Councillor Corner Backing Local Business

Small businesses are the heartbeat of our community and for me, that’s not just a phrase. It’s personal.
 
I grew up surrounded by small business. I watched my Nanna Hopey run her electronics business in West Mackay, working tirelessly from home long before it was common. I saw the dedication, late nights and resilience it takes to build something from the ground up.
 
My Dad still runs his business today, and I proudly help manage it alongside him. I’ve seen firsthand the pressures small business owners face, balancing cashflow, staff, compliance, customers and family life, often all at once.
 
As an adult, I stepped into business ownership myself. From running Angels for Kidz to co-operating a fire and security business, I understand what it feels like to take the risk, employ locals and back yourself. That’s why supporting small business matters so deeply to me as a Councillor.
 
Mackay Regional Council is proud to be one of the 51 of 77 Queensland councils to sign the Small Business Friendly Charter. This Queensland Government initiative strengthens relationships between councils and the small business sector, with clear commitments around faster payments, improved regulation and active engagement with local operators.
 
Participating councils must meet or exceed commitments to small business needs and report annually on their progress and that accountability matters.
 
We are working alongside the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce and industry stakeholders to develop a Small Business Action Plan. A first draft will soon come before council for consideration and feedback.
 
Small businesses create jobs, sponsor local sport, support community events and shape the character of our region. When small businesses thrive, our whole community thrives. And as always, I welcome your thoughts and ideas, please reach out anytime and follow my Facebook page for updates.

Nathenea MacRae, Councillor, Mackay Regional Council

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