President’s Report October 2026

President – Jason Woodward

As October approaches, many of us know it as ‘Small Business Month.’ Here at the Maitland Business Chamber, we like to think of it as ‘BIG Business Month.’

Not because small business isn’t important, but because business in Maitland is so much more than a single category. From sole traders and start-ups to family businesses, professional services, manufacturers and major enterprises, every business contributes to the success of our region. Together, we create jobs, support families, drive innovation and help shape the future of Maitland.

October is a reminder of the role we all play in the ecosystem that makes our city thrive. It’s also why we’re so excited about the return of the Maitland Business Summit.

We’re delighted to welcome Holly Martin, The Marketing GP as our keynote. Holly will challenge us to think about what sets us apart, what makes us memorable, and how our brands can continue to stand out in an increasingly competitive world. It’s a timely conversation for businesses looking to grow, evolve and embrace new opportunities.

One thing we can also share is our excitement around Summit Radio and what we’re calling ‘The Maitland Conversation.’

We’re currently seeking business owners, leaders and innovators who would like to join us for podcast interviews during Summit. Our vision is to create a platform where we can showcase the stories, ideas and experiences that make Maitland such a dynamic place to live and do business. We hope it becomes an ongoing feature that continues to celebrate the people and businesses shaping our region.

Behind the scenes, your Chamber continues to focus on advocacy and relationship-building to ensure Maitland remains a city of opportunity.

Recently, we had the privilege of attending a regional roundtable dinner hosted by the University of Newcastle and Hunt Hospitality, alongside Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky and a number of local business leaders. The conversation centred on how the University of Newcastle can become more engaged with Maitland through partnerships, projects and a greater presence in our region. We discussed the opportunities that exist to increase the University’s visibility locally and strengthen connections between higher education, industry and our business community.

Unsurprisingly, we made it very clear that we’d love to see a University of Newcastle presence permanently here in our city. With an advanced manufacturing and industrial hub in our LGA with a focus on Net Zero; a rapidly growing population and an increasingly diverse business community, we believe Maitland presents a compelling case. We’ve seen the positive impact satellite campuses have had in other regions, creating vibrant centres of learning, attracting investment and stimulating local economies. It’s a conversation we’re excited to continue because we know the opportunities for our businesses, young people and broader community could be significant.

We’ve also been working closely with Maitland City Council to strengthen partnerships and explore opportunities that will support growth and prosperity across our region. There are some exciting initiatives taking shape that we’re looking forward to sharing in the near future.

Community connection was also on full display at our recent Social Enterprise Networking Event at The Whistler. A sincere thank you to The Whistler for hosting and to Commonwealth Bank for their support of the event. From the feedback I have received the atmosphere and the hospitality of The Whistler team made the event a great success. We’re building something that goes beyond traditional networking. We’re creating a community where people feel welcome, connected and inspired by what’s happening around them. It’s often said that opportunities happen when you put yourself out there and this event was a fantastic example of that. After all, you never know if you never go.

We also attended the Jets in Business Connect event at McDonald Jones Stadium.

Having the opportunity to tour the facility including some of the behind-the-scenes areas, was incredibly impressive.It reinforced just how fortunate we are to have world-class sporting infrastructure right here in our region. With preparations underway for future international events, including Rugby World Cup and major music concerts , these investments are helping position the Hunter as a destination for major events, tourism and economic growth. The benefits extend well beyond the stadium gates and create opportunities for businesses right across the region.

And speaking of sport, what an incredible moment for our community as the Newcastle Knights prepare to run onto rugby league’s biggest stage this weekend. Many of the players representing the club grew up in our region, played on our local sporting fields and attended our local schools. They represent not only the Knights, but the aspirations of young people across Maitland and the Hunter. The Chamber couldn’t be prouder and we wish all the team success on Sunday in the big dance.

If you have the opportunity, join us at the Maitland Regional Sports Centre, wear your red and blue, and be part of what promises to be an unforgettable community celebration. Let’s come together, cheer loudly and show our local boys that an entire region is behind them.

Thank you for your continued support of the Chamber. I look forward to seeing many of you at Summit as we celebrate business, community and the exciting future ahead for Maitland.

Jason Woodward

President

Maitland Business Chamber