Macleay Valley Business Chamber

18/06/2026

We're sharing an important update on Recovery Grant for Small Businesses and Non‑Profit Organisations (Cat C extension).

Businesses who applied for this grant are being contacted directly by a Service NSW Business Concierge or a member of the grant assessment team about the latest updates to the program and provide support where required.

As part of this outreach, businesses will be advised that:

- They have until Friday 19 June 2026 at 4:00pm to claim the maximum amount currently available under this grant ($25,000).
- There is no requirement to submit a new application. Businesses can access their existing application via their MyServiceNSW Account to lodge additional claims for eligible costs.
- Supporting documentation is required for each additional claim.

East Coast Severe Weather applicants will also be advised that:

- An additional $25,000 will become available under this grant from Tuesday 23 June 2026, increasing the total amount available to $50,000.
- To access this additional funding, businesses must have claimed the full $25,000 currently available by Friday 19 June 2026 at 4:00pm.

Further information will be provided to eligible businesses once the current funding round has closed.

For support, businesses can request a call back at: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/business/business-concierge-service

17/06/2026

The Macleay Valley Business Chamber was proud to support the recent Launch Pad Young Entrepreneur Program, a 12-week initiative designed to help young entrepreneurs take their business ideas — or existing businesses — to the next level.

Throughout the program, members of the MVBC executive committee volunteered their time as mentors and speakers, providing feedback, advice, encouragement, and a sounding board as participants explored opportunities, tackled challenges, and refined their future direction.

We're also delighted that all participants have now joined the Macleay Valley Business Chamber, ensuring the support, connections, and opportunities don't stop with the conclusion of the program. We look forward to continuing to support these emerging business leaders as they grow.

Investing in young entrepreneurs is an investment in the future of our local economy, and we're already involved in discussions about how we can support the next iteration of the program and help another cohort of emerging business leaders bring their ideas to life.

A huge congratulations to all participants on their efforts and achievements. We look forward to seeing where your business journeys take you.

Program lead: Julie Humphris-Business Life Guide
Photos thanks to TDK Creative

16/06/2026

The Macleay Valley Business Chamber continues to grow, with another six businesses joining our community.

What's particularly exciting is the diversity of our newest members. From creative arts and retail, to health, migration services, Indigenous community services, and business support, these businesses reflect the broad range of industries that help make our region thrive.

With these new additions, we're now edging ever closer to a significant milestone — 100 members.

The question is: who will be our lucky member number 100?

Please join us in welcoming:

http://www.sha-lohmstudio.com
https://www.rcbusinesssupport.com.au
https://durri.org.au
https://oneinhealth.com.au/
https://rawspiceboutique.com.au/
https://www.australiawidemigration.com.au/

Thank you to all of our members for being part of a growing network committed to supporting local business, strengthening our economy, and helping the Macleay Valley prosper.

15/06/2026

Mid North Coast Police District Superintendent Shane Cribb and Crime Manager Mark Rogers joined members of the Macleay Valley Business Chamber executive committee last Thursday evening. On the table for discussion were a number of matters relating to the Macleay Valley, including crime rates, reporting processes, operations, and local challenges impacting businesses.

One of our strategic pillars for 2026 is to strengthen our relationships with key organisations and decision-makers across the region. This meeting was an important step in building those connections and strengthening lines of communication between the business community and local police.

One of our roles is to advocate for the needs and concerns of local businesses. That starts with bringing the right people to the table, sharing feedback from our members, and developing productive relationships that help us better understand challenges and opportunities.

We thank Superintendent Cribb and Crime Manager Rogers for their time and look forward to continuing the conversation.

13/06/2026

Community organisations play an important role in making our region a great place to live, work and do business.

Congratulations to the South West Rocks Rotary Club on 35 years of service to our community. Community members are invited to join the celebrations and help recognise the contribution the South West Rocks Rotary Club has made to our region over the past three and a half decades.

We're sure it will be a wonderful evening.

Tickets close 17 June.

Join Business and Community Leaders celebrate 35 Years of Rotary in South West Rocks. Saturday 27th June at the South West Rocks Surf Life...

13/06/2026

Thanks to the team at Jabiru Printing for our new banner. We're looking forward to using this at future events!

Pictured:
Jarrod - Chamber President & Team Spirit
Lea - Jabiru Printing

12/06/2026

The Macleay Valley Business Chamber has been advocating for improved maintenance and presentation of our town centres, and we're pleased to see garden maintenance works scheduled for Sunday 14 June in Smith Street and Belgrave Street.

Please note that temporary traffic and parking changes will be in place while the works are carried out. Motorists should expect some disruptions and follow any traffic management directions on the day. We appreciate Kempsey Shire Council undertaking these works and encourage everyone to be patient while improvements are made.

A well-presented town centre creates a better experience for everyone and helps showcase the pride we have in our community.

11/06/2026

🏆 Thinking about entering the Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards but not sure where to start?

This practical workshop, led by MVBC member Julie Humphris, will help you understand what judges are looking for and how to put together a strong awards submission that showcases your business at its best.

Whether you're entering for the first time or looking to strengthen a previous application, you'll walk away with practical tips, guidance, and greater confidence in telling your business story.

If you've been considering entering this year's awards, this workshop is a great place to start.

https://events.humanitix.com/awards-workshop-preparing-your-enrty

10/06/2026

We're looking for better ways to connect with the business community — in the places you're already gathering, and across different locations throughout the Valley.

No presentations. No formalities. Just a chance to catch up with other people in business, share ideas, swap stories, and maybe even find the solution to a challenge you've been working through.

So, what would suit you better?

👍 **Business Bevvies**
After 5pm. Wrap up your workday, grab a drink, unwind with fellow business owners, and enjoy some casual conversation.

❤️ **Coffee Catch Ups**
Before 9am. Start your day with a coffee, connect with other local businesses, and head into the day fuelled by caffeine and fresh ideas.

React to this post and let us know your preference. We're keen to create opportunities that work for our business community.

09/06/2026

The Macleay Valley Business Chamber extends its sincere condolences to the family, friends and staff of Lou Kesby following his passing.

For more than 42 years, Lou was the heart and soul of Lou's Cafe, creating not just a successful business, but a place where locals and visitors could connect, share stories and feel welcome.

His contribution to our community extended well beyond his cafe. As a former Councillor and Deputy Mayor, Lou was a passionate advocate for Kempsey and a strong believer in the future of our region.

Small businesses help shape the identity of a town, and few have left a mark as significant as Lou's. His dedication, resilience and commitment to the community will be remembered by many.

Our thoughts are with Lou's family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rest in peace, Lou.