The last Queanbeyan Connect of 2019 took place at the Royal Hotel’s Upper House in Queanbeyan CBD on Tuesday the 10^th of December. The event provides local businesses and workers a chance to network and discover opportunities, ideas, partnerships and support. Despite the scorching heat on the day, around 35 locals were in attendance to hear the latest developments in the region as well as the inspiring journeys of local business owners.

Local broadcasting identity Cam Sullings spearheaded the event as the MC once again, introducing the six speakers of the night and ensuring everyone made the most out of the evening by facilitating the networking portion of the evening.

MC Cam Sullings (Photo by Janine Fabre Photography). 

The first to kick things off was Roberts Day’s Senior Urban Designer, Drew Jamieson. Showcasing the placemaking consultancy’s recent Bondi Junction project and its success, Drew demonstrated what placemaking is, why it’s important, and how local businesses are vital in creating functional and beneficial place design and activation. The presentation could not have come at a better time as the Queanbeyan CBD is set to take off on its revitalisation project, which Roberts Day is also involved in.

Next to take the stage was Sarah McDougall. Sarah first made her mark in the wine industry operating the successful Summerhill Road Vinyeard. More recently, she has taken over the iconic Lake George Winery together with her husband Anthony, winning the reputable Owner/Operator of the Year Award at the 2019 Australian Women in Wine Awards in New York. With her strong background in marketing, Sarah has launched a new brand for the winery to reflect its new direction. Additionally, the winery now has a variety of experiences on offer for visitors looking to experience wines in a whole new way, including grape picking, winemaking classes, art classes, overnight stays and more. Sharing the details of her own journey, Sarah emphasised the importance of collaboration between other local operators and encouraged the audience members to always shop local when possible.

Filling in for NSW Government’s Kris O’Sullivan was Graham Baxter, CEO of Southern Region Business Enterprise Centre. Thanks to his extensive experience in all facets of business management, Graham shared some insight into operating a small business and how the Business Enterprise Centre can help in providing business advisory and educational services to local business owners with the aim of scaling up and remaining competitive.

Sarah McDougall, Lake George Winery (Photo by Janine Fabre Photography). 

For the final part of the evening’s programme, Bayldon Ag’s Paul Nicholl, photographer Janine Fabre and Region Media’s Michael McGoogan all gave three minute presentations. First up was Paul Nicholl, who spoke about his company Bayldon Ag and their role in the larger Queanbeyan community, covering everything from their products and services through to working with the community. Next, Janine Fabre shared the importance of professional branding in the modern corporate environment. During her three minutes, Janine raised awareness of copyright laws, corporate branding and reflecting your business’ identity through photography. Finally, the CEO of Region Media, which includes well-known print and digital publications such as RiotACT, spoke on the changing landscape in the media landscape and how his vast portfolio of brands are relevant in today’s communication environment. Michael also joined Sarah in emphasising just how vital it is to support local jobs and collaboration.

The formal programme of the evening was wrapped up with a business card draw where four lucky winners went home with prizes generously provided by some of the speakers of the evening, including a free headshot from Janine Fabre Photography, two bottles of the finest cool-climate wine from Lake George Winery and a heavy duty trolley pressure sprayer from Bayldon Ag. After the draw, it was time for the networking portion of the night, which saw the room fill up with chatter.

Paul Nicholl, Bayldon Ag (Photo by Janine Fabre Photography). 

Interested in coming along? The next Queanbeyan Connect will be held on Thursday 5th March, 2020. Keep an eye out in the new year for registration. 

Queanbeyan Connect is proudly supported by Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council, Southern Region Business Enterprise Centre, Regional Development Australia Southern Inland, Service NSW and the Royal Hotel Queanbeyan.