Ballarat is buzzing with creative energy and a big part of that is thanks to the amazing women leading the charge in our local tourism and hospitality scene.
Ballarat is alive with creative energy – and much of that momentum is driven by the inspiring women shaping our tourism, event and hospitality scene.
We spoke to Trudi Armstrong (Hideaway owner and chef), Jenna Oldaker (Wadawurrung Traditional Owner and First Nations artist) and Danni Neil (Ballarat Wildlife Park CEO) — leaders playing a pivotal role in creating remarkable moments for every visitor to Ballarat.
What do you love most about Ballarat?
Trudi: “That we actually get four seasons! This means Hideaway gains year-round access to incredible local produce!”
Jenna: “I love that Ballarat is on Wadawurrung Country — it’s my ancestral home — and being able to live, create and share my culture here is incredibly special.”
Danni: “I love Ballarat’s strong sense of community. People genuinely back local organisations, businesses and projects and that support makes it an incredible place to lead and grow a business.”
What inspires you?
Trudi: “People having a go and people who overcome adversity and remain passionate and resilient. It hits me real hard! But also, put me in a room with some classical music and four croissant doughs to laminate and I’m in heaven. I submerge into my happy world!”
Jenna: “My ancestors, my family and my mob — and by the responsibility to keep our stories, language and culture strong through art.”
Danni: “Leaders who lift others up and challenge the status quo. Their courage and clarity push me to grow. I wouldn't be where I am without people like this and I hope to put that same energy out into the universe to help others achieve their potential.”
What’s a ‘pinch me’ moment you’ve had in your career?
Trudi: “Truth be told, I still feel like it’s the start of my career, like I’m yet to begin it. But if I had to nail it down, training in my beloved craft of patisserie in Paris, or leaving Australia after I qualified as a chef; armed with my knife roll, my books and my parents’ support.”
Jenna: “Seeing my artworks in public spaces and watching people engage with Wadawurrung culture and stories is always a special moment. Collaborating with Morag Myerscough on Sunnyside and blending our styles — both rooted in storytelling, bright colours and bold shapes — to bring Wadawurrung Country to life was deeply meaningful.”
Danni: “I’m genuinely struck when I stop and consider what a privilege it is to do this work. Leading an organisation that delivers exceptional education and conservation outcomes is extraordinary but being able to share that story on the world stage and invite people from across the globe to experience what we’re achieving here in regional Victoria is something I'm still genuinely humbled by.”
What’s one myth about women in leadership you’d love to bust?
Trudi: “That women need to lead with an iron fist. I fiercely believe that kindness and a strong moral compass is key.”
Jenna: “That leadership means acting a certain way. For me, it’s about being authentic, letting your culture guide you and creating spaces through storytelling where people feel seen, heard and able to grow. That is how meaningful change happens.”
Danni: “The idea that ambition isn’t feminine. Women are often encouraged to be capable but not too driven, as though aspiration somehow conflicts with warmth or authenticity. In reality, ambition is simply a commitment to making a meaningful impact and it can be expressed with empathy, collaboration and strength.”
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Trudi: “Jump, dive, run, dance, cry, love hard, try everything, fall 20 times, get up 21. Never stop backing yourself. Years 28-30 will nearly kill you, but you will SURIVIVE! And buy some Bitcoin!”
Jenna: “Trust your spirit, share your stories and let your heritage guide you along the path you are meant to walk.”
Danni: “Say yes to every opportunity — especially the ones that feel a bit intimidating. This uncomfortable space is where you grow the fastest.”
What’s your secret weapon as a leader?
Trudi: “Humour and empathy, I believe teams don’t just follow systems, they follow how you make them feel.”
Jenna: “Connection and openness — I aim to create safe, welcoming spaces where people feel comfortable to learn, ask questions and connect with Wadawurrung culture in an accessible and meaningful way.”
Danni: “Never assuming anything. My motto is ‘First ask questions’. To be able to rapidly evaluate possibilities, I ask purposeful questions that almost always bring the right solution into focus.”
These women are just a few of the incredible forces shaping Ballarat’s tourism and hospitality scene.