Backing Hunter Women in Sport

The Wests Group has expanded its partnership with the Minerva Network, a not-for-profit organisation supporting more than 1,000 female athletes through mentoring, career development, and professional guidance.

This strengthened partnership builds on the Newcastle Knights Minerva Scholarship, which has already supported local athletes including para-athlete Aimee Fisher, surf lifesaving champion Jemma Smith, and NRLW player Jules Kirkpatrick as they balance elite sport with education and career goals. Their journeys demonstrate the positive impact of Minerva’s support in helping athletes prepare for success both during and beyond their sporting careers.

The Wests Group has committed $10,000 to further grow Minerva’s initiatives in the Hunter region, broadening access to mentoring, workshops, and career-transition programs from grassroots to elite levels. Since 2017, Minerva has developed a network of over 400 senior mentors across diverse industries to support women in sport.

The Wests Group continues to champion opportunities for women in sport, supporting their development and long-term success on and off the field.