The Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ODCCI) held its annual general meeting on Tuesday, October 8, where the current executive team was re-elected to their positions, showcasing a strong and stable leadership.
Samantha Reynolds remains at the helm as president, supported by Rene Sundermann as vice president, Garry Squires as secretary and Jane Crofts as treasurer.
The chamber also welcomed committee members Wendy Nixon, Keily Lobley, Jane Keats, Wendy Campbell-Hirst, Ros Leatham, Julie Leatham and Maddison Fecondo, who will continue to bring their dedication and expertise to the group.
In her president’s report for 2023-24, Ms Reynolds highlighted the challenges the community faced this year, particularly the early cessation of native timber harvesting in Victoria, which occurred in January 2024, much earlier than the expected 2030 deadline.
In response to this abrupt change, the chamber ramped up its efforts through the Future of Orbost and District (FoOD) project, which has been funded by the State Government’s Forestry Transition Fund.
The focus has been on transitioning the region from reliance on timber to new industries, with chamber members investing countless hours in this initiative.
One of the significant successes emerging from these efforts has been the establishment of a steel truss fabrication site at Newmerella by Built QA.
This development has played a crucial role in retaining local jobs and supporting the economy.
However, despite these achievements, the chamber acknowledges the work is far from over.
The FoOD project will be winding down next year but hopes remain high the long-term benefits for Orbost and the surrounding areas will be guided by a strengthened governance group and the professional expertise of C4 Impact.
The chamber’s engagement with the community extends beyond economic initiatives.
Members have been actively advocating on a variety of local issues, working closely with the East Gippsland Shire Council on projects such as the operation of the Orbost Outdoor Pool, public facility maintenance and the redevelopment of Forest Park.
Their advocacy efforts have also addressed bushfire recovery, the accessibility of the new boardwalk at Conran and the ongoing frustrations regarding the shared pathway from Marlo to Conran.
The Orbost Visitor Information Centre, under the leadership of Bree Kenny, experienced a revitalisation, with increased volunteer participation, new tourism materials and a focus on promoting local businesses.
The successful Shop Local campaign, including the popular Eftpos Orbost Chamber Gift Cards, saw $36,020 circulated within the district, a figure the chamber expects to grow in the coming year.
Community events have also played a vital role in the chamber’s efforts to boost local engagement and economic activity.
The Orbost Christmas Eve Festival, which featured new decorations, a Santa sleigh and community competition, was a major highlight, bringing festive spirit to the town.
Additional initiatives like the Barefoot Business Bowls event and regular committee meetings at local businesses, such as the Orbost Fire Station and River Baker Café, further strengthened ties within the community.
Ms Reynolds expressed her gratitude to the chamber’s more than 80 member businesses and the dedicated volunteers who contributed their time and effort.
“None of our achievements would have been possible without your unwavering support. It has been a privilege to work alongside you all in making our community stronger,” she said.
As the chamber looks ahead, its stable leadership team, ongoing community initiatives and focus on transitioning into new industries will continue to drive Orbost and district toward a resilient and prosperous future.
