MORE than 2200 Port Stephens ladies are connecting via an online social group that spills over into real life coastal walks, inter-suburb outings and local coffees, lunches and dinners.

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Dana Randall started the “Ladies Social Group Port Stephens” on Facebook in 2020, being new to the area.

“I thought it would be great for locals to connect over likeminded activities, to support our small businesses over coffee/lunch/dinners etc and to explore some of the best nature in the country together,” Dana said.

Having experienced the confusion of social events being perceived as dating opportunities, Dana thought it would be a refreshing chance to create a space where women would feel safe making friendships.

“I hoped ladies in the area would feel a sense of connection and that the group events would provide a good way for anyone shy and/or lonely to also try to come out of their shell.”

Dana understands firsthand that “meeting new people could be daunting to anyone”.

“Many have said they were nervous to come to their first event but so glad they did because everyone was warm and welcoming.”

Dana didn’t expect the group to grow to retain so many members and she is proud of the new friendships she knows women are now adding to their lives.

“Having attended as well as hosted quite a number of events, I’ve met a lot of amazing women to name just a few,” she said.

“In various ways, I’ve been on the giving as well as receiving end of genuine friendship, advice, a listening ear, laughter, shared fun times, comfort, safety and more.

“I’d love to encourage more ladies to participate and to host events.

“It’s free for anyone to create activities of their choice.

“Also, I hope that more will take the plunge to attend their first event and see it’s not as daunting as it seems.”

Fellow member Helen Dugdale of Salamander Bay found the group through her Facebook feed and likes the fact that every woman is welcomed and friendly.

“Social connection between women is important so that they can feel that they can speak on equal terms about topics that interest them,” Helen said.

“It would be interesting to see if there was enough interest in a philosophy club, or an ethics group as there would be lots to talk about!”

Fiona Keough of Nelson Bay joined with a mouse click, quickly becoming the glue that is bringing many of the future tabled events together.

Fiona had moved from Sydney at the start of Covid and knew no one locally.

“I was working full time from home, so there was little or no exposure to the community.

“Also, sadly my husband had been diagnosed with terminal cancer, and he strongly encouraged me to build a support network to assist in coping with the inevitable.

“My husband ultimately passed away in March 2024 after I’d been his primary carer for 18 months, and this community of women rallied around me, buoyed me up, gave me purpose, put a little joy back into the day to day and ensured that even though I was alone I would never, ever be lonely.

“Those special friendships and bonds that are forged through this group are priceless.”

Fiona appreciates that the group is self-managed and “all about women and health and well-being, with a particular focus on mental health through socialisation, inclusivity and community.

“We have members ranging in ages from their 40s to their 80s from all walks of life, working, stay at home Mums, retired etc.

“Each and every one of them have life experiences to share and offer to one another.

“We seek to provide a safe and supportive place for this fantastic community to be together.”

By Jacie WHITFIELD