About Us

HBWN Members Inspire Brighter Futures

"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"

Hastings Business Women's Network was founded in 1999 by 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.

This year we celebrate their foresight and a milestone birthday. Proudly reflecting on how HBWN has evolved over 20 years and applauding the achievements of our members.

HBWN is a vibrant, active network in the Port Macquarie Hastings community.

In addition to mentoring, sponsorship and fundraising initiatives, HBWN hosts monthly events that include networking & professional development opportunities, mentoring, sponsorships and fundraising initiatives.

What Your HBWN Membership Offers in 2019

• HBWN website Member Profile & Directory Listing - building your network online.
• Poppy Connect Group - member only access to connect in a private Facebook group.
• Poppy Connections - quarterly e-newsletter subscription.
• Member Discounts - VIP member discounts to HBWN events & workshops.
• Networking - develop relationships face to face at coffee or cocktail events.
• Professional Development - workshops designed and delivered by industry experts.
• Social Connections - connect & promote via HBWN LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
• Member Promotions - share offers and promotions online via the HBWN website.
• FreeThinkers - a subsidised HBWN youth initiative for women aged 16-25 years.
• International Women's Day - building awareness and raising over $60,000 to date. Supporting local crisis accomodation for women & children escaping domestic violence.
• Port Chamber Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards - enables HBWN to sponsor the Woman In Business Award annually.
• Hastings Education Fund - enables HBWN to sponsor $1000.00 annually for local students seeking a financial grant to access tertiary education.
• Luminosity Youth Summit - enables HBWN to sponsor $295.00 annually for a young woman to attend the 3 Day Youth Summit held in Port Macquarie.
• Share The Dignity - enables HBWN to join a nationwide initiative who gift handbags filled with personal items for local women who are homeless or living in crisis.

HBWN's vision to encourage, empower and educate women does not waiver.

As a HBWN member or sponsor you are a valuable contributor to this legacy.

Together we'll continue to inspire brighter futures for all women in our local community.

Our future looks bright and we would love for you to be part of it!

Become a Member today

Become a Sponsor today.

Our History

The HBWN was founded in 1999 by advertising executive Kellie Mills, who served as President for the first six years. Kellie 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. 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

The red poppy flower is the recognisable symbol of the Hastings Business Women's Network. In the HBWN tall poppies are celebrated, not cut down. The HBWN believes it is the right of every business woman to hold her head high and, like the tall poppy, stand out from the crowd. The organisation encourages members to be proud of and promote their success in all fields, at all levels.