Welcome back..

The Innisfail Chamber is getting things back on track and we are pleased to re-launch our newsletter service for members, local businesses and interested recipients.  

Moving forward we want to offer local business spotlights and promotional opportunities, plus use this newsletter to keep you informed about what is happening around our District and abroad.   

As we approach our third year dealing with COVID-19, the Chamber is looking to modernise how we operate.  Please scroll down to learn what our priorities are for the coming year.

NBN - do you want to cyclone proof your internet?

Our NBN breakfast session was well received by the small group who were able to attend.  Fibre to the premises is being launched in our district at the end of next year.  Aside from the promises of amazing speed, the connections will be free to get and all you have to do is up your plan. 

It was amazing to learn that if you have a generator, in the event of a major power outage, with fibre to your business premises, you can have immediate access to internet.  That is a game changer. 

Stay tuned for another session in 2022!  Click here for more information. 

Innisfail Jobs Forum - 30 November

One of the hottest topics for local businesses right now is how hard it is to find staff and wondering where are the jobseekers. The Local Jobs Program (an Australian Government Initiative) is urging local businesses to attend this forum at the Shire Hall on 30 November from 9.30am - 12.30pm (following a jobseeker session). 

The event follows a successful forum recently held at Tully. Here you can share your thoughts and staffing needs and learn about the local labour market and get connected with job seekers. For further info or to register, email: danielle@fnqemployment.com.au.

New committee - new approach

All our members should have received a posted letter from us by now. Here are our priorities for the coming year:

• Member and Community Surveys to work out the best model for our Chamber moving forward, plus update our knowledge base about local shopping and business habits   
• Workshops on how to have productive meetings and get along as groups - this community building exercise will be facilitated by Ian Plowman formerly of the University of Queensland
• Cassowary Coast Business Expo (small business, trades & tourism) planned for September 2022 at the Pease Park Events Complex
• Better Communications with members including effective representation of our district's interests (we are all busy people and the olden ways aren't cutting it any more) 

Innisfail is becoming a significant CBD for our region, with a key role to play as Cairns begins to develop southwards and investment brings new people into the region. We want to get the economic focus and benefits that we deserve, and this is what you want your local business association to work for. 

We have already met with the new Council CEO and a re-invigoration of the Chamber's relationship with the Council is progressing.  We appreciate your patience with us being a volunteer organisation run by full time business people with limited time and energies.

Keeping in touch

We hope you will follow us for updates and please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any contributions or  wish to chat.  Our phone number is +61740780999 or you can email secretary@innisfailchamber.com.au.

All the very best for the coming months as we ride the big wave into Christmas and thank you for your ongoing support of our local business community.  

Suzanne Bassette

President 

Please email secretary@innisfailchamber.com.au if you wish to opt out of this newsletter service or have an email added to the subscription list.