A SEASON OF CELEBRATION AND CONNECTION
October marks the lead-up to a busy season for local business! Now’s the time to start locking in your Christmas parties, client thank-yous and summer events.
Please consider supporting our members when planning — from venues and catering to team activities, they’ve got everything you need to celebrate locally.
NEW HIRE
Mila Pham has just joined Business Port Macquarie as our new Admin Assistant. Mila has over 10 years’ experience in admin, sales/marketing and customer experience across a range of industries from logistics, tech to healthcare. She speaks three languages (English, Mandarin, and Vietnamese), and loves connecting with people from different backgrounds.
WHAT'S NEWS FOR THE COMMUNITY
Oxley Highway Petition – Debate Locked In!
Thanks to the incredible community effort that gathered over 10,000 signatures, the Oxley Highway petition will be debated in NSW Parliament on Wednesday, 23rd October.
Details on how you can watch the debate live and continue to lend your voice to the cause can be found HERE.
Advocating for Our Region – Every Step of the Way
Business Port Macquarie continues to meet regularly with local, state and federal representatives to ensure our members’ priorities are heard.
We were invited to be part of the consultation workshop for Council's new Economic Development Strategy 2025-2035. We attended the workshop and put forward the concerns, opportunities and ambitions for the local business community of Port Macquarie. The Economic Development Strategy is being reported to the Council meeting, and will go on public exhibition for further feedback and refinement.
Our next Quarterly Meetings will be with:
CREATING CONNECTIONS
September & October Events recap
Leaders Round Table – Building Regional Leadership
Our first Leaders Round Table, hosted by Telstra and featuring Amanda Hutton, Group Executive for Telstra Business, was a powerful start to this new initiative.
We’re already planning our next session, where local leaders will continue to collaborate, exchange insights, and influence the future of business across Greater Port Macquarie.
If you’d like to express interest in attending future sessions and/or have an agenda item you would like to present to our Leaders Round Table, please get in touch.
Business NSW Regional Awards – Congratulations to All Finalists & Winners!
A huge congratulations to all local finalists & winners recognised at the Business NSW Mid North Coast Regional Awards in September.
We’re proud to see so many Business Port Macquarie members celebrated for their innovation, leadership, and community impact.
Best of luck to all businesses heading to the State Awards soon!
The Digital Deep Dive – Helping Members Harness AI
In partnership with Cloud Concepts, the new Digital Deep Dive program helped members explore how AI tools can streamline workflows, improve customer experience, and boost productivity.
Keep an eye on your inbox for further workshop dates and opportunities to participate and keep the conversations and learnings going.
WHAT'S ON NEXT?
BA5 Happy Hour – October AGM Edition
Join us on Wednesday, 29th October aboard the Rhythmboat for our 2025 AGM and BA5 Happy Hour!
🕠 AGM: 5:30–6:00pm (open to members and guests)
🍸 BA5 Happy Hour: Members-only event to follow
It’s the perfect mix of updates and networking — plus a panel featuring members sharing the stories behind their brands.
Coffee Connections – Keep the Conversations Brewing
Our monthly Coffee Connections continue to create meaningful business relationships in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Thanks to NBN Co for supporting our October event!
Our November CC will be held at Chop ‘n Chill on Wednesday 5th November 10-11am proudly hosted by Better Insurance Cover.
Interested in hosting a Coffee Connections? It’s a great way to showcase your business and connect with fellow members. We can hold them at your business or a café.
Oxley Insurance Brokers Charity Golf Day
Support the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service at the annual Charity Golf Day on Friday, 28th November at Wauchope Country Club. It’s always a fantastic day of community spirit and networking for a life-saving cause.
🏌️♀️ Sponsorships and team spots are filling fast — don’t miss out!
Business Connect Magazine – Launching This Month!
It’s almost here! Our first edition of Business Connect Magazine launches later this month.
Packed with insights, member features, and expert advice to help you prepare for the busy summer and holiday season, it’s your go-to guide for doing business in Port Macquarie.
Stay tuned for the launch announcement!
MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS & PROMOTIONS
Ready to roll into the weekend?
Gather your crew and join us for Froth n’ Bowls Fridays – a 5-week social lawn bowls competition made for workmates who like to knock off with a laugh, a cold drink, and a bit of friendly rivalry. $150 for a team of 3, including sausage sizzle and great prizes.
📅 Event Details:
Dates: Fridays, October 17 – November 14
Time: 6:00 PM start
Location: Port City Bowling Club
Team Entry: $150 (teams of 3)
What to wear: Keep it caszh or in theme with your brand. Barefoot or flat sole shoes on the greens.
What’s Included:
Sausage Sizzle & Greenside Bar
Prizes for weekly winners
Great atmosphere and plenty of laughs
Book Here
PARTNERSHIP & ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES
Stand our, Shine, and be seen as a Leader in our business community.
Time is running out to partner with us on two of Port Macquarie's largest celebrations:
We also have premium signage in a high-traffic location - the perfect way to keep your brand front & centre all year round.
Contact us for more information.