We’re Here For You
Your PSWIB Committee is dedicated to providing a friendly environment to connect, inspire and support.
PSWIB Mission Statement
Port Stephens Women in Business exists to connect, support and empower women across the Port Stephens business community by creating meaningful opportunities for collaboration, professional growth and shared success.
Our mission is to cultivate a strong and inclusive network that welcomes and grows our membership, bringing together women from diverse industries and stages of business to learn from one another, build lasting relationships and strengthen the local economy.
Through events, mentorship, knowledge sharing and community engagement, we aim to grow a vibrant membership community where women feel supported, visible and inspired to thrive in business and in life.
Word Cloud designed at PSWIB Speed Networking event.
More About Port Stephens Women in Business
Since 2009, Port Stephens Women in Business (PSWIB) has been a thriving community of like-minded businesswomen who uplift and empower each other throughout the Port Stephens region. With a robust membership of over 65 dedicated professionals, our primary goal is to provide a supportive environment where women can connect, network, and foster meaningful friendships.
Our regular events take place at diverse venues across Port Stephens, offering a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. At PSWIB, we take pride in cultivating an environment that encourages sharing, warmth, and a sense of enjoyment.
Our commitment to delivering exceptional value extends beyond our events. We strive to go the extra mile in supporting both our members and first-time guests, assisting them in achieving growth and success in their professional and personal lives.
President, Barbara Everson
Barbara Everson (Barb) found her way to Port Stephens Women in Business after relocating to the Bay area in January 2026. She joined to make friends and meet other local women in business - and was welcomed with open arms, along with a gentle call for help. Barb happily put her hand up.
Barb is a CPA and the founder of OYBN – Own Your Business Numbers, where she helps business owners understand their numbers in plain English as a Business Money Mentor. Without jargon, judgement, or pressure. She knows how quietly heavy running a business can feel and her work is about giving owners the structure, tools and breathing room to lead from their numbers with confidence. Supporting local small business owners is especially close to her heart.
A wife and mum of two, Barb believes every woman deserves a space where she can grow, connect and feel genuinely supported. She is delighted to be part of this group whose whole purpose is exactly that, helping women across Port Stephens connect, network and build meaningful friendships. She is always up for a conversation about your business, so just look for the coloured glasses and bright red hair!
Vice President, Katrina Walker
Introducing Katrina Walker as Vice President. Katrina is the founder and director of InStep Planning, a boutique town planning consultancy servicing Port Stephens and surrounding regions. With a strong background in strategic planning and development assessment, Katrina is known for her practical approach, clear communication, and commitment to achieving positive outcomes for her clients and the broader community.
She is passionate about advocating for thoughtful urban design, sustainable growth, and projects that contribute meaningfully to the character and future of the region.
As a new committee member of Port Stephens Women in Business, Katrina brings both professional expertise and genuine enthusiasm for supporting women-led enterprises. She believes in the power of collaboration, mentorship, and shared knowledge to strengthen local business networks. Her involvement reflects her commitment to fostering connection, championing female leadership, and creating opportunities for women in business to thrive.
Secretary, Kate Preston
Kate is the Director and Principal Clinical Psychologist at Strive Hive, Nelson Bay. Strive Hive is a psychology practice providing assessment and intervention to children and adults in the area.
Kate moved to Port Stephens with her husband and two young children in 2022 and has been busy! In addition to mum-duties, Kate has been growing Strive Hive over the past four years with a mission of making a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of individuals and families across the Port Stephens. Strive Hive is set to continue an expansion in 2026, both in office size and additional team members.
Kate joined PSBIW in 2026 and is excited about contributing to the PSWIB network and learning plenty along the way. Kate often says to clients; “we need to give our girls bigger wings (confidence and independence to achieve and succeed!), and our boys deeper roots (secure attachments and emotional attunement).” PSWIB champions females who are using their wings and soaring through Port Stephens - Kate is so grateful to be part of a group that is setting the stage for the next generation of female leaders.
Treasurer, Maree Cropley
Maree is the owner and maker behind local handmade business FaithandEvie.
After teaching for over 27 years in the Riverina and at a local Primary school Maree made the decision to change course, working with her husband in their dental practice and focusing more time on the needs of their family.
During this time Maree has successfully taken her love of creating and turned it into a handmade business creating handmade accessories for you and your home - using earth friendly materials wherever possible.
She is a proud member, and on the Management Committee of the Port Stephens Artisan Collective, a group of local artists and makers who together provide locals and visitors with high quality, unique and locally made artisan products in a retail space at Nelson Bay Marina. She is also a Verified Handmade Artist on the online Australian handmade site Madeit ,where Australian handmade artists and creatives gather to support each other and provide consumers with an alternative to mass made items.
Committee Member, Hannah McKee
Hannah is the Operations Manager and daughter of owner Deb O’Neill at Raine & Horne Port Stephens. Offering Residential Sales, Property Management and Short Term (Holiday) accommodation across both the Tilligerry and Tomaree Peninsula’s, Raine & Horne has been operating in the area for over 30 years.
Hannah moved to Port Stephens with her family in 2023 and landed on 8 acres in Bobs Farm where she enjoys the peace and serenity yet still being minutes to everything. Embracing all that the area has to offer, outside of work you will likely find Hannah at her children’s sporting activities or one of the many beautiful beaches.
Hannah has been attending PSWIB events since moving to the area, enjoying the ability to connect with other like-minded and inspiring members of the community. She loved the idea of being surrounded by women who support each other and believes being in business doesn’t have to be lonely when you are part of an incredible group like PSWIB!
