The Community and Business Women’s Network – Central Coast was launched in March and has been holding sold-out monthly events since May.
The network was the brainchild of Sharyn Burgess, Community and Engagement Officer with the Iris Foundation, which oversees it.
“We got the network underway at our International Women’s Day breakfast and had our first event in May,” Ms Burgess said.
“We have a breakfast or luncheon meeting each month and the response has been overwhelming.”
Networking opportunities
With a long background in working with various business chambers, Ms Burgess saw a gap in networking opportunities for women in the north of the region.
“I am passionate about women being involved in business and the community and there was just nowhere for them to meet and support each other at the northern end of the Coast,” she said.
“It’s all about connection – not feeling isolated. Many of the ladies who come along work from home and it’s important for them to be able to get together with other women in similar circumstances.
“We have some retirees who come along, women involved win community organisations or big business – women who are running their own businesses or working party-plan – everyone is welcome.
“We are also seeing a lot of women who are new to the area and we are helping them make friends as well as business contacts.
Giving back
“Women need other women – it’s as simple as that.”
With no funding yet, the network advertises its monthly through its Facebook page, with hopes of a website in the future.
“Our mission is to cultivate an environment where local women are able to network with confidence and equality, to be enriched through learning, to prosper through connection and friendships and to give back to our community through the Central Coast Because We Care program and other local community projects,” Ms Burgess said.
“Local women with local stories connect monthly at our community and business women's network events, where we feature inspirational speakers, great food and networking.”
Make sure you jump online and book your ticket today! Feel free to forward this email to someone who you feel would benefit from or be interested in joining our group.
The network next meets on October 9 at The Art House, Wyong.
The network next meets on October 9 at The Art House, Wyong.
There will be a talk by the theatre’s executive director Anne-Marie Heath, who will outline her personal journey in the world of Australian performing arts.
The luncheon meeting will be held from noon to 2pm and tickets cost $38.50.
Bookings: 4335 1485 or go to thearthousewyong.com.au For details on the network: call 0414 341 010 or email: sharyn@irisfoundation.org.au
