HunterNet 2026 International Women’s Day Luncheon

Name: HunterNet 2026 International Women’s Day Luncheon
Start: 2026-03-06T12:00:00+11:00
End: 2026-03-06T15:00:00+11:00
Location: Merewether Surfhouse

BOOK HERE

Give To Gain – When We Give, We All Rise

HunterNet’s International Women’s Day 2026 event brings industry together under the global theme Give To Gain — a reminder that gender equality is achieved through generosity, collaboration and shared action.

Give To Gain highlights the power of reciprocity. When organisations and individuals give through opportunity, mentoring, advocacy, education or support , we multiply impact.

When women thrive, workplaces strengthen and communities grow.

This year, we’ll hear from an inspiring lineup of women at different stages of their journey, including our signature HunterNet Career Connections female apprentice/trainee panel, sharing their experiences navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry, alongside keynote female leaders who are shaping and leading their fields.

Together, we’ll explore how giving creates opportunity, strengthens industry and accelerates progress toward gender equality.

What will you Give to Gain gender equality?

Pricing + gst and booking fee

HunterNet Member $160 +

Non HunterNet Member $180 +

Table of 8 HunterNet Member $1280+

Exclusive Event Sponsorship $ 1800 +

Get your tickets here https://crowdcatcher.com/e/hunternet-2026-international-womens-day-luncheon-tickets-XJaKrqO5Kz

Laicy | 2nd Year Electrical Apprentice, HBT Group Waratah Engineering
“You don’t work hard to show people up – you work hard to inspire, motivate and teach others. Putting effort in for others creates a more positive community.”

Through her apprenticeship, Laicy has seen firsthand how support, patience, and encouragement can change someone’s entire experience. Her impact already speaks volumes – from encouraging more young women into construction at school (helping shift a class to nearly 50% female participation), to proudly showing that trades are not only possible but rewarding.

✨ VET Student of the Year (Construction) in Year 12
✨ Electrical Apprentice at HBT Group Waratah Engineering
✨ Proud member of RISE & Shine Women’s Network
✨ Competitive netballer and advocate for women in trades

Angela Kylma | 3rd Year Electrical Apprentice, UGL

At just 24, Angela embodies the Give to Gain theme in action. From rotating across rail-focused sites at Broadmeadow and Kangy Angy to mentoring SBATs and opening worksites to school students, Angela gives her time, knowledge, and voice to create opportunities for others.

A proud member of RISE & Shine Women’s Network, Angela speaks openly about navigating a male-dominated industry – advocating for equity, educating where she can, and helping shift mindsets so more women feel confident entering and staying in trades.

“Giving to gain means offering up something of yourself – your time, your experience, your voice – not just for your own growth, but to make it easier for those who come after you.”

Chloe Hillard | School-Based Trainee, Svitzer
Chloe is completing a Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) and is already a valued part of the tug crew – supporting deck operations, handling lines during towage, assisting with watchkeeping, safety drills, and equipment checks.

After completing the Float Your Boat program in 2024 and five months of work experience with Svitzer, Chloe earned her SBT role. She is building real-world maritime skills through hands-on learning, mentorship, and teamwork.

“The more you give through effort, respect, collaboration and a genuine willingness to learn, the more you gain in return – confidence, skills and meaningful experience.”

✨ Shared her story at M.A.S.T., inspiring students to explore maritime careers
✨ Member of RISE & Shine Women’s Network
✨ Entrepreneurial spirit – started her own cleaning business at 12
✨ Balances school, SBT role, and multiple part-time jobs

Keynote Speaker

We are proud to announce our Keynote Speaker, Tain Drinkwater GAICD, CEO of the Newcastle Jets Football Club. With over 20 years in senior executive roles across elite sport and mining, Tain brings a wealth of experience in strategic leadership, innovation, and community engagement. She will share insights on building inclusive cultures, driving growth, and fostering regional pride through her work with the Jets and previous leadership roles in NRL and Netball.