Background The Women in Business group first met in 1998 and was organised by Rose Stellino. With a bit of help (especially from Sue Jellis) and a lot of enthusiasm, meetings were held and memberships soon grew to today's figure of around 220. We average around 60 members at meetings which are currently held monthly. Members come from the region covered by Ulladulla, Narooma and Braidwood and from a wide variety of backgrounds and with a wealth of knowledge and ideas to share. Ours is a support group for women in business, be they owners, managers, employees, retired, future business operators or those women just interested in our initiatives. We recognise that the health and strength of our community is as much our responsibility as that of anyone else and that we have much to contribute as responsible and successful business people and members of our community. We also appreciate that, as women, we often have insights and experience that may not be recognised in other arenas. This recognition of 'what we are about' has led to a number of initiatives and those that have been accomplished or are currently being pursued are briefly discussed below.

Formalisation of Structure After operating for 3 years, it was recognised that we needed to formalise the structure of the South Coast Women in Business Group and incorporation was arranged.

Equity of Representation Women in Business are concerned that women are not represented equitably on local decision making bodies. Boards and committees of Council and other bodies benefit from the input of women whose knowledge and experience in the community has enormous value. Women from the entire length of the Shire will be encouraged to nominate for positions at annual general meetings and Council elections.

Australis Self Made Girl Program This program seeks to mentor young girls through workshops where girls experience a hands-on, practical program that motivates and teaches them the skills to create their own financial independence. Women in Business has held two of these workshops (1999 and 2003) for local girls. Around 100 local high school students have attended and Women in Business members played the roles of mentors. All agreed that it was a wonderful experience. It is hoped to hold another of these day long workshops in the near future and annually thereafter.

Members' Skills Database It is widely recognised, that within our organisation, are women with a myriad of skills and that these women are prepared to share their knowledge and experience with other members. To this end we are compiling a database of skills. As training requirements are identified, workshops will be conducted with skilled members acting as mentors.

Training Workshops Many members expressed an interest in using the skills within the organisation to conduct monthly workshops. Workshops currently being scheduled include; public speaking, meeting procedures, negotiation skills, and customer service.

Weekend Convention WIB south coast has held two highly successful weekend long conventions. Wonderful guest speakers, workshops and entertainment ensured all participants had a fun and enriching time. The idea is to enable members to focus on enrichment activities without external pressures.

Mentoring Many members are willing to help other members, new and future business owners with their knowledge and experience. We endeavour to match these women.

Business Awards Each year many members businesses and individuals shine in the Batemans Bay Outstanding Business Awards. Congratulations to all members who are nominated, to all of those who work in those businesses and to all members who strive for the ideals of the awards.

Other Issues There are many other issues that have been identified that can affect women in business and these include; womens health services available locally, child care facilities, bullying in the workplace etc. It is hoped to form initiatives to address such issues.