- Chamber members attended Mackay Park forums for businesses on two occasions. Chamber members agreed with others on recommending a seating capacity of 800 seats and 800 sqm space for events. Both recommendations were to provide differentiation from existing venues, allow for sublease to mitigate financial loss and attract national touring performing arts events, trade shows and general event diversity.
Chamber requested that Council does not compete against local business or create loss for local businesses in providing cheaper rental space. A need for more parking was also discussed.
The second forum was presented with impressive drawings. Chamber asked to view the business plan and the schedule of users so that we could make informed comment. The architects said in contradiction to the presiding Council officer that a business plan did not exist. Chamber asked to view the schedule of users in confidence and asked if the users were primarily from the community centre – we await a response.
- A survey is still to be completed by the Chamber of businesses from the North St intersection to the end of Clyde St. To date the respondents have mixed views. Some have improved trade while others are fearful of the effect of closure of Highway access to Clyde Street.
- Chamber members sit on a newly formed “Build the Bay” type marketing committee put together and financed by John Holland, the bridge contractors. The purpose of this group is to improve CBD business during bridge construction with a marketing program.
- Chamber is currently investigating a Federal Election Chamber Breakfast at the Batemans Bay Soldiers Club at 7:30am Tuesday 30 April. The breakfast will be strictly for members and up to two guests. We have invited the following candidates for Gilmore: Fiona Phillips, Warren Mundine, Carmel McCallum and Katrina Hodgkinson. We will notify members of cost and whether this will occur.
- An email reiterating the Chambers push for extending the floating pontoon and T Wharf development has been sent to the Foreshore Action Committee. The current design discussions while offering diversity of use, do not have an increased capacity which we will continue to lobby for.
- Chamber has written to the Mayor requesting a timeframe for installation of Sculptures. Chamber offered a further $5,000 towards installation to assist expediting the installation prior to Christmas 2018.
- Chamber awaits a response after supporting the Mayors mediation request.
- There has been informal discussions amongst some business owners and others about formation of a Batemans Bay vison strategy group. Narooma has such a group. While the Chamber has advocated for such for a number of years it is pertinent timing to be involved now.
- Chamber Executive (in absence of self interest parties) have decided to support the $200 million Coachhhouse re-development as outlined by the guest speaker in the previous meeting. The development will bring over 100 extra jobs and an unprecedented $200 million private investment to the Shire. In light of current large tourism accommodation proposals, shortage of private investment in Batemans Bay and need for economic growth to address economic and social fundamentals, this decision was taken. The Chamber supports all businesses in Batemans Bay.