As we move through June and approach the halfway point of 2026, we also enter Makuru, the Noongar season of the coldest and wettest time of year. Makuru is traditionally associated with the arrival of strong rains, westerly winds, and a period of renewal as waterways fill and the landscape transforms.
It is a season that reminds us of the importance of preparation, resilience, and community, fitting themes as we reflect on the year so far and look ahead to the opportunities and challenges still to come.
Public Meeting: Proposed Bunnings relocation
On Monday 8 June, a public meeting will be held at the City of Bunbury Council Offices regarding the proposed relocation of Bunnings from its current Bunbury site to a new location in Dalyellup.
Community consultation has already taken place, and we have received feedback from a number of businesses expressing concern about the potential impacts of the move. This includes businesses within the Bunbury CBD who believe there may be flow-on effects for customer traffic and trade.
Together with several other stakeholders, we encourage members to attend the meeting and have their say.
Monday 8 June
5.30pm
City of Bunbury Council Offices
4 Stephen Street, Bunbury
Mayor Jaysen Miguel will be in attendance.
AFL Big Weekender and how to get involved
This weekend Bunbury hosts the AFL Big Weekender, with the North Melbourne Kangaroos versus Fremantle Dockers match at Hands Memorial Oval on Saturday 6 June.
Businesses are encouraged to get into the spirit by decorating shopfronts and workplaces. Bunting is available for collection from the Chamber at 15 Stirling Street or from Creative Tech Village on the lower level of the Bunbury Library.
Let's help create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for the thousands of visitors expected across the weekend.
Western Australian Export Awards 2026 – Applications close 12 June
The 2026 Western Australian Export Awards are now open. If your business is exporting, or considering entering new international markets, this is a great opportunity to gain recognition and support. Regional businesses seeking export advice or market diversification assistance are encouraged to get in touch and explore the opportunities available.
If you're enterring for the first time and want so help please contact: philippe.pierson@deed.wa.gov.au
Further information can be found here: https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-energy-and-economic-diversification/western-australian-export-awards
Bumpers N Beats returns in 2027
Many people have been asking what happened to Bumpers N Beats. The good news is that it's coming back.
Tom Dillon, the driving force behind both Bumpers N Beats and the Bunbury Geographe Motor Museum, recently dropped into the Chamber to confirm the event will return on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 February 2027.
I recently spent some time with Tom at the Motor Museum and am reminded every visit just how unique this attraction is. The motorcycle collection alone is worth the trip, not to mention the impressive range of classic vehicles. Currently, there is also a special display of historic service vehicles representing a bygone era.
If you haven't visited recently, I encourage you to do so.
Businesses and individuals interested in supporting Bumpers N Beats can now explore partnership opportunities, including Exclusive Naming Rights and a range of sponsorship options.
The event is designed to activate the Bunbury CBD through a major parade and vehicle display, attracting thousands of visitors into the city.
For further information, contact Tom and the team at manager@bgmm.com.au
Local Legends Goes Live
Visitors to the Bunbury CBD may have noticed the first installation of the new Local Legends initiative.
Developed through discussions at the Chamber's Town Team meetings, the project aims to celebrate local sporting legends while activating vacant shopfronts throughout the city centre.
The first display honours Syd Jackson, who began his football career with South Bunbury before going on to play for Carlton in the VFL.
We look forward to sharing more local stories as the program continues to roll out.
Dean Vickerman coming to Bunbury
Staying on the sporting theme, three-time NBL Championship-winning coach Dean Vickerman will visit Bunbury on 12 June for his only Western Australian appearance before departing to coach in Japan.
The evening will feature leadership insights, basketball pathway discussions, player panels, networking opportunities, dinner and drinks, while supporting opportunities for young athletes and the South West basketball community.
A small number of tickets are still available.
For further information, contact Dan Gould at dan@southwestslammers.com.au.
As always, thank you for your ongoing support of the Chamber and our local business community.
Sean McKeown
CEO
ceo@bgcci.com.au
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