage and adaptability. Joining Jenera in 2023 with no manufacturing background, she stepped into a completely new environment and learned the industry from the ground up. Since then, Brooke has played a key role in improving internal systems, streamlining production processes and supporting customised manufacturing solutions for Australian transport operators.
Her contribution and leadership have been recognised at a state level, with Brooke named a finalist for Woman Manufacturer of the Year in the 2025 Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame.
At the International Women’s Day event, Brooke will share what it means to back yourself in unfamiliar territory, the value of supportive workplace cultures, and how diverse skills and lived experience can strengthen traditionally male-dominated industries.
Founded in 1974 and rebranded in 2024 to mark its 50th anniversary, Jenera has grown from a family engineering business into a modern manufacturing partner delivering precision CNC machining, fabrication and product development services across transport, mining and infrastructure sectors.
With a strong focus on training, continuous improvement and people-first leadership, Jenera demonstrates how long-standing local businesses can evolve while creating opportunities for new voices to emerge.
Brooke will be joined by other local leaders for an evening featuring short presentations followed by a facilitated panel discussion. Together, the speakers will explore leadership, resilience, inclusive employment and the realities of navigating change and growth in today’s business environment.
Date: Wednesday 4 March 2026
Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
Location: Knox City Council Civic Centre, Function Room 4
Cost: $10
All genders welcome
Tickets are limited. Join us for an inspiring night of local leadership and conversation.