The Orbost District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ODCCI) has continued to advance a range of community and economic development projects, with updates provided at its May committee meeting held at the Snowy River Mail office.
Among the key priorities discussed was a broad review of the chamber’s operations, governance, membership structure and long-term succession planning.
Committee members said the review would help shape the organisation’s future direction and strengthen its role in supporting local businesses and the wider community.
Several community initiatives are also progressing, including the installation of a new public defibrillator in Orbost.
The device has arrived and will be mounted near Land & Surf, with community induction sessions expected to follow once installation is complete.
Plans are also moving ahead for a large mural on the lower wall of the town’s hotel precinct, with quotes received for signage works and further local quotes being sought for framing.
The chamber continues to advocate on behalf of the community regarding the future of the Orbost swimming pool.
Representatives recently met with East Gippsland Shire’s aquatic strategy project representative, raising concerns about limited local consultation and encouraging residents to complete an online community survey.
Town entrance signage is another project gaining momentum, with the Orbost Men’s Shed engaged to build and install two new entrance structures following committee approval.
Tourism and visitor services also featured prominently during the meeting.
While visitor numbers at the Slab Hut Visitor Information Centre have slowed since Easter, work is continuing on maintenance projects including planned roof restoration works later this month.
The chamber’s Christmas Eve celebrations are already gearing up for 2026, with successful early raffle fundraising efforts reported and sponsorship approaches set to begin soon.
Committee members also reviewed progress on several major regional development projects under the Future of Orbost District initiative, including coastal walking trail works, the Marlo to Orbost cycle route, hemp industry development and seed industry projects. Some projects are nearing completion, with acquittals and final reporting now underway.
Local business growth continues across the district, with committee members welcoming the arrival of new services including employment agency Max Solutions and mental health provider Wellways.
The meeting also highlighted several community concerns requiring urgent attention, including safety issues relating to lighting at the Wolseley Street toilet block, faded line marking in nearby parking areas, and vandalism at the Marlo Primary School bus stop.
The chamber’s next meeting will be held in June, with a July meeting to feature a guest presentation from the Commonwealth Bank on business scams and fraud awareness.
