International Women's Day Long Lunch

Hosted by Jess Farchione, this event will feature a share-style long lunch hosted in our Barrel Hall, and talks from the following speakers on how they have navigated success in their respective fields.

Jess Farchione - (HIT NSW, Newcastle Weekly, Civil Celebrant)

Jess Farchione has been a brekkie radio host for 10 years with the sole mission of bringing some light and laughter to the mornings. She is a bubbly and bright local woman who gets so much joy about bringing rooms of like-minded people together for a beautiful meal. Mother to the sweetest little two-year-old Lucia Margherita, Jess is passionate about making the world a better place for the next generation.

Leanne Douglass (Founder - AVANTI Business Events & Tourism Solutions)

From managing travel logistics for over 400 Australian athletes at the Rio Olympics to championing regional tourism through a global pandemic, Leanne Douglass has built her career by showing up when it matters most. Now, as the founder of AVANTI Business Events & Tourism Solutions, she helps venues and destinations turn strong relationships into real commercial outcomes, continuing to champion the Newcastle and Hunter visitor economy.

Ness Zietsman (Experience Manager & Distiller - Earp Distilling Co.)

After moves that took her from South Africa and New Zealand, Vanessa Zietsman has been part of the Earp Distilling Co. family here in Newcastle since 2020. As one of the distillery's founding team members, her leadership has grown alongside the business. Whether she’s managing distillery classes, distilling and developing new products, or hand peeling lemons - she does a bit of everything. With a genuine passion for craft spirits and hospitality, Ness brings warmth and expertise to every experience she creates.

Nic Minter (Founder & Director - Soqual Creative Agency)

Nic Minter is the founder of Soqual Creative Agency, shaping brands across Newcastle and the Hunter Valley for more than 12 years. She’s driven by storytelling, bold ideas, and a deep understanding of what makes a business connect with its audience. A natural leader who values authenticity, Nic has built a creative agency that delivers meaningful results, and knows exactly how to get them.

Maeve Grant (Owner, Founder & Artist - Gumnut Artists)

Maeve Grant turned a passion for independent music into Gumnut Artists - a Newcastle-based boutique agency dedicated to helping original artists grow and thrive. With a background in media, communications and events, she brings industry knowledge and genuine heart to artist development. A member of the Association of Artist Managers and graduate of the AIR Women in Music Mentor Program, Maeve is a fierce advocate for creatives carving their own path.

• Spritz on Arrival
• 2 Course Lunch