Hastings Business Womens Network | Growing Tall Poppies

Charles Sturt University proudly supports Gender Equality

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Charles Sturt University is delighted to partner with HBWN to support International Women’s Day.

Women in FOCUS - An Interview with Amanda Perrin

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 21:00:00 +0000

Keep on getting up every day and showing up with a smile on your face and a positive attitude. These qualities are infectious and make for a pleasant working environment

Women in FOCUS - An Interview with Alex Glen-Holmes

Sun, 15 May 2022 23:00:00 +0000

There is an old saying “Love what you do and you will never work hard” I love working, helping, and engaging with others.

Women in FOCUS - An Interview with Tania Magon

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 22:00:00 +0000

As founder of Maven Accounting with more than 30 years of experience in taxation and accounting services, what do you enjoy most about your business? Having started my first job as admin assistant at a tax practice in Sydney over 32 years ago, tax is all I’ve ever done. I decided to start my own practice 8 years ago. I can honestly say, no two days are ever the same, every client is different with different family dynamics & investment risks. Legislation constantl...

Women in FOCUS - An Interview with Megan Philippa

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 11:00:00 +0000

Megan, The Nook recently opened over the October long weekend. Can you share the journey of bringing the café to life?
For me, opening a cafe has been on the agenda since I was 17. At 34 years old, you could say I've been planning The Nook for half of my life! Quite simply, it was a case of several key factors aligning to make this happen. Taking the leap from a steady income has been scary, especially when the economic climate is so uncertain, but the emotional support from ...

Women in FOCUS - An Interview with Kylie King

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 11:00:00 +0000

With a real estate career spanning 26 years, can you tell us more about your current role Kylie?
I've been working with my partner Ross Lindsay at Harcourts Greater Port Macquarie since 2011. My career has mainly been in property management, but with 4 office locations in Port Macquarie, Wauchope, South West Rocks and Kempsey, my role now focusses on operations management and leading our team.
In a challenging year for most industries, what type of shift have you experienc...

Women in FOCUS - An Interview with Shiree Bennett

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 10:00:00 +0000

Bennetts Steel is one of the largest privately owned steel retailers on the East Coast. Based in Wauchope for 29 years, tell us more about you and your family business. My parents founded Bennetts Steel in 1991 and established a deep tradition of working hard to support the local farming and logging industries in the Hastings, Manning, and Macleay regions. After a wonderful career in the pharmaceutical industry, I settled back in the area and joined the family business in 2014. I see myse...

Women in FOCUS - An Interview with Cara Dale

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Cara, you have been Managing Director of your business for seven years. Tell us about your role and how C2Hills Consultancy contributes to the community.
Our priority is knowledge sharing. Without knowledge, it is very hard for the community and organisations to take their vision to implementation. Particularly when the pathway involves many twists and turns. As a voice and advocate for Regional NSW, we understand constraints and issues that are unique to the regions and are solution dr...

Women in FOCUS - An Interview with Jenny Edmunds

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000

HBWN Panel Discussion - Weekly Business Update - Covid-19

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 04:00:00 +0000

A fabulous Covid-19 Business Update Virtual Event this morning, Monday 1 June 2020, with exciting updates for our local tourism and hospitality industries with guest presenter Janette Hyde, critical deadlines for JobKeeper, changes to government grants and subsidies effective today, along with some sobering statistics and support information on domestic and family violence in our community. Liberty Prevention and Awareness Specialist/Training and Development Coordinator, Brooke Mags. Brook...

Dimensions of Health, Managing Stress and Creating Positive Change

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 04:00:00 +0000

In today's world we are experiencing environmental, health and economic changes like never before and we live busier lives than ever before, so we need to get better at managing our stress than ever before! Stress is a blessing when we harness the powers it provides to our brain. We're all under a lot of stress right now, and for good reason, but it's so important that we don't let our stress become harmful to our overall health. Manage your stress and bring about posi...

COVID-19: Important updates from a business, legislative and health perspective

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 05:00:00 +0000

6 April 2020 If you missed our virtual discussion on this morning with important updates on COVID-19 from a business, legislative and health perspective you can catch up here. Special thanks to guest speakers Leslie Williams MP and Cara Dale from C2Hills Consultancy who provided valuable insights on how businesses can access support. Key takeaways included: Don't self exclude - ask for help if you're not sure what your business is eligible for Look at bushfire and COV...

HBWN Panel Discussion - COVID-19 Support 26032020

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 05:00:00 +0000

On 26/3/2020 HBWN was due to host it's Annual General Meeting. Like many organisations we were forced to postpone our event due to COVID-19. We were pleased to have the opportunity to host a Zoom Meeting with some expert women in our community; Hon Leslie Williams MP, HBWN President Kelly King, Cara Dale C2Hills Consulting and Janette Hyde President Greater Port Macquarie Tourism, to share insights and information. During this difficult and uncertain time HBWN is commited to connectin...

Business Women's Network celebrates 20th Birthday

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 02:00:00 +0000

29 November 2019. More than 80 members and guests of the Hastings Business Women's Network (HBWN) attended the 20th Birthday Celebration as their end of year event, at The Westport Club on Friday 22nd November.
Incorporated in 1999, HBWN's founding president Kellie Mills shared inspirational stories of how and why HBWN was formed. With many original members in attendance, the milestone event was a lovely opportunity to reflect on the early days, and appreciate how the network rem...

Love yourself: Why putting yourself first is good for business

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 11:00:00 +0000

"The direction of your focus is the direction your life will move. Let yourself move toward what is good, valuable, strong and true" - Ralph Marston. As important as the bottom line can be, the health of your business is also strongly linked to your own personal wellbeing. Smart business owners know that the secret to success is to ensure a well-balanced personal life for themselves, which then flows on to their own business. Here are some ideas on how to focus on you in order t...

Finding your tribe: Why your values matter

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 11:00:00 +0000

For most Gen Xers and Gen Y's, when we were growing up we were encouraged to become independent, to be self-reliant and find our own way to the top. But the truth is, humans are actually collective by nature. Throughout our lives we knowingly or sometimes subconsciously seek groups of other like-minded people with whom we can interact, share experiences and feel loved. Most of us crave social interaction, hope to have a family one day, or at least create our own social circles and ...

HBWN supports Share The Dignity

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 22:00:00 +0000

"There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up." John Holmes. Corporate Social Responsibility is a term that seems to be overused in business these days, with many big businesses lining up to tell you just how they are changing the world while making millions of dollars for their shareholders. Unfortunately, some companies see this as the new way to do PR, a way to win brownie points for their business. It's important to remember...

Networking with purpose

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 21:00:00 +0000

When it comes to professional networking, it's fair to say that most of us are divided into two schools; those who love it, and those who loathe it. For those who fear or dread networking events, the mere thought of making small talk with strangers can be very daunting. The truth is, if you're passing up networking opportunities, you're probably also missing out on valuable business opportunities too. This year the Hastings Business Women's Network is celebrating 20 years o...

HBWN Welcomes New Committee Members

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 10:00:00 +0000

The new management committee of the Hastings Business Women's Network (HBWN) will meet for the first time this week to discuss plans for future growth and the roll-out of further professional development and networking opportunities for the many local women in business that belong to the network. The committee newcomers were elected at the Network's Annual General Meeting on Thursday 28 March, which doubled as a personal development event, with 40 attendees enjoying a lively prese...

Try these three tips for fostering moments of meaning

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 07:00:00 +0000

Spending time reflecting on what builds meaning in life has high therapeutic benefits for those who are languishing. Further, what's exciting is that through the contributions of emerging fields including positive psychology and neuroscience, we now know that these benefits of meaning aren't just reserved for people experiencing low mood and sadness. The desire to live a meaningful life is amongst us all, and scientific findings demonstrate that intentionally crafting moments of m...

2019 Hastings Heroines

Sat, 09 Mar 2019 03:00:00 +0000

The Hastings Heroines awards recognise the unsung heroines of our local region as part of International Women's Day celebrations. The 2019 International Women's Day theme was Balance for Better. The awards this year acknowledged local women who are making a positive difference and leading the Hastings community towards a better gender balance. Congratulations to all our 2019 Hastings Heroines Nominees. Young Hastings Heroine Xanthia Hughes.
Xanthia Hughes was nominated...

Dream. Plan. Travel

Sat, 13 Oct 2018 05:00:00 +0000

HBWN Premiere Event Sponsor, Morgans Port Macquarie invite you to join them for an entertaining and interactive event that will show you how to plan for the trip of a lifetime. Helping to inspire and inform you about dreamy destinations will be local travel agents Leanne Townsend from Port Macquarie Travel and Lauren Howard from itravel Port Macquarie. They'll be presenting travel and savings ideas for trips on a budget of $8,000 and $15,000. There will be plenty of travel prizes...

Need Financial & Training Support to Build Your A- Team?

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Partnering with HBWN Sponsor Novaskill could offer the solutions you've been looking for! There's no denying that everyday demands of business often challenge our opportunities to strategize for future growth. A key factor in helping us take our business to the next level is having a great team. It's probably fair to say that while you're ready to move forward, the prospect of building your A-Team is on hold because recruiting is exhausting, time consuming and expe...

Focus on YOU and transform your business

Mon, 30 Apr 2018 23:00:00 +0000

Learn How Four HBWN Members Collaborated to Pull Off a Surprise Renewal of Vows Ceremony!

Thu, 19 Apr 2018 02:00:00 +0000

A fateful fusion of meetings at HBWN events resulted in four HBWN members joining forces to create a very special event earlier this month.
Louise Pearce who is a Consultant for Rodan+Fields, a premium anti-ageing skincare range, had a crazy little idea to surprise her husband with a renewal of vows ceremony to celebrate their 10-year wedding anniversary. She shared this idea with a couple of new found friends at an HBWN event and the dream soon took shape and became a reality. ...

2018 Hastings Heroines

Thu, 05 Apr 2018 08:00:00 +0000

The Hastings Heroines awards recognise the unsung heroines of our local region as part of International Women's Day celebrations. The 2018 International Women's Day awards celebrated women who encourage and strive for disruptive innovation, creating new norms in our community, in line with the international theme of #PressforProgress. Congratulations to our 2018 Hastings Heroines Nominees Young Hastings Heroines Nominees Tamara Dobson nominated by Monique Pyke/Ethan Mars...

The Importance of Mentoring

Mon, 02 Apr 2018 11:00:00 +0000

"The delicate balance of mentoring someone is not creating them in your own image, but giving them the opportunity to create themselves." Steven Spielberg Oprah, Mark Zuckerberg, Mother Theresa, Bob Dylan and Yves St. Laurent all have one thing in common, and it's not just their success as world leaders. All of these inspirational people have had a mentor at some point in their careers. Finding and building a relationship with a mentor can be one of the most beneficial t...

Refuge benefits from $18,500 from International Women's Day event

Fri, 23 Mar 2018 05:00:00 +0000

Media Release - 23 March 2018 Now in its seventh year, the International Women's Day Hastings Heroines event has raised a total of $64,250 for the Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Service (DFVSS) since 2012. This year's breakfast, held on 8 March, raised $18,500. A third of those proceeds came from the inaugural Him in Heels on 1 March, which encouraged men to be involved in the gender equality conversation in the lead up to International Women's Day. Acting CEO of...

Why the HBWN FreeThinkers program is an all-inclusive tour like no other!

Tue, 13 Mar 2018 03:45:00 +0000

Recently the Hastings Business Women's Network joined in the excitement of O Week by introducing the FreeThinkers Youth Initiative to hundreds of students, totally pumped to kickstart the next leg of their journey on Market Day @Charles Sturt University. While the feel-good vibes were contagious, we did sense a tiny hint of trepidation and impending overwhelm quietly lurking not too far under the surface. There will, absolutely hands down, be many high and lows as students take...

Local business women give generously to victims of domestic violence

Tue, 27 Feb 2018 03:00:00 +0000

Around 50 members of the Hastings Business Women's Network attended the HBWN year end celebration on Thursday 30 November as the network toasted another successful year at the stunning Ana Mandara Luxury Bed & Breakfast. The event was held in support of Australian charity 'Share the Dignity'. Attendees were asked to bring along a handbag filled with personal care items that would make a woman feel special. As usual our members were very generous, with more than 50 bags do...

Indigenous Entrepreneurship Pop Up Hub

Fri, 16 Feb 2018 03:00:00 +0000

WALAN MAYINYGU ('Strong for People' in Wiradjuri) Indigenous entrepreneurship Pop Up Hub is coming to Port Macquarie 6-8 March 2018 at the Glasshouse The Hub is open from 9-5pm and all workshops/sessions/panels and networking events are free to attend REGISTER AT https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/walan-mayinygu-port-macquarie-pop-up-tickets-33479197180 Indigenous entrepreneurs will be teaching the majority of the sessions across the program, supported by CSU and Melbourne Busin...

Business Women's Network launches new 2018 Programs

Tue, 06 Feb 2018 06:00:00 +0000

More than 60 members and guests of the Hastings Business Women's Network (HBWN) attended the launch of the January - June events calendar and the 2018 Mentoring Program at Salty's on Hastings, on Thursday 2nd February. The networking evening was the first event on the HBWN Calendar for 2018 and a wonderful opportunity for members to reconnect after the summer holidays. The calendar of events was introduced by the HBWN Committee with monthly events that will rotate bet...

Chance to celebrate women who press for progress

Tue, 30 Jan 2018 02:00:00 +0000

Do you know a local heroine who has made a positive difference for women in the Hastings community? Nominations are now open for the 2018 Hastings Heroines Awards, as part of International Women's Day celebrations.The awards recognise the efforts of unsung heroines in the local region. This year's awards celebrate women who encourage and strive for disruptive innovation, creating new norms in our community, in line with the international theme of #PressforProgress. Award wi...

Your Membership $$$ at Work

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 00:00:00 +0000

Meet Grace, Grace is just one of the 37 recipients of a scholarship granted through Hastings Education Fund. Did you know your membership $$$ have contributed directly to Grace being able to achieve her further education goals? HBWN is an annual gold sponsor of HEF and we were delighted to attend the Gala event this week to congratulate and celebrate amazing young people receive their scholarships which will support them achieve their further education goals. We thought you...

Expressions of interest for 2018 Photographers

Mon, 13 Nov 2017 10:00:00 +0000

Hastings Business Women's Network 2018 Photographers The Hastings Business Women's Network (HBWN) is seeking expressions of interest from members for the provision of photography services. Due to the nature of the role we are seeking multiple photographers in 2018. The expectation of our photographers would be to attend scheduled events as agreed with the committee and photography panel. We would also ask the photographers to attend workshops if possible. Photos will ...

Applications now open for ArtSmarts free business mentoring program

Sun, 05 Nov 2017 08:00:00 +0000

'ArtSmarts' is a six month business mentoring program that is open to local artists looking to turn their passion into a profession and succeed in their creative careers. The program is being delivered by Port Macquarie-Hastings Council in partnership with local creative business, Arthouse Industries. The mentoring program is open to all local artists, from painters to performers, from graphic artists to fashion designers.

Group Manager Lucilla Marshall...

Finding the 'Me' in Empowerment

Mon, 16 Oct 2017 02:00:00 +0000

What is empowerment all about? Empowerment is about feeling stronger and confident and that you have the authority to make the right decisions. For some it can mean having the right tools and training, opportunities and motivation to be able to do your job to the best of your ability, and ultimately be responsible for their own decisions. When we are able to confidently approach our work tasks and complete them to the best of our capability, we will feel like we make more of a diff...

Sponsor Spotlight: Oxley Insurance Brokers in the Community

Thu, 28 Sep 2017 02:00:00 +0000

The Hastings Business Women's Network enjoys a strong relationship with many local businesses, including Oxley Insurance Brokers. As our Premier Event Sponsor, Oxley Insurance Brokers sponsor our well attended calendar launches in January and June where we reveal the next six months of networking and professional development events. Oxley Insurance Brokers is committed to the community and provide smart insurance strategies to women, which is one of the reasons that they support th...

Business Women Down Tools for Empowerment Event

Sat, 16 Sep 2017 00:00:00 +0000

Female business owners and employees will attend a different kind of workshop this week, ditching the suits in favour of lycra, and meeting at the beach rather than the boardroom. Hastings Business Women's Network members will participate in a Mind Body Session with Innovate Body and Mind on Thursday 21 September at Flynn's Beach. The HBWN focuses on encouraging, empowering and educating women in the Hastings region to be their best. The theme of Thursday's event will be ab...

Parker & Co Communications Rebrand

Sun, 27 Aug 2017 23:00:00 +0000

Michelle who? Newman Communications has received a little makeover. Introducing Parker & Co Communications. New name. New logo. Same clever, creative communications campaigns. Does your brand need a refresh or a complete overhaul? When is the right time? And how on earth do you go about such a monumental task? Why? When did your logo last get a spruce up? Is it old, tired and damaging your brand? Or has your business name changed? Are you launching a new venture? Knowi...

Your membership dollars at work in our local community

Fri, 28 Jul 2017 07:00:00 +0000

Luminosity Youth Summit Scholarship HBWN's Luminosity Youth Summit Scholarship is an outstanding example of your HBWN membership dollars at work for the youth in our community. Membership Coordinator Mel Haverfield was lucky enough to experience some of the Luminosity magic with HBWN FreeThinkers Kahlee Johnstone (Scholarship recipient) and Tamara Dobson, who fundraised to take her team of 13 Martial Arts students with her! The Luminosity Youth Summit is about inspiring and...

The Export Council of Australia (ECA) heads to Port Macquarie

Mon, 17 Jul 2017 02:00:00 +0000

The Export Council of Australia (ECA) is headed to Port Macquarie to present an afternoon event packed with information and resources for exporters looking to expand into the ASEAN market. Whether an emerging or established export business, NOW is the time for companies to capitalise on business opportunities across the ASEAN region. Exporters are invited to this FREE roadshow event on Thursday 27 July 3.30pm-5.30pm @ Glasshouse Port Macquarie, where a range of service providers and ex...

Business Women Announce Events for Second Half of 2017

Thu, 06 Jul 2017 02:00:00 +0000

Over 50 local female business owners and employees kicked off the winter blues to attend a relaxing evening at Cassegrain's Seasons Restaurant for the Hastings Business Women's Network's (HBWN) mid-year event calendar launch.

The gathering of like-minded women was an opportunity to socialise, network and hear what the HBWN has planned for the rest of 2017.

HBWN events are held monthly at various venues and times. Events rotate between breakfast, lunch and cocktail hou...

CSU Start Something Workshop

Mon, 05 Jun 2017 02:00:00 +0000

Do you have a bright idea that would help your community and the natural world, but keep thinking, 'How do I start? What do I do next?'

The Start Something workshop may be what you have been looking for.

In conjunction with the Office of Environment and Heritage, Charles Sturt University will be hosting the Start Something workshop on Saturday June 17th from 9:30am to 5:30pm at the Port Macquarie Campus.

Free to attend, the workshop will focus on three skills areas: shaping y...

Table Talk Workshop Inspires Local Business Women

Mon, 29 May 2017 04:00:00 +0000

Female business owners and employees attended a dynamic luncheon event with the Hastings Business Women's Network on Thursday 25 May to gain a greater understanding of how to improve their customer experience. With a goal to gain as much customer service inspiration as possible within their lunch break, the group of business women were divided into Table Talk Workshops and each assigned a customer experience expert as a group facilitator. Sessions were then guided to encourage group ...

Port Macquarie Domestic Violence Forum

Sat, 27 May 2017 23:00:00 +0000

ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY? Hastings Business Women's Network is pleased to support this initiative hosted by Leslie Williams MP and the Hon Pru Goward MP, Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. The Port Macquarie Domestic and Family Violence Forum will bring together domestic and family violence service providers from government and non-government agencies, as well as community members, to discuss one of the most co...

FreeThinkers Flourish

Sat, 27 May 2017 23:00:00 +0000

The Freethinkers Youth Initiative is simply flourishing with dynamic partnerships and exciting developments. We love how these women are supporting each other and embracing the mutual gifts of mentoring at our first Freethinkers "think tank" sesh over drinks and cheese platters on a Saturday afternoon - such an energising way to connect as a group! Sarah and her mentor Tania generally catch up on the phone, email or FaceTime. This was a rare but lov...

Sales Growth Hacking

Wed, 10 May 2017 23:00:00 +0000

It was a beautiful morning for a delicious breakfast and some quick networking at Rainforest Cafe on Thursday 27 April, before we leapt into the high energy presentation from our special guest Annette Lackovic. Annette, Australia's Leading Sales Expert, shared her simple, easy and highly effective strategies to get our businesses exploding with phenomenal results. As a special offer to HBWN Members, Annette will be back in June to collaborate with HBWN Professional Development ...

Record funds raised for Domestic & Family Violence Specialist Service

Fri, 21 Apr 2017 04:00:00 +0000

The HBWN, in partnership with Leslie Williams MP, celebrated International Women's Day on 8 March 2017 with a record crowd attending to hear 2015 Australian of the Year Rosie Batty, and honour our 2017 Hastings Heroines. The event raised $15,500 for the Port Macquarie Hastings Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Service with proceeds going toward the ongoing refurbishment of the Women's Refuge. We are incredibly grateful for the support of our event sponsors Focus Port ...

Just for Fun Cruise

Mon, 03 Apr 2017 23:00:00 +0000

L-R: HBWN Members Liesa Davies, Lucilla Marshall, Mandy Larkin, Kristy Judge On Friday 31 March, the HBWN hosted a special 'Pop Up' networking event at The Cruise Terminal.
The cruise provided an informal opportunity for HBWN members and their guests to enjoy a relaxed night of fun and networking. Against all the odds, we enjoyed a beautiful sunset cruise! The cocktails and conversations flowed freely on calm waters, which was a wonderful way to finish off the week. M...

2017 Hastings Heroines

Mon, 03 Apr 2017 05:00:00 +0000

The Hastings Heroines awards recognise the unsung heroines of our local region as part of International Women's Day celebrations. 'The 2017 International Women's Day theme was 'Unity". The awards this year celebrated women that provide strength and cohesion to support and connect the Hastings community. Congratulations to all our 2017 Hastings Heroines Nominees. Lisa McLeod - Highly Commended
Lisa is a strong leader, as the President of the Pappinbarra Progre...

Rosie Batty heads International Women's Day breakfast in Port Macquarie

Thu, 09 Mar 2017 03:00:00 +0000

Extract from Port Macquarie News 8.3.17 Before a record-breaking crowd of 370, Rosie spoke boldly about making that change happen. "You and I have an equal responsibility to be a part of a community to fix this issue. Because it's always been there doesn't mean there is a place for it to continue. It's up to us." "The journey forward about being bold and being change is doing this together. We can't do it separately. And how much more rewarding is...

Tanya Simmons named 2017 Hastings Heroine Awards winner

Wed, 08 Mar 2017 22:30:00 +0000

Extract from Port Macquarie News 8.3.17 It was a day to celebrate Hastings women who are making a difference and Wauchope business woman Tanya Simmons is leading the way. Tanya was named the winner of the 2017 Hastings Heroine Awards at the Hastings Business Women's Network breakfast on March 8. The event celebrated International Women's Day and was headlined by guest speaker Rosie Batty. More than $15,000 is expected to be raised for the Port Macquarie-Hastings Domest...

Freethinkers Youth Membership

Fri, 10 Feb 2017 05:00:00 +0000

The FreeThinkers Youth Membership initiative has now been launched! Freethinkers is a term used to describe intelligent, confident and creative people who are willing to learn and willing to share, always up for an adventure and keen to make a meaningful impact in life.
FreeThinkers is an HBWN initiative designed to empower, educate and encourage young women aged 16-25 years. The fundamental premise of this membership is to offer mentorship, support and guidance to enable our fa...

Successful 2017 January - June Calendar Launch

Thu, 09 Feb 2017 04:00:00 +0000

50 members and guests of the Hastings Business Women's Network (HBWN) attended the launch of the January - June events calendar and two exciting new mentoring programs at Little Fish Cafe and Restaurant on Thursday 2nd February. The networking evening was the first event on the HBWN Calendar for 2017 and a wonderful opportunity for members to reconnect after the summer holidays. The calendar of events was introduced by the HBWN Committee with events held the last Thursday of th...

REAP Food Rescue Receives Large Donation

Thu, 09 Feb 2017 00:00:00 +0000

Members of the Hastings Business Women's Network Reap and Sow Committee presented a cheque to Katrina Humble of REAP Food Rescue by OzHarvest at the Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre. A sizable donation of $12,261 was raised at the Reap & Sow fundraising event in November. The Hastings Business Women's Network (HBWN), Dragonfly Marketing, Charles Sturt University (CSU), XS Foods, SNAP and Port Macquarie Taxis organised and sponsored the Reap & Sow event with all proc...

January - June 2017 Calendar Launch

Sun, 29 Jan 2017 00:00:00 +0000

The Hastings Business Women's Network (HBWN) is very excited to announce a new mentoring program and events planned for the first half of 2017. On Thursday, 2nd February, members and guests are invited to Little Fish Cafe and Restaurant to welcome in 2017. The HBWN focuses on encouraging, empowering and educating women in the Hastings region to be their best. The theme of Thursday's event will be about the new networking events, professional development programs and the excitin...

Hastings Heroines International Women's Day Event 70% sold out!

Sun, 18 Dec 2016 22:00:00 +0000

The HBWN, in partnership with Leslie Williams MP, are honoured to welcome 2015 Australian of the Year Rosie Batty to share her story and the incredible work of the Luke Batty Foundation at our annual International Women's Day Hastings Heroines event on 8 March 2017. The Hastings Heroines awards recognise the unsung heroines of our local region as part of International Women's Day celebrations. The theme for the 2017 Hastings Heroines Awards is Unity. The awards this year will cele...

Rosie Batty to speak in Port Macquarie on International Women's Day 2017

Tue, 29 Nov 2016 08:00:00 +0000

Domestic violence campaigner Rosie Batty will be the guest speaker for the Hastings Heroines Awards - International Women's Day breakfast on 8 March 2017.
Leslie Williams MP said, "We're honoured to welcome 2015 Australian of the Year Rosie Batty to share her story and the incredible work of the Luke Batty Foundation with us." "Statistics show two women are killed every week on average. Rosie is a leader in the crusade against domestic violence and has turned her p...

Bravehearts Mid North Coast Breakfast

Mon, 21 Nov 2016 00:00:00 +0000

HBWN Members and Guests are invited to support the 3rd Annual Fundraising Breakfast for Bravehearts Mid North Coast.

The breakfast will be held at Port Macquarie Panthers on Thursday 24th November @6.45am.

Read more here for more details on how to book......

Events Calendar for July-December 2016

Tue, 05 Jul 2016 09:00:00 +0000

Click to download enlarged pdf.

Sara Phillips

Wed, 27 Apr 2016 02:00:00 +0000

Welcome new member Sara Phillips. Sara is a life coach and parent educator.

Sara's Profile

Vital Voices Video

Thu, 07 Apr 2016 01:00:00 +0000

Check out a 1 minute video that captures the essence of an inspirational morning.

https://vimeo.com/161689999

Leadership Panel Sneak Peak

Sun, 27 Mar 2016 23:00:00 +0000

Take an early peak. Two panel members share their thoughts with us on leadership. More inspiration to come at the HBWN Professional Development Launch breakfast this Thursday 31 March.

Leadership Article

Nicole Langdon

Mon, 01 Feb 2016 13:00:00 +0000

Welcome new member Nicole Landgon

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY BREAKFAST TO HONOR LOCAL HEROINES

Fri, 29 Jan 2016 01:00:00 +0000

The search is on again for local women who have made a lasting impression on the community, as part of the annual Hastings Heroines event. The Hastings Business Women's Network and Member for Port Macquarie, Leslie Williams MP, are calling on the community to help them unearth some of our region's unsung heroines. 'Pledge for Parity' is the adopted theme for International Women's Day 2016 and it challenges us all to look for ways to keep boosting the focus on eq...

Loris Hendy and Robyn Flanagan Honoured as Life Members

Sun, 29 Nov 2015 05:00:00 +0000

Two local business women were inducted as lifetime members to the Hastings Business Women's Network (HBWN) on 20 November. During the Network's end of the year Christmas celebration, Robyn Flanagan, proprietor of Wauchope Travel, and Loris Hendy, solicitor with Priest Legal, received the respected "Tall Poppy" award. The Tall Poppy award is a great honour for local women who have made a significant contribution to the Hastings Business Women's Network and its members. &q...

HBWN Welcomes New Committee

Mon, 09 Nov 2015 01:00:00 +0000

We would like to welcome our new and continuing committee representatives: President Karen Archer, Vice President Carol Baker, Secretary Jenny Edmunds, Treasurer Tania Magon, Membership Coordinator Mel Haverfield, Communications Coordinator Jody Carey, Events Coordinator Therese Pearce and Professional Development Coordinator Veronica Lind. Our enthusiastic new committee members bring a range of professional skills and experience to the Network and are now all hard at work preparing for s...

Business Women invited to gain insight into local economic development

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 05:00:00 +0000

Local business women are invited to attend a networking breakfast with the Hastings Business Women's Network on Thursday 27 August to gain insight into local economic issues. Councillor Rob Turner, Chairman of the Port Macquarie-Hastings Economic Development Steering Group (EDSG), and Liesa Davies, Group Manager of Economic Development at Port Macquarie-Hastings Council will be addressing the group with an update of Council's Economic Development Strategy. This event aims t...

Bootcamp Delivers for Local Business Women

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 05:00:00 +0000

Attendees at the first Business Bootcamp workshop agree their business is stronger after participating in the Conflict Resolution session last week, presented by the Hastings Business Women's Network in collaboration with North Coast TAFE. As the HBWN Professional Development sponsor, North Coast TAFE has scheduled a series of three workshops designed to assist participants with conflict resolution, collaborative technology and public speaking. TVET students, currently taking a...

SAVE THE DATE - CHRISTMAS PARADE

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 22:00:00 +0000

It's almost that time of year again! Christmas Parade Santa Fun Run Concert and Tree Lighting A Fireworks Spectacular Thursday 26th November 2015 Anyone that would like to be part of the parade to showcase your business or organisation please contact Alex Glen-Holmes ...

Business Women gain skills and friendships through Mentor Program

Mon, 03 Aug 2015 21:00:00 +0000

A group of local women are set to take their businesses to the next level, after graduating from the 2015 Hastings Business Women's Network Mentoring Program at a presentation night at Town Green Inn on Thursday 30 July. Five mentorees from a variety of backgrounds including photography, dog obedience, art therapy and online retailing took part in the program, receiving support from five mentors willing to share their own business experience and expertise. The 20 week program i...

Shape up with Business Bootcamp Workshops

Fri, 31 Jul 2015 03:00:00 +0000

Local businesses are invited to shape up their skillsets at a series of Business Bootcamp workshops during August, September and October, to be presented by the Hastings Business Women's Network in collaboration with North Coast TAFE. HBWN President Karen Archer said the workshops would cover a range of topics including how to resolve conflict, make the most of collaborative technologies and overcome public speaking nerves. "We've teamed up with North Coast TAFE to dev...

2015 Holiday Coast Credit Union Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards are NOW OPEN!

Thu, 02 Jul 2015 03:00:00 +0000

HBWN is proud to sponsor the Greater Port Macquarie Woman in Business Award for females who have owned their own business (or co-owned) for at least 12 months and who have fostered growth and development in their business while contributing to the local community. Eligibility criteria: Business is owned or coowned by a woman.
Woman nominating has owned/coowned the business for 12 months or more. Business holds an ABN or CAN Voting closes: 10/7/2015 and anyone can nominate a business. So g...

Women who 'Make It Happen' honoured at Hastings Heroines Awards

Mon, 09 Mar 2015 03:00:00 +0000

Women who 'Make It Happen' honoured at Hastings Heroines Awards
Seven outstanding women who have dedicated themselves to making a difference in the local community were honoured at the Hastings Heroines - International Women's Day 2015 event on Friday 6 March.
From the field of seven nominees, Janine Buesnel was announced as the Hastings Heroine for 2015 at a fundraising function attended by almost 200 women and men at the St Columba Anglican School's Iona Centre.
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Business women kick up their heels to kick off the year

Wed, 21 Jan 2015 06:00:00 +0000

All women business owners, sole traders and employees across the Port Macquarie Hastings region are invited to a special cocktail evening with the Hastings Business Women's Network on Thursday 29 January to learn more about the organisation and hear what's planned for 2015. HBWN President Karen Archer said the informal event will provide a great opportunity for those considering joining the network to meet some members and learn about the benefits of belonging to the ...

Do You Know A Hastings Heroine?

Fri, 16 Jan 2015 07:00:00 +0000

The search is on for local women who 'Make It Happen' in our local community, as part of the annual Hastings Heroines event to be held on Friday 6 March to celebrate International Women's Day 2015. The Hastings Business Women's Network (HBWN) and Member for Port Macquarie, Leslie Williams MP, are calling on the community to help them unearth some of our region's unsung heroines. HBWN President Karen Archer said the Hastings Heroines awards honour inspi...

Tall Poppies Honoured as Hastings Business Women's Network Celebrates 15 Years

Sun, 23 Nov 2014 07:00:00 +0000

More than 75 Hastings Business Women's Network (HBWN) members kicked up their heels on Friday night to celebrate 15 years of encouraging, empowering and educating women in business in Port Macquarie and surrounding regions. This exciting milestone event provided the perfect opportunity for members past and present to come together and reflect on the Network's achievements and enjoy a fun night out. The night also served as an opportunity to fundraise for...

Business Women's Commitee Welcomes Newcomers

Fri, 14 Nov 2014 06:00:00 +0000

The new management committee of the Hastings Business Women's Network (HBWN) met for the first time this week to discuss plans for future growth and the rollout of enhanced benefits for the 200+ local women in business that belong to the network. The committee newcomers were elected at the Network's Annual General Meeting on Thursday 30 October, which doubled as a fundraiser for breast cancer, with 50 attendees successfully raising more than $450 for the Nat...

Business Knowledge and Insights To Be Exchanged at HBWN Luncheon

Mon, 22 Sep 2014 06:00:00 +0000

Local business women are invited to attend a networking breakfast event with the Hastings Business Women's Network on Thursday 25 September at the Mercure Centro Hotel to gain knowledge and insight into some fundamental business functions. Luncheon attendees will have the choice to join small workshop groups that will be facilitated by an industry expert. Each group will focus on a different business function including leadership, conflict resolution, accoun...

Mentor Program Helps Local Business Women Reach Their Potential

Fri, 12 Sep 2014 06:00:00 +0000

Eight local business women celebrated their graduation from the Hastings Business Women's Network Mentoring Program at a special evening event on Thursday 11 September at the Town Green Inn. The mentoring program was conducted over a six month period and involved 24 hours of one-on-one mentoring coaching sessions as well as seven professionally facilitated business seminars. Program Coordinator and HBWN Member Wendy Stow said the ceremony provided a great opport...

Business women invited to gain insight into local economic issues

Sun, 17 Aug 2014 06:00:00 +0000

Local business women are invited to attend a networking breakfast event with the Hastings Business Women's Network on Thursday 28 August to gain insight into local economic issues. Liesa Davies, Group Manager of Economic Development at Port Macquarie-Hastings Council will be addressing the group with a 'Day in the Life' style presentation. This presentation aims to illustrate the scope of projects that the Economic Development team are working on as they striv...

Marketing Ideas Exchange Inspires Local Business Women

Mon, 04 Aug 2014 06:00:00 +0000

Almost 50 local female business owners and employees attended a dynamic luncheon event with the Hastings Business Women's Network on Thursday 31 July to exchange creative marketing ideas and savvy solutions. With a goal to gain as much marketing inspiration as possible within their lunch break, the group of business women were divided into marketing topics and each assigned a marketing expert as a group facilitator. Sessions were then guided to encourage gro...

Exciting happenings lay ahead for local business women

Sun, 29 Jun 2014 06:00:00 +0000

Over 50 local women business owners, sole traders and employees across the Hastings attended a special cocktail evening with the Hastings Business Women's Network on Thursday 26th June at Black Duck Brewery to hear what events and initiatives the network has planned for the remainder of 2014. HBWN President Kelly Lamb said the informal event provided a great opportunity for members as well as those considering joining the group to get together and learn about th...

HBWN Dinner Reap's over $3700 for Local Food Rescue Charity

Mon, 16 Jun 2014 07:00:00 +0000

Over 100 guests came together last night at the Hastings Business Women's Network Reap and Sow Dinner held at the Tacking Point Surf Life Saving Club. The Hastings Business Women's Network hosted the Reap and Sow event in an effort to promote the positive environmental and humanitarian impacts of using excess food to feed disadvantaged members of our community. Keynote speaker and founder of OzHarvest, Ronni Kahn shared her journey as a successful entrepreneu...

Inspiring Positive Change - Hastings Business Women's Network Reap and Sow Dinner

Mon, 26 May 2014 07:00:00 +0000

Members of the Hastings Community have been invited to come together at the Reap and Sow Dinner on Thursday 5th June to inspire positive change as they raise awareness of the valuable impact that food rescue charities OzHarvest and REAP Port Macquarie have within our local community. The Hastings Business Women's Network are hosting the Reap and Sow event in an effort to promote the positive environmental and humanitarian impacts of using excess food to feed disadvan...

Business Women Honour War Veteran Heroes

Thu, 24 Apr 2014 06:00:00 +0000

The Hastings Business Women's Network hosted a special breakfast event on Thursday 24 April at the Wauchope RSL to commemorate ANZAC Day and to express thanks and gratitude to the men and women of our defence forces, both past and present, who have served our nation. As part of the proceedings, around 30 local business women were privileged to hear locally based, modern day war veteran David Lee's personal account of his six years spent in the armed forces of the U.S...

Business Women Benefit from Marketing panel of Experts

Fri, 28 Mar 2014 06:00:00 +0000

Just over 50 local women business owners, sole traders and employees attended a special breakfast event with the Hastings Business Women's Network on Thursday 27 March to learn more about effective marketing techniques and business development. Questions around public relations, social media marketing, websites, campaign measurement and business development techniques were answered by a line-up of marketing experts including Michelle Newman from Newman Communica...