AGM Update: Reports, Team 2025, and Outgoing Board Members

The recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce, held on 26 September 2024 at Currumbin RSL, marked significant transitions in our leadership as well as the appointment of new board members. We are excited to share some key updates and reflect on the dedicated service of outgoing board members.

After ten years of dedicated service, Mike Remmer stepped down from the board, alongside Adam Fitzgibbons, who also made the decision to step down. President Michael Kelly also announced his decision to step down after years of exemplary leadership. In recognition of their outstanding contributions, both Mike and Michael were awarded ceremonial plaques during the AGM, a small token of the Chamber's immense gratitude for their service to the business community.

Although stepping down from the presidency, Michael Kelly graciously accepted an invitation to serve as Immediate Past President for a one-year term. In this capacity, Michael will continue to contribute to the Chamber's strategic direction, ensuring we remain aligned with our long-term goals.

Our 2024/25 Executive Team are more than prepared for the challenges of 2025, with Zac Revere stepping up as President, and Kristy Oswald stepping up as Vice President. We are also delighted to see Josh Yates returning to his role as Vice President, Sarah Galvin continuing as Secretary, and John Forrester returning as Treasurer. Together, this leadership team is poised to guide the Chamber through another successful year.

The AGM also marked the dissolution of the 2023/24 board and the appointment of the 2024/25 board, with the newest members bringing a fresh perspective and diverse expertise. We are pleased to introduce:

• Ben Naday – Chair of Volunteering Gold Coast and Migration Agent with Resolve Migration.
• Lisa Ketjen – Corporate Partnerships Manager with Usher Group.
• Alison Hilliard – General Manager of Palm Beach (QLD) SLSC Supporters Club.

In addition, we offer heartfelt thanks to our returning board members:

• Greg Arnold - Director and Principal Consultant at Effective Workplace Solutions
• Leanne Cohens - Director at Marketing Leap 
• Natasha Edwards - Artisic Director and Founding Curator at SWELL Sculpture Festival
• Brian McGuckin - Chief Property and Planning Officer at QLD Airports Limited

The wealth of experience across sectors will be invaluable as we move forward. The 2025 board appointments reflect our ongoing commitment to ensuring the Chamber's leadership team represents the diversity and high-quality professionals within our membership.

Attached to this newsletter are the President's Report, Treasurer's Report, and the AGM Minutes for your reference.