Welcome to Our First Monthly Recap
We’re starting this because, quite frankly, we haven’t communicated well enough. A lot of work has been happening behind the scenes — meetings, advocacy, planning and representation — and you deserve to see it. This report is about transparency, accountability and making sure you know what your Chamber is actively working on for you.
A Word from the President (Michael Ackrell)
It’s been a full and productive month for Business Lismore. We’ve been getting in early on Business Award planning, meeting with upcoming Business After Hours hosts, attending community events, advocating for local business interests, contributing to flood planning discussions, and participating in broader economic development conversations.
There is strong momentum, and the Board remains focused on ensuring Lismore businesses are supported, informed, and represented at every level.
Monthly Recap
Strategic Economic Development Plan
Myself and Treasurer Anthea Stevanovic met with Jamie Van Isrsel, Strategic Planning Coordinator at the Lismore City Council, to discuss the draft Strategic Economic Development Plan, which is currently being refined before submission to Council. This plan will help shape the long-term economic future of our region. It is critical that business perspectives are embedded in this strategy, and we are actively ensuring that the needs and realities of local operators are reflected.
Business Lismore Strategic Planning
We also held a Chamber strategic planning session to ensure the longevity, clarity and impact of our own direction moving forward. We will be having these meetings every quarter to ensure we are upholding our values.
Flood Planning Event
Thank you to everyone who attended the Flood Planning Workshop. We previously circulated a full recap of the event. (Something that we plan on sending out after every major event so that those who attended have a summary and those that didn’t can gain an insight into the event)
The session delivered expanded and detailed insights, particularly through research and contributions from emergency services. It reinforced the importance of preparedness and highlighted a range of support resources available to businesses. There is opportunity to broaden future workshops to include wider disaster preparedness topics such as fire and other emergency risks, and potentially open these conversations more broadly to the community.
Community Safety Forum
The recent Community Safety Forum brought together nine key representatives on stage to address current challenges and available support services. A strong theme emerged — there are many resources available to businesses, but awareness remains low.
Following this forum, we have been in touch with the Manager at Community Engagement, Northern NSW Local Health District, to explore proactive planning measures and practical support pathways specifically for businesses. The goal is to ensure business owners are better equipped, informed and connected to the right services before challenges escalate.
We are also working towards consolidating relevant resources so they can be shared clearly and accessibly with members.
Census Data & Business Insight
I met with Richard Bradbury from the Census to better understand what current data is telling us about our region and what it means for local businesses.
Census data plays a significant role in funding allocation, infrastructure planning, workforce development and government decision-making. Understanding these insights strengthens our advocacy and positions Lismore businesses more effectively for future opportunities.
Business After Hours
Our first Business After Hours event for the year was a fantastic success, with just over 110 members and guests in attendance. A huge thank you to Joel Jensen and the entire Joel Jensen Constructions team for generously hosting us in their impressive new office space.
Joel shared the inspiring story of the business — from its beginnings in a family garage in 2014 to a team of 20 delivering projects across the Northern Rivers — along with their strong focus on quality, apprenticeships, community involvement and rebuilding Lismore with resilience and optimism. It was a wonderful evening of connection, insight and local pride.
Board Updates
We’re pleased to formally welcome two new casual Board Members, voted in by the attending Board:
- Alison Marchant from Invercauld House
- Anthony David from Owl Web Design, who also joins as Public Officer
Both bring valuable experience and perspective to the Chamber, and we look forward to their contributions as we continue strengthening governance and representation.
Business Awards
Planning is already underway for this year’s Business Awards. Starting early ensures a well-organised and high-impact event that truly celebrates the strength and resilience of our business community. More details will follow soon.
Our Goal:
To be the most effective business support and advocacy organisation for Lismore and the surrounds; fostering growth, connections and success across all businesses and sectors.
Our Purpose:
We exist to progress the profile of all businesses, the community and the LGA, because strong businesses positively impact the community. Successful businesses ensure a thriving economy which ultimately improves the lives of every individual within our community.
We have 7 Core Values, this Month’s highlighted value is:
Community Minded: We are always thinking about the bigger picture and impact of what we do so that it has a positive effect on the wider community.
If you need advocacy, support or simply someone to raise an issue on your behalf — please reach out.
Michael Ackrell
Business Lismore President
