At the Western District Chamber, we’re all about supporting and connecting local businesses in our vibrant community. Whether you’re a small startup or a well-established company, we’re here to help you thrive.
Our mission is simple: to be the voice of business in the Western District. We advocate for the interests of our members and work tirelessly to create a supportive environment where businesses can grow and succeed.
Through networking events, advocacy efforts, and valuable resources, we strive to bring our business community together and foster collaboration and innovation.
Join us as we work towards building a stronger, more prosperous Western District for everyone. Together, we can achieve great things!
To grow HRBA as a dynamic, sustainable organisation which provides exceptional value for its members by providing current and comprehensive information services, advocacy, lobbying, and networking and training opportunities, to achieve its vision.
HRBA is the voice for local businesses representing all businesses in the region, and is the first port of call for business issues, providing outstanding business information services and representing the interests of the business community.
We strongly encourage buy local campaigns and put the priority of Southern Grampians Shire businesses first.
We are transparent, honour our commitments and adhere to high ethical standards.
We aim to be visionary, future-orientated in our thinking, and decision-making.
We aim to deliver services and products that will exceed our members' expectations.
We actively consult, engage and communicate with our members and stakeholders encouraging feedback and input.
- Provide leadership to the business community
- Be a representative for the Southern Grampians Shire businesses
- Promote an environment which enables businesses to flourish
- Foster standards of excellence within the business community
- Act as an independent non-political advisory group
- Identify business needs
- Influence training providers
- Act as an information conduit to the Economic Development Unit
- Drive prosperity
- Create a sustainable community
Anna Rees is a law clerk in the Hunter Newns & Holt Law Firm team. Anna grew up on a sheep farm near Warrayure, leaving the area after completing secondary school but returning periodically and settling back in Hamilton for good when commencing her legal career at Hunter Newns as the receptionist in 2011.
She advanced in that law firm to become the Personal Assistant to the Principal Lawyer, then worked briefly in Estates Administration before settling into Property Transactions and Conveyancing for the past 12 odd years.
Anna has a passion to see the region flourish, and supports efforts to foster the growth, development and longevity of existing and new businesses.
Melissa was born, raised, and educated locally only having a brief stint living away from the Southern Grampians region to establish her Accounting career.
Melissa is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) and holds a Bachelor of Commerce, now working in Hamilton with Sinclair Wilson Accountants and Business Advisers.
Cassie joins the HRBA committee from the team at Gen Health Hamilton. With a background in tourism and events cassie has a strong foundation in organisation, efficiency and project & people management.
Cassie is a born and bred hamilton local who is passionate about her community and understands the importance of building community networks & combining resources to strengthen our region. Creating connections and fostering collaboration within the Hamilton businesses has been a driving force in her joining the HRBA team.
Cassie is a mum of 2 young children and a Volunteer breastfeeding educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association with the hope to empower parents to meet their individual breastfeeding goals, whatever they may be.
To Make a Difference: Joining the committee is your chance to have a real impact on our community. Your involvement helps shape the future of our local businesses and the area as a whole.
Give Back: This is a fantastic way to give back to the community that supports you. Your time and effort can make a big difference in the lives of others.
Contribute Your Strengths: Everyone has unique skills and talents. Bring yours to the table and contribute to something greater than yourself.
Learn a Lot: Being on the committee is a learning experience. You'll gain new insights, skills, and knowledge that you can apply both professionally and personally.
Collaborate with Others: Work alongside other business owners and employees in our region. It's a great way to share ideas, solve problems, and create new opportunities together.
Promote Personal Growth: Being part of the committee challenges you to grow. You'll develop new skills, boost your confidence, and become a stronger leader.
Be the Voice of Local Business: Ensure that our local businesses have a strong, united voice. Your participation helps advocate for the needs and interests of our business community.
Bring the Business Community Together: Help foster a sense of unity and cooperation among local businesses. Together, we can achieve more.
Meet New People: Expand your network and make new connections. You'll meet a variety of people who share your passion for making our community better.
Contribute to Future Success: By joining the committee, you're investing in the future. Your efforts help create a thriving environment for the next generation of business leaders in our town.
Join us and make a positive impact on our community today!