Multiple challenges, which have dogged business operators, retailers and the community across the region during the past 12 months, have done little to slow down Forster Tuncurry Business Chamber.
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During the lockdown and operating in accordance with COVID restrictions, the organisation continued to reach out to members, offering support and assistance, and at the same time increased membership by more than 30 to now number 170
Looking back on her first year at the helm, president, Megan Lewis said at the height of the COVID restrictions the committee contacted members to check on their wellbeing and asked a few questions which could in turn help give chamber the tools to provide what support, directly or indirectly, was needed.
"It was really important to the chamber to check in with local business owners as we were all going through unchartered territory," she said.
"It was inspiring to learn about how people had adapted their business models and service delivery, and many shared with us how supportive the local community were being by shopping local."
To show their appreciation, the chamber organised a special thank you month-long complimentary advertisement on WIN TV.
It was really important to the chamber to check in with local business owners as we were all going through unchartered territory.
- Megan Lewis
The members loved it and the feedback from the community was very positive.
Monthly meetings returned to the breakfast format under COVID safe conditions at Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club in July following the three month lock-down.
More than 255 people have this year attended chamber the events, which culminated with an end of year celebration held at The Deck, Tuncurry.
The chamber also worked closely alongside MidCoast Council and chambers from across the Mid Coast region on initiatives to support the wider community including the launch of the ShopMidCoast EFT gift card.
At this year's annual general meeting, held on Wednesday, November 25, Ms Lewis (The Resolution Network) was unanimously re-elected president.
She will be assisted by incoming vice-president, El Rattray (Explore Barrington Coast), secretary, Jessica Gray (Smart Coast Conveyancing) and treasurer, Ian Croker (Regional Finance Solutions) and committee members, Hector Lucenti (The Beach Geek), Nicola Stockdale (R&R Property), Jeanene Duncan (Great Lakes Advocate), Maxine Calladine, Jenny Roddick (Lumpys), Luke Austin (Great Lakes Tackle) and Bianca Adams (TAFE NSW).
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Jeanene Duncan
Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper. She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA), McPherson, Fairfax newspapers and Rural Press, and contributed to various magazines.
Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper. She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA), McPherson, Fairfax newspapers and Rural Press, and contributed to various magazines.
