At the AGM held on Thursday, September 5, a group of dedicated business people volunteered themselves to the Chamber Board. A subsequent Board meeting saw the various roles filled for the 2019/20 year.

Incoming chair Dibs Cush from Robin's Nest for Children felt strongly that in this particular economic climate it was essential the Chamber continues as a voice for local business and to provide support wherever possible for all businesses across the Moree Plains.

"I'm in the same boat as most other local businesses, when it doesn't rain there's no spare money to spend around town and my business suffers," she said.

"I've been involved on the Board as treasurer for a couple of years and I'm aware of the extent of the impact of the drought on every single type of business, whether it's retail, agribusiness, service-based or tourism.

"We're all in this together."

She also outlined some of the initiatives currently being undertaken by the Chamber to encourage and support local business.

In partnership with Moree Plains Shire Council through their "Renew Moree" funding, the Chamber is in the process of developing a series of Shop Local brochures.

Stage One - "Unique & Boutique" - focuses on the independent retail boutiques in the CBD and is in the final stages of production.

Stage Two will highlight all the businesses south of the Mehi - "Discover Southside". The target audience is not just the valuable tourist market, it's also a reminder to local residents of all the great retail opportunities right here in town.

In keeping with the intent to support each other in business, incoming vice-chair Mark Simpson of AMPS Agribusiness is keen to see opportunities for business-people to network and he is advocating for a variety of events.

Whether it's Business After Dark or Business Breakfast events, stay tuned for the opportunity to meet casually, debrief and share experiences.

The Chamber welcomes new members and encourages all local businesses to come on board.

Annual membership is only $50, and membership of the local Chamber entitles automatic membership to the NSW Business Chamber which provides additional valuable business advice via regular communiques.

For any enquiries please email secretary@moreechamber.com.au or visit the Facebook page.