Forestry Corporation is recognising the women whose expertise, leadership and dedication continue to strengthen NSW State Forests this International Women’s Day.

From ecological monitoring and conservation to forest regeneration and fire management, women across the organisation are helping shape resilient landscapes and sustainable industries for future generations.

Two of those women are Bronwyn Ellis and Izzy Smith, whose careers, at different stages, reflect the depth and diversity of opportunities within modern forestry.

For more than 40 years, wildlife photographer, ecologist and environmental specialist Bronwyn Ellis has built a meaningful career with Forestry Corporation.

Bronwyn began her journey in 1984 as the state’s sole female Forest Ranger, at a time when forestry was overwhelmingly male‑dominated.

Bronwyn has since worked as a field ecologist and now coordinates ecological monitoring programs within Forestry Corporation’s Environment and Sustainability team.

Since 1998, she has walked more than 3,500 kilometres while undertaking ecological monitoring in state forests, a distance equivalent to travelling from Cape York to Melbourne, helping to protect native flora and fauna across NSW.

At the other end of the career spectrum, 23‑year‑old Silviculture Supervisor Izzy Smith represents a new generation of women entering forestry with confidence and capability.

Working hands‑on in the field, Izzy has carved out her place in an industry traditionally dominated by men.

Izzy is a trained firefighter, became a homeowner at just 20, and is a passionate advocate for sustainable forestry and regional communities.

Izzy understands that every tree she helps grow today can support Australian homes for generations to come — because forestry is renewable, carefully planned and built on decades of stewardship.

This International Women’s Day, Forestry Corporation acknowledges and thanks all the women across the organisation whose work continues to strengthen NSW’s forests, regional economies and environmental outcomes.

Read the full profiles on Izzy Smith and Bronwyn Ellis in our Beyond the Forest series here.