At today’s Annual General Meeting, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) embarked on an exciting transformation.
We enthusiastically embraced a name change and now delighted to unveil a striking new logo, reflecting our commitment to propelling the local business sector to greater heights. In addition, we proudly elected new Board members, heralding a revitalised strategy that promises to amplify the voice of businesses across the Whitsundays region.
WCCI President, Alan Milostic, remarked, “The economic stability of our region is intricately tied to the hardworking businesses that enrich our community. Our business community not only serves the region but also plays a pivotal role in generating employment opportunities for our residents. We recognise the need to work in unison to maximise the countless benefits of life in the Whitsundays.”
As part of our bold new vision, the WCCI board has outlined strategic key pillars designed to unite and empower local businesses:
1. Advocacy: We’re committed to championing your interests and ensuring that your voice reaches the corridors of government, so that local businesses can reach their full potential.
2. Membership Services: We’re here to provide the support and resources local business operators require to thrive.
3. Education & Events: Through our events program and exclusive education opportunities, we’re dedicated to enhancing the productivity and outcomes of local businesses and their teams.
4. Communication: Our aim is to keep you informed and facilitate connections with other like-minded members.
5. Organisation: We’re committed to building a sustainable Chamber operation that can truly support local businesses.
“We’re focused on addressing the issues that affect all businesses in the Whitsundays, including major industries, retail, professional services, essential trades, and the dedicated owner-operators who are the backbone of our community,” Allan emphasised.
“We face unique geographic challenges that need the attention of politicians in the region, Brisbane and Canberra, so that our entire community can thrive and prosper.”
“Our Vision for Whitsundays project, with the report expected in May 2024, is currently in the works, researching various special interest groups and their ideas and needs for the future,” Allan added. “The Chamber is eager to establish a roadmap for the future that will guide our discussions with all levels of government.”
The key to our success lies in the support of all businesses in the Whitsundays, and we warmly encourage our business community to consider joining us in this exciting journey.
During our well-attended breakfast AGM, we also welcomed three new directors, confirming that our strategy to grow the Chamber is well underway. As we embrace this new name, logo, and era, we’re filled with enthusiasm and anticipation for the incredible opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we’ll shape a brighter future for the Whitsundays business community.
Introducing the Chamber Board
Photo credit: Rachael Smith/Whitsundays Life
Introducing the Board:
- President Allan Milostic (LiveLife Pharmacy)
- Vice President Gus Walsgott (Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine)
- Secretary Megan Taylor (Kapow Interactive)
- Treasurer Annette Neil (PRD Whitsunday Real Estate)
- Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrication)
- Melinda Louise Hutchings (Melinda Louise Media)
- Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services)
- Kim Porter (Hummingbird Refrigeration, Electrical & Air Conditioning)
The Board is supported by our Chamber Liaison Dr Julia Evans and Policy Officer Richard Evans. Together, they bring over 30 years’ experience in executive leadership, strategy, advocacy, member education and engagement, and operations in state and national peak industry associations.
President’s Report
At today’s AGM, the 2022-23 President’s Report was received:
2022-23 has been a transformative year for the Chamber.
A significant event was the merger with Proserpine Chamber of Commerce which has strengthened both the member base and our ability to advocate for local businesses. I welcome Proserpine members who have joined us today and thank Amanda and Greg Yuskan and Kim Porter for their assistance with the transition.
I wish to thank the current Chamber committee members for their continued efforts and input. It is an efficient and cohesive committee that works extremely well together and genuinely has the interests of the regional businesses front of mind. Gus, Annette, Megan, and Kim – it is a pleasure and many thanks for your continued patience as I try and balance my commitments.
Perhaps one of our best moves ever, this year we appointed our new Chamber Liaisons – Dr Julia Evans and Richard Evans – to assist with the implementation of the growth and development strategy of the Chamber. Their drive, organisational skills, networking ability and sound strategic advice has been priceless. Although they like to sit a little behind the committee, their efforts this year have been instrumental to the massive evolution of the Chamber this year.
Other achievements include:
- The development of a new 5-year strategic plan
- The creation of our 10 Point Advocacy Plan
- New membership model which will pave the way for ongoing growth.
- Launched Vision for the Whitsundays project to articulate an economic vision for the Whitsundays that is informed by regional business community and other essential perspectives. We are half-way through the research phase, with over 100 people having already shared their view.
We have been active in advocating for positive change for our members – at a state level, we represent the region in advisory groups for the Queensland Small Business Commissioner and Business Chamber Queensland, and recently on local matters relating to the Proserpine RV Park closure and Airlie Beach Main Street proposed upgrades.
The year ahead will be exciting, with the Chamber inaugural Whitsunday Business Conference and Vision for the Whitsundays report in May, continued advocacy for the region, launching additional exclusive membership services, and efforts to continually grow, support, and connect the Whitsunday business community.
Thank you for your support during the year.
Allan Milostic
Seeking donations for the ultimate end of year event!