Kennards Hire’s Meagan George wins 2026 HRIA Women in Hire Award

Kennards Hire is proud to celebrate Geraldton Branch Manager Meagan George, who has been named the 2026 HRIA Women in Hire Award winner.

Presented by the Hire and Rental Industry Association (HRIA), the award recognises women who are helping shape the future of the hire industry through leadership, mentorship and a commitment to lifting others up.

The award was presented at the HRIA’s 2026 gala, where Meagan was recognised for her leadership, resilience and the positive impact she continues to make within the industry.

Meagan’s career journey has taken her from managing mining camps in Western Australia to leading the Kennards Hire Geraldton branch, where she is known for her practical leadership style and strong support for her team.

Reflecting on the recognition, Meagan said, “If 22-year-old me could see herself now, she would not believe it. Back then I was crying in my room most nights wondering ‘how do I manage these people?’”

She credits the HRIA Women in Hire Development Program with helping strengthen her leadership approach over the past 20 years. “It’s also given me the reassurance and beliefs that my voice can make a positive contribution to our industry,” Meagan said.

She says the experience reinforced the value of speaking up, backing yourself and using your voice to make a positive contribution to the industry.

Her message to women in hire is simple: “If we lift each other up, we will be a positive force for women moving forward.”

She also shared a memorable personal reflection, adding: “To quote Snoop, I’d also like to thank me, for not giving up, because times have been tough. I have lived and worked through a rough period for women in construction and hire, however I wouldn't change a minute of it.”

Kennards Hire CEO Stuart Dean said Meagan’s award was a well-deserved recognition. “Meagan’s leadership, resilience and commitment to supporting others both within Kennards Hire and the broader industry is tangible. It’s important that we recognise and celebrate the impact women, such as Meagan, in our industry have in shaping the future of hire.”

The HRIA Women in Hire Development Program is designed to give women opportunities to develop professional skills and goals, personal development, and build a lasting supportive network with others within the hire industry.