In the past 12 months, Tegan’s work as Principal Dealer at Bridge Toyota and Lexus of Darwin has been recognised both locally and nationally. She was named the inaugural NT News People’s Choice Leader of the Year – an award voted by everyday Territorians. 

Tegan also received the 2025 Barbara Cox Award for her exceptional leadership in the Australian automotive retail industry. The award acknowledges leaders who champion positive change within a traditionally male-dominated industry. She was selected from an exceptionally strong field of candidates from across the country. 

Tegan leads a team of 168 staff across the dealerships in Darwin, Palmerston and Gove. She describes herself as an inclusive leader who is direct and assertive but empathetic as well. 

She is also a proactive leader. 

“One of the roles we have here is a yard detailer. They wash all of the cars. Let’s face it, it’s not a glamorous job. It’s in the sun all day and it’s a job that has a constantly revolving door,” she said. 

“So about six months ago, I started thinking about how we can get the right people for the role but to also give them a purpose.” 

The result was the development of a Certificate in Presentation in Automotive, which is due to roll out this year. 

The Certificate covers hands-on training in car washing techniques, detailing, polishing, chemical handling, and workplace safety. It’s designed for young adults in Darwin, Palmerston, and Gove who are seeking practical, purpose-driven skills that can open doors to employment. 

“We can now advertise the position as a pathway of purpose.” 

As a woman working in an industry that has traditionally been the domain of men, Tegan understands how daunting car maintenance can be. She and her team launched Women in Wheels, a workshop created to encourage and support women in understanding and caring for their vehicles. The inaugural session in 2025 attracted nearly 100 women who learnt useful skills like how to change a tyre. 

Female trailblazer isn’t a title that sits well with Tegan. When her 17-year-old self started in car care at an interstate car dealership she had no aspirations of being a female pioneer in a male-dominated industry. 

“My dad was in the car industry and I never thought I was going to follow in his footsteps,” she said. 

“When I got the job as a car care consultant, I was about to do the third part of the selection process to join the police force. I had completed the computer typing test as well as the beep and fitness test and psychological test. Then I got a call from a family friend saying they needed someone.” 

The need to earn some money before setting out on what Tegan thought would be a lifelong career, led her to saying yes to the car dealership. 

“It’s the best thing that ever happened. I’ve never looked back,” she said. 

“I’ve built a career I love, surrounded by people who inspire me every day. It’s shown me just how rewarding this industry can be — especially when you’re passionate about people and progress.” 

The Police Force’s loss is the Automotive Industry’s gain. 

Bridge Toyota and Lexus of Darwin sell more than 3500 vehicles a year. In the early days, they were selling 100. Tegan credits the dealership’s position as the leading automotive sales company in the NT to staff job satisfaction. She said buyers’ attitudes have also helped. 

“There was a time when people kept their cars for a decade. These days, it’s more like four years,” she said. 

Tegan credits the increase of vehicle sales to defence, mining and government along with transient nature of the NT’s population. 

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, the latest Toyota Hilux 4×4 ute is available now. 

“Hilux has always been our hero vehicle — it’s the one our customers trust most,” Tegan said. 

“Hilux really fits the Territory lifestyle — it works for businesses, families, and everyone in between. Twenty years ago, a ute was just a work vehicle. Now it’s your family car, your weekend adventure car, your everyday car. That’s why it’s so exciting to see the new model — and why Hilux has been number one for so many years.” 

The 2026 Toyota Hilux is a four-door ute with a 2.8L diesel engine combined with a 48 volt hybrid system, helping Toyota to achieve its target of carbon neutrality. It’s been built for durability and longevity and is equally suited to city life and remote travel. 

The model has a new luxurious interior design. A 12-14 inch floating infotainment tablet and a fully digital instrument tablet complete the sophisticated interior features. TQ 

You can test drive the 2026 Toyota Hilux ute at: 

DARWIN 11 Stuart Highway Stuart Park (08) 8946 0000 

PALMERSTON 79 Chung Wah Terrace Palmerston (08) 8935 1000 

GOVE Arnhem Rd Nhulunbuy (08) 8987 1911