About Us

HBWN Members Inspire Brighter Futures

The Hastings Business Women's Network (HBWN) has been connecting women in business in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region since 1999. HBWN is a vibrant, active network. We host regular networking events and professional development opportunities and provide mentoring, sponsorship and fundraising initiatives.

2021 Annual Report

An overview of HBWN 2019 events and initiatives. We sincerely thank Jody Carey and Snap Port Macquarie for collating a fabulous looking report! Click here to view the 2021 Annual Report.

HBWN Membership

One Membership...many benefits for only $85 per year (that's only $7 per month!)

There are many benefits to being a HBWN Member, including discounted event tickets, invites to professional development masterclasses, exclusive access to our online community, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded business women who are part of a community who welcome, encourage and empower each other to be the best they can be.

Our History

The HBWN was founded in 1999 by advertising executive Kellie Mills and a small collective of like-minded business women. Disrupting the traditional status quo of business networks, they formed a business network to support women's professional growth.

Kellie Mills served as President for the first six years and was succeeded by newsagency owner/operator Gale Oxenford who held the position for the next six years. Following Gale, former bank manager Kelly Lamb took on the role from 2011-2014. Local naturopath Karen Archer held th the presidency in 2015 and 2016. Current President, local businesswoman Kelly King commenced in the position in October 2016.

Our Vision

The Hastings Business Women's Network is committed to:
  • Inspiring members to achieve their goals
  • Dedicated to growth and development
  • Providing a sense of belonging
  • Remaining relevant to the needs of our network and the community

Growing Tall Poppies

We passionately believe it is the right of every business woman
to hold her head high and, like the tall poppy, stand out from the crowd"

The HBWN icon is a clean, fresh take on the traditional Poppy. It symbolises the different generations of women that are a part of the organisation and represents the right of every woman to be bold and hold her head high and stand out from the crowd.

Each petal reflects our core values: encourage, educate, empower and embrace. The organisation embraces the 'tall poppy' philosophy and encourages members to be proud of and promote their success at all levels.

By supporting and promoting the achievements of our talented members, HBWN elevate the contribution local business women make to our economy and community.