MORE than 140 small business representatives from across Redlands Coast have gathered for a Community Cabinet event, gaining rare direct access to State Government ministers and senior officials.
The event, hosted in partnership with the Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce, gave local operators the chance to speak face-to-face with decision-makers and raise issues affecting their businesses.
For many attending owners and operators, it was an opportunity they would not normally get, with the demands of running a business often leaving little time to navigate complex government channels.
Bringing ministers and senior representatives into the room helped bridge that gap, sparking practical, on-the-ground conversations.
A highlight of the event was the strong show of unity, with all three local Chamber of Commerce presidents in attendance – representing the Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce, SMBI Chamber of Commerce and Mainland Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce.
Their presence underscored the value of collaboration between mainland and island communities, ensuring businesses from every part of the region were represented.
The Chamber thanked the State Government and Community Cabinet for engaging directly with local businesses, and acknowledged the support of Premier David Crisafulli, and local MPs Rebecca Young, Amanda Stoker and Russell Field in bringing the event to the Redlands.
The gathering reinforced the vital role Chambers of Commerce play in connecting small businesses with leaders and policymakers they might otherwise never meet.
One local training provider said the event provided valuable networking and even more valuable conversations.
“Events like this help ensure the challenges facing local businesses are heard and understood by our policy makers,” they said.
SMBI Chamber of Commerce President Geoff Manu said the event delivered a rare opportunity for local operators to have their voices heard.
“As President of the SMBI Chamber, I was proud to represent our island businesses and ensure their priorities were heard at a regional level,” he said.
“The event created valuable direct access to senior decision-makers, something our small businesses rarely get.
“It was a strong reminder of how important it is for island and mainland operators to stand together when advocating for our region.”
Following the strong turnout and positive feedback, the Chamber hopes to organise more similar events before the end of the year, involving representatives from all levels of government and other key figures requested by members.
The Chamber will continue to create opportunities for members to engage with decision-makers wherever possible, with businesses expressing strong appreciation for the direct access provided.
For Redlands Coast businesses, the message was clear – access matters, honest conversations matter, and when local operators get a seat at the table, the entire region benefits.
