<< Peninsula New 12 June 2007 - Chamber starts with 32 members >>

Chamber starts with 32 members

A "unanimous" decision has been made to create a Pearl Beach-Patonga Chamber of Commerce followed by a meeting attended by 32 people from the two suburbs, according to Pearl Beach resident and instigator Ms Karen Wakefield.

Ms Wakefield said there were also 12 absent with apologies.

"The group attending unanimously decided to proceed with the establishment of a Chamber of Commerce and formed an Acting Committee on its behalf," Ms Wakefield said.

Business owners, Annie and John Karbowiak hosted the afternoon meeting at their Pearl Beach Café on Saturday, May 19.

"A Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organisation consisting of a unique group of people with businesses who meet and network, usually on a monthly basis," Ms Wakefield said.

"It is a forum where business owners encourage and mentor one another, provide referrals, and promote their businesses."

Ms Wakefield said that at the inaugural meeting it was proposed that the Pearl Beach-Patonga Chamber of Commerce would encourage a strong social conscience and support marginalized or disadvantaged groups.

Additionally, it would promote an environmentally sustainable business culture that would "protect and enhance the environment and encourage nature conservation within the area".

"Anyone who has a connection with Pearl Beach or Patonga may join," Ms Wakefield said.

"This is a forum for promoting your ideas, assisting other local businesses and for promoting your own business interests."

The next Pearl Beach-Patonga Chamber of Commerce meeting will be held Saturday, June 16 at 4pm at the Pearl Beach Café.

The cost for the meeting is $10.

Tea, coffee and light refreshments will be provided.

Those interested in attending should advise Pearl Beach Café on 4343 1222.

Press release, 2 June 2007 Rosemary Ruthven, Pearl Beach-Patonga Chamber of Commerce