She originally graduated in Agricultural science, but finding no jobs she was the first student of dietetics at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.
Her father was in charge of a store but he died when she was about six and the family re-located to the Sydney suburb of Gordon where she attended Ravenswood School for Girls.
Her first career choice was underpinned by a degree in agricultural science from the University of Sydney[1] but despite this she could not find relevant employment.
Woodhill's mother had heard Edith Tilton speak about diet and she suggested that this might suit her daughter.
[1] She was awarded an OBE in 1973[3] and ten years later the Dietitians Association of Australia made her a life member.