Business
28 December, 2025
Sparkie leads the way
TRISH Elsden of O’Brien Electrical Innisfail has put the town on the map after taking out the prestigious women in energy accolade at the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) Queensland awards at The Star, Brisbane.
The award recognises women who play an integral part in the industry and champion for a more inclusive industry.
Ms Elsden was vice-president on the board of NECA Queensland for two and a half years and had served four years prior to that.
“I believe this award is recognition for over 18 years of experience in the electrical industry, as well as supporting Far North Queensland contractors and fighting for any necessary changes and support,” she said.
“Usually, I am a bit humbled by these things and always feel undeserving amongst the other brilliant women out there.”
When Ms Elsden received the award, the manager of two electrical businesses was described as a respected leader, advocate and role model.
She said she had always maintained a commitment to safety, legislative compliance and professional accountability.
Throughout her career, she has devoted time to representing the broader industry, as well as championing for a more inclusive and forward-thinking future.
Ms Elsden and her husband Dan operated a long-standing electrical contracting business in Cairns and in 2020 expanded coverage to Innisfail, after buying Laser Electrical, Innisfail.
In 2021, the couple sold their house in Cairns and moved to Innisfail.
Mr Elsden, a member of the Innisfail and District Show Society, volunteers endless hours each year to ensure the event is compliant and electrically safe.
For close to eight years, he has been a strong advocate for the electrical industry, serving six years as a NECA Queensland board member and vice president for the last three years, as well as running both branches of their business.
The Cairns branch of O’Brien Electrical has closed and now the duo are solely focused on their Innisfail business, which enables them more time to serve the community, raise awareness of the need for more apprentices, as well as lobby for more female apprentice positions.
At the end of November, Ms Elsden competed at the national awards in Brisbane.
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