President’s Report – July 2025

Growth, highlights and what’s next!

from Jason Woodward

As we move through 2025 the Maitland Business Chamber continues to build on a strong foundation of momentum, resilience, and growth. Our business community has shown remarkable strength and unity in the face of recent challenges, including flooding events that tested both our infrastructure and our collective spirit. Thanks to swift support from the NSW Reconstruction Authority and government grants, clean-up and recovery have progressed rapidly, allowing many businesses to bounce back and resume trading with renewed confidence.

This period of recovery has also highlighted the critical role that larger businesses play in shaping Maitland’s future—not just through economic investment, but through their leadership in strengthening community wellbeing. As Maitland continues to grow, so too does the opportunity for enterprise to lead with purpose. Today, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is more than a buzzword—it’s a business imperative. Social, environmental, and economic impact now stand alongside commercial success as markers of meaningful progress. Through our advocacy, programs, and partnerships, the Chamber supports larger organisations in bringing their values to life—locally, authentically, and sustainably.

When businesses of all sizes collaborate, the entire region benefits. Together, we create a stronger, more resilient business ecosystem that’s better positioned for long-term success.

Speaking of big business, we were recently thrilled to visit the new International Terminal at Newcastle Airport — an ambitious development that marks a transformative era for the Hunter region. Set to evolve through to 2036, the project includes a major freight hub and the cutting-edge Aero Lab precinct, which will feature new commercial and retail space. The scale and vision of this initiative unlock exciting opportunities for local businesses, trade, and innovation across the region.

After our exciting engagement with Newcastle Airport we kept the momentum going at the Maitland City Council Visitor Economy Forum, held at Tocal Homestead. This inspiring event brought together passionate hospitality and tourism operators to help shape the future of Maitland’s visitor economy.

A key highlight was Council’s announcement of a Local Acceleration Toolkit—an important step towards growing Maitland’s Night-Time Economy. This initiative is a cornerstone of the upcoming Economic Development Strategy, due for adoption later this year, and represents a significant opportunity for local businesses.

We also attended a collaborative Hunter Region Tourism event featuring insights from Destination NSW and Tourism Australia. The Hunter is making its mark on the global tourism stage, boosted by the international gateway at Newcastle Airport.

Inbound travel is surging from India and Vietnam, while the US and UK markets remain strong. For local businesses, this is a golden opportunity to diversify, innovate, and create experiences that resonate with international visitors. Australia is being promoted as a safe, vibrant and inclusive destination— along with our iconic landmarks there is a fresh campaign promoting our world-class food, wine, and hospitality.

The Hunter is uniquely positioned—both geographically and culturally—to capture this momentum. With industry leaders working together to promote our region as a must-visit destination, now is the time to think big, collaborate, and showcase the incredible experiences we have to offer in the Hunter.

Looking ahead, we’re gearing up for one of our flagship events of the year: the Small Business Summit, taking place on October 16th at the Maitland Town Hall. This year’s theme is ‘Look Up, Look Ahead’—a timely call to futureproof your business, elevate your thinking, and build momentum.

We’re proud to welcome two powerhouse keynote speakers:

• Tain Drinkwater, CEO of the Newcastle Jets, and
• Rob Camilleri, founder of Tough Mudder and Spartan Australia.

Their energy and insights will inspire, challenge, and motivate. The 2025 summit is shaping up to be our biggest yet, thanks to our collaboration with the NSW Small Business Commissioner and Maitland City Council. It’s a prime opportunity to connect, grow, and amplify your brand—don’t miss it! Learn more!

We’d also like to thank everyone who joined us at our recent Future Focus event, presented in partnership with Maitland City Council. Special thanks to our Gold Major Sponsor, The Mutual Bank, for their continued support and leadership in championing business and community.

A standout from the event was Jeff Smith’s presentation, which reinforced the importance of strong partnerships and local advocacy. Jeff outlined Council’s Partnerships and Advocacy Strategy, which focuses on working collaboratively with state and federal governments, private industry, and the broader Hunter region to secure major funding and deliver projects that support long-term growth.

Jeff also launched the Maitland Business Pulse Survey, giving businesses the chance to share their biggest needs and ideas. If you haven’t had your say yet, head to Your Say Maitland—you could help shape future policy and go in the draw to win a delegate pass to the 2025 Hunter Innovation Festival. Survey closes 07 September.

We’re also proud to announce that the Maitland Business Chamber has been named a finalist in the 2025 Business Hunter Awards—an honour made even more special by being in such great company. Congratulations to our fellow finalists and member businesses:

• Watson Wealth
• The Mai-Wel Group
• Newcastle Racecourse
• Sleapy’s Foundation
• Heart HR

It’s a wonderful recognition of the depth and diversity of talent in our region, and we can’t wait to don the black tie and celebrate with our members on awards night!

Let’s keep growing together, supporting one another, and showcasing the very best of what Maitland business has to offer!