WOMEN ON TOP Heather Stone

This inspiring book gives you a first hand insight in to the lives of some of our countries most successful women today. A chapter has been dedicated to each woman, who of course all tell of a completely different life experience. Thrown in for inspiration, are some of their favourite driving statements; Top ad-exec Jane Caro who lives by "Don't think about it too much just do it." Or Diana Ryall the managing director of Apple Computer. "You only have one life; it is not a rehearsal."

Some of the women featured even share their school days, and then take us on a journey through the guts of their biggest career challenges and sweetest successes. These diverse challenges range from juggling work and family, to facing sexual discrimination in the workplace. Christine Nixon, now the Assistant Commissioner of the NSW Police Service, tells of discrimination horror stories dating back to 1972. Such as how she was purposely stationed (or put to the test) at Kings Cross police station at a particularly high crime era (late 70's) in inner Sydney; the busiest police station in Australia at the time. Her request to move up to the position of Detective was initially met with a simple 'No' back in 1978. Christine was constantly faced with the attitude from male seniors, that women were neither as physically or mentally capable as men in the force. Somehow Christine overcame adversity, to play a key role in actually having legislation passed which allows police women to take on crucial positions in the service, as opposed to roles such as lecturing and 'women police officer duties,' which were largely admin centred. Another incredible feat was convincing the powers that be in the 1970's that female officers should be able to carry guns!

From the police force to the cutthroat world of advertising, and into Jane Caro's amazing career at top ad agency Saatchi & Saatchi, there is certainly something in this book for every woman aspiring to achieve her personal best, no matter what her industry preference.


Heather Stone set out to research and write Women on Top, when curiosity overcame her. Heather wanted to know how these women became so successful and ask them everything; from did they ever reach a stalemate? Or did they always know what direction they were heading in? Well, after many questions she discovered that we
al have the ability to get where they are. Thank you Heather for bringing these everyday but fascinating women into our living rooms.