management board

Cairns Business Women’s Club Board have an extensive range of business skills and experience which they bring willingly to CBWC. You can find out more about these remarkable volunteers below.

President

Sarah Debono

Director/Clinic Manager, SILK Laser Clinics Cairns. With extensive experience in customer service, sales and the development of relationships, I moved to Cairns and helped create new marketing strategies within the SILK network for regional areas. The focus was to create brand awareness, build a successful business but also build community connections. An example would be conducting lectures at TAFE to develop and build the next generations of industry. Sales and innovation are my strengths where I strive to ‘work smarter not harder’ and provide positive influences that enable the best outcome for the bigger picture, utilising a variety of networks to streamline outcomes with improved and long-lasting results.
Email: Sarah Debono

Vice President

Rochelle Kettles

Email: Rochelle Kettles

Vice President

Kate Lamason

Kate Lamason is a recognised leader and innovator in Australia’s seafood industry, blending her expertise as a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA) with a deep passion for sustainability and regional development. She is the founder of Little Tuna and East Coast Tuna Co., pioneering brands that support Australian fishing families by delivering high-quality, ethically sourced tuna to market. She also owns and operates Cairns Little Seafood Market—a community-focused retail hub and export facility showcasing the best of local, sustainable seafood. Kate is the Finance and Program Manager for Women in Seafood Australasia (WISA), where she champions inclusivity, leadership development, and cultural change across the seafood sector. A graduate of the National Seafood Industry Leadership Program, she’s committed to empowering others—especially women—in male-dominated industries. An accomplished public speaker, Kate regularly presents at industry conferences and events, sharing her insights on seafood sustainability, innovation, and leadership. She was named the 2024 Queensland AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award winner. She also sits on the boards of Tuna Australia and the Vice President of the Cairns Business Women’s Club, supporting industry progress and regional business development.
Email: Kate Lamason

Secretary

Alexis Rogato

Alexis Rogato is an astute professional with over 20 years’ experience in both the corporate and private sectors across management, client servicing, leadership and sales. She prides herself on the ability to connect with people from all walks of life and build relationships that last, which has seen her reputation in North Queensland flourish. Originally from Victoria, Alexis has called our tropical oasis home for the past 10 years and has raised a beautiful family here in Cairns. Contributing to the community in varying aspects, Alexis is humble, reliable and brings a positive burst of fresh energy in all that crosses her path.
Email: Alexis Rogato

Treasurer

Debbie Lucas

Debbie Lucas is a seasoned professional with a passion for finance and a strong commitment to empowering women in the business world. With a rich background in the corporate sector, she brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role as Treasurer of the Cairns Business Women’s Club. As the Director of ZenBook, Debbie established herself as a leader in her field, demonstrating exceptional financial acumen and a keen understanding of business dynamics. Her dedication to fostering growth and success among women in business led her to join the Cairns Business Women’s Club, where she now serves as the Treasurer. In her role as Treasurer, Debbie Lucas is responsible for managing the club’s finances, ensuring transparency, and facilitating financial stability. She is a dedicated advocate for women’s professional development and is committed to leveraging her financial expertise to support the club’s mission of empowering and connecting women in the Cairns business community. Debbie’s leadership, combined with her financial prowess and commitment to women’s advancement, makes her an invaluable asset to the Cairns Business Women’s Club. Her vision and dedication continue to inspire and drive positive change within the organization and the broader business community.
Email: Debbie Lucas

Membership

Jasmine Michel

Jasmine is a part owner of local business, Astute Finance Barron River. Jasmine has been attending Cairns Business Women’s Club events since 2018 and appreciates the role CBWC has of bringing local business women together, to empower each other and celebrate successes. With a background in financial services & customer service, Jasmine understands the importance of making meaningful connections in the local community and supporting women succeed in their professional development & careers. Jasmine is the CBWC Board Member looking after all current & new members.
Email: Jasmine Michel