JAYDEN Christie has stepped into the role of President of the Hervey Bay Chamber of Commerce with a clear sense of purpose, to build on a proud legacy and help guide the organisation into its next phase of growth and connection.

A respected small business owner himself, Jayden understands the challenge of balancing commercial demands with community leadership, but says the opportunity to contribute to something greater was too important to pass up.

‘I’m passionate about growing the business industry and strengthening the Fraser Coast community’ Jayden said.

‘I want the Chamber to be a driving force for connection, development, and progress, a place where ideas are welcomed and where the business community feels truly represented’.

Jayden takes over from outgoing President Sandra Holebrook, whose long-standing contribution to the Chamber and broader Hervey Bay business community he acknowledges with gratitude and respect.

‘We have inherited a strong foundation, and we are incredibly thankful to Sandra and the previous committee members for their years of service. Our goal now is to build on that foundation with fresh energy and strategic direction’.

That new direction includes a more structured and collaborative approach, with clearer roles across the executive team and a renewed focus on inclusive engagement.

‘We are looking to streamline how the Chamber operates, make things more efficient, and share the workload more evenly so no one’s carrying it alone’.

With nearly 250 members and around 1,000 people on the mailing list, Jayden sees enormous opportunity to grow the Chamber’s reach, particularly by connecting with businesses not currently engaged.

‘We see untapped potential in reaching out to new and established businesses across the region, and we are putting the structure in place to do that more proactively’.

A key part of Jayden’s vision is closer collaboration with the Young Professionals Fraser Coast, a group historically independent from the Chamber but seen as critical to the future of the local business landscape.

‘They are not under the Chamber umbrella, and that’s important for their independence, but we want to support their growth’.

‘By running some joint events and fostering mentorship opportunities, we can bring generations of business leaders together’.

The Chamber also maintains a regular working relationship with the Fraser Coast Regional Council, particularly around economic development and budgetary planning.

‘We are in the same business, building a better city’.

‘We want to be part of the conversation, part of the solutions, and part of the platform that helps businesses navigate challenges and seize opportunities.

That approach underpins Jayden’s view of the Chamber’s role in broader community issues. While he is clear that the Chamber won’t take sides politically, he believes it should serve as a neutral platform for business-led dialogue.

‘If there’s a major issue in the community, whether it’s a development proposal or a policy change, the Chamber can provide a professional space where those conversations happen’.

‘We’re here to foster constructive debate, not division’.

In his first year as President, Jayden is focused on three clear priorities: growing membership, refreshing the Chamber’s event calendar with more dynamic and skill-based programming, and embedding stronger systems for long-term sustainability.

That includes introducing new membership tiers to suit different budgets and business types, and expanding professional development opportunities through workshops and guest speakers.

‘Success for me in twelve months' time is seeing more faces at our events, a broader and more engaged membership, and a Chamber that is respected and relevant’.

‘We are here to be the voice of business in Hervey Bay, and that means showing up, listening, and leading’.

The newly appointed 2025–26 Chamber Committee reflects Jayden’s collaborative vision, bringing together a strong mix of experience, energy, and professional capability.

Supporting him in the executive are Vice Presidents Luke Strochnetter and Catherine Reid, both well-regarded for their commitment to local enterprise.

Bronson Aukaha steps into the role of Treasurer, while Lisa Robinson-Smith takes on the position of Secretary, ensuring smooth governance and operational oversight.

Rounding out the team are General Committee Members Natalie Alexander, Sarah Smith, Jade Wellings, and Mindy Thorpe, each bringing unique insights and skills to the table as the Chamber moves confidently into its next chapter.

Together, this team is committed to ensuring the Hervey Bay Chamber of Commerce remains a vital, inclusive, and forward-thinking advocate for local business.