The Champions of Safety Awards celebrate individuals who are redefining what it means to lead in workplace health, safety, and wellbeing. Recognised at the Workplace Health & Safety Show Sydney, this year’s winners represent a new generation of safety leadership, innovative, people-centred, and deeply committed to change.
We caught up with Zee Hesline, Stacey Head, and Matt Dymond to hear their perspectives on what drives them, how their initiatives are changing workplaces, and what safety means in 2025 and beyond.
What motivated you to take action or lead change in workplace health and safety?
Zee Hesline: “I was motivated to take action when I saw that some of our team members weren’t fully aligned, which led to breakdowns in communication with contractors and each other. Over the years, I’ve seen how a strong safety culture can genuinely change lives. For me, it’s about people going home safely every day to their families.”
Can you tell us about the initiative that led to your nomination?
Stacey Head: “I founded she wear in 2013 after a nail went through my foot on a construction site. I couldn’t find a pair of correctly fitting work boots made for women, everything was designed for men. That experience became the catalyst for creating Australia’s first range of female-specific safety footwear. It started as a small idea to fix a personal problem, but it’s grown into a brand improving comfort, support, and safety for thousands of women across the world.”
What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
Matt Dymond: “Resistance to change is always tough. Some people are used to doing things a certain way. Consistent communication, leadership support, and recognising positive behaviour were key to building trust and getting everyone on board.”
Why is workplace health and safety personally important to you?
Stacey Head: “Safety isn’t just compliance, it’s culture. My own injury showed me how design directly affects safety, but what keeps me motivated is knowing that inclusive products can improve wellbeing and confidence. Everyone deserves to feel safe and supported at work.”
What has been the most rewarding part of your safety journey so far?
Matt Dymond: “Seeing a real shift in culture, when teams start owning safety, looking out for each other, and taking pride in working safely. Knowing I’ve helped create that change is incredibly fulfilling.”
How do you inspire others around you to prioritise safety every day?
Zee Hesline: “I try to make safety a shared responsibility, not a checklist. Open conversations, listening, and celebrating small wins make it meaningful. When people see that their input leads to real change, safety becomes part of who they are, not just what they do.”
What does being recognised as a Champion of Safety mean to you?
Matt Dymond: “It means a lot because it reflects the collective effort of my team and every site I’ve worked on over the last eight years. Consistency and communication really do make a difference in how people think and act about safety.”
What advice would you give to others looking to make a positive impact in workplace health and safety?
Zee Hesline: “Start with listening, every idea has potential. Big change often begins with small, consistent actions.”
Stacey Head: “True innovation comes from the people doing the work. Ask questions, listen deeply, and don’t be afraid to challenge the old way of doing things.”
Matt Dymond: “Lead by example, listen to your people, and keep safety simple. Real change happens when everyone understands why safety matters and feels empowered to speak up.”
The Champions of Safety Awards shine a light on the individuals turning care into action, from empowering workers’ voices to mentoring the next generation of safety leaders and designing PPE that truly protects everyone.
Their work shows that safety isn’t a department or a policy, it’s a shared value that thrives when people lead with empathy, collaboration, and purpose.
Congratulations to all our Champions of Safety. Join us to celebrate and continue their impact at the Workplace Health & Safety Show Brisbane, March 2025.
The Sydney 2025 Winners.
RISING STAR
A Rising Star is an emerging talent showing exceptional promise and dedication, poised to make significant contributions and shape the future of their field.
Sydney 2025 Winner: Zee Hesline, Coordinator Enterprise Risk and Safety at Randwick City Council
PIONEER
A Pioneer is a trailblazer who leads the way in exploring new frontiers, introducing innovative methodologies, and driving progress in their field, embodying courage, vision, and determination.
Sydney 2025 Winner: Stacey Head, Founder of She Wear
ICON
An Icon is an individual who has achieved iconic status through their lasting influence, excellence, and significant contributions in their industry, serving as an inspiration for generations.
Sydney 2025 Winner: Matthew Dymond, Safety Manager at Richard Crookes Constructions.
