Friday 2 May 2025
Strangers’ Restaurant, Queensland Parliament House
What does a room full of trailblazing women leaders look like?
Recently, it looked like a sold-out event filled with warmth, laughter, storytelling, all served alongside some of the finest local cuisine Queensland has to offer.
On Friday 2 May, more than 60 guests gathered in the historic surrounds of Strangers’ Restaurant to celebrate a major milestone: 100 women elected to the Queensland Parliament. The event marked a moment of reflection and recognition for the women who have shaped, and continue to shape, our state’s political landscape.
Guests enjoyed an intimate three-course lunch featuring fresh, local Queensland produce, specially curated by Executive Chef Anthony Naylor and prepared by our talented team of Parliamentary chefs.
A Seat at the Table
The highlight of the afternoon was a panel discussion featuring four influential voices in Queensland politics:
• Ms Joan Sheldon AM – Former Deputy Premier and one of Queensland’s earliest female leaders
• Hon Amanda Camm MP – Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services
• Hon Leanne Enoch MP – Shadow Minister for Closing the Gap, Integrity, the Arts and more
• Hon Meaghan Scanlon MP – Shadow Attorney-General and Shadow Minister for Housing and Justice
The conversation touched on the challenges women continue to face in a traditionally male-dominated environment, the progress made over the decades, and the complexities of balancing personal life with public service. The setting made these reflections all the more powerful with guests dining in a room that was once exclusively reserved for men. The panellists shared candid stories of leadership, resilience, and the vital role representation plays in shaping policy, community, and the future of public life.
There was warm irreverence and admiration for trailblazers like Ms Sheldon, who fought to secure not just a seat at the table, but a voice in shaping Queensland’s future. Their stories were a powerful reminder that while progress has been made, there is still work to do. Women make up over 50% of the population, yet they remain underrepresented in leadership roles. Events like this help spotlight the importance of equity, visibility, and systemic change.
Inspiring Future Leaders
As one MP reflected in our 100 Women in Parliament video, “You can’t be what you can’t see.” This milestone, and the conversations it sparked, are about more than looking back, they’re about paving the way forward for future leaders.
Take a Piece of History Home with You
Whether you joined us on the day or are planning your visit to Queensland Parliament soon, you can still celebrate this historic milestone. The Parliamentary Gift Shop has released a limited-edition collection honouring the 100 Women in Parliament. This special range includes:
- Elegant silk scarves
- Stylish tote bags
- A locally crafted Pink Gin Liqueur, created exclusively for this milestone
Available now at the Gift Shop and Lucinda Bar, these commemorative items make perfect keepsakes or as thoughtful gifts. Take home a reminder of the incredible women who’ve shaped Queensland’s political history
Meet the Women Shaping Queensland’s Future
Discover the stories of Queensland’s female leaders in our 100 women in Parliament video, featuring reflections on resilience, representation, and what it means to lead with purpose.
