Women in Print has named its first honorary members, recognising Susan Heaney, Debbie Burgess and Lisa Blachut for their long-term contribution to the association.
At its final board meeting of 2025, the Women in Print Australia board voted unanimously to recognise the three women for their sustained involvement in the association and its development.
Susan Heaney, founder of Women in Print and former Queensland patron, has been recognised for her leadership and service across the print industry. She is the former managing director of Heaney’s Performers in Print and was the first woman president of the Printing Industries Association of Australia, now the Visual Media Association. She also chaired the Media Super board.
“Susan built something enduring from the ground up,” said Stephanie Gaddin, chair of the board. “Women in Print exists because Susan believed there was a need for it. That legacy of making space, holding space, and defending space echoes in everything we do.”
Debbie Burgess, who stepped down at the end of 2024 as NSW patron after years on the board, has been recognised for her role in supporting the association’s community and promoting connection throughout New South Wales. “I am both honoured and grateful to be recognised in this way,” she said.
Former WA patron Lisa Blachut, who served in the role for nearly seven years, has been recognised for strengthening the Western Australian network and supporting mentorship opportunities across the design, communications and print sectors. She has more than 30 years’ experience in creative direction, project management and production.
“These first three honourees are an integral part of our foundations as an association,” Gaddin said. “They built the network, held the line, mentored, fundraised, wrangled venues, and collaborated remotely to build a community.”
Honorary Membership nominations will be considered annually at the board’s final meeting each year. While there are no formal criteria, the recognition is intended for individuals whose sustained contribution reflects the mission and values of Women in Print and who have supported the visibility and advancement of women in the print and graphics communications industry.
The board acknowledged the “lasting influence” of Heaney, Burgess and Blachut as its inaugural honorary members.