Women in Print has announced the appointment of two new Patrons, at its Sydney 'Print & Prosecco' event, held last week. The event was held at the Boulevard Brasserie in the Novotel at Sydney Olympic Park, attracting a record 31 of the industry’s women for a night of connection and networking.
'KA' Boyd. new WIP QLD Patron 
Karen Lawler, new NSW/ACT Patron
The Sydnay Print & Prosecco event provided the perfect stage for the announcement of two new Women in Print Patrons, following the organisation’s call-out for applications to fill vacancies in Queensland and New South Wales.
Karen Lawler, Business Development Manager for renowned grand-format printing company Cactus Imaging was named the new Patron for NSW, replacing Debbie Burgess. Kerry-Anne ‘KA’ Boyd, co-owner of Sign Right Australia, will bring her many talents and well-documented determination to the Queensland role, which was previously held by Morag Pugh.
According to Women in Print Chair, Stephanie Gaddin: " The two new Patrons bring significant talents to their new roles and also add solid wide-format, sign and graphics credentials to the Patron mix, ensuring Women in Print can continue to champion the next wave of women in print, packaging, signage and broader visual media industry."
(L-R) Sarah Moore, Visual Connections; Debbie Burgess, Bright Print Group; Carmen Ciappara, PMG & Nicole Jandik, IVE Print Group at the double celebration night.
The group enjoyed taking part in The Great Australian Women’s Quiz, while indulging in delicious canapés, prosecco and other drinks, and, of course, making new connections and renewing old friendships.
Donations were also accepted for Share the Dignity’s ‘It’s in the Bag’ campaign, capping off a year of support for the charity, which supports girls and women who are experiencing period poverty.
In welcoming Karen to the role for NSW, outgoing NSW Patron Debbie Burgess said her time as Patron had been ‘a pleasure and a privilege’. “I wish Women in Print nothing but the best, and know it is in supremely good hands,” she said.
Women in Print Chair, Stephanie Gaddin, thanked Debbie for her outstanding contribution to the role, saying: “You have led the NSW chapter of Women in Print with purpose and passion, helping us to drive meaningful change within our sector, and connecting with so many among our membership.
“We will miss you in this role, but are definitely the better for your time in leadership. I know you will continue to champion the cause of the industry’s women and I hope very much that we will continue to see you at Women in Print events.”
Welcoming Karen and KA, Gadden said both brought a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to their Patron roles, saying: “Karen and KA embody the mission of Women in Print to empower and uplift women in our industry. They led a field of impressive applicants who threw their hat in the ring for these positions, a response which speaks to the enthusiasm and commitment of women within our sector."
She continued: “We welcome KA and Karen to the Women in Print executive and are looking forward to their contribution. With them, and our other amazing committee members, sponsors and supporters, I am confident that 2025 will build on our momentum, fostering an environment that creates tangible benefits for our members and deliver even more value to our community in the coming year.”
