Chamber Highlights: 2012-2016

A snapshot of just a few Chamber achievements over the past five years.

2012 > Secured $100,000 from the federal government to deliver professional development events and programs across the region

2012 > Hosted visit from then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd

2013 > Instrumental in bringing the RUOK message to Mackay region businesses

2014 > Hosted visit from then Federal Treasurer Joe Hockey

2014 > Launched Champions of Industry – a signature event that allows all businesses to hear from key Mackay industry representatives

2015 > Invited to represent the region’s businesses at visit from then Prime Minister Tony Abbott

2015 > Launched annual business growth conference – Bigger Better Stronger

2016 > Invited to represent the region’s businesses at visit from Prime Minister Malcom Turnbull

2016 > Greater Whitsunday Alliance launched, which Chamber has been a strong advocate for

2016 > Launched successful support local campaign – #buymackay

#buymackay is a Chamber initiative to encourage all businesses to think locally whenever possible for financial decisions. If every local Mackay business swapped just $5 per day in business expenses to a fellow local business, we can potentially generate an extra $10 million plus a year in local economic activity.

That $10 million means more local jobs and more money being spent in your business every day!

With the generous support of our sponsors, Mackay Regional Council, Hail Creek Development Fund (Rio Tinto) and the Local Buying Foundation, Chamber have brought a number of renowned speakers to the Mackay region.

A sample of these include:

  • Dame Quentin Bryce

  • Adventurers James Castrission and Justin Jones

  • Entrepreneur and author, Jack Delosa

  • International rugby union great, John Eales

  • First series winner of The Apprentice, Andrew Morello

  • Former Chief of the Australian Army, Lieutenant General David Morrison

  • Body language guru, Allan Pease

  • Youth leader, Holly Ransom

  • Red Balloon founder and Shark Tank judge, Naomi Simson