Martine Broughton (1992)

Martine Broughton (1992) attended Daramalan College just when it started to be fully co-educational. Now Martine is a successful Psychologist, Radio Presenter and cancer survivor.  

How did Daramalan College influence your life?    

Daramalan shaped who I was on so many levels – academically, as a young woman and then on to my career as a Psychologist and Community Advocate. I won Community Service Awards in 1991 and 1992 for volunteer work at the local special school, aged care facility and other community work, and that inspired me and gave me the momentum to ensure I was an advocate for those who are vulnerable or had no voice. 

Who was your favourite Teacher?  

Ms Julie Halse was my Psychology/ Sociology Teacher in Years 11 and 12. Not only did she lay the foundation for my career, facilitating a supervisor for me and guiding my University studies, she was also a mentor and guide to me personally. I truly cherish the support and insight she provided to me over the years.  

What did you do after finishing Daramalan College and what are you doing now?     

From Daramalan I went straight on to ANU where I completed a Degree in Psychology. I then went on to graduate studies in clinical work at Canberra University so I could work as a Psychologist, which I have been undertaking in various roles throughout Australia the past 25 years. As well as clinical counselling, I have managed multi-million-dollar companies, been in high level management roles, provided medical assessor and advisory services and enjoyed every minute of it. I then completed a Masters in Bioethics back at the ANU which grounds my interest in the politics of health. Interestingly I also had a side-line gig of public speaking which is associated with my community advocacy.  

My first breast cancer episode happened at age 24 in Canberra and from there I was involved in the breast cancer community – as an advocate and voice. I would MC medical conferences and became the Media Representative for Australian Breast Cancer Network which offered lots of opportunities across Australia. I was a founding member of Dragons ABreast, particularly in Canberra and then Newcastle. In this again, I was Media Representative and then Sports Commentator. This then opened a larger area of sports commentary for me in the water sports area which I still do to this day. I also use my background as a Psychologist and Community Advocate in my radio shows – helping our community network with services, think outside the box and learn about the world we live in by interviewing special speakers. 

What do you think is your most significant career and life achievement?    

My most significant life achievement would definitely be finally beating breast cancer after three episodes. I was told I would never be able to lie down, eat solids or basically live a normal life. But I had things to do with my kiddies, so I started swimming again which really saved me – I now eat steak, sleep in a bed and live more than a “normal” life! I just swam across the Newcastle Harbour and won my first sailing Regatta!    

I finally had a double mastectomy in March 2022 and completed treatment, so I look forward to a healthy life from here. 

To be honest, every day I have a clinical patient is a career achievement, that I have facilitated a safe space for them to face their biggest challenges in life and I am privileged to be a part of that process. I do enjoy my radio interviews and talking to fascinating people – Rosie Batty the domestic violence advocate and Australian of the Year comes to mind as such an influential day in my radio career, in terms of how humbling our discussion was on and off air. 

What is the most important thing to you?    

Definitely my three children whom I am so so proud. Watching them grow into young people is such an honour. Our health is also a priority for me given my battles over the years and its effect on us as a family unit. Navigating parenthood is the most challenging aspect to your life that you never get an education about! 

What is your advice for current students?    

Whilst it is always important to plan ahead and have goals, be open to change and testing things out to make sure they work for you. Nothing is set in stone. Walk away from things and people that do not serve you… 

What is your idea of perfect happiness?    

I experienced perfect happiness the other weekend, on my own little yacht with my best friend in the most beautiful water swimming with wild dolphins after sleeping under the stars… Perfect. Happiness! 

Which talent would you most like to have?    

I wish I had taken all those music lessons more seriously!!! 

Who is your hero of fiction or a movie?   

Definitely Dead Pool! 

International Women’s Day Questions   

What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?    

You are allowed to change the cost of other people’s access to you… 

What did you dream of being when you were a little girl?    

I dreamed of being a “Farmers Wife” because back then women at best strived to be wives! I then wanted to be a Carpenter, and my father fought to allow me into the Industrial Arts classes at our co-ed school in Canberra – I was the first and only girl to do Industrial Arts as an elective Senior subject (1989/1990)… I loved it! 

What is the most important message you want to send out to young women?    

We are never in competition with each other, we have to help each other realise our potentials and rise with all our different strengths and gifts.