Committee

President - Sharon Ekendahl

Sharon is a Chartered Accountant and the Principal at Coast Consult, providing innovative bookkeeping and business services to small business in and around the Hastings area (and beyond). Sharon is a highly driven individual who is passionate about improving organisational systems and developing workforce skills and capability.

Sharon has been actively involved in the community and has held roles on other committees and Boards. 

Sharon's Member Profile

 

HBWN President & Spokesperson - Skye Petho

vice president - tarym wright

As the Vice President, Tarym is responsible for assisting the President to fulfil her responsibilities for the governance and success of the organisation. This may include representing the Network within the community, relieving for the President and chairing meetings at short notice. 

The Vice President works to build good relationships between the Committee, members and networks and organisations and to achieve the organisation’s agreed goals. At times this means communicating with the President and providing feedback to help her understand concerns and alternative points of view within the Network. 

 

With a genuine passion for people, Tarym brings energy and enthusiasm, combined with honesty and professionalism to her role with the HBWN. 

Tarym's Member Profile

HBWN Treasurer - Sharon Ekendahl

Treasurer - Julia Kraemer

As HBWN Treasurer, Julia is responsible for all aspects of financial management, working closely with other members of the Committee to safeguard the organisation's finances.

Julia's Member Profile

HBWN Treasurer - Julia Kraemer

Secretary - Kelly Carter

Kelly is the franchise owner of Mortgage Choice in Port Macquarie and embarked on her broking journey with a mission to make a difference. She has been recognised as one of MPA's Elite Women in the Mortgage Industry 2023 and a finalist for Wellness Advocate of the Year at the Australian Business Awards 2024, along with other industry accolades.

An advocate for financial literacy, Kelly is passionate about educating young people to empower them for a prosperous future. As a mother of three Gen Z daughters, all aspiring to achieve financial freedom, Kelly understands the challenges and ambitions of young adults taking their first leap into homeownership.

As a business owner, Kelly finds joy in connecting with other small businesses within the community to help share networks and drive mutual success.

Kelly's Member Profile

HBWN Secretary - Charmain Woods

Events Coordinator - Maddie Wilson

Madison, our Events Coordinator, is an accomplished and multi-award-winning business owner, leading Letz Get Lit 2444, Any Occasion Cakes & Party Food, Love Letters Port Macquarie, and Little Whispers Picnics & Teepees. With a professional background in the finance industry, Madison displays a remarkable balance of skills and business acumen. As the Vice President of Beechwood Public School P&C, she is a dedicated member of the community, contributing her time and expertise to support the school's initiatives.

Madison’s flair for cake baking and innovative catering services has been instrumental in establishing her as a renowned figure in the events industry. Her exceptional organisational skills, attention to detail, and passion for crafting memorable experiences make her an indispensable asset in planning and coordinating memorable parties and events. Maddie is a pivotal and valuable figure in the Hastings Business Women’s Network who brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique skill set to the organisation.

Maddie's Member Profile

HBWN Events Coordinator - Laura Fava

Professional Development Coordinator - Ros Trotter

The Professional Development Coordinator is responsible for the coordination of PD activities and programs that form part of the HBWN annual events calendar. 

As an HR Consultant, Training Coordinator, EI Coach, and Project Manager, Ros brings a wealth of experience in developing and implementing strategic training programs, fostering emotional intelligence in teams, and creating positive and productive workplace culture to the PD Coordinator role.

Ros' Member Profile

 

HBWN Professional Development Coordinator - Julie O'Shea

Sponsorship Coordinator - Position Vacant

If you are interested in getting involved with the HBWN committee please contact Sharon to discuss. 

Mob: 0431 510 071

This position is currently vacant. 

HBWN Membership Coordinator -  Tarym Wright

Communications Coordinator - Abby Koch

Abby is a lifelong Port Macquarie local with deep roots in the community. By day, she is a Licensed Real Estate Agent known for her passion for people and delivering excellent client service. Abby brings that same energy and enthusiasm to her role as the Social Media Coordinator for the HBWN.

In her role, Abby plays a crucial role in enhancing the organisation's online presence and engagement. She creates and manages captivating content to promote HBWN events, initiatives, and member activities, ensuring maximum visibility and participation. With a strong focus on building relationships, Abby contributes to the growth and vibrancy of the HBWN community. She also prioritises supporting local and small businesses, makers, and creatives where possible, reflecting her commitment to the community.

Abby's Member Profile

 

 

Membership Coordinator - Bianca Moore

Hey, I’m Bianca—owner of The Witchy Nook, part-time crystal slinger, full-time magic maker, and now proud committee member of the Hastings Business Women’s Network.

I run a little slice of witchy heaven in Port Macquarie where you’ll find crystals, candles, herbs, spell jars, and a whole lot of good vibes. I also host workshops, sound baths, readings, and meditations to help people tap into their power. 

I’m all about community, connection, and lifting others up—whether that’s through my charity work with Bravehearts, Share the Dignity and The Nutured Village, or simply creating a space where people can show up exactly as they are in store.

Joining HBWN felt like a no-brainer—I love supporting other women in business and showing that you can be spiritual, successful, and have fun all at once.

HBWN Sponsorship Coordinator - Gerry Buckland