❤️ A Durack International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate and promote inspiring Durack women ❤️
Debbie Dowden
⭐ Debbie is the owner and operater of Challa Station, a beef cattle enterprise based in the Southern Rangelands of WA that has been in the Dowden family since 1888. Debbie and her family understand the need to rehydrate farm lands, repair historical degradation and restore the natural environment for future generations. Debbie is the Interim Chair of the Southern Rangelands Pastoral Alliance, a Fellow at the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation, holds her Masters degree in Environmental Science and overall, is widely recognised as a leader in sustainable production ⭐
An interview with Debbie
What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?
Put the voices of doubt aside and know that you are stronger and more capable than you think. Don’t focus on the challenges, focus instead on the contribution that you can make, understanding that women have been leading since the beginning of time but often push their men into the limelight. Be brave and step into that light yourself.
Who are the role models that have inspired you?
As a teenager I was inspired by Margaret Thatcher, because she was a powerful woman who lead a country, and she broke a lot of moulds. These days, good people with passion, a positive mindset and a strong work ethic inspire me. People like Professor Fiona Wood and aviator Nancy Bird, and also people closer to home like rural leader Sue Middleton and pastoralist Annabell Coppin.
What word/s describe your leadership style?
People often underestimate me, so I would say surprising best describes my leadership style. After that, my leadership style could be seen as positive, democratic and very often situational.
What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?
We are incredibly privileged to be living in regional, rural and remote areas. There are so many opportunities to be your authentic self and to lead from the heart. You live in a strong community where people care and matter, and where the ‘vision splendid’ still exists.
We thank you Debbie, for what you achieve for your community and regional, rural and remote Durack 💙