Good evening everyone! It gives me great pleasure to kick off the 2024 Annual General Meeting of the Eumundi Chamber of Commerce Inc with a heartfelt Eumundi welcome, as we gather to celebrate another sensational year of achievement, comradery and community spirit. 

Apologies are recorded from Councillor David Law, Ted O’Brien MP, Dan Purdie MP, Andrew Fairbairn, Bamik Baker, Craig Manley, Corinne Sause, David Suters, Durnford Dart, Heidi Jenkins, Michelle Jones, and Sacha Laing. High member registration and participation is also acknowledged.

Let me begin by paying respect to the Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) Traditional custodians of the land on which we meet, and pay our deepest respects to all First Nation Elders past, present and emerging. On behalf of the management team, a warm welcome to Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez and esteemed Deputy Mayor of the Sunshine Coast Council. We are also extremely grateful to The Imperial Hotel for their generous sponsorship and hospitality in hosting us once again. 

Now let’s dive into our exciting chamber updates and plans for our beloved Eumundi!

As I complete my 9th term on the Executive Committee, I am honoured to present the 2024 President’s Report on behalf of our dedicated team: Vice President David Perez, Secretary Louise Formosa, Treasurer Ashlee Collins, and Craig Manley our Eumundi Traders Representative. Without their unwavering commitment, the following accomplishments would not have been possible. 

The 2023/2024 period was a year of consolidation, collaboration and growth for our team as we attended to managing the business of the Association. In addition to regular day to day operations, the team's energy continued heavily invested in:

• Delivering projects that promoted commerce, encouraged business opportunities, and enhanced tourism for the benefit of members; 
• Connecting members with professional learning, mentoring and educational opportunities;
• Growing the membership, reaching out and connecting with local businesses;
• Building chambers’ financial resilience, managing Chamber’s Lonergan Lane market operations;
• Maintaining a strong representative voice for members with partners, business and industry groups.

The 2023/2024 reporting period saw extraordinary membership retention and growth. We welcomed new members and the return of past members, adding to our associations rich industry diversity to exceed pre and post pandemic membership numbers; reflecting a dynamic and growing association!  

Membership Snapshot 2023/2024 (YTD 16 May 2024)

• 31% net YTD growth (37% increase with 26 new members, offset by 6% reduction) 
• Remarkable compared to previous year’s 8% net reduction
• Current business membership stands at 70
• Effective membership strategies have resulted in a diverse membership comprising 120+ active representatives of businesses, community organisations, and affiliate partners.

Membership Across High Value and Growth Industries (HVI’s)

Chamber’s Membership by High Value and Growth Industries (HVI) for the current reporting period since July 1, 2023 is presented in Chart 3 in the Appendix. 

Year to date counts of member industry sectors confirm an increase in Clean Technologies, Agribusiness, and Tourism, Sports & Recreation; and a decrease in Health and Wellbeing, and Knowledge Industries & Professional Services. Of the seven HVI’s identified by Sunshine Coast Council to support the economy and facilitate new investment opportunities, Eumundi Chamber is yet to attain members in the Education and Research, or Aviation and Aerospace, so if any members know of any budding astronauts in our region please encourage them to join!

As membership ebbs and flows, we also bid our farewells. With sadness this year, we honour the vibrant contributions of Ursula “Ushi” Schwartz, a beloved entrepreneur and former chamber member. Ushi’s warmth, zest for life, and spirited nature left an indelible mark. Though she passed unexpectedly in October 2023, may her memory be cherished in her place of rest.  

This year, we were delighted to take on occupancy of the car park spaces in Lonergan Lane by way of a licence agreement from ECCO Ltd (trading as Experience Eumundi). This pivotal arrangement grants us the right to manage a small number of market stalls within the area. 

This achievement will support the chamber in building financial resilience, unlocking a vital opportunity to generate supplementary income beyond our traditional revenue streams of membership and event fees. We acknowledge and thank ECCO Ltd for supporting the chamber in this endeavour. 

Impacted by seasonal fluctuations, this new revenue stream, launched on March 1, 2023, generates vital reserves to boost our operational capacity through professional administrative support services. As announced in February, we welcomed Meghan Reis to the team. Meghan has hit the ground running, supporting the management team with events, accounts and administration. This reinforcement to our team will strengthen our capabilities in delivering member services as we continue our membership growth journey into 2025. 

Moving forward, the team is excited to cast their attention forward strategically towards exploring projects and initiatives that could greatly benefit our members and the wider business community. Announcements to follow in coming months - watch this space! 

Leveling Up: A New Powerful CMS and Website 

After 5 years partnership with Growthzone and ChamberMaster, we’re thrilled to announce a new local partnership with SafeCompany and Wave CRM to evolve our digital capabilities. 

Following an extensive evaluation, and $2,500 funding support from Sunshine Coast Council availed to Chambers of Commerce, our chamber is ready to embark on our next digital transformation journey. Work is underway on an integrated system as a mobile-friendly website designed to drive more traffic, engagement and conversions for Eumundi businesses. 

Powered by a robust member management platform, this system will increase operational efficiency, offering:

• Comprehensive member directory and community listings  
• Seamless event management, ticketing, and online registration
• Integrated email marketing and newsletter capabilities
• Secure online payment processing for membership dues, events, and more.

This new partnership will ultimately reduce costs while ensuring the platform is aligned with our member’s needs. With their extensive experience with Australian Chambers of Commerce and industry groups, SafeCompany and Wave CRM ensure streamlined delivery of top-notch services, transforming how we promote, connect, and engage with you, our valued members. 

Transition will commence soon. Stay tuned as we prepare to unveil the new website and CMS soon! 

Facilitating Access to Resources; Connecting the B2B Community 

Our eNewsletter (EDM) evolved to bi-monthly distribution in 2023 as a vital communication tool connecting the members with the chamber. Since March 2020 it has disseminated valuable information and facilitated access to resources, whilst also connecting the B2B community. 

With significant volunteer hours required, three year funding from the Sunshine Coast Council’s Community Partnership Grant Program in 2022, has supported continuing this service to members in its current format.

As a communication tool, this year we’ve progressively changed our EDM content and layout under a service partnership with Experience Eumundi. Each edition delivers invaluable information directly to members' inboxes. From chamber updates and event details, to member news and business resources, members are empowered to tap into learning, development and growth opportunities at their convenience.

We are thrilled that open rates once again remain well above industry average. Member contributions, events, resources and special offers in the B2B space, in addition to chamber updates, provide an interesting and informative read for those unable to attend networking events on a regular basis. 

Growing Social Media Presence and Collaborative Promotion

Our social media presence is steadily growing, enabling us to continue building business exposure to a wider audience, with increased followers and engagement on Facebook throughout the year. 

Collaboration with the Experience Eumundi team has facilitated cross-promotion of members’ content through their destination marketing campaigns and the Eumundi Business Hub Facebook page. We’ll continue working closely with their team to improve our offering and extend members’ reach. 

Monitoring posts and locating suitable member content to share is challenging and time-consuming. In 2024/2025, we intend to review and refine our approach to utilising social media as one of our communication tools for promoting, and connecting with members. 

Member Engagement

Over the past five years, we’ve witnessed remarkable growth in member representation and engagement with our chamber. Each year, participation in our events and networking opportunities has increased, exceeding previous years’ averages. With more events in the pipeline, the 2024 financial year is set to surpass 2023 numbers.

This growth in membership has allowed us to reach and connect with more businesses through our communication strategies, which ensures members are able to actively engage and participate in chamber activities, whilst also strengthening bonds and connections within our dynamic community.

An Exciting Annual Events Calendar Ahead

We’re thrilled to have resumed the popular breakfast events and After 5 Drinks After Work gatherings. The casual Coffee Connect sessions remain a hit, providing an efficient way for members to network, access resources, and forge valuable connections - a lifeline in ever-changing economic times. 

For the first time since the pandemic, we’re excited to offer a jam-packed annual event calendar, with something for everyone each month. From friendly social gatherings, and our very first insightful lunch and learn workshop, we are curating a diverse range of experiences to cater to member’s interests and needs. 

A Thriving Connected Community

As your President, witnessing the camaraderie and fellowship within our growing business community is truly heartening. More and more of you are coming together, creating a supportive vibe, connections and strengthening the bonds that make Eumundi, including the wider 4562 economy what it is today! 

Looking ahead to 2024/2025, we can’t wait to see even more of you getting involved and connected. Together, we encourage you to get involved, forge new partnerships, share invaluable insights, and celebrate the vibrant spirit that makes our local community truly exceptional!

Advocacy for Business Growth: Amplifying Your Voice

This year, our management team doubled down on fostering relationships with industry partners and associates, including Business Chamber Queensland, Sunshine Coast Council Economic Development, Visit Sunshine Coast, Tourism Noosa, Regional Development Sunshine Coast, and the Food and Agri Business Network. Through active participation in events, meetings, teleconferences, industry forums, and numerous one-on-one emails and phone calls, we ensured the voice of Eumundi’s business community and issues impacting members were heard loud and clear. 

Acknowledging our Partners

Sincere thanks to Visit Sunshine Coast (VSC), and Business Chamber Queensland (BCQ), for their partnership, enabling our members to access more resources, education and networking opportunities. 

Secretary Louise continues to maintain strong involvement with VSC on their Sub Regional Panel as our representative for Eumundi and surrounds. Thank you to Andrew Fairbairn (VSC) and Paul Garcia (BCQ) for their valued contributions again this year. While we miss Paul’s warm presence and insightful updates at our Coffee Connects since progressing his career, we wish him all the best in his new endeavors.  

Council's Business, Community and Economic Development Division have been invaluable partners throughout the year, maintaining strong ties with our management team as the voice for local businesses and chamber members. Their professionalism and responsiveness are truly appreciated. 

A huge thank you to Tyler, Tim, Chris and all the hard-working staff and their colleagues behind the scenes. Your support has been instrumental in the success of our chamber's initiatives this year, and supporting our activities in fostering economic growth in our region. We are grateful for your collaboration and look forward to an ongoing productive partnership.

We also extend our sincerest gratitude to Councillor David Law, as our dedicated and returning Divisional Councillor for the next three years, for his support, commitment and willingness to understand the needs and issues of importance to the Eumundi business community. 

Strengthening Regional and Local Ties

This year, we fulfilled a long-term goal of fostering regional collaboration by reaching out and connecting with neighboring Chambers of Commerce. In association with the Council's Economic Development team, we’ve implemented professional development initiatives, information sharing, networking opportunities, and business development programs to benefit our entire region.

Other Partnerships

We also express gratitude to the Eumundi and District Community Association (EDCA) for providing our Chamber with an additional fundraising opportunity at their Australia Day Celebrations once again this year, despite challenging weather conditions. A special thanks also to Matso's for their support and contributions to this fundraising activity.

Thanks to grant funding, and access to fee-free programs like the Queensland Government and Business Chamber Queensland Wellness Initiative, and the Build a Better Business and Mentoring Program with TAFE in partnership with Sunshine Coast Council, we were able to deliver more valuable benefits to members, providing access to approximately $45,000 in direct and indirect funding. These included individual self-development workshops, and professional development and mentoring programs to facilitate business growth during the 2023-2024 year.

Special thanks to Experience Eumundi for their invaluable partnership in delivering our inaugural and highly successful 'Member Wellness Summit'. Kudos to members Salon Eumundi, and Wildfire Fitness, along with the Thompson Institute and local wellness practitioners, whose integral roles were instrumental to the program's success.  

Participant feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, affirming the summit’s effectiveness in raising awareness and equipping attendees with practical strategies for enhanced mental health and personal wellbeing. Inspired by this success, we’re exploring ways to include a wellness program into our calendar.  

A resounding applause to Queensland TAFE, and Sunshine Coast Council for their ‘Build a Better Business Program’, which has empowered members who participated to elevate their enterprises to new heights, thanks to the incredible expertise and one-on-one guidance from local business mentors. 

Inspired by this success, we’re excited to announce further collaboration with the Council’s Economic Development team to offer this transformative initiative to members once again in the coming year. Stay tuned via our EDM’s for future announcements on unlocking your business potential through mentorship and/or securing a spot for enhanced wellness and personal wellbeing!

I take this opportunity to acknowledge the entire Board of Directors of Experience Eumundi and thank them for their solidarity and support. Their presence at tonight's Annual General Meeting, a first during my tenure on the management committee, is appreciated and valued. 

As the Chamber’s appointed Director Representatives on the ECCO Ltd (Experience Eumundi) Board, David Perez and I have continued overseeing the company’s governance and operations in addition to the contributions made in our respective director portfolios. 

With it being Chamber’s turn to nominate the chair of the Board from November 2023, the management team decided that Louise, with her extensive experience, would be best suited to take up the challenge to lead the Board given the company’s critical objectives moving forward into 2024. 

Intensive Strategic Planning

Following motions at the 2023 ECCO-EE AGM, the Board of Directors, including David, Louise and myself, are undertaking an intensive strategic planning process for the company, which includes Car Parking and RV Stopover Operations, Terraces Market leaseholds and Experience Eumundi Marketing and Communications activities. 

The project is now in its fifth month requiring a significant amount of work collectively by the Board, in consultation with local executive consultant Jenny Brice, to make sure no stone is left unturned and all stakeholders are considered. 

The Board anticipates sharing the outcomes, and an action plan aimed at maximising community benefits, with members and the community in August 2024 - a first for the organisation at this level. We thank Jenny Brice for her expertise and professionalism in supporting the Board through this process. 

Acknowledging Experience Eumundi’s Efforts

David and I recognise the Experience Eumundi (EE) Marketing team, Bamik and Hayley, for ensuring members are represented in marketing campaigns for Eumundi, and at industry networking and promotional events throughout the year. 

The team has also been working tirelessly on marketing campaigns, cross promotions, and extending their reach to target audiences in EDM’s and on social media. 

The redesigned ‘Eumundi Map’ was a resounding success this year, receiving strong visitor uptake and positive feedback. Advertising sales for the second edition, due for distribution from July/August, will be available to members soon.

We commend Bamik, and Hayley for their passion, making Eumundi’s tourism and destination marketing among the Sunshine Coast’s finest. Gratitude also to car park staff and volunteers, in sometimes quite challenging circumstances, braving all conditions each and every market day.  

Celebrating Contributions of the 2023/2024 Executive Committee

It is with immense pride and gratitude that I acknowledge the vital contributions of the 2023/2024 executive committee. Collectively, David Perez, Louise Formosa, Ashlee Collins, and Craig Manley have been instrumental in assisting to drive chambers’ success this year. Their commitment to balancing business, work, family, health, and wellness, while also dedicating their time to volunteer efforts, is truly inspiring.

As David, Craig, and Ash move on from their respective roles, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for their contributions to the team and our community. It has been an honor to work alongside them - their impact will be valued for years to come.

Being part of a cohesive, constructive, and supportive team, united by shared values for the advancement of businesses in our community, has been an opportunity I cherish deeply. I am eternally grateful for their support and the friendships that have blossomed throughout our journey together.

Continuing Positions and Welcoming New Members to the Executive Team

Louise and I have both agreed to re-nominate in our respective roles for the 2025 year. Thank you Louise for returning for another year of serving the chamber, its members, and the community.

I’m delighted to announce that three new nominations were duly received for all other positions on the management committee. With no other nominations received, this evening we will be welcoming Janene Pearson, Andrew Walcott, and Tom Rumble to our executive team - we’re proud to have each of you onboard. Your enthusiasm, expertise and fresh perspectives will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and success of our chamber as we forge ahead.

Experience Eumundi Board of Directors: Gratitude and Transition

After serving as one of the Eumundi Chamber's Directors on the Experience Eumundi (ECCO-EE) Board for a number of terms since 2016, it is with immense gratitude and pride as I reflect on this incredible journey. I have decided not to re-nominate for this position for another term commencing November this year, as I believe the work accomplished by the Board over the past few months in creating a strategic way forward for Experience Eumundi, will be a turning point for the company and I can refocus my time and expertise delivering in other areas of Chamber. 

The opportunity to represent the chamber, contribute to the community, give back and make a positive impact is an opportunity I value deeply. I am also thankful for the personal growth, learning and sense of fulfillment in the company’s accomplishments over the past eight years. As the organisation evolves between now and November, I thank fellow Board members for their collaborative spirit as we come together from our respective organisations for the community's betterment. 

Sincerest gratitude and respect to David Perez, and Craig Manley as a past chamber Director when I needed to take a break for family matters, for their steadfast commitment, in sometimes challenging Boardroom conditions, and their invaluable contributions shaping the company to where it is today. 

I also thank you, our esteemed members, your continued support is deeply appreciated. It’s been an honour advocating for your interests and representing our association on the Board. 

As my current term concludes at the company's November AGM, I am delighted to pass the baton to Tom Rumble to accompany David Perez championing Chamber's contributions as our new Directors into 2025. 

Serving on the Experience Eumundi Board has been a profound honor and one of the many highlights of my professional career. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the growth and vibrancy of our beloved community during this tenure. The future is undoubtedly bright as we continue our collaborative efforts. 

As President, I am immensely proud to be a part of this exceptional team, and spirited community. Gratitude to our selfless volunteers, including the management team, and the many participants and contributors to the programs and projects delivered this year - it’s certainly been an incredible year of consolidation, collaboration and growth. 

With eager anticipation, we embrace the opportunities ahead, working together to fulfill the Association’s objectives and regional economic benefits. It has been a profound privilege to serve as President, and I look forward to our chamber’s continued prosperity. 

Moving into 2024/2025, I sincerely appreciate the support and participation of the chamber's membership. Together, with optimism and determination, we’ll navigate the year ahead with a shared commitment to the success of our businesses and our community.

Cindy Suters
President
Eumundi Chamber of Commerce Inc