A new event management organisation, Get Fortified, was borne from a passion to produce sophisticated local events and is the brainchild of four local businesswomen.

Vanessa Swilks, Jamie Lee Habeler, Sharon Waterhouse and Julie Wicks have joined forces and will to host an exclusive New Years Eve party as their maiden event.

To be held in the newly restored barracks of the historical Fort Scratchley, Julie said the function aims to be an exclusive and premier experience.

“Although Newcastle foreshore is famous for it celebrative new years atmosphere, the Get Fortified team wants to offer something a little different,” Julie said.

The seed was planted when the four businesswomen attended an event at the newly renovated barracks earlier in the year.

“We listened to a speaker talk about the tireless efforts of the Historical Society to continually maintain the barracks and their passion and respect for the site was overwhelming.”

“Our event will seek to raise awareness and of the site and give back to the Society through allocated proceeds from the night.”

The event is currently sponsored by Wilde Legal, Quarry Mining, Murrays Brewing Co and Meerea Park Wines, however other sponsors are still being sought. An additional charity, Hunter Children's Research Foundation, will also be supported on the night.

With a James Bond theme, the Get Fortified team say it will be “a shaken and stirred new years eve experience”, with tickets now on sale.

About the team

The Get Fortified Directors are four talented local businesswomen, with an impressive track record of creating amazing events. From exclusive and intimate corporate launches all the way to sell out large-scale award ceremonies, conferences and community events. 

• Vanessa Swilks has a passion for marketing, events and fashion. Having hosted many successful fashion events she has also had the opportunity to work with some amazing Newcastle businesses. Vanessa is known for her quirky style, fun personality and a love of Coco Chanel and wine.
• As an elected Councillor, Sharon Waterhouse is dedicated to helping everyone discover just how good Newcastle is as a place to live, work and play. She has a head for business and loads of experience sorting out all things financial. When she is not busy with Get Fortifed, Sharon is dedicated to growing her shoe collection and cruising the coast on her stand up paddle board.
• Julie Wick’s love of business lies with personal interactions and she thrives on meeting people and building business relationships. Julie – or Jules as she in known – is honoured to be involved with the Get Fortified socialites in hosting Newcastle's premier event.
• Jamie-Lee Habeler has a love for all things Newcastle and her company Concept Creative makes local organisations like Caterpillar, Onesteel & Bradken look good. Never one to blend in a crowd, Jamie-Lee is creative, energetic and loves nothing more than a great party.