Focus PMQ Women in Business 2023

Positive ENERGY ADVENTURES & RETREATS

What sets you apart from your competitors?

Our customer service and Canon technology. Our Colourworks Port Macquarie branch has just been awarded Canon Australia’s NSW partner of the year for 2022. More businesses are choosing Colourworks as their print partner because they see the value we provide. It’s not about selling a photocopier and coming back in 5 years to upgrade. We conduct regular reviews so customers actually see the benefits they’re getting. This along with leveraging Canon technology, which won line of the year again in 2022, means you’re investing in the most reliable brand on the market and supported by the largest print provider in our region.

What have you learned in the last 12 months that inspires you professionally? Be true to yourself, do right by others and believe in your worth.

What advice do you have for other women working in a fast paced world? Just keep doing what you believe in. Give to others but remember to give to yourself.

I have a young family and a career that’s not your standard 9am-5pm. Being part of our community is so important to me and I just want to make a difference. That’s why I also volunteer on several local committees and boards and am a member of HBWN, Business Port Macquarie and BNI networks. Tell us about your individual strengths from a business and personal perspective. Knowledge, trust and relationships. This is my 29th year in print management so my industry knowledge is certainly a key strength. Business owners have come to trust me and rely on my recommendations, which I am so grateful for. Change can be daunting but doesn’t need to be with a partner who is there every step of the way. I certainly don’t sell and move on, why would you want to. For me once a client comes on board, the relationships we build and the ride that follows is why I still do what I do.

clairem@colourworks.com.au

0407 145 503

colourworks.com.au

Describe your business in one sentence.

Positive Energy Adventures & Retreats is a three-day, pack free, 35km hike from Port Macquarie to Crescent Head. What sets you apart from your competitors?

We have collaborated with Aunty Rhonda Radley, Birpai/ Dhungutti women, Community Elder, to journey as part of our hike. Sharing stories from her and her ancestor’s connection to the land we walk. “We believe we have all the components to fulfil a very unique journey to share with our hikers” says Belinda Johnson. From our cultural collaboration, to wellbeing activities, glamping and campfire dinners. What have you learned in the last 12 months that inspires you professionally?

“To keep developing ourselves as professional women, working with other great minds and not giving up is probably the most inspiring thing we can

take from the last 12 months” says Peta Alexopoulos. Creating an idea is exciting, but to see it shape and come to fruition makes us very proud.

Tell us about any new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023?

We look forward to sharing a number of multi day hikes in 2023. Our first launches this month. Seasonal hikes in May, August and November follow and allow us to share so much of what this beautiful region has to offer year-round.

positiveenergyretreats.com.au

admin@positiveenergyretreats. com.au

positive_energy_retreats

Positive Energy Adventures & Retreats

BELINDA JOHNSON & PETA ALEXOPOULOS

Be true to yourself, do right by others and believe in your worth.

Describe your business in one sentence.

Meg + Me BOUTIQUE + HOME + ESPRESSO has been designed to offer discerning customers a carefully curated collection of quality fashion, gifts and homewares, while enjoying one of Port’s best coffees from Ant’s onsite espresso bar.

Tell us the new and exciting products/ services that are happening in 2023?

For over 12 years, our fashion boutique has been synonymous with beautiful, unique fashion that you won’t see everywhere else. The addition of our newly expanded retail space (just next door) 18 months ago has allowed us to branch into bespoke gifts and homewares

Meg Me

complementing our existing boutique + espresso bar beautifully.

We recently welcomed Roslyn Hall to our team in a full time capacity. Roslyn (Roz) is a qualified Interior Decorator and brings with her a fresh vision for our Gift + Home space. I can’t wait to see what we create together.

Interestingly, Roz and I first met over 12 years ago when Ant and I first moved to Port. Roz was working at an independently owned boutique in Port Central, where I took my first casual job after moving here. We remained good friends, and it was only ever a matter of time before we reconnected and worked together again! What are your business’s core values?

We have worked hard to create a warm, welcoming environment where everyone

who walks through the door feels like they’re shopping with their most stylish best friend.

Over the years, trends come and go but good old fashioned service, a warm smile and a sense of connection to community will continue to be our focus.

If we haven’t had the pleasure of meeting you yet, we would love for you to call in and see why we are so good at what we do!

12+13, 6-14 Clarence St, Port Macquarie 6583 7773

megandme.com.au

ROSLYN HALL/ LUSANNA KLOTZ/ MEGAN MURRAY/ EMMA DUPAQUIER

GROWERS MARKET

HAYLEY HANKS / BUSINESS OWNER

Describe your business in one sentence.

A local family owned and operated fresh produce and speciality item store located in Port Macquarie. What sets you apart from your competitors?

Fresh produce at affordable prices. We understand and feel the continual rise of the cost of living. Everyone should still have access to, and be able to enjoy, fresh food. We really do

everything to source in season produce to be able to offer cost effective options for everyone’s budget. It’s so important to us here at Growers Market to offer our customers a special experience. We check everyone out at the tills, and we will still carry your shopping to the car if you require it. Our team go above and beyond to make sure we give our customers a beautiful experience. The staff are always available to ask any questions you have when in our store. We are so very privileged to have our

team of amazing ladies and of course the fellas.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months?

I have learnt to really appreciate the hard work and effort that you put into owning your own business. We put our heart and soul into Growers every day. It is also important to my husband and I to have a wonderful work environment for our staff.

What are your business’s core values? Service and quality, simply the best!!

(Did you just sing it? haha)

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective

I am a local to Port Macquarie, born here in 1980. My family and I have shopped at Growers for as long as I can remember. When my husband and I came across the opportunity to purchase such a well known established business we couldn’t miss it.

We both worked for 20 years in Port Macquarie for other well-known businesses. Within our roles we gained knowledge into business operations and will be forever grateful for the opportunities and experiences gained. My personal strengths carry into our

business, as I am very passionate and committed to living a healthy lifestyle and to own a business which supports this lifestyle is amazing.   I am also very blessed to have some amazing ladies to work alongside me. Some of our managers/supervisors Annie Cassidy, Caroline Smee and Lynne Bennett have been with Growers Market for 16-17 years each. I am truly thankful to have these ladies helping us operate our business as they have a huge amount of experience within our industry. What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast-paced world?

It’s a tough gig being a working female.

I am a Mum of two, have worked in the very fast paced corporate world and now owning my own business, it is tough but also rewarding. Find something you enjoy doing for yourself and put it in the diary first, have plenty of family/friends time and make sure you have balance. Most importantly go for it…apply for that job, put your hand up for that opportunity and always get out of your comfort zone.

admin@growersmarket.net.au

growersmarket.net.au

138 Gordon St, Port Macquarie 6583 4111

At Miss Motivator we specialise in women's health and fitness provided in a safe, nurturing and supportive environment; in the gym or outdoors!

What sets you apart from your competitors? We provide a holistic approach to help women feel their best. We collaborate with other health professionals to help our members feel truly supported in their health, fitness and life goals. Miss Motivator is a judgement free zone! We provide a relaxed place to come, exercise, learn about women’s health and socialise, no matter what your age or stage of life.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you want to bring to your role? That we are providing a well needed service to our town and we will continue to do this. We are always listening to our members challenges and needs to continue to improve the opportunities we provide to our members.

What are your business’s core values? Our core values are courage, integrity and connection. Connection with our members, connecting with health professionals and connection between staff and members.

Rachel LEMAN MISS MOTIVATOR

Business

PORT MACQUARIE

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective.

Our staff have combined experience of over 50 years in the fitness industry. We are all very experienced and educated in women’s needs at a physiological level throughout the stages of life. Our staff are passionate about looking after our members and making every visit to our business a wonderful experience.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world? Tune into your personal core values and be true to them. You need to invest time in yourself to ensure you are feeling supported and fulfilled in your daily life both physically and mentally. Stay in your own lane, focus on your passions and even small steps forward are heading in the right direction.

Meet the outstanding ladies of the Business Port Macquarie

Board: Angela Frimberger, Katherine Harris, Alex GlenHolmes, Jenny Fraser and Claire Mathews. Business Port Macquarie is a member based not for profit organisation that works with all levels of government and stakeholders to represent our local business community needs.

We are very energetic, community minded business women who have taken up a voluntary position as part of a Board of 12. We are passionate about business in the Hastings and what can be achieved when we all work together.

Katherine, our Executive Officer and brains trust, has been with us for 12 years. Alex is into her second year as President of Business Port Macquarie and this is her 10th year as a board member. Angela joined the board 4 years ago and we have welcomed Jenny and Claire to their positions last November. The core pillars of Business Port Macquarie are to:

business awards and charitable fundraisers. We also promote member to member activity, including digital media interaction

• Represent business interests. Advocate for business general and specific needs by fostering strong engagement with all levels of government and engaging with relevant stakeholder and community groups.

• Provide Business SupportDeliver access to a broad range of business support services (Legal, HR, Training & Education, Mentoring, Buying Group Discounts, Grants, Mental Health, Apprenticeship Support, Skilled / Unskilled Staff) through Business NSW collaboration and leveraging the skills and services of our members.

• Engage & Grow - Regular member communications: social media, email, website, newsletters, face to face and member surveys to better understand needs.

2 Blackbutt Rd, Port Macquarie 6581 5199

missmotivator.com.au

• Facilitate business connections - Run regular events including networking functions,

With our broad range of expertise and experience we look forward to connecting with other business women as no person can do it all on their own. We all need support and can achieve so much more together.

Describe your business in one sentence.

I am a “people oriented” sales agent and I pride myself on delivering an exceptional level of customer service while also achieving outstanding results for my clients.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. I am a licensed real estate agent and experienced landlord, buyer, and seller which I believe helps me to have an in-depth understanding across all aspects of real estate with the added bonus of living in the area for 14 years giving me a deeper knowledge of the local region.

I find it extremely rewarding to be an active part of my clients’ journeys and love seeing their property dreams come true. As a wife and a busy mum to two teenage boys, I understand how important it is to remove all the frustrating points when selling or purchasing a property. Everyone’s time is valuable, and everyone involved in the sale process deserves the whole process to be seamless and rewarding.

Lisa Dixon

What sets you apart from your competitors? I think the thing that really sets me apart from my competitors is that I really care. I get fully involved in the process of making one of the biggest, most stressful times in my clients life, buying and selling a home, and I turn it into a calm and memorable experience. I am not just doing this to make money, I live and breathe it, and I get to do it in the most beautiful part of the world with my people, and where I grew up. This also gives me great area knowledge to pass on.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world? Take time out for yourself, be present with your family and friends when you are not at work, and then go and show them what an amazing woman you are. Don’t be scared, be strong, be fierce and remember there is always a young woman watching you from afar, remember if you never try, you’ll never know. Our

ROSIE MODEL & LISA DIXON

Rosie Model

Keryn STACK

STRATEGIC BUSINESS AND MARKETING CONSULTANT

What lead you to small business?

As a young Mum, l needed to earn additional income for our family. Flexibility to work around the demands of family life and raising our two daughters was my number one priority, so I started a party plan business selling homeware and giftware. Whilst I enjoyed being out meeting people, it was the bookkeeping and financial management of the business that interested me most. In those days MYOB was really the only accounting software on offer for small business, and whilst it was still very manual and time consuming it gave me an appreciation of the realities and challenges of owning a small business.

Why start a bookkeeping business? I have always been passionate about numbers, solving problems, resolving complex issues and I knew I could help business owners to create a financial picture as to how their business is tracking.

What was key to growing your business? Building valued relationships with our clients has always been a priority and as a result we quickly grew

organically. With a growing client base, it became important to establish processes, to grow our team. As a result, we are now Xero Platinum Partners, Registered BAS Agents, offering both full and shared services and work with a diverse range of clients across all industries Australia wide.

What is new and exciting for 2023? Our vision for 2023 is to help business owners on the Mid North Coast stay up to date with their bookkeeping, ATO compliance and to give them more time to do what they enjoy rather than spending late nights and weekends trying to keep up with their bookkeeping.

Reflecting back on my business journey I am proud I have built a business that allows me to work with both my daughters. Isabella is now working alongside me in the business and Hannah has a successful digital marketing business, In the Willow.

Describe your business in one sentence. We partner with businesses at any stage of development to help them grow, from startup point, to established, and everywhere in between.

What sets you apart from your competitors? Early exposure to the machinations of small business. Growing up watching my hard working parents had an irreversible impact on me. I became passionate about small businesses and the people behind them. I loved nothing more than seeing small businesses thrive and wanted to be a part of this challenging but rewarding environment. My career began as a member of a small business team before moving into the realm of big business and then returning to my roots in helping “the little guy’. I’m not an agency, I’m a creative marketing consultant who implements big business thinking within small business frameworks.

keryn@accountsallsorted.com.au

0409 962 777

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023? Over the last few months I have been refining my small business services. I am super excited to launch the marketing time saver

package. This is an affordable option that includes an email marketing campaign, socials posts, and a monthly marketing strategy session. I’m also offering marketing monthly bundles which start from just two hours of marketing support a week. What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast-paced world? From one female small business owner to another, I would say listen to any advice that comes your way but be selective about which advice you follow. Do what feels right! Also, don’t forget to celebrate the wins along the way, even the little ones. They all add up. Growing a small business today is challenging, there are so many opinions, messages, new technologies, and platforms emerging, which can leave you feeling the FOMO effect. Instead, keep going back to the basics. Who is my customer? Are they even on these platforms? +61

Describe your business in one sentence.

Highfields Manor is a brand new state of the art 105 bed, premium Aged Care Facility providing the best quality service to our residents and their families. What sets you apart from your competitors?

My role here as Wellbeing and Transitions Manager isn’t just about the admission into care. It starts with the transition period, which in some cases could be months prior. Everyone’s move into care is different and their needs are different.

I have the freedom to adapt my role to suit every individual client I meet by visiting my clients in their home and building long trusting relationships. Giving them piece of mind, trust and comfort knowing that it’s always about their choices.

I always put the wellbeing of my customers first, making sure that their transition into care is as smooth as possible.

What are your business’s core values?

Respect, compassion, excellence and leading by example. These values that drive Highfields Manor are fundamental in achieving our Model of Care in turn allowing our consumers to live their best lives. Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective.

In my career, I have always believed, where there is a will, there is a way! Something my Nan used to always say to me!

I have spent over 15 years building my reputation in the industry. Creating new and building on current relationships with my clients, their families, hospital and allied health industry providers. What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world?

Something I am yet to master myself! LOL… Always make time for yourself! Remove the pressure of being everything to everyone. Taking time for yourself is not selfish, it’s critical!

Kim SUITOR

WELLBEING & TRANSITIONS MANAGER

1 Highfields Circuit Port Macquarie

02 5542 2055

admissions@highfieldsmanor.com.au

HIGHFIELDS MANOR

Lauren HAWKES HAWKES CONVEYANCING

Describe your business in one sentence.

We are here to complete the legal work when you are buying or selling a property in New South Wales.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you want to bring to your role?

One thing that conveyancing provides us with is constant learning. There is always a new procedure, or new rule, or changes to legislation that we need to be keeping on top of. We always strive to bring the most up-to-date processes to our clients including the new and evolving world of electronic conveyancing.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective.

We are a modern firm with an energetic and dedicated team who approach conveyancing in a fresh, proactive, and highly professional manner. When I opened my business in 2015 I had a vision for an approachable team dedicated to helping their clients through the often stressful process of buying or selling a home, and that is exactly what we have built. There is no rest

in this job and we are always available to help our clients get their transactions settled as seamlessly as possible.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world?

I read an article recently about mindset – how it isn’t just about the way you think, but can also impact the way you act and can build or break your confidence. I think having a positive mindset will set you apart from others. Take some time to figure out how you can achieve this – focus on the good things, no matter how small, and turn failures into lessons. I say to my staff often that there is always a solution to a problem.

Describe your business in one sentence.

Neopitch is a marketing agency that helps brands unveil their purpose and core values to tell their story through unique, impactful marketing that resonates with their target audience, builds brand loyalty, and grows their business.

What sets you apart from your competitors? As the founder of Neopitch, I have quite a unique agency background, having worked as a studio manager, organising the creatives and in account management, developing marketing strategies, and executing tactics.

Because of this industry knowledge and experience, Neopitch looks at the whole picture regarding a business’s marketing. We can take care of the entire process, from big-picture strategic thinking and planning to doing and creating individual tactics to achieve results.

the best solution. This passion, paired with time to explore, drives exciting marketing results. I am inspired professionally to educate businesses about planning their marketing more and being less reactive.

Tell us about any new and exciting products/services happening in 2023? Our agency has a production house. We can shoot and edit videos, TV commercials, and mix radio commercials. Our current clients have enjoyed our production house, finding it super handy, so we’ve decided to let the secret out.

6583 4690 | 0433 038 907

lauren@hawkesconveyancing. com.au

hawkesconveyancing.com.au

What have you learned in the last 12 months that inspires you professionally? Great creative solutions that help a business achieve it’s goals takes time: time to think, explore, and question. Our services are best suited to small-medium enterprises who know their business and are invested emotionally in finding

Tell us about your individual strengths from a business and personal perspective. I am down to earth and look at things very analytically, so when discussing your marketing with you, I will be straight up. I see you as a genuine partner in the process. I will listen to you, learn about your business, and apply the team’s expertise to communicate your brand story.

neopitch.com.au

hayley@neopitch.com.au

Suite 2/109 William Street, Port Macquarie

Describe your business in one sentence.  Heart-led women centred care that’s here to authentically uplift, nurture and inspire mothers and mothers-to-be to find their power while I deeply immerse myself into the humanness of life.

Tell us what is unique about you and your business?

The two aren’t separate at all. I am my business and I fully embody every personal value within it. My own journey through motherhood over the past 15 years has given me reflective wisdom towards myself as a strong woman. I had to learn to drop the expectations that are inherently on our shoulders and find a way that worked best for me while fully trusting myself.

I bring a higher perspective to the table. A deep understanding of the dark and light places that motherhood can take you through. A space to talk it out. Room to grow, expand and get curious as you step into your new role as mother or mother again. I make you feel safe, heard, seen and valued. It is not work, I’m simply following a call to serve women.

Tell us about any new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023?

Along with my Birth and Postpartum Care, I am now offering professional Birth Photography to capture women in their power. It’s such a special way to look back on and draw strength from these moments. I’ve also just finished building our little shack as a labour of love and yes, it tickles my other fancy of interior design. I’m now ready to welcome women here for Lomi Lomi Massage, Womb Hara massage, Birth debriefing and of course my doula clients if they feel like escaping home for a while.

What advice do you have for other women working in a fast paced world?

Remember who comes first. YOU, always YOU. Do it your way! It doesn’t need to be conventional and boring. That’s not life! That’s not living! Also - remember that things are only ever temporary. Whatever you’re moving through will ease.

Claire DUNKLEY

CLAIRE DUNKLEY - DOULA

Renee Leah Photography

Emma BAILEY

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

REGIONAL AUSTRALIA BANK

Describe your business in one sentence?

Regional Australia Bank is a customer owned bank that has been helping regional Australians achieve their lifestyle goals for almost 50 years.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

We’re focused strongly on everything that makes regional Australia. Above all, we’re all about building better financial relationships with our customers – and that’s something that can’t often be said of the nation’s larger retail banks.

Unlike the ‘Big Four’ whose main interests are to generate profits to deliver dividends for shareholders, our customers are our shareholders. This means our focus is to deliver value to our customers. Further, as part of our commitment to champion regional prosperity, we pledge more than 5% of our profits back into

grassroots community initiatives. What have you learnt in the past 12 months that you want to bring to your role?

Everyone, including myself crave efficiency. I learnt to be detail-oriented and to think three steps ahead, always have prepared, well-thought-out answers to questions that haven’t even been asked yet.

During my career I have been responsible for communicating ideas to large groups and tailoring my communication style when engaging with individuals. Good communication also includes actively listening, to learn about individuals needs to provide them with a better experience.

What are your business core values?

Integrity, respect, and fairness are the underlying values that guide our business. An appreciation for relationships built on trust and reliability, and understanding the significance of community are shared values among regional Australians.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective?

During my career I have been responsible for communicating ideas to large groups and tailoring my communication style

when engaging with individuals. Good communication also includes actively listening, to learn about individuals needs to provide them with a better experience. What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world?

I have two pieces of advice for women in business.

Balance!! I still find if difficult to maintain an even balance between work and ‘my life’ however it is essential to try and balance the scales to be efficient and effective in both. Raise each other up. Women, it’s important to bring other women along with you both in a personal capacity and in your career journey. Our success as women should be an inspiration to one another. 0482165656 ebailey@regionalaustraliabank.com.au regionalaustraliabank.com.au

Lucy HUMPHRIES

LUCY HUMPHRIES PHOTOGRAPHY

Describe your business in one sentence.  I capture the unique stages in the life of you and your family with a relaxed and enjoyable experience in front of the camera.

What sets you apart from your competitors? I love creating a gallery full of moments which bring joy to my clients. It’s the little things that make the big memories and I’m always on the lookout for them. I am so fortunate to be a part of capturing life changing moments, from proposals to newborns, and I always photograph every moment as if it were my own.

What are the core values of your business? I believe it’s so important for families to have photos and I also know that there’s someone in every family who thinks they hate having their photo taken. I make sure my clients have a relaxed and fun experience which shines through in their photos. I work really hard to ensure that my clients have a wonderful, easy experience right from their first enquiry.

Tell us about your individual strengths from a business and personal perspective. I’m a Mum, and have a background in childcare too, so I’m really great with little ones and good at relaxing my clients of all ages. From newborn at home sessions, to family sessions down at the beach, we always go with the flow of the younger family members and there’s zero pressure from me. I’m there to capture the memories rather than the poses.

What advice do you have for other women working in a fast paced world? This tip I learnt from my business mentor so I can’t take credit, but I like to schedule time in my diary for ‘me’, whether that’s an hour to spend having a massage or watching Netflix, switching off regularly is important.

lucy@lucyhumphriesphotography.com

0488 157 919 www.lucyhumphriesphotography.com

lucyhumphriesphotography

Priest LEGAL

LAWYERS & CONVEYANCING

Describe your business in one sentence.

Expert legal advice in Port Macquarie and Wauchope, since 1976, from conveyancing to litigation, commercial law to wills and estate matters, the team at Priest Legal bring extensive experience and expertise to bear on each matter they work with.

What are your business’s core values? Excellence, Integrity & Service to our clients. What sets you apart from your

competitors?

We provide personal service tailored to the individual needs of our clients, and take pride in delivering results that meets their needs. We treat our clients with respect, patience and understanding and take the time to listen and understand the things which are important to them. We apply a collaborative approach to the resolution of our clients’ issues within the confines of the applicable law, and always aim to be informed, efficient and professional in the work that we do.

At Priest Legal, we are proud to support business owners in all aspects of their

operations.

There are a number of different ways in which a business can be set up such as sole trader, partnership, company, cooperative or company limited by guarantee. Understanding which is the best vehicle for your business is important and can change depending on how the business grows. Our corporate lawyers are able to help you to understand the advantages and disadvantages of the different business structures from an organisational perspective and draft documents such as shareholder and partnership agreements.

Meneesha – Receptionist / Tanya – Estate Administration Secretary / Emilie Cooper – Lawyer / Melissa – Licensed Conveyancer / Sophie – Secretary, law student

Unless your business is a “virtual business”, you will also need premises to operate from.

If your business is a retail business, the Retail Leases Act will apply, but if it is not a retail lease, the lease is a contract, and you should obtain legal advice before entering into the lease. The corporate lawyers at Priest Legal are experienced in drafting and advising on all forms of commercial leases.

And, finally, it is impossible to engage in business without experiencing conflict occasionally.

Whether it is conflict with competitors or customers or contractors, resolving conflicts

in business as quickly and economically as possible is critical to operating a successful business and is a skill that the corporate lawyers at Priest Legal are experienced in - with backgrounds in mediation and, if it comes to it, litigation.

“I am Woman” is definitely a women’s protest song but some of its lyrics apply to us all. “Yes I am wise, but it’s wisdom born of pain. Yes, I’ve paid the price, but look how much I gained” are universal experiences but particularly relevant to all of us who engage in business.

Belinda – Conveyancing  Secretary / Loris Hendy – Lawyer / Ali – Senior Secretary / Katy – Licensed Conveyancer / Renee – Accounts Manager Maryanne – Litigation Secretary / Kate – Receptionist

Port MEDICAL

AESTHETICS CLINIC

Describe your business in one sentence. Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic (PMAC) is the largest and longest serving Doctors’ Cosmetic Clinic specializing in giving everyday people extraordinary results!

What sets you apart from your competitors? Personally I think it’s a combination of our medical expertise (we

love that all our doctors are Port locals, which translates to maximum patient safety) and our excellent team spirit and customer service. We won Excellence in Small Business in the 2022 Regional Business NSW Awards, which is testimony to the hard work we put in to every patient experience.  And also maybe our hilarious Tiktoks and social media feed!

Tell us the new and exciting products/

services that are happening in 2023? We have just opened our Kempsey Clinic, and are also opening in Taree in 2023.

From a service perspective we love our new Venus Tribella machine, which offers 3 in 1 skin tightening, resurfacing and pigment removal. It’s a state of the art machine which gives full face rejuvenation, and the results we have been getting are truly amazing. I love that we can offer

L-R (left page): Pauline Foggon / Sheree Keena / Dr Kristy Kostalas L-R (right page): Jahni Giles / Sarah Warner / Naomi Cameron

dermatologist grade skin treatments, backed up by our medical consultants, and that really sets us apart from other cosmetic clinics.

What are your business’s core values?

Honesty, integrity and RESULTS. We are a results driven team, and only offer patients what we think will benefit them, and not what suits the bottom line! This value is so sadly lacking in many aspects of the cosmetic industry, and we are really proud to be

industry leaders with our ethos. What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world? Truly, it’s to make some space for yourself and your needs. All the time we see women coming into the clinic who have given so much of themselves to their children, partners and work, and giving so little to themselves. Self care isnt selfish; it’s a vital strategy to manage a busy, stressful life.

Investing in your own cares, needs and wants allows you to give to everyone else in your life, fill your own bucket first and then fill everyone elses!

5/12 Highfields Circuit, Port Macquarie 0421 253 025

DrKristy_port_aesthetics

reception@portmedical aesthetics.com.au

portmedicalaesthetics.com.au

Describe your business in one sentence. Linked Community Services is a safe, trusted and reliable not-for-profit community transport provider committed to keeping everyone; isolated, vulnerable or in need, connected to their local community. In short, ‘We are here, to get you there’.

What sets you apart from your competitors? We are far more than just a transport service. We take a holistic approach to ensure our standards of customer service are of the highest quality and that each and every one of our clients have a positive experience. Our clients are in the safest hands from pick up to drop off and for every kilometre in between. We couldn’t provide the exceptional, personalised service we do without the help of our wonderful volunteers who donate their time to give back to their community, supporting those in need. Our volunteers make up more than sixty percent of our organisation and with their help we can provide independence and inclusion to those who need it most.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you want to bring to your role? Two words come to mind for me – adaptability and resilience! We’ve seen big changes in the last 12 months with industry standards and funding changes, we had to adapt to remain competitive within the community to continue offering the wonderful service that we do. We’ve seen our workplace and the way in which we operate change over the period of COVID and I was fortunate to have a great team of employees and volunteers behind me, remaining enthusiastic and willing to embrace the new normal.

Tell us the new and exciting products/ services that are happening in 2023?

2023 for Linked Community Services is going to be big! The most exciting project of the year being our expansion. We are expanding our

services into the Manning and Great Lakes area, partnering with a trusted Community Transport Provider – Care N Go. Our services now span from South West Rocks all the way down to Port Stephens and every LGA in between.

Our 2022-2024 Strategic Plan will see us move some of our fleet to electric vehicles. We acknowledge the NSW Government’s commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050 and, as a community transport provider, we recognise our obligation to also work towards this target by reducing our own carbon footprint.

I am also very pleased to announce that Linked will be getting our very own Hello Koala –LINKY which will be a part of the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail here in Port Macquarie.

What are your business’s core values? Our Organisational Values are an acronym of the word IMPACT. Our IMPACT in the community we support is driven by these words.

I – Integrity - in everything we say, we do, upholding the integrity of our brand, each other, and our clientele.

M - Motivation – We employ motivated people who have the passion to work together as one team to deliver on our goals and objectives.

P – Personable – We personalise our conversations, ask questions, and learn about each other and our customers, creating a unique experience for everyone.

A - Accountable – We are accountable to deliver on our mission, our goals our promises and our commitment to each other to achieve positive outcomes.

C – Commitment – We are committed to growing our caring reputation throughout the community where we are the leading source provider for our clients.

T – Trust – We are an organisation who deliver on our promises through the reliability of our people.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. I am very big picture thinking, driven to succeed in everything that I set out to do. Not only do I have a passion for organisational growth, but I embrace my ‘community first’ ethics in a sense that, helping people that need help most, is something that I strive toward doing more of. Working in the Community Services Sector in various roles for most of my career, I am proud of the changes that I have made. Not only in organisations as a leader, but in the lives of the people affected by the work I have directly contributed to, or have coordinated through my teams.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast-paced world? Women juggle a lot, but we do it well. Every day we make what seems like the impossible, possible. Maybe it’s getting the kids out of the house with clean clothes on or coordinating the whole family’s lives whilst ensuring work deadlines are still met. We need to shift gears and focus on the day ahead as soon as we walk through those office doors. It is a constant juggling act.

The one piece of advice I can give is to try and find what works for you, your family and your career. If it isn’t working then stop doing it, make a change and try something else. You’re not a failure for recognising something isn’t working and acting on a resolution. In fact, that’s just what we do. Problem solve.

I’ll end with a quote that really resonated with me when I read it and still does today. I think it captures perfectly the challenging balancing act that women in todays fast paced world face. “The obligation that evolves for working mothers, in particular, is a very precise one; the feeling that one ought to work as if one did not have children, while raising one’s children as if one did not have a job”.

Annabelle Crabb – The Wife Drought.

26 Lord St, Port Macquarie

02 6583 8644 linked.org.au

Our volunteers make up more than sixty percent of our organisation and with their help we can provide independence and inclusion to those who need it most.

MBC has been matching candidates with the perfect jobs since 1988.

What sets us apart from our competitors?

We are a locally based business that has been around for 35 years and has built a reliable and award-winning brand.

MBC has multi-faceted service offerings – from professional recruitment and labour-hire to the delivery of traffic control, nursing, and support services. We service a range of clients throughout NSW. From humble beginnings, MBC has enjoyed nine-fold growth over the past thirteen years.

mbc RECRUITMENT

Our business’s core values

Ethics are at the centre of everything we do. Our reputation is built on integrity and ethics, and that’s why you can count on our accountability and transparency.

MBC’s values include honesty, openness, safety, collaboration and respect.

Our Team

Our staff are the reason for our success. We are proud to have a diverse workforce of over 600 people.

In this feature, we are excited to celebrate some of the female managers, alongside our formidable partners – striving for excellence every day.

Any advice for other women working and living in such a fast-paced world?

Learn to manage your time and spend it well. Always be present in the moment, whether at work or home.

“We are extremely proud of our whole team at MBC. They’ve been keeping the wheels turning and are the key to our continued success over the years,” says Susan Rupert, Director.

mbcrecruitment.com.au

1300 854 622 MBCPM mbcrecruitment

Felicia Hearne, Head of Accounts / Sunette Opperman, WHS & IMS Manager / Kim Schneider, Head of Traffic Susan Rupert, Director / Sarah Young, Clinical Manager / Kimarie Meyers, Head of HR

We are extremely proud of our whole team at MBC. They’ve been keeping the wheels turning and are the key to our continued success over the years,” says Susan Rupert, Director.

Carly GROVES

DIRECTOR & PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Describe your business in one sentence.

A holistic physiotherapy practice with a focus on preventative healthcare.

What sets you apart from your competitors? Our clinicians are experienced musculoskeletal and pelvic health physiotherapists working collaboratively and utilising their extensive knowledge base in both areas of physiotherapy to optimise patient outcomes.

Each patient has a different story and goal, they may not necessarily have pain or an injury however they may wish to optimise their function. Our clinic caters for both prevention, rehabilitation and optimising everyone’s quality of life with evidence based treatment plans.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you want to bring to your role? I have worked as a musculoskeletal and pelvic physiotherapist for the last 15 years in rural and metropolitan areas. Establishing a specialist practice like this has always been a goal of mine. PMQ Health opened its doors 2 months ago so I am on a steep learning curve at the moment. I think time management and prioritising family and self care are probably the two most important things I have learnt which allows me to give more back to my business and patients.

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023? 2023 will be a big year for PMQ Health.

From the musculoskeletal side of

PMQ Health we treat a significant amount of runners, myself included. A number of runners from Port Macquarie have signed up to do their first full marathon in Sydney in September and we will be working with many of them to help them achieve this goal.

We offer daily clinical rehabilitation and pilates classes that cater for all individuals and their needs. These classes are run by a physiotherapist. We have also recently added a teen/ children’s program to this schedule.

Our pelvic health clinic is now fully up and running. This clinic caters for a vast range of pelvic health conditions, as well as pre and post natal care.

We have specialised classes for management of pelvic pain, as well as pre and post natal care.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world? I think a lot of women find it hard to accept help from others. We try and do everything ourselves. I was definitely one of those women. Accepting help and having a close group of supportive people in your corner make the juggle of family, business and life possible.

2/141 Gordon St , Port Macquarie admin@pmqhealth.com.au pmqhealth.com.au

Vanity MEDI SPA

Describe your business in one sentence.

Vanity Medi Spa is a unique beauty/ dermal boutique clinic that offers you ultimate time-out where you can disconnect and escape from your busy day with bespoke treatments that pamper and replenish your well-being.

What sets you apart from your competitors? We solely focus on our Mission that “every skin deserves to look good”. We offer a comprehensive range of Beauty/ Dermal modalities focusing on the youth of your skin. Our therapists are friendly and professional and with my now 30 years experience within the industry, I can truly commit to saying “I know skin!”

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you want to bring to your role? To re-invent yourself! We had to pull apart a Business Plan that had 2+ years of what was COVID. We are now with new staff and are focusing on projecting forward with our purpose and values making sure our Vanity Medi Spa Clients’ needs are met. Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023? I’ve been

Shannel DEBRECENY

lucky to consistently build on our anti-ageing modalities and I’m so excited to have our new Pollogen Maximus for Body Contouring & Skin Tightening. Say goodbye to ‘mummy tummies’ or those pesky tuck shop arms and if your jawline is prematurely ageing you this is the treatment for you! As for products, we proudly stock 8 lines and having recently returned from a new product launch with our results driven SOTHYS we can’t wait for our beauties to fight off dehydration with the new Hydra4 line. What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world? Simple answer is balance! You need to make YOU time just as important as LIFE time. We are no good to anyone if we are pouring from an empty cup. It is a daily struggle and I’m all too well aware being a small business owner/operator. So do take time-out, just for YOU!

Describe your business. The Village Bungalow is a bohemian lifestyle store showcasing a boutique selection of clothing, jewels, accessories and homewares. What sets you apart from your competitors? We predominantly showcase Australian labels exclusively to the Hastings Region, as well as importing a range of homewares direct from manufacturers. We are always evolving, sourcing labels and product range that aligns with our ethos.

preparation and execution. Spending time with my family and friends is a high priority, creating memories.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you want to bring to your role? The first thing that comes to mind is resilience, the last 12 months in business has not been an easy ride. Our bricks and mortar store opened in times of uncertainty, however our loyal customers have given us faith and secured strength. We love being a part of the local business community and are very thankful and grateful for the support and encouragement.

Shop

What are your business's core values? We are committed to customer service combined with slow fashion crafted from sustainable fabrics and designs that will last for years to come. We believe in quality over quantity and are conscious of our global footprint. What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world? It’s honestly a balancing act meeting the demands of modern day family life combined with owning your own business. For me it’s important to exercise regularly and eat healthy to maintain clear focus and achieve goals. It’s all about planning,

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023. We are constantly researching, sourcing and evolving our product range, this is the nature of the retail environment. Stay tuned for gorgeous new season fashion, jewellery and accessories coming through and our hand picked selection of eclectic homewares. 24 High

4-5, ‘Port Marina’ 18 Park Street, Port Macquarie 6583 8434

Left to Right - Matilda Harley, Debbie Fitzgerald, Bethmay Jones, Ashley Henderson & Kellie Mullan.

Describe your business in one sentence.

Touchwood Flowers is a dynamic and passionate team of floral designers.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

Three key things set Touchwood Flowers apart - the quality and range of our products, our industry expertise and our superior supply chain.

Our commitment to excellence is something many customers say they notice and appreciate. Our work ethic involves taking extra care and being completely professional in every way. We aim to exceed our customer expectations with every single order.

Touchwood Flowers has the largest staff of any florist in the Mid North Coast area. This has many benefits that include, a variety of different styles and flair from each of our staff and the capacity to take on a large volume of orders daily.

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023? We are in the process of updating our website with new floral products. We are even adding an environmentally friendly category where all flowers will be in vases, so no plastic or floral foam is used. We will also be aiming to use all local and Australian grown flowers for these products. Reducing our footprint on the earth is important to us.

For me personally, I am celebrating 18 years of owning Touchwood Flowers. I was 18 years old when I purchased the business and here I am 18 years later… a little older and certainly a lot wiser! What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world?

1.Take time to look after yourself.

We put so much pressure on ourselves to do everything, be everywhere, be the biggest and best, be fitter and stronger, eat better and look better, when all we can do is try our best and be ourself.

2. Invest in yourself

This may come in many shapes and forms… for me it was getting a Business Coach. It has changed my perspective and given me more direction both personally and professionally.

Ashley SARGESON

www.touchwoodflowers.com.au

6583 2657

Shop 4, 124 Gordon St, Port Macquarie

TOUCHWOOD FLOWERS

Describe your business in one sentence. We provide high quality training to the property industry.

Courses including Certificate of Registration, for new entrants, CPP41419 Certificate IV in Real Estate Practice (license course), CPP51119 Diploma of Property and Continuing Professional Development.

What sets you apart from your competitors? We have trainers across NSW offering both face-toface and Zoom classes.

As real estate agents, we are privileged to work with people in one of the most stressful and often emotional transactions of their lives. They need an agent that understands the legislation, can build trust and relationships and offer the best experience for the client. We are committed to ensuring our students have the required skills and knowledge to do this.

Whilst working in the industry, I saw agents doing training online with no understanding of the course and minimal support. By offering small group face-to-face training, I can put legislation into context using real life examples helping students gain a clearer

Alex GLEN HOLMES Leslie WILLIAMS

UNIQUE TRAINING PROVIDERS

understanding of the course. I love working with people and watching them grow and flourish. I still work in real estate and attend regular training events to keep me up to date in the industry, allowing me to pass this knowledge on to my students. This is more than a job to me, it’s a passion.

I offer a personalised service to students and agencies keeping them updated with legislation and compliance. The service doesn’t end when the course does, I am always just a phone call away. What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast-paced world? My advice to other women would be to make sure that you have people around you that you can rely on for support and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Surround yourself with like-minded people as knowledge is power. But most of all, there is no such thing as failure, it’s just a learning process that’s part of the journey.

Describe your business in one sentence.

As your local MP in the NSW Parliament, my job is all about supporting constituents and delivering for every community across the electorate. What sets you apart from your competitors?

MEMBER FOR PORT MACQUARIE

that are happening in 2023? Many key projects will be underway or completed this year that will have long-term benefits for the community including upgrades to local public schools, the new police station, PCYC, Ocean Drive duplication and improvements to sporting fields.

While reflection is important,

The experience and knowledge to know how to get the best outcomes for the community and being part of a focused team that has a long-term plan for NSW and the Port Macquarie electorate. What have you learned in the last 12 months that inspires you professionally?

uniquetrainingproviders.com.au

alex@uniquetrainingproviders. com.au

0414 772 771

While reflection is important, what is inspiring me is understanding what still needs to be done. I’m focused on the services and infrastructure necessary to complement our growing community.

Tell us about any new and exciting products/services

me

understanding what still needs to be done. I’m focused on the services and infrastructure necessary to complement our growing community.

Tell us about your individual strengths from a business and personal perspective. Demonstrating my leadership and personal values through my actions will, I hope, inspire others, influence decision-making and make a difference for the communities that I represent.

PortMacquarie@nswliberal. org.au

nswliberal.org.au/leslie-williams

110 William St, Port Macquarie

LeslieWilliamsMP

Leslie_Williams_MP

Authorised by Chris Stone, Liberal Party of Australia, NSW Division, Level 2, 131 Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000.

what is inspiring

is

Support SERVICES

FOR YOU

MID NORTH COAST

escribe your business in one sentence. A local Disability Service that cares!

What sets you apart from your competitors? We are a locally owned and operated registered NDIS provider. We have an experienced team of carers who are specifically matched to the client, taking into consideration their needs and wishes.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you want to bring to your role? There is a shortage of good supports in our area. Being a dynamic team is important, looking at all opportunities to ensure good participant outcomes is imperative.

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023? This year is going to be a busy and exciting year for us. We are expanding our team and the services we provide. We will also be moving our hub in April to a more accessible location in the Port Macquarie CBD. We will be offering core supports, support coordination and daily programs in our new hub. We want this to be a place that all are welcome. It’s going to be a welcoming environment where our NDIS community can come and feel at home. What are your business’s core values? Integrity, respect and empowerment.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. Our team have qualifications and experience in the sector that are second to none and most of all we really do care!

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world? Women wear many hats each day. As individuals, we take on a lot. Life is busy. Our advice and something we are practicing this year is to be present in each moment. We do everything because we want to, it fills our schedules to the brim, so by being present in every moment it allows us to appreciate and enjoy all we are doing.

02 6583 8966

www.supportservicesforyou.com.au

ALISON WILLIAMS  QMS COMPLIANCE & PROGRAMS MANAGER

JODIE CANDIA BUSINESS MANAGEMENT / COORDINATION OF SUPPORTS

Describe your business in one sentence. Alternative, Hand Crafted, Original, Toxin Free, Australian, Woo Woo, Healing Infused, Homewares, Clothing and Gifts.

What sets you apart from your competitors? I don’t see other businesses as competitors. I’m way too focused on creating my own offerings. Everyone has something to offer, and your people will always find you.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you want to bring to your role? My focus has been turning my light all the way up and remaining unapologetic for it. Authenticity is where the magic happens.

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023? We’ve just released another 3 boho style candles, 12 bath and body products, our room sprays have had an upgrade and 3 styles have been added. We’ve also created 3 new ceremonial kits. This year we are offering customised ceremonial kits and consultations by appointment, and we have a journal and an oracle deck in the design stages.

What are your business’s core values? We walk an original journey that is ours alone.

Working with the four ‘Clairs’ in every aspect of our intuitive creations.

We are committed. To each other, our business, our customers and our dreams. Our goals and ethics are unbreakable.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. I have over 30 years experience in retail. I’ve learnt so much, including how to swear fluently.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world?

Take care of yourself, there’s only one you. Be inspired by others, but don’t rip off their ideas. It’s bad juju.

Don’t be afraid to take up space.

Other women are not your competition. You are your own Queen, remember this always. You can buy yourself flowers.

Danielle CRISP

SAGES AND SISTAHOOD

At Donovan Oates Hannaford, we specialise in, and practice areas of law that we love, have a genuine passion for, and have experience prior to practicing here in Port Macquarie.

In addition to providing legal support for small businesses and conveyancing, Taylor Horne brings a wealth of experience in commercial disputes and litigation, insolvency and restructuring, employment, building, and construction law to the firm.

Sarah Mehlert specialises in property easements and leasing, business acquisitions, other commercial transactions, and neighbourhood disputes.

Morgan Robins works closely with Taylor in employment, commercial disputes, property, and building and construction law. Over the last 12 months, Morgan as a young solicitor, has found professional inspiration from the more experienced members of the Donovan Oates Hannaford team, including Hadyn Oriti, Taylor, and Sarah.

Our people have the experience and expertise to rival our big-city counterparts. They are experts in their field – having spoken at seminars and published papers, and most of the team have practiced in city firms. But we are also down-to-earth and accessible.

Many women make up the team at Donovan Oates Hannaford, and we support each other to ensure we’re achieving the best outcome for the client. Each member has different strengths and knowledge, so we always draw on each other as a team to best service our clients.

“Our clients are at the core of our services. Providing advice in a way they can understand is one of our strengths. We look after people, ensuring they know why they are here and how we can help, and we outline a process to get them there. We are outcome and results-driven and strive to deliver the best outcome for our clients”, said Taylor.

Donovan OATES

Sarah Mehlert / Taylor Horne / Morgan Robins

Describe your business in one sentence. Plum Studio is a luxury, sustainable hair salon in Port Macquarie.

What are the core values of your business? Our salon strives for inclusivity, teamwork and healthy beautiful hair with a relaxing vibe. At Plum we want everyone to feel welcomed in our space, enjoy their time to relax with a personable stylist approach and leave with a boost of confidence and that fresh hair feeling.

Tell us about your individual strengths from a business and personal perspective. Individual strength in business takes a lot of work and I believe a great team behind you for support. Plum wouldn’t be the salon it is today without my beautiful team of girls who have my back every step of the way.

Personally I have always felt my strong point was my strength to push through whatever is thrown my way. Grow a thick skin, find a solution and learn from mistakes. We all know there are plenty of mistakes to be made and acknowledging them creates growth.

What have you learned in the last 12 months that inspires you professionally? Our industry is constantly evolving and changing with the fashion trends. Attending education and trying new techniques and product ranges always brings out our creative juices to bring to our clients in salon.

Business education and mentoring has been such an advantageous tool for me personally, guiding me to lead my team and business in the right direction. Stepping off the tools part time and leaning more into the business side of things has been such a positive change.

What advice do you have for other women working in a fast paced world? Try not to let the overwhelm take hold. We all know that as women and mums we tend to hold all the plates for everyone and sometimes that just gets too heavy. Learning to share the load and keep time for yourself is an absolute must.

Tamara DOBSON

ELDERS LIFESTYLE GROUP

Tamara Dobson has recently joined Elders Lifestyle Group as a Sales Agent, bringing with her an array of valuable attributes that ensure an unparalleled level of service to her clients. Her compassionate nature, professionalism, and optimistic outlook have made her a welcome addition to the Elders Lifestyle Group Wauchope Team.

With an extensive understanding of the Wauchope region, Tamara’s local knowledge is a key factor in delivering exceptional customer service. Her devotion to her clients is evident in her willingness to go above and beyond to exceed their expectations.

Tamara’s entrepreneurial prowess is a testament to her success, having established four successful businesses by the young age of 25. Furthermore, her experience as a local sales agent in 2022 has honed her skills and expertise in the industry. As a result of her business acumen and sales background, Tamara excels in client communication and strives to assist them in achieving optimal results.

0487 628 339

tamara.dobson@eldersrealestate.com.au

https://wauchope.eldersrealestate.com.au

Bennetts STEEL

What sets you apart from your competitors?

We always say, we’re not your usual steel yard. With a site of over three acres in Wauchope, we offer the largest yard of steel on the Mid North Coast, which allows us to stock a wide range of steel supplies. Our family have lived in the area for many generations, having a strong affiliation with the timber, transport and farming industries over the years. This has given Bennetts Steel the competitive advantage over other steel retailers in our area. Bennetts Steel also has a strong connection with the local community. We’ve had the privilege of being involved in numerous community projects and always support local fundraising organisations. Tell us about any new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023?

I’m so proud of how much Bennetts Steel has grown and continues to evolve over the years. There’s always exciting things happening, whether it be collaborating with local organisations and schools or helping customers create unique steel projects. We do have some other exciting achievements happening this year. One of our fabricators, Tori McCombe, who won the 2022 Construction Steel Category at the World

Skills Competition, will this year travel to Melbourne to compete again in a 3-day National competition. We will also travel to Adelaide in May to attend the National Family Business Awards, after Bennetts Steel received the 2022 Family Business Excellence Award for NSW/ACT. Exciting times ahead. The future of Bennetts Steel includes investing the right training for our staff in all areas, to maintain and constantly improve the services we offer.

What advice do you have for other women working in a fastpaced world?

Trust in yourself and believe anything is possible. Make sure you are the person that looks for solutions, not the person that only sees problems and issues. Finally, make sure to pay everything forward. For every person who helped you through a life changing time or mentored you in your life, make sure you do the same and pay it forward. 6

L:R - Megan, Tori, Bree, Shiree, Kirra and Bonnie

Describe your business in one sentence. Any Occasion Cakes and Party Food” together with “Light of the Party 2444” and “Love Letters PMQ” are your one stop solution to create the ultimate WOW factor at your special event with our GIANT light up marquee letters and numbers, personalised cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and party food customised to suit your theme. What sets you apart from your competitors? Our point of difference is that our unique business model allows our customers to access delicious food and illuminated props all in one point of contact, saving you valuable time and guaranteed to put your next event in the limelight. Whether your event is larger than life or low key, we can work within your budget, always going the extra mile to ensure your special day will not only meet your expectations but exceed them. We don’t just do events, we also do personalised treat boxes for any occasion jam packed with goodies and healthy options too, such as fresh fruit platters and cheese boards. What have you learned in the last 12 months that inspires you professionally? I have learned the importance of having a sense of purpose. I have also learned that being passionate about what you do, staying connected, and making a difference is what keeps me motivated and inspired.

Tell us about any new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023? Bring on 2023! I think everyone knows by now that my husband Nathan and I have an entrepreneurial spirit and are motivated by challenge. “Light of the Party” was just launched in November last year and is our partnering business to “Love Letters”, adding even more magic to your special event.

Tell us about your individual strengths from a business and personal perspective. Believe it or not I’m actually at my best under pressure! I often get asked how I manage family and business, and there’s no doubt it’s a juggling act, but I actually enjoy meeting deadlines as it allows me to look back and say Wow! I did that! I’m one to pride myself on my core business values with a few of those being: Go the extra mile and exceed expectation / Give back and actively support the local community and lower customers’ stress levels by saving them time and creating a memorable event all whilst delivering a warm and friendly attitude throughout the process from start to finish. Any Occasion

Madison WILSON

Maddie 0458 728 857

Nardi BERESFORD

CEO - PORT MACQUARIE RACE CLUB

Describe your business in one sentence.

Port Macquarie Race Club is one of the premier country race clubs in NSW with amazing facilities and a strong vision for progression.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

We are a relatively new team and are eager to showcase how amazing Port Macquarie Race Club is, not only on race days but as a function centre or event venue. Our staff bring a fresh, positive and energetic vibe with new and exciting ideas. We are focused on making the experience of patrons attending the club a comfortable and enjoyable one.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you want to bring to your role?

I have learnt to be confident and believe in myself. I have come to realise that I have what it takes to be the CEO and can match it in a predominately male dominated industry. I use my natural traits as a female which puts me in good stead to be caring, honest and respectful, in return earning mutual respect among my peers. I believe that moving forward, having stepped up in my role to CEO that I can help the club to progress positively into the future and grow to be one of the best country race clubs in NSW. Tell us the new and exciting products/ services that are happening in 2023?

We have 21 race meetings a year and as everyone knows our biggest day is Port Cup. We will once again be offering our corporate marquee packages along with some other ideas in the pipeline to enhance the race day experience. I am also working on building other race days to make them more appealing so they become features on the social calendar. We are in the early stages of growing our functions side of the business with a new chef on board trialling some new and exciting menu options which will no doubt lead the way in seeing us become a venue for all occasions.

What are your business’s core values?

Integrity, customer service, inclusive, respect and honesty.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective.

Having worked in the racing industry for many years, I have developed a genuine understanding and a feel for the business on many levels. This gives me great insight as to what is required from all stakeholders, whether it be the behind the scenes labourers and cleaning staff to patrons, punters, trainers, owners or the glitz and glamour that you see on television. I am a true believer that you cannot forget glitz and glamour without the blood, sweat and tears of those that do the hard yards. I do not judge on status and fame, I respect all.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world?

Everyone has different beliefs and desires in life and not everyone wishes to be a CEO. Your journey through life will take you down many roads, don’t forget to stop and enjoy those times. I have been happily married for nearly 30 years and I am a mother and a grandmother. Family is a high priority for me and these have been some of the most enjoyable yet challenging times of my life. Don’t judge yourself on anyone else’s success.

Life is not easy, you need to work hard and sometimes you will need to make sacrifices, but be careful what you sacrifice. Don’t be afraid to fail, we all fail sometimes, nobody is perfect. Having a great support crew around you such as family and friends is important and be true to yourself.

I use my natural traits as a female which puts me in good stead to be caring, honest and respectful in return earning mutual respect among my peers.

Nicole KOSSERIS

Describe your business in one sentence.

The Chrysalis Group is an umbrella organisation registered to provide a diverse range of services via the NDIS.  What sets you apart from your competitors?

Tanya Denny, CEO, specialises in traumainformed practice, positive behaviour support and childhood trauma, and is an NDIS Credentialed Behaviour Specialist. Tanya is committed to creating safe therapeutic spaces for our clients, where no one is invisible, where challenging behaviour is understood as a form of communication, and where growth isn’t measured by huge changes but by small steps. Our diverse team have backgrounds in disability, social work, education and mental health. Our highly skilled operations team enhances our business through different perspectives, experience and knowledge.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you want to bring to your business?

Our philosophy is, ‘Your human rights are at the heart of everything we do’.  Over the past 12 months, particularly as we emerge from the uncertainties brought about by the COVID-19 Pandemic, this philosophy has become even more important as we work with our clients and their care teams to provide safe, affordable, supportive living options for some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

Tell us the new and exciting products/ services that are happening in 2023. Chrysalis Accommodation is looking forward to a wonderful year and thrilled to announce we have a new Operations Team headed by Nicole Kosseris (pictured).  Nicole has a wealth of experience in the community sector and will lead Chrysalis Accommodation into our second year of operations in the region. We are aiming to employ 50 new support workers in the next six months and encourage people passionate about developing their careers in the disability sector to go to our website and apply to work with us or talk to us about their career goals.

The diverse skillset offered by the Chrysalis Accommodation team is an important asset; by acknowledging and developing the individual strengths of each employee and the potential they bring, our aim is to create a successful, thriving workplace and fair work culture. We believe in collaboration and celebrating the small stuff.

What are your business’s core values?

Human rights are at the heart of everything we do. Our team works from a person-centred approach, providing the best possible support to ensure each individual’s life is enriched and that they are supported to achieve their goals as valued members of the community. Our mission is to provide an individualised traumainformed client-centred approach to supported living that is respectful and empowers the people we support to reach their full potential.

Chrysalis Accommodation will engage in ongoing review and quality control to ensure we have the flexibility to provide for our clients’

changing needs for emotional and social wellbeing and quality of life. Our vision is that all clients are given the opportunity to create the future they want, and to be empowered to access the information, support and skills they need to scaffold that journey.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective.

The Chrysalis Group’s primary focus is providing the positive behaviour support model of support to people living with complex behavioural or disability challenges. We believe in the principle of equality of opportunity, and thus aim to positively impact our participants’ lives for the better and create change in the community through advocacy, education and action. We are passionate about providing services where every individual engaged with us will be able to reach their potential. Our highly skilled team work to assist not only people with disability, but their families and supports as well to effect improvements in quality of life, the acquisition of valued skills, and increased community and social inclusion. Through person-centred, evidence-based interventions, our practitioners support our clients to promote positive behaviour change while safeguarding their dignity and quality of life.

Flower HOTELS

SETTLERS PP

Hi Renee, Flower Hotels has many female leaders, can you talk us through it? We are fortunate to have half of our hotels run by amazing women, in what is often a male dominated industry. Running hospitality venues isn’t for the fainthearted, with many complex aspects of management and leadership required. The women who run our venues have a passion and ability to multi task that is second to none. They seamlessly jump from dealing with customers in the front of house and managing staff behind the scenes, to budget meetings and finance reporting in a single afternoon! There are some great stories, like Zoe who started with us way back when Flower Hotels was established, and is now a General Manager.

Zoe, can you tell us more about the journey that led you to General Manager

of Settlers Inn Hotel? I started working at Settlers behind the bar 8 years ago while I was studying. Now with a Nursing Degree, a small family at home and a progression to the General Manager role, I can’t see myself leaving the hospitality industry I’ve become so passionate about.

I’m grateful that Renee and others in Head Office at Flower Hotels have provided mentorship and support with a focus on developing staff from within the business as I’ve taken on roles in functions, marketing and management along the way.

Naomi, how do you manage work life balance with a young family whilst running the Fernhill Tavern? You just need to be organised, and I learned that from the best. Growing up I had a great role model in my mum Alison, who had a full time job and ran the house with 3 children, even when studying for her Masters. I have a weekly

schedule at home and great support from my husband Nick, he is the real glue that holds our family together. I’ve got a great support network around me with friends, family and my Flower Hotels colleagues all pitching in when needed.

Tahshi, what have you learned in the last 12 months as General Manager of the Mercure Centro Port Macquarie?

Stepping into my role as General Manager of the Mercure was a complete change from my recent roles, but it’s been really rewarding. I’ve learnt that my leadership skills and a range of previous career experience is transferable and that developing a strong network of colleagues with different skill sets helps you not only professionally, but personally too. Flower Hotels and Accor have provided a solid sounding board and support to learn and grow both the business and myself.

L-R (photo below): Naomi George - Fernhill Tavern General Manager, Zoe Archer - Settlers Inn Hotel General Manager, Tahshi Payne - Mercure Centro Port Macquarie General Manager, Renee Flower - Flower Hotels Director

Describe your business in one sentence A boutique agency specialising in premium holiday rentals since 2016 and full agency looking after all real estate needs from 2021.

What sets you apart from your competitors? Our attention to detail, responsiveness and tailored approach sets us apart. We change tactics swiftly to respond to market trends, e.g. we switch easily between holiday and long term rentals. We tackle property maintenance head on and get the job done. We are genuine, authentic people with a passion for helping others and achieving best possible results.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you want to bring to your role? We understand that selling a property is a complex and emotional process. Sales requires persistence and tenacity. It is a delicate balance to achieve best results based on market value and match owners expectations. Hence, we aim high without losing reality and are upfront and honest with property owners.

Tell us the new and exciting products/

beachscape

HOLIDAY RENTALS + PROPERTY

services that are happening in 2023?

We have just rebranded our holiday rental division SOLscape to Beachscape Holiday Rentals to align with Beachscape Property. All our services are now under a single banner - Beachscape. Easy to remember. Beachscape provides residential sales, property management for long term leases, holiday rentals and short-term stays. We aim to continue to grow our Beachscape Property arm.

We have just sold a magnificent beach cottage with amazing views in Lake Cathie in 14 days!

What are your business’s core values?

We aim to make things easy and effortless for all parties we work with. Honesty, authenticity and creativity are the foundations of our ongoing success.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective.

We have a great team and pride ourselves on our collaborative culture, and the ability to

deliver outstanding results every single day. We make people happy.

Beachscape is the local market leader in luxury rental properties. We are the only agent in the area with Airbnb Super Host status with consistent quality ratings of 4.8 out of 5 from guests. We are genuine and passionate people; ‘a breath of fresh air’ as our clients say.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world? Create a schedule that works for you. Plan your professional days, family and free time then stick to it!  Don’t stress about the small stuff, things always work out.

beachscaperentals.com.au beachscape.com.au

Roz Madden / Nat Yen / Sandra Chapman / Susan De Jonge / Hayley Hayes / Kristin Sas

We aim to make things easy and effortless for all parties we work with. Honesty, authenticity and creativity are the foundations of our ongoing success.

Charmain Woods had a very difficult childhood and found herself homeless at 16, however she pushed through her circumstances and strived to achieve an education and a plan for her future. She worked her way up through the Police Force over her 24 years there and has now just completed her Bachelor of Laws, with the aim to eventually become a Barrister or Magistrate. She is dedicated to achieving positive outcomes for those that deserve it, regardless of their background.

WOODS Charmain

Hi Charmain. You are someone who didn’t have an easy childhood, would you share with us a bit about it and what it was like for you?

I spent my childhood years living in extreme poverty. I recall at one point living in a tin shed and bathing in a small plastic bucket. There were no formal bedrooms and no running water. The front door was locked with a length of rope as there was no door handle. The

shed was covered with holes in which spiders assumed residence. I had one school uniform which lasted years despite it no longer fitting me.

My parents had a turbulent relationship with domestic violence events occurring daily and I was exposed to these domestic incidents. My childhood voice had been silenced but this did not stop me from dreaming of a life far removed from the reality I found myself in. At about the age of eight years I began

to visualise and develop a plan for my own success. I was steadfast in my resolve to achieve high grades at school despite the turbulent upbringing as I believed my education would bring freedom. Just short of completing my Year 10 education my mother ejected me from the family home which catapulted me into the world without emotional or financial support and educational competencies.

It was now a matter of survival. I did not let my fears stop me from achieving my goals

and persistence and planning paid off despite being quite young and facing the many hurdles associated with being homeless. You were homeless at 16, and a Police Officer by 20, when did you make the decision to turn things around and where do you think that determination came from?

My decision to turn things around evolved

during my turbulent childhood years but my ability to act on that decision became a reality in my teenage years.

My determination comes from my life experiences both positive and negative and the ability to rise to challenges presented to me at any given point in my life. We don’t get through life without encountering challenges.

I like to think that adversities are what define our character and resolve.

I am the only family member to pursue a career in policing and attend university and complete a Bachelor of Laws, to break the mould excelling in my chosen career paths. It is true you can change your stars and hard work brings positive results. It really does not matter where you started in life you can create a completely different reality.

What steps did you take to begin that huge transformation in your life?

During the homeless phase of my life between 16 and 20 years of age I worked three jobs and began building my resume by doing various courses through TAFE and other alternative education platforms. I completed a Business Diploma knowing this would form

part of the building blocks to help me catapult myself into a career.

I identified the qualities and competencies I was missing and then went about building the required skills and knowledge through consistent small steps which lead to bigger opportunities. When your survival is reliant on your abilities alone there are no ‘can’t do’ moments.

With a solid foundation behind me at 20 years of age, I successfully joined the Victoria Police Force. My home for three months was the Victoria Police Academy. At this point in time my family was the police force.

Can you tell us a bit about your time in the Police Force, the areas you worked in and what you learnt along the way?

I was a member of the Victoria Police Force for a period of 24 years. I achieved the rank of Sergeant. I worked on the divisional van for a period of 6 years before working in various specialist areas.

I was particularly drawn to young children and the vulnerable members of the community working at the Child Rape and Sexual Abuse Squad. It was here that I felt I could really relate to and help children, young people and vulnerable individuals impacted by poverty, physical abuse, domestic violence, death, suicide, and mental health issues.

Continued over...

It is true you can change your stars and hard work brings positive results. It really does not matter where you started in life you can create a completely different reality.

I had the opportunity to complete a Bachelor of Teaching and work with children and young people in the most disadvantaged communities and schools.

I worked in the corporate section of policing dealing with actions plans, risk management, and other functions including ethical standards, data reporting and human resources.

I was awarded Dux for the Intelligence Analyst Course and was involved in forensic profiling of individuals and demographic areas. I worked closely with the Chief Commissioners Office on major projects such as the strategic planning for the Queen’s Baton Relay throughout the state of Victoria.

I was involved in complex investigations involving high profile abductions and murder cases and know too well the damage caused by motor vehicle collisions. I had the opportunity to help coordinate and participate in two major relay runs on behalf of the Victoria Police Force to raise money for the Make a Wish Foundation. I participated in a non-stop relay run to Sydney and a non-stop relay run around Victoria.

I enjoyed my time in policing. I certainly saw the best and worst of human nature. I was fortunate to make many life-long friends and believe the close bonds stem from the element of risk associated with policing.

I learnt that I was stronger than I even realised and that each chapter of my life should be lived to its fullest potential.

How do you think your upbringing influenced your work as a Police Officer and what skills do you think it gave you to assist in your work?

My upbringing had a substantial influence on my interest in law. It helped create my genuine desire to help individuals who are vulnerable or experiencing trauma or injustice. Individuals who don’t have the means and opportunity to change their life without assistance. It instilled in me a strong sense of justice and integrity and a desire to use the law as a tool by which positive changes can be made for individuals and the wider community.

You have now left the Police Force and have been studying Law, again acing your classes! What are your plans for your future in the field of Law?

I have just completed my Bachelor of Laws with Southern Cross University receiving numerous Academic Excellence Awards. I am currently completing the Practical Legal Training component at the College of Law and will then be officially sworn in by the Supreme Court of New South Wales as a lawyer. I have worked in several law firms and my dream is to practise for some time as a lawyer before moving on to become a

Barrister or Magistrate.

My personal and professional life experience has helped shape my desire to make our community a safe and inclusive place for all individuals. I am passionate about my volunteer work with several not-for-profit organisations including as a board member for Lifeline Mid North Coast.

This organisation’s objectives resonate strongly with me. I am fortunate to be working with an amazing team of highly skilled individuals who continually give their time and expertise to ensure crisis support is freely available to the local community. I will continue to support the community in whatever capacity when I begin practising law.

My personal and professional life experience has helped shape my desire to make our community a safe and inclusive place for all individuals.

You’re clearly very passionate about law, what do you love about working in this field?

I have been involved in many court cases in my policing career and know first-hand how unpredictable the law can be. The unpredictability of the law makes the attainment of justice a challenge which I find both appealing and interesting and this is what I love most about the law.

I am passionate about using the law in pursuit of justice for those who have been wronged but recognize the challenge that

seeking justice presents. Your kids are also doing amazingly well in their chosen fields, what have they been up to and how has it felt to be able to give them the opportunities that you went without?

My daughter has recently graduated with a Master of Psychology with Class 1 Honours and has a scholarship to work as a provisional psychologist. My son has completed Certificate III Accountancy and is currently studying the Bachelor of Laws and excelling in this field. My husband is also studying the Bachelor of Laws and my son in law is excelling in real estate. We are one big think tank and a great support team! My children have had the opportunity to thrive in an environment where there is love, mutual respect and good communication. They have made the most of the opportunities given to them to study, grow and reach their full potential.

What message would you give to others facing their own challenges who want to make change in their life?

Visualise the change you want and believe it is possible. Never give up even if others fail to see your full potential. Anybody can change the trajectory of their life, you just need to believe in that ability to make it happen and don’t give up when you’re down in the ditch.

I am passionate about using the law in pursuit of justice for those who have been wronged but recognize the challenge that seeking justice presents.