New chapter for Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce following landmark AGM

Chamber Committee for 2026 - L-R: Kelly Parker, Elizabeth Dent, Fallon Drewett, Taren McAuley, Geoff O’Connor, Berta Collins, Solveig Lobo, Deb Rae, Vicki Smith. Photo Credit: Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce  

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The Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce has marked a significant milestone in its history, with members endorsing major governance changes and electing a new Management Committee at its Annual General Meeting on 8th October 2026.

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Geoff O'Connor will continue as President, supported by Vice President Deb Rae, Treasurer Lizzy Dent and Secretary Berta Collins.

The newly elected nine-member Management Committee also includes Fallon Drewett, Solveig Lobo, Taren McAuley, Kelly Parker and Vicki Smith.

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The AGM saw members vote in favour of transitioning the Chamber from an incorporated association to a Company Limited by Guarantee, adopting a new constitution and approving a name change to Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce Limited.

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Mr O'Connor said the decisions represented an important step in preparing the organisation for its next chapter.

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"The Chamber has grown considerably in recent years, not just in membership, but in the role, we play in representing and supporting businesses across our region," Mr O'Connor said.

"These changes are about making sure our governance structures keep pace with that growth and position the Chamber for the future.

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"It's particularly pleasing that our members have supported this direction. It's their Chamber, and these were important decisions for them to make."

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The strength of the Chamber's growing business community was evident at the sold-out AGM luncheon, with more than 100 members and guests in attendance.

"We still find it remarkable that we can sell out an AGM!" Mr O'Connor said.

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"Annual General Meetings aren't traditionally the hottest ticket in town, but to have more than 100 people turn up and take an active interest in the future of their Chamber says a lot about the level of engagement we're seeing from our members."

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That enthusiasm also extended to the committee elections, with 12 candidates nominating for the nine available positions.

"To have 12 people willing to put their hands up and contribute their time and experience is a terrific reflection of the strength of our Chamber.

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"We have a great mix of experience and fresh perspectives around the table, and the new committee has already hit the ground running."

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The Chamber's membership increased from 319 to 412 during the 2025–26 financial year, representing growth of almost 30 per cent.

Alongside that growth, the organisation has continued to expand its networking, business support and advocacy activities, strengthening its role as a voice for businesses across the Mackay region.

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Mr O'Connor said the Chamber's focus remained firmly on its members.

"While the organisation continues to evolve, what we do and who we do it for hasn't changed.

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"We're here to back Mackay region businesses, make sure their voices are heard and create opportunities for them to connect and succeed."

The transition to a Company Limited by Guarantee will progress through the required regulatory processes over the coming months.

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