More than 230 people representing 58 local businesses came together in Port Hedland to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 at the PHCCI Women in Business Luncheon.
Held at Port Haven Village, the event marked the first Women in Business Luncheon for the year and continued a successful partnership between the Pilbara Heavy Haulage Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Local Buying Foundation.
The luncheon featured two inspiring guest speakers who shared personal stories from their lives and careers, aligned to the 2026 International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain.
Kate Holling, General Manager Rail Operations at BHP Western Australia Iron Ore, spoke about leadership, learning and the value of lifting others as you progress. Charina Townsend, Pharmacist at Pharmacy 777 Port Hedland, shared her journey as a local business owner and the importance of community connection and resilience. Their insights resonated strongly with attendees and reinforced the power of sharing experiences, supporting one another and creating opportunities for women in business across the region.
The PHCCI Women in Business Luncheon Series was launched on International Women’s Day in 2021. Delivered in partnership with the Local Buying Foundation, the series has grown into a sellout program that celebrates inspiring leaders and entrepreneurs while fostering connection, creativity and business growth.
Events like the PHCCI Women in Business Luncheon align closely with the Local Buying Foundation’s purpose of strengthening local business capability, building connections and supporting inclusive economic participation across regional Australia.
The Local Buying Foundation looks forward to continuing its partnership with PHCCI throughout 2026 and supporting future Women in Business events that celebrate leadership, shared success and the value of giving to gain.