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New Executive Committee elected at Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network’s AGM

MARIA GIRGENTI

TWENTY members and guests recently attended the Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network dinner meeting and Annual General Meeting, held at Queen's Hotel where the new Executive Committee for 2021 - 2022 were elected.

Shannon Siebel is the new President; Louise Robertson is Vice-President; and Gitta Yelds is the Treasurer, whilst the position of Secretary currently remains vacant.

The Meet and Greet Ladies are Nicole Hoare and Ourania Conomos (Innisfail), Patrina Glode (Mission Beach) and Kerry Mamo (Tully).

Outgoing President, Ruth Faulkner, presented a comprehensive report of her year as President and thanked outgoing Committee Members Rachel Accatino (Vice President), Leah Mangano (Secretary) and Patrina Glode (Treasurer) and all non-committee members who had helped.

That team took over in December, after past President/Secretary Zanette Phillips moved interstate, with the core objective to resurrect the group after COVID-19.

The group’s first face-to-face meeting post-COVID was held in March, at the El Arish Tavern, and had an excellent turn-out.

It was clear to the new Executive that there was significant support from a core group of women in the region who wanted to keep the Network going.

Membership renewals have been promising, with 24 members, which restores confidence and provides hope to build on those numbers.

Ruth Faulkner advised that there had been a lot of work done regarding record management, with all hard copies now online and easier to manage and the organisation is in a strong financial position.

“Over the past six months, I have observed members are keen to be involved, engaged, and like to be kept informed.”

“Many businesses have adapted to the challenges presented by COVID, and some have even flourished.”

“Members are keen to attend meetings, and share their stories and knowledge, and I believe the network provides important mental health support to its members through social stimulus and the ability to interact.”

Lynda Hannah-Williams from Bingil Bay Distillery was the guest speaker. She delivered an interesting slideshow presentation on the progress her business is making towards producing traditional rum and gin using new world sub-atmospheric innovation.

CCBWN was formed in 2010 and is a not-for-profit organisation, which has grown into a dynamic and diverse group of businesswomen.

The organisation’s objectives are to facilitate networking with like-minded women, and to encourage, nurture, and support the ideals and goals of women.

It also aims to provide a voice for businesswomen, promote personal and professional growth within our community, and foster the development of new business initiatives for women, as well as enrich the lives of women through friendship.

For further information on how to get involved and upcoming events, please visit Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network Facebook page and website.

AGED 50 AND OVER?

COVID-19 vaccines continue to roll out to those most at risk. People aged 50 and over can receive their COVID-19 vaccine at one of the selected vaccination clinics or at participating general practices. It’s voluntary, free and the best way to protect you and your community. Our Therapeutic Goods Administration continues to closely monitor the safety of all vaccines in Australia.

To fi nd out where you can get vaccinated visit australia.gov.au or call 1800 020 080 Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network’s new Executive Committee for 2021 – 2022: Patrina Glode, Ourania Conomos, Nicole Hoare, Gitta Yelds, Shannon Siebel, and Louise Robertson.