2026 International Women’s Day: High Tea

Join us to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 with Master Plumbers. 

This special afternoon brings us together to recognise the women who drive member businesses forward, often behind the scenes and always making an impact.

Our annual event welcomes women and allies from across the plumbing industry who support businesses every single day. It is a celebration of the women on the tools, on job sites, and in operational, technical and leadership roles that keep our industry moving.

We are delighted to be joined our 2026 IWD Guest Panel, chaired by Master Plumbers CEO, Ashleigh Dalmau.

Joining Ashleigh on the panel are:

• Brydie Anderson from Commercial Hot Water & Maintenance,
• Cat McCarthy from McCarthy Plumbing Group and
• Lara Denes from Plumbstruct Industries.

Together, they will share their experiences, insights and perspectives on navigating and leading within our industry.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to connect in a genuine and inclusive environment, in a space to network, share stories, strengthen professional relationships and build a stronger sense of community around our shared commitment to excellence in plumbing.

Learn more about our guest speakers

Brydie Anderson, Commercial Hot Water and Maintenance

Brydie began her career in her father’s tier‑one plumbing business after finishing Year 12. While completing a Bachelor of Environments majoring in Architecture at the University of Melbourne, she continued working part‑time in the company. After graduating, she helped expand the hot water division, growing a specialised team and strengthening operations.

Passionate about workplace culture and team ethic, Brydie progressed from Operations Manager to General Manager of Commercial Hot Water & Maintenance, now a national business with 27 employees. 

Cat McCarthy, McCarthy Plumbing Group

Cat McCarthy is the co-owner of McCarthy Plumbing Group in Melbourne, which she runs with her husband Dave.

Originally from a small town in Western Australia’s South West, Cat moved to Victoria 14 years ago after after a few years living and working in England. With a Bachelor of Social Science (Sports Management and Marketing), her early career spanned the AFL, English Premier League, disability sport, and the Indigenous sector, using sport to support education and employment outcomes.

In 2024, Cat and Dave were awarded the W.H. Wylie Trust bursary, completing a UK study tour and authoring an industry paper focused on innovation, women in plumbing, workforce development, and industry betterment.

Lara Denes, Plumbstruct Industries

Lara Denes is the Business Manager of the award-winning family company, Plumbstruct Industries. Working alongside her husband Shane, a licensed plumber and registered builder, she helps lead the business’s growth, culture, and strong community focus.

With a background in social work and a passion for people, Lara champions apprenticeships, staff wellbeing, and professionalism within the construction industry. Her leadership and contribution to the trade have been recognised through multiple industry and small business awards, including national recognition for excellence in administration.

Lara is passionate about encouraging more women to see the trades as a place to lead, succeed, and create meaningful change.

This event is proudly sponsored by our co-major sponsors: CBUS and Ampol