As the calendar turns and the holiday buzz continues, we’re back and full of excitement for what 2026 has in store for our region, our businesses, and our community.
The Christmas and New Year period has delivered a fantastic start to the year. From packed beaches dotted with cabanas and umbrellas, to restaurants and cafés bursting at the seams, the Hastings has once again proven it’s a favourite place to be. With improved road access making us closer than ever to major cities, visitors have been arriving in droves, and it’s been wonderful to see “No Vacancy” signs lighting up accommodation across the region.
A huge thank you goes to our New Year’s Eve partners. What a night it was! Two spectacular shows helped us farewell 2025 in unforgettable style, creating memories for locals and visitors alike and showcasing the Hastings at its very best.
Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be a big year. We have a number of exciting events in the planning stages, including one of the highlights of our business calendar - the Business Awards, officially set for Saturday, 13 June 2026. This will be a night to celebrate excellence, innovation, and the incredible contribution local businesses make to our region.
There are sponsorship opportunities available across our events and initiatives in 2026. Sponsorship is a powerful way to be seen as a leader in your industry, gain valuable exposure, and directly support the community that supports your business. If you’re looking to elevate your brand while making a genuine local impact, we’d love to talk.
Membership continues to be at the heart of what we do. Being a member isn’t just about visibility, it’s about connection. Membership provides opportunities for exposure, meaningful networking, and building relationships that can truly impact your business. When businesses support each other, the entire region benefits.
As the holiday season rolls on and businesses take advantage of increased foot traffic, we’re excited about the momentum building across the Hastings. There’s a strong sense of optimism in the air, and we can’t wait to work alongside our members and partners to make 2026 a year to remember.
Here’s to a vibrant, connected, and successful year ahead.
Kylie