Her Story

Dena Blackman was born in Brisbane just prior to the outbreak of World War II. Her childhood was a series of wonderful experiences and exposures to the adult world. Raised in an atmosphere of equality of opportunity for women, she learned that femininity need not be sacrificed for feminism, that charm usually achieves more than churlishness and that leadership is as much by example as by authority. Dena benefited from an excellent well-rounded education. She matriculated from Brisbane Girls’ Grammar School and came to live in Sydney. An apprenticeship in Pharmacy encouraged her to be alert, aware, methodical and organised. Time management was high priority for apprentices who were required to work and study concurrently.

Married at twenty, Dena contends her experiences as a young mother afforded her the “time out” she needed for personal growth and maturity – and gave her the opportunity to assist her four children to establish their own milestones. Public speaking and personal development were aided by joining the Toastmistress organisation. Later, she became one of the first two women invited to join the previously all male Rostrum Club. After the birth of her third daughter who is now CEO of DIAL-AN-ANGEL, she encountered a rare (for her) health hazard! Far from family support, she vividly remembers saying “If only I could dial an angel!” This phrase kept repeating itself and would not let her rest until she established the business which is now a National entity.

Dena believes that her good health is due to great genes, inherited energy and enjoyment of life.

Recognised as an Expert Witness in the Supreme and District Courts in NSW, the ACT, SA, WA and Queensland as well as in the Workers’ Compensation and Family Courts of NSW and the ACT, she took a step back in 2003 to allow Danielle to initiate the changes she felt would advance the Group of Companies.

Dena has been honoured by receiving a Role Model Award for Women’s Achievement from the Northcott Society in 2000; she was presented with the Family Business of the Year – NSW First Generation Award in 2002 and in 2009 she became the National winner of the Jason Lea Award presented by Family Business Australia. Although she is still actively involved in the business and goes into the office at least twice a week, she has found time to indulge her teenage passion for sculpting in soapstone, early morning swimming three or four times a week and hopes to commence writing her autobiography.

Strategies for Success

  1. Aim high and be passionate and positive about everything you undertake.
  2. Maintain durability and flexibility in order to cope with changes in conditions and environment.
  3. Surround yourself with people who you respect and from whom you can learn. 
  4. A good life should include self respect, self discipline, self confidence and selflessness.
  5. Respect your reputation; a good name is your children’s most valuable inheritance.