The Coast’s main regional business advocacy group has welcomed three new board members for the year ahead, after it held its AGM.
Joining the Sunshine Coast Business Council for the next 12 months are Habitance founder Alex Hoffman, SCTechIA deputy chair and Secure Access IT founder and director Jason Garland, and Walker Corporation group executive – developments Peter Saba.
Re-elected chair Sandy Zubrinich said she was delighted to welcome the new board members.
“We warmly acknowledge our board members who give their time, energy and experience to deliver on our charter to promote the interests of our members through a unified, audible and identifiable apolitical voice,” she said.
“The new board members are a fabulous reflection of the highly skilled professionals we are fortunate to have here on the Sunshine Coast and we thank them for the importance they have placed on advocating to all levels of government in support of a growing economy with a focus on investment, infrastructure and jobs.”
The board members not seeking re-election for 2024 were HeliMods managing director Will Shrapnel, UniSC deputy vice-chancellor – research and innovation Ross Young and treasurer Matt Byrne from Stockland Communities.
The AGM was also a time to reflect on SCBC’s events and advocacy activities throughout 2023, with more than 600 participants attending different workshops and forums.
“I would like to thank all those who contributed to the success of these events and our advocacy activities – they have supported us in delivering on the SCBC priorities which remain consistent with our charter, including a strong focus on infrastructure, investment, job creation, building strong local industries and strong communities,” Ms Zubrinich said.
“We look forward to a positive year ahead and will continue to advocate for increased investment into our region to appropriately service and support the demonstrated population growth as one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions.”
The SCBC also reported on the delivery of its advocacy and research agenda including regular engagement with Sunshine Coast Council on the proposed new planning scheme, discussions on housing affordability and availability, the need for new tourism infrastructure such as hotels and short-term accommodation, and the need for a mass transit strategy that includes heavy rail between Brisbane and Maroochydore.
SCBC represents about 4000 businesses through its membership, which includes key national and regional industry groups and their members, as well as national and regional businesses. To find out more click here.
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