As we move through Bunuru, the second summer in the Noongar six-season calendar, the long, hot days bring both intensity and reflection. Traditionally, Bunuru is a time of focus and preparation before the seasonal shift ahead. It feels fitting for our business community, as we build momentum while also planning for what comes next. At the Chamber, our focus remains simple: connection, advocacy and practical support for our members.
The Year Ahead
We have hit the ground running since returning from leave, with a full calendar of meetings and an expanded program of events underway. There is a real sense of momentum and optimism across the Chamber, and genuine excitement for the year ahead.
February also marks the beginning of a new Chinese New Year, with 17 February ushering in the Year of the Fire Horse. Known for its independence, drive, and energy, the Fire Horse feels particularly fitting for many businesses in our region as they navigate change and seize new opportunities.
Events remain one of the most tangible ways we demonstrate our relevance to members. In an ever-changing world, staying relevant is arguably the greatest challenge facing any business or industry organisation. Many businesses are currently grappling with the impact of AI, weighing up whether it presents a threat or an opportunity. I recently heard a leading authority on AI suggest that clearly understanding our own purpose is key to using AI effectively and extracting real value from it.
For the Chamber, our purpose is simple: staying relevant to our members. When we consider launching any new initiative, we always ask, “How will this help our members in their business or career?” Many ideas sound great, but do not always translate into meaningful outcomes. Our commitment is that when you attend a Chamber event or program, you can expect genuine value and a worthwhile experience. These gatherings are more than calendar items. They are practical spaces where connections are formed, ideas are tested, and partnerships begin.
Some of what we have coming up over the next month or so includes:
• 6 March – International Women’s Day Lunch: Balance the Scales. (Currently fully booked)
• 11 March – Wine Tasting at the Chamber with the Geographe Wine Association
• 24 March – Business Succession Workshop with RSM Bunbury
• 25 March – March Business After Hours with BNI
• 26 March – Lunch and Learn – How to better use Microsoft 365 Copilot AI. Presented by Microsoft and NBN
You can view all upcoming events and programs at bgcci.com.au
We are pleased to report the successful launch of a new networking initiative for First Nations business, with around 25 people gathering for the first event on February 19. “Black Coffee’ as it is known, is a networking and business connection event for First Nations businesses and those keen to work with them. We hope to announce the next event soon and thank the Chamber’s executive for Aboriginal Engagement Cassidy McGuire for curating this important initiative.
To help support our work to engage and support First Nations people, we invite businesses to take part in a short survey on Aboriginal business engagement. The survey will help us better understand how we can support businesses and identify opportunities to strengthen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander business participation and success. All responses are anonymous, and feedback will be used to guide our future work in this space.
Link to survey
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