Port Stephens Women in Business Major Fundraiser Luncheon

EPS staff attended the Port Stephens Women in Business major fundraiser luncheon at Horizons Golf Resort at the end of last month. The purpose of the luncheon was to raise money for the Yacaaba Centre for Homeless Services. The luncheon featured speeches by local women on the theme of ‘Women Empowering Women’ and allowed EPS staff an opportunity to be inspired by, and connect to, other local women in business.

The speakers were four prominent local business women from contrasting backgrounds. Firstly, Tracey Friend, a local business woman with experience in the military aviation sector, spoke about the power women have to form strong networks and the importance of leadership, mentoring and training.  Secondly, Kim McGann, a local beauty and success coach, talked about her experience conquering fears of inadequacy associated with being young, female and from a regional area and how she has succeeded on an international platform through personal branding and determination. Mel Histon then spoke about her experience running a charitable organisation that assists victims of domestic violence and that connecting with, and supporting, other women is critical. Kate Washington, Member for Port Stephens, Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education and Shadow Minister for the Hunter made the final speech of the luncheon which focused on her experience as a woman in the political space and her aims to reduce the cost of early childhood care to increase professional opportunities for women.

At the conclusion of the luncheon the Port Stephens Women in Business – Business Woman of the Year 2016 was awarded to Melody Williams from Totally Workwear Salamander Bay, the suppliers of the EPS uniforms and PPE. EPS wishes to congratulate Melody Williams and Totally Workwear Salamander Bay on this wonderful achievement.

EPS staff felt it was highly inspirational to hear from Port Stephens women succeeding in their business, charity and political pursuits on local, regional and global scales.