Thursday, April 18, 2024

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Chamber Chat

With Queensland kids and families going back to school and work, the NSW school holiday period is about to begin. Although many operators report softer than expected trade, the extended period of school holidays partially explains this and the overall result will be strong.
The Chamber’s recent business insurance event was lively and informative where attendees had direct access to leaders from the Insurance Council of Australia, Australian Financial Complaints Authority, and the Office of Queensland Small Business Commissioner.
Hot topics of conversation were business insurance pain points, key influences impacting the cost of insurance premiums, Cyclone Reinsurance Pool, underinsurance, relationships and access to quality insurance brokers, and practical tips on what to do now to protect your business from future natural disaster. The forum provided a chance for us to provide feedback on what the visiting organisations can do to improve their communication and education to businesses, and to raise awareness of regional issues.
Although it was a good turnout, I must express disappointment that the room was not packed full. Insurance is a massive problem for every business in the region. Charter boats operators, tour operators, trades and retail operators all have a lot to complain about and insurance is a genuine financial burden and impost.
Rarely do peak state and national bodies visit regional Australia, so when they do visit the Whitsundays, we shouldn’t miss these great opportunities to meet and exchange information that directly impacts your business performance and growth.
Speaking of, registrations are now open for our revised Whitsunday Business Conference program to be held 1:00pm-4:30pm Thursday 16 May at Mantra Club Croc.
Engage in conversation with our confirmed speakers Amanda Anderson (Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine), Kristian Mullholland (Tassal), and Julia Wheway (TAFE Queensland) and others as they share their stories and strategies in a session on ‘Supercharging Your People Power’ to explore how businesses are managing shifting attitudes and work ethic in young people and an ageing workforce; and how businesses have re-invented themselves and overcome limitations in a session on ‘Don’t tell me it can’t be done!’  Visit our website to register today!

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic, President of Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

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