OLD PAGES > IBC’s Strong Performance Continues in its 10th Year

Members were advised of another all round strong performance for the Illawarra Business Chamber during the past year at its Annual General Meeting, held last night.

Les Dion, President Illawarra Business Chamber said ‘2008 saw us celebrate 10 years of the Illawarra Business Chamber (IBC) in what could be said to be our most successful year yet.”

“Despite tough economic times, membership has continued to grow, with membership currently standing at 680 members, who employ over 42,000 people.”

Mr Dion said it was a reflection of the growing stature in which the organisation is now held, with strong membership growth & solid financial performance over 2007/08.

The AGM also saw half the existing board up for election with a total of eight candidates standing for election.

Existing Directors Terry Wetherall, Stuart Barnes, Eddy DeGabriele, Mark Wilson & Michael Halloran were re elected.

IBC President Mr Les Dion welcomed Michael Bassingthwaighte onto the Board, and also paid tribute to Chris Gandy for his contribution to the Board over the past ten years.

In his first AGM President’s report, Mr Dion highlighted some of the successes of the IBC over the past twelve months.

“Looking back over the past 12 months, 2008 was a very successful year for IBC on a range of fronts. Much of our focus this year has been about ensuring value and relevance to our members.”

“IBC’s member engagement continues to improve with;

• Business after Hours attracting some 300 people on average each month (reaching a high of 500 in May 2008).
• The Integral Energy Illawarra Business Awards consistently attracted in excess of 930 guests.
• Illawarra Business Expo (in its second year) attracted some 1500 visitors.

In particular our growth in membership, greater member engagement and attendance at events and the improved financial performance were particularly pleasing. “

Mr Dion said that on a policy front, without a doubt, this year has seen a major shakeup of our local and state government. 

“Much of the events of the past 12 months have rocked the region and has set us back somewhat. With two local councils in the hands of administrators, more than ever, the IBC needs to lobby for this region. To this end, we will continue to press for outcomes which will be beneficial for our business community and our region. ”

In 2008, the IBC has also established the Regional Chamber Forum which ensures that the IBC connects with the region’s broad business base. The forum brings together 12 local Business Chambers in the Illawarra Region four times a year where we can engage with Local Chamber Presidents and exchange ideas to assist one and other grow.

The connection with businesses in the Illawarra region has improved with the employment of a new Business Development Manager. The IBC is now better positioned to connect with our Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands members and affiliates.

As we seek to better service these regions, the benefits will start to flow through soon with new strategies being devised to grow and accommodate membership in these regions

Mr Dion said none of these results would have been possible without the effort and support of our dedicated Directors and Staff and the many organisations that assist our operations.

“As a membership-based, not-for-profit organisation, and we would also like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all the businesses who are members for their ongoing support.