Sunshine Coast Business Women's Network

A New Chapter Begins: United in Purpose, Bold in Vision

This month, we held the Annual General Meeting of the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network, where I had the honour of being elected President for a second term. It is both a privilege and a responsibility I hold with deep respect. To our memberx - thank you. Your continued support, energy and engagement are what make this network vibrant, purposeful and powerful.

As we step into a new chapter, I want to take a moment to reflect not only on the achievements behind us but on the opportunities that lie ahead. The Sunshine Coast is a region teeming with potential. It’s full of women with ambition, skills, talent, and heart. Women running businesses, launching ideas, leading organisations and creating ripple effects of positive impact in every industry. When women succeed, communities flourish - and regional economies prosper.

Whether it’s through job creation, product innovation, diversity of thought or the wellbeing of future generations, empowering women isn’t just the right thing to do - it’s an economic imperative. That’s why SCBWN exists - to ensure the women of our region are seen, heard, supported and celebrated.

One of the most important milestones at this year’s AGM was the adoption of our new constitution. It’s document that outlines how an incorporated association like ours operates. It defines our purpose, our structure, how decisions are made, and how we are accountable to members. Our original constitution, written in 1998, served us well for many years. But as our network evolved, it became clear that our governance needed to reflect our modern values and future-focused strategy.

The new constitution is more than just a document. It is a strategic tool. It helps us to operate more dynamically, represent our members more effectively, and ensure our structure supports growth, transparency and innovation. It’s also a symbol of our maturity as a network - one that continues to evolve alongside the remarkable women it represents.

Of course, none of this would be possible without our dedicated committee. I want to acknowledge the passionate, talented, and hardworking volunteer leaders who step forward to serve. Being on the SCBWN committee requires time, heart, and a shared belief in the power of women supporting women. This team brings energy and vision to everything we do - from events and mentoring to advocacy and partnerships. I am so proud to be working alongside you all. I’d also like to extend my thanks to three outgoing committee members Natalie Crombie, Clare McCarthy and Sandra Philpott.

Our incredible and valued sponsors join us again this year, aligned in our values to support women to achieve, thank you for investing in our future. With you support our members and network can be seen and heard more than ever before.

As we look to the year ahead, our purpose remains clear: to connect, empower and celebrate the women shaping the future of the Sunshine Coast. We will continue to champion opportunities, amplify voices, and create pathways to progress.

Together, we are changing the landscape for women in business - not just for today, but for generations to come.

Let’s continue this journey with boldness, purpose and unity. Join us in building what comes next.

With gratitude,

Paula