As I prepare to wrap up my time as CEO of the Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce & Industry, this will be my final official newsletter before I hand over to incoming CEO Sean McKeown, who will commence on 23 June.
The journey over the past two and a half years has been incredibly rewarding. It has been a privilege to work alongside a dedicated team, a supportive Executive Committee, and an engaged, passionate business community. Together, we’ve navigated change, built meaningful partnerships, and strengthened the Chamber’s role as a trusted voice for local business.
I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together—from growing our membership and expanding our reach, to delivering impactful initiatives that build knowledge, foster leadership, and promote connection. Projects such as the inaugural Bunbury Geographe Business Excellence Awards, CEO Round Table series, and our work across sectors to deliver industry-specific engagement have been driven by one clear goal: to support our members with the insight, access and relationships they need to succeed.
We’ve deepened collaboration with local government, education providers, and regional stakeholders to ensure the voice of business is heard, while also delivering programs that empower businesses with practical knowledge and strategic opportunities.
Most of all, I’m grateful for the relationships formed, the shared commitment to progress, and the many moments of collaboration that have shaped the Chamber’s direction.
Thank you for your support, energy and belief in the work of the Chamber. I leave with confidence that the organisation is well-positioned for the future, and I look forward to seeing it continue to evolve under Sean’s leadership.
Bunbury was abuzz this past weekend as the city hosted its first-ever in-region, in-season AFL game. With many visitors in town, it was a showcase of what our city and the wider South West region have to offer. This milestone event was the result of a collaborative vision involving the State Government, the City of Bunbury, Tourism WA, the South West Development Commission, and the South West Football League. The seamless coordination of this large-scale occasion, blessed with perfect weather, truly highlighted the spirit and vibrancy of our community.
In the lead-up to the game, local businesses were invited to participate in a special shopfront competition, an initiative run in partnership with the City of Bunbury and the Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The competition encouraged retailers to embrace the excitement of the weekend and decorate their stores to match the AFL theme. On Saturday, Mayor Jaysen Miguel and Orry Lack, Chief Commercial Officer of the North Melbourne Football Club and myself, visited each entry. Entries were judged on creativity, originality, and relevance to the theme, with each store receiving a score out of ten.
Life & Soul Boutique on Victoria Street claimed first prize, receiving a $1,000 award presented by Mayor Miguel, Orry Lack, City of Bunbury CEO Alan Ferris, and myself. Their impressive display featured an array of North Melbourne memorabilia, including an original, unwashed jersey worn during the 1999 Grand Final.
Second place was awarded to Nextra Newsagency and AFEZ both winning $250 each. Special mentions also go to Good Earth Surf Shop, Hillzeez, and Vinnies, who creatively incorporated yellow and blue colours from their clothing in their storefront displays.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to all participating businesses for contributing to the weekend’s fantastic atmosphere. Their efforts helped ensure our visitors felt welcomed and excited—especially as we look forward to next year’s match when the Fremantle Dockers will come to town.
Thankyou,
Julie
