Karen McNamara (Dobell, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

Earlier this year I had the pleasure of meeting Rosemary Armstrong, a successful and innovative fashion designer based in Dobell. Rosemary is the creator and designer of high fashion label Tea Rose. Rosemary has an amazing list of achievements, including having her designs on exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum. Many of Rosemary's designs have featured in publications such as Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, to name a few. Famous Australians to have worn Tea Rose include Megan Gale, Elle Macpherson, Kylie Minogue, Sarah Murdoch and Catriona Rowntree. Rosemary was also responsible for making Jennifer Hawkins's dresses for her first Logie and Melbourne Cup appearances.

Rosemary and her husband, Ray, commenced Tea Rose 35 years ago in their home in the Yarramalong Valley and, through hard work and determination, they have turned Rosemary's passion and love of design and beautiful fabrics into one of Australia's leading high fashion labels. Whilst she is naturally talented in design, much of Rosemary's success is attributed to her ability to take risks and adapt in a changing business and economic environment. Rosemary is a strong advocate for women to follow their dreams, and I share some wise advice from her: 'Don't let your vision be destroyed by critics who don't understand what you are doing and don't understand your industry. When you get to 50, they want to wrap you up and put you away, especially when you're a woman. We have to change that attitude. Why should a few wrinkles get in the way of success? Believe in yourself and follow your dream.' Wise words from an inspirational lady, and I wish Rosemary every bit of success in the future. We are so proud of her achievements.

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