Chamber member, Ian Westcott said the ideal opportunity for local business operators to get involved was at the very next meeting when representatives of Northparkes Mines and Parkes Shire Council would be in attendance to provide updates.

“This is a chance for people to come along, introduce themselves to other local traders and learn how the chamber can help them.

“We have a new executive who are keen to get more locals coming along to our meetings. That is why we have set in place regular meetings times (7pm on the second Tuesday of each month) and a set location (Coachman Hotel-Motel).

“We would like members and non-members to come along and contribute ideas and constructive suggestions on what the chamber can do for promotions, community involvement etc. Both positive and negative,’ Mr Westcott said.

“They can also better understand what we stand for and what access they receive by being a member.

“The council is also very keen to get feedback from the business community, and the chamber is the ideal tool for that to happen.

“We are delighted to know that the shire and Northparkes will send a representative to each of our meetings to keep everyone up to date with what is going on in their organisations.

“Business people don’t generally have the opportunity to liaise with council, but they can do this through the chamber.”

Mr Westcott said it was important for the business community to all be heading in the same direction, and this could only come through more participation from business people.

“For example, at the last meeting, members heard about where council is currently situated regarding beautification of the main street.

“We had the chance to ask a lot of questions to ensure everyone knew what was happening and how we felt about it.

“It is pleasing to know the response was most positive and everyone is right behind what is being done.”

Meanwhile, the chamber is now being led by Peter Magill (Griffins Leading Edge), who has taken over from long serving president, Greg Rout (Central West Agricentre).

He is supported by a strong executive which includes Tracie Robertson (vice-president, Ray White Real Estate), John Kennedy (treasurer, K and H Geotechnical Services), Belinda McCorkell (secretary, Coachman Hotel-Motel)) and Lauren James (minutes secretary, Parkes Leagues Club).