Moyne Shire Council has announced its support for the development of a shire-wide chamber of commerce to support the local business community.
At today’s council meeting, Councillors agreed to sign a memorandum of understanding with Belfast Community Enterprises Ltd, operator of Community Bank Port Fairy & District, and provide $25,000 from Council’s economic development initiatives budget.
Belfast Community Enterprises Ltd will also provide $25,000 to fund operations of Commerce Moyne, including a part-time executive officer.
Mayor, Ian Smith said a shire-wide chamber of commerce would boost employment and economic development.
“This is a really exciting initiative which will have positive impacts on our communities right across the shire,” Mayor Smith said.
“Chambers of commerce bring businesses together to build skills and knowledge and help
create a stronger network of businesses.
“Council is pleased to support the formation of Commerce Moyne and is excited to see the organisation come to life.”
Small Business Commissioner Lynda McAlary-Smith visited Moyne in April and spoke of the importance of chambers of commerce in ensuring a strong business community.
“The idea of Commerce Moyne was raised with her at that meeting and she was incredibly
supportive and encouraged us to continue towards getting it established,” Mayor Smith said.
“The Commissioner said in her experience, council’s and small business work well when a business-led chamber of commerce is present.
“So we have taken that on board and made this commitment. We want to work with our
business community, we want it to be successful because if business is successful, everyone benefits.”
The Port Fairy Business Association passed a resolution at its AGM to continue as Commerce Moyne and to broaden its scope from Port Fairy to the entire Shire.
Council’s economic development team will work closely with Commerce Moyne over the coming 12 months to help establish and sustain the new entity and to ensure strong representation from across the shire.
