International Women’s Day | Women of Winter

International Women’s Day is a moment to celebrate progress and recognise the power of giving back to create lasting change. This year, as we mark International Women’s Day on March 8, Snow Australia proudly celebrates the women who continue to shape, strengthen and inspire our snow industry.

The 2026 International Women’s Day campaign theme, Give to Gain, reminds us that when women are supported, empowered and given opportunities to lead, the entire industry benefits. From athletes and coaches to officials, administrators, resort professionals and volunteers, women across the snow industry are giving their time, expertise, and leadership — and in doing so, helping the industry grow stronger, more inclusive and more connected.

To celebrate International Women’s Day, we asked women working across the snow industry two questions:

What does being a woman in the snow industry mean to you?

And what word or words come to mind when you think of women in the snow industry?

Their responses reflect the passion and perspectives that make our community so unique. Together, these voices highlight not only how far we’ve come, but the impact women continue to have when we champion the next generation.

Here are their responses.

Annie Geiger, Snow Australia People Development and Wellbeing Manager

When I think of a word to describe women in the snow industry, overwhelmingly, the word that comes to mind for me is passionate. Women in the industry, I think, are so passionate about the environments in which we work, the sport and our jobs. But I think they are also really passionate about opening the door for that next generation of women to come through. I'm a huge believer in leaving something in a better place than where you found it and I think the passion that women are bringing to the industry right now is definitely having that effect.

As a woman in the snow industry in Australia, I feel really lucky to be working in an industry that I always wanted to work in ever since I was a little kid. I've had a great journey across the industry, working from ski instructing, coaching, race and events, physical prep for young athletes, as well as coaching internationally. Now I work as people development and well-being manager at Snow Australia and being part of an interdisciplinary team that supports our athletes, coaches and teams in their pursuit for excellence is a huge honour and really exciting part of my role.

Ava McCann, Biathlon and Ski Mo Athlete

Being a woman in the snow industry means continuing a proud tradition of showing that Aussie women are strong and resilient and proving that we can overcome odds.

Some words that come to mind when thinking of women in the snow industry are tough, supportive and committed.

Bobbi Kelly, Snow Australia Para Pathway Lead

Being a woman in the snow industry is opening the door and holding it open for others.

A word that comes to mind about being a woman in the snow industry is being involved.

Gocha Kelm, Development Coach Para Snowboard

Being a woman in the snow industry means showing up fully, strong, skilled and passionate about the mountains. It means carving the space where there wasn't always room and leading with resilience and lifting others while you climb. And to me, it’s about proving that ego does not have a gender as same as love and passion. The mountain doesn’t care who you are, only how you show up and we show up ready.

Jess Rutherford, Visitor Experience Manager, Charlotte Pass

To me, being a woman in the snow industry means that I have an opportunity to provide support and recognition for other women so that they can grow, feel confident and succeed in the industry.

A word that comes to mind when thinking of women in the snow industry is motivated. I see women in the industry as passionate and driven with a strong commitment to supporting one another.

Liana France, Paralympian, Alpine Skiing

Being a woman in the snow industry means getting to chase my dreams on snow and to help other girls know they can do it. A word that comes to mind when thinking of women in the snow industry is inspiring. We push each other and we go harder every day. 

Millie Evans, Freeski Coach, Mount Hotham Freeski

Being a woman in the snow industry means that I have the incredible opportunity to become a role model for young girls. I want to show them that not only do they belong, but they can carve out their own path and achieve anything they set their minds to. 

Two words that come to my mind when I think about women in the snow industry is that we are adaptive and we are fearless.