Living on 40 acres, I was surrounded by beautiful properties and my love for rural land and people grew. I moved to the Hunter Valley to attend Tocal Agricultural College, met my husband and settled there.

After having two children, I began to explore the world of small business as a means of re-entering the workforce while caring for my family. I also see business as a way of contributing to the community in which I live.

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After 17 years in the Hunter region, I returned to O'Connell three years ago to enable my kids to attend O'Connell Public School, bringing my online business with me.

Although my business, Tumblegum Gifts & Homewares, began as an online store, I was fortunate to be able to set up a storefront in the c1870 cottage next to the O'Connell Café.

I source products from Australia and overseas. I insist on quality and I also focus on eco-friendly and ethical products.

As well as gift ideas, recently the shop has begun to stock a range of everyday products from dairy products to household cleaning products and even toilet paper.

Currently I'm in the process of creating a new website which will enable people from around Australia to access many of the products that are available in store.

'Tumblegum' is also on Facebook and Instagram.

In the short time that I've been involved in the Seed Scheme, I've discovered a range of tools that I can use in my own business and gained insight into small business generally.

The best part has been networking with other local businesswomen. I know we'll be able to continue on encouraging and supporting one another as our businesses develop.

Oberon Council's support has been incredibly helpful, particularly in this challenging economic climate, and I'm hopeful that our group will be able to work together with council in the future to help other women in business or who are considering starting a business.