International Women’s Day is a day to reflect, to call for change, and to celebrate acts of courage and determination. This year’s theme is Choose to Challenge –

“We can all choose to challenge and call out gender bias and inequality. We can all choose to seek out and celebrate women’s achievements. Collectively, we can all help create an inclusive world.” – International Women’s Day Website

Did you know that women make up just over a third of all Australian business operators? That number has grown 46% over the past two decades (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2015), and just running our eyes over HUNTERhunter’s business features, we counted well over 200 female-owned businesses; how freaking great is that? 

This year, HUNTERhunter wanted to both reflect and showcase a present-day snapshot of women in business across the Newcastle and Hunter region. Covering the ever-growing number of women-led businesses operating in the area, we speak to five women, each of whom run their own business across town. We hear their stories, their plans for IWD, and how they Choose to Challenge this year…

Tiffany Minell
Abicus | Scout Newcastle

The ever-so-sweet Tiffany Minell is half of the brains behind two of Darby Street’s most loved boutique stores; Abicus and Scout Newcastle. Working alongside her husband Tim, Tiffany has been a proud business owner in Newcastle since 2000.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

“It’s an important day to reflect and be thankful for all the amazing women in my life, the women that have inspired and supported me on my life journey so far.”

Tell me about your memories of International Women’s Day?

“I actually wasn’t aware of IWD all those years ago…. I didn’t know there was really ‘International’ anything day. I feel these special days of awareness; acknowledgment and celebration only came to my attention in the last decade!”

How are you Choosing to Challenge this International Women’s Day?

“I think it’s a great call out to challenge your own mindset, beliefs, and thoughts on many topics that affect women. It’s a call out to be aware of the inequality women from all over the world may face and to consider how to take steps to a more united future. Sometimes it seems like such a big and deeply layered topic, especially in a global society. It can be overwhelming, but just taking one small step is better than none. Start the conversation; you never know where it may lead.”

How would you describe your experience of being a woman in small business in Newcastle?

“Overall, it’s been so wonderful! Our local community is very supportive and encouraging of small business in general and also of women creatives. When you look around I’d say at least half of all small business in Newcastle is actually female-run. It feels very natural and rewarding for me to be a part of a constantly evolving and growing city.”

Whilst we’ve got you, can you share some of your favourite women-owned businesses here in Newcastle?

“It really is very hard to name just one, I’d be able to name at least 50!! Newcastle is overflowing with so many incredibly inspiring local businesses that are owned by women. We are spoilt for choice!

“But if I would have to name just ONE, it would be Momo’s café as I frequent there the most. Many years ago, they were previously located in East Maitland and I would drive up especially to visit. So, when they opened in Newcastle I was over the moon. Linda and her team deliver such a consistent quality of local food and it’s always super tasty!”

How will you be spending International Women’s Day 2021?

“Once the little ones have been dropped at preschool, I’ll start on some of my office admin and run some business errands. I’m looking forward to listening to the IWD special on the My Business Playbook podcast. (Another local gem!)”

“I have also been collecting essential items for The Happy Boxes Project, so I plan to put that all together and send off on IWD, to help support women in remote areas of Australia. Then if there’s time before I pick up my kids, I’ll try and sneak in a Pilates class for some ‘me’ time.”

Simone Madigan
Workshopp Ceramics 

When you’re talking ceramics in Newcastle, you can’t do so without mentioning Simone Madigan and her Maryville-based studio; Workshopp Ceramics. Launching in 2015, Simone has become quite the go-to for anything ceramics in Newcastle.

 What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

“It means taking some time to think about our diversity and strength and celebrating that. I also think about the important women of the past that have pushed the women’s movement forward through history, my favourite authors, artists, and feminists.”

Did being a woman ever hinder your decision to pursue starting your own business?

“No, it didn’t hinder my decision, but I have witnessed some backward attitudes in previous workplaces, whether intentional or not. I am happy to have the freedom to make my own business decisions and inspired to see women succeeding on their own terms.”

How are you choosing to challenge this International Women’s Day?

“Challenging gender stereotypes, empowering women against violence and poverty, and encouraging more women into leadership roles.”

Whilst we’ve got you, can you share some of your favourite women-owned businesses here in Newcastle?

“Um, am I allowed to say HUNTERhunter? I can’t think of another company that’s helped so many women-owned businesses in Newcastle and the Hunter region. Also – Newcastle represent! Today my dress is by High Tea with Mrs. Woo, earrings from Jackie Smallcombe Jewellery, ring from Studio Melt, socks from Pappa Sven, and bag from The Colour Bug – all women-owned and fabulous!”

Rachel Cullen
Botanica Bird

Local self-confessed flower lover, floral designer, and all-around beautiful human, Rachel Cullen from Botanica Bird has become known for her larger-than-life floral arrangements and ever-so cheeky online personality.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

“International Women’s Day is a day for all women, trans women, and women of different abilities to celebrate their achievements, no matter how big or small. It is a day to remind all persons to support, encourage, empower and inspire women to help set goals and achieve them.”

Tell me about your memories of International Women’s Day?

“I feel like my fondest memory of International Women’s Day was actually in my mid 20’s. I was in Tasmania for my first interstate job, I was attending to my flowers in a cute Hobart cottage and Triple J was playing female icon Chaka Khan, “My Happiness”. It was totally a vibe and I looked up to my boyfriend also vibing and dancing around in the kitchen whilst making me a coffee. It made me feel all the warm and fuzzies and was a proud moment. Here I am kicking business goals on International Women’s Day and here is my boyfriend celebrating both me and women as a  whole to the sweet sound of Chaka Khan.”

Did being a woman ever hinder your decision to pursue starting your own business?

“Being a woman didn’t hinder starting my business. However, as time has passed and work/life dynamics change I can see how being a woman can hinder my business success. It is here when I have to remind myself that in order to move past these hurdles, I need the support and encouragement of not only family and friends but, other business women in my life. Without their knowledge, support and encouragement, I would not be able to move forward.”

How are you Choosing to Challenge this International Women’s Day?

“We can’t accept any change if we don’t challenge. So, to me, “choose to challenge” draws attention and invites people to act. I “choose to challenge” community over competition, women supporting women, the support of women in business, stereotypes and celebrate women’s achievements.”

How would you describe your experience of being a woman in small business in Newcastle?

“Newcastle has an incredibly supportive network for business woman. I have networked and collaborated with many like-minded business women who I now call my friends. I feel very lucky to have this support and am inspired by so many.If anyone is reading this wishing they had this support – contact me! If a large networking event is too intimidating for you, let’s organise a coffee date. I am here to support women in the community as well as deliver fab flowers!”

Whilst we’ve got you, can you share some of your favourite women-owned businesses here in Newcastle?

“There are so many! Within the last year, I have worked with a lot of inspiring female businesses including Shan Rose Photography, YWC Productions, Sorella Hair Salon, House of Lita, Lita Studios, Yu Non-Toxic Nail Salon, Pleasure and Peach, Zoe Lonergan, Paper-crane Vintage, Bonnie Hair & Makeup, Andrea Martinello, Brb Ceramics, Cardillo Law, Two Squirrels, Illeigh Heiler, Good Grief Ceramics and Mustard Made.

“Not to mention the women in my own industry, Film & Foliage, Indah Botanicals, Me Oh My Flowers, Wandering Flora, Whimsical Fox, Floweresque, Sweet as Jasmine, Blooms on Darby, Pushing Pansies, The Naked Florist and The Posy Post.”

How will you be spending International Women’s Day 2021?

“On the 8^th March Botanica Bird will be running an IWD Flower Delivery with 100% profits going towards Dress for Success, who on Wednesday 3^rd March opened an office in Broadmeadow.”

Prudence Farquhar
Blue Kahunas

Is it not the coolest that one of Newcastle’s coolest bars is part-owned by a woman? Meet Prudence Farquhar, one half of the mighty popular Hunter St bar; Blue Kahunas. Working alongside her life partner Byron, Blue Kahunas has become the go-to for tiki-cocktails in Newcastle since its inception in late 2018.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

“International Women’s day is a day to celebrate all women, trans women, and non-binary women.”

Did being a woman ever hinder your decision to pursue starting your own business?

“We decided in late 2017/early 2018 to pursue our dream, being a woman didn’t hinder my decision to move forward but I had fears of not being taken seriously alongside Byron –generally women need to push through harder to be recognised.”

How are you Choosing to Challenge this International Women’s Day?

“Challenge yourself, challenge the norm – learn and push through boundaries, don’t stay still and be passionate about what you love!”

Whilst we’ve got you, can you share some of your favourite women-owned businesses here in Newcastle?

“My dear friend Sarah Bortfeld takes charge of the Darby Street Community Garden, holds incredible events alongside Feedback Organic and Newcastle Council for pushing sustainability and it is super inspiring!”

Amelia Hancock
made by a.

Ever dropped by the beautiful space that is Maker Store & Studio? No doubt you’ve explored the range of beautiful jewellery created by none other than Amelia Hancock of made by a. Launching in 2017, made by a. has become more than just a local favourite, but an Australian-wide one!

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

“Celebrating the achievements of all women and raising awareness for gender equality.”

Did being a woman ever hinder your decision to pursue starting your own business?

“It hasn’t hindered- if anything, it motivated me to work harder. There has been a driving factor to financially support myself and have independence.”

How are you Choosing to Challenge this International Women’s Day?

“I choose to challenge gender stereotypes. This year I want to challenge the yin & yang of being a woman in business and finding the balance between being kind & assertive, dominant yet graceful.”

How would you like to see things change here in Newcastle for women in business?

“I’d love to see more events bringing women in business together (like The Fe Collective!)”

Whilst we’ve got you, can you share some of your favourite women-owned businesses here in Newcastle?

“So hard to pick just one, but The Lair, Monsoon Living & Momos Wholefoods are definitely up there with my faves.”

As a female-owned and run company, HUNTERhunter is proud to be a part of the women-owned business community here in Newcastle. Over the years we’ve watched so many women make their dreams a reality and bring businesses to life and we hope to continue being a part of giving them a voice, a platform, and a community.

For more information on International Women’s Day, click here.