While president Mike Kelly was re-elected unopposed, the Muswellbrook Chamber of Commerce and Industry boasts a few new faces.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
At the organisation’s annual general meeting at Hunter Belle Cheese Cafe on Tuesday night, Mr Kelly was joined by vice-president De-anne Douglas (Muswellbrook PCYC) and secretary Lorraine Skinner (Matthews Jewellers) in retaining their positions on the board.
Ben Hoffman (Curtis Gant Irving Solicitors) stepped into the vacant treasurer’s role, while the four directors’ positions went to Jen Bowcock (Coal & Allied), Matt Frodsham (Anglo Coal), Grant Jupe (LJ Hooker Muswellbrook) and Rebecca Erskine (Hunter Communiqué).
Mr Kelly said he was looking forward to a positive 12-month period.
“During the year we saw a continuation of high levels of economic activity in our local area,” he said.
“While the dairy, equine, wine, tourism and retail sectors have continued to struggle, we have witnessed the mining, industrial and service sectors experiencing strong growth.
“The mining sector’s demand for labour and materials has raised the cost and availability of labour with Muswellbrook Shire’s unemployment levels being reported at 1.2 per cent.
“The housing market continues to be strong with high levels of demand for the limited listings for sale or rent.
“The chamber’s Business Awards were also a great success in 2012, thanks to the entrants, sponsors and volunteer judges.
“This is our premier event and requires a great deal of work to plan and stage.
“More helpers would be appreciated, especially in the area of distributing entry forms and following up entrants – anyone with time available would be most welcome.”
Mr Kelly urged all Muswellbrook businesses to renew or start membership with the chamber.
“Our viability depends on members’ subscriptions,” he said.
“When we reformed 20 years ago, we had six members.
“Now, membership currently stands at 120, which is commendable for a community of our size.
“However, we can always benefit from a higher level of participation with representation across all business sectors."