EXCITING times lie ahead as the Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce gears up to elevate its advocacy efforts with the launch of the research phase of its groundbreaking Vision for the Whitsunday initiative.
The chamber is undertaking work to articulate an economic future for the Whitsundays that is informed by the region’s trades, small business, commerce and industry.
The aim is to build a comprehensive economic vision that aligns with the region’s unique strengths, challenges and aspirations.
Chamber President Allan Milostic urges both members and the broader business community to submit their ideas and concerns for consideration.
“Having a united, clear vision of the future, designed by business for business, is urgently needed,” Mr Milostic said.
“What follows is relevant advocacy, representing our vision and influencing decisions across all levels of government.
“Coordinated advocacy is highly valued by all levels of government, and the chamber will ensure that Proserpine and the Whitsunday coastal business centres have a strong voice in the development of this pivotal project.”
The chamber invites the business community, stakeholders, and individuals to inform the project’s key findings and recommendations.
See below for ways to participate and share your views either by a formal submission, a quick anonymous survey, or by participating in a focus group.
This phase of the project is being led by chamber liaison Dr Julia Evans, an award-winning researcher in the field of small business education.
Dr Evans is experienced in delivering engaging research and translating findings into practical recommendations and advocacy priorities.
The chamber looks forward to previewing preliminary findings in December and releasing the full report (complete with key findings and recommendations) at the chamber’s inaugural Whitsunday Business Conference, in May 2024.
Make a formal submission
Individuals and organisations are welcome to make a formal submission to the project, providing the opportunity to share ideas in writing. Submissions need to address one or more of the project themes (outlined in the Terms of Reference document) and received by 6pm on Friday, December 1, 2023.
Complete a quick survey
The project’s online survey is anonymous, asks seven questions, and should take around 15 minutes. The survey will close Friday, December 1, 2023.
Join a focus group
Throughout September to October 2023, the chamber is hosting a series of focus groups to identify issues, brainstorm possibilities, and frame recommendations for the final report.
Focus groups will be conducted on the following themes:
- Customer Service Experience – 9.30am Wednesday, September 13, online via Zoom
- Arts, Culture and Heritage – 1pm Tuesday, September 26, Proserpine
- Sustainability and Resilience – 9.30am Wednesday, October 4, Cannonvale
- Future Workforce, Education and Training – 11am Wednesday, October 18, online via Zoom
- Economic Growth and Opportunities – 9.30am Wednesday, October 25, Cannonvale
- Innovation, Digital Technology and Artificial Intelligence – 11am Tuesday, October 31, online via Zoom
Registrations are essential, as places are strictly limited to 12 people per focus group.
Visit the chamber’s website for more information and for links to the Terms of Reference, online survey, and focus group registration: https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/have-your-say-our-economic-vision-for-the-whitsundays/
CHAMBER CONTACT: Dr Julia Evans, Chamber Liaison admin@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au or visit www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au.
