The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Life has a way of presenting us with challenges that test our strength and resilience. My journey has been marked by several significant obstacles, each of which has shaped who I am today and fueled my determination to succeed in both my personal life and my businesses.
One of the most profound challenges has been navigating my children’s health issues. As a mother, I have faced the emotional and physical toll of frequent hospital stays and surgeries for my children. These experiences were not only taxing but also required me to be a constant source of support, ensuring that they received the care they needed. Watching them struggle has been heart-wrenching, but it has also deepened our family bond and reinforced my commitment to their well-being.
In addition to my children’s health challenges, I faced a life-altering event when I was involved in a car crash that left me with brain trauma. The aftermath was a difficult journey of recovery, filled with physical and cognitive challenges that tested my limits. Rebuilding my life after such a traumatic experience required immense strength and patience. Through rehabilitation and the support of my loved ones, I gradually learned to reclaim my independence and pursue my ambitions once again.
As if that were not enough, I was also confronted with a cancer diagnosis. The fear and uncertainty that accompanied this news were overwhelming, but I knew I had to fight not just for myself but also for my family. The experience taught me the importance of resilience and the power of hope. With the support of my family and friends I emerged with a renewed sense of purpose.
While facing these personal challenges, I also encountered the usual ups and downs of running a business. From financial uncertainties, Covid, bushfires, floods and the current financial crisis we find ourselves in, to the complexities of logistics and supply chain issues, the road to establishing Woodlane Orchard has been anything but smooth. However, each obstacle has provided valuable lessons that have contributed to my growth as an entrepreneur. I’ve learned to adapt, pivot and remain focused on my vision despite the hurdles.
Through all these experiences, I have come to understand that life’s challenges are not just obstacles; they are opportunities for growth and self-discovery. They have shaped my perspective, teaching me the importance of perseverance and the value of community support. Every setback has fuelled my determination to create a successful business that reflects my values and provides for my family.
Today, I stand proud of the resilience I have cultivated through these challenges. My journey has not been easy, but it has made me stronger and more committed to my mission at Woodlane Orchard and Sphiker. I strive to inspire my children and others by demonstrating that, despite the difficulties life may throw our way, we can rise, adapt and achieve our dreams with dedication and heart.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
Running a business offers a mix of rewards and challenges. On the positive side, it provides independence and flexibility, allowing you to be your own boss and create a schedule that suits your lifestyle. I have worked in unhappy workplaces so it is wonderful to be able to enjoy where I work. It’s been exciting to be able to employ local people and always be able to make the decisions on the direction the business takes, who we support and what we do each day.
However, the journey is not without its downsides. Financially it has been tough, especially in the early stages when cash flow was unpredictable. I work long hours and have to be mindful to ensure a good work-life balance.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
As we look to the future, our hopes and dreams are centred around expanding our impact through Woodlane Orchard.
With Australia sending 7.6 million tons of food to landfill every year, we want to make an impact. In the last 5 years, we have made more than 70,000 meals, saving more than 100 tons of produce. I want to grow this mission to a mobile unit, allowing us to reach communities across Australia and spread the vital support needed to save surplus food. By creating a mobile operation, we aim to tackle food waste on a larger scale, putting dollars into farmers’ hands and supporting local communities and economies.
Our goal is to foster a culture of sustainability. We believe that with dedication we can make a meaningful difference in the fight against food waste, making our dreams of a more sustainable future a reality, one family meal at a time.
Find out more about Woodlane Orchard:
www.woodlaneorchard.com.au
Facebook: @woodlaneorchard
Instagram @woodlaneorchard
Email: director@woodlaneorchard.com.au
Find out more about Sphiker:
www.sphiker.au
Facebook: @sphiker
Instagram @sphiker.com.au
Email: director@woodlaneorchard.com.au
