Ignite Initiative Winner Announced: Local Entrepreneur Set to Take Business Idea to the Next Level

Tamworth’s best in business celebrated at 2026 Quality Business Awards

Every dog has its day - and business is taking notice

It’s International Dog Day and while there is no better excuse to give our four-legged friends a little extra attention, Tamworth Business Chamber says Australia’s love affair with dogs is also creating some serious paw-sibilities for business.

Tamworth After Dark: Transforming the Night Time Economy

Advertise on the Tamworth Business Chamber Website

Tamworth Aboriginal Land Council: Spotlight on Community Leadership

Viatek Tamworth - Exclusive Member Offer

UNE Tamworth: Building for the Future, Partnering Today

Fair Work Ombudsman - New fixed term contract rules

Exclusive Member Offer: Now’s the time to book your Christmas advertising with the Northern Daily Leader

October President Report

Dear Members, October was a truly energising month for the Tamworth Business Chamber, as we celebrated Small Business Month with a suite of impactful events and opportunities for local business development and connection. We kicked off the month with a dynamic trio of workshops delivered in partnership with UNE, each tailored to address the evolving needs of our business community. From exploring the future of AI in Tamworth, to sharpening leadership skills with Dan Urquhart from 1,000 Feet Deep and diving into the power of regional media with local industry experts—each event was well attended and received excellent feedback. We’re thrilled with the level of engagement and are already looking at ways to bring similar events back in 2026.

Donate to the Joblink Plus Artist Bursary to keep the Artists coming to Tamworth

Were you aware that over 700 artists and musicians are engaged annually in the Tamworth Festival, providing more than 1800 scheduled events, most of which are free, making Tamworth the most unique festival in the world … but they need your help. With many artists balancing tight budgets with overheads that include venue, travel and technical costs, finding a cost-effective place to stay can be a critical factor in whether artists can participate in the Tamworth Festival. It is becoming harder and harder each year to find accommodation and to keep the artists here for a longer period. Tamworth’s success is due to the artists. Without the artists there would be no festival.

Make this year’s work Christmas Party one to remember!

Christmas is almost here — and that means it’s time to start planning the work Christmas party. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth the effort, the answer is a resounding yes! A well-planned celebration is more than just a good time; it’s a chance to thank your team, strengthen relationships and finish the year on a high note. But between end-of-year deadlines, staff leave and customer demands, the idea of organising a party can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to fall into the trap of booking a venue, sending an email and calling it done. As an event planner, I can tell you that the most memorable celebrations come down to thoughtful planning and attention to detail. With a few simple steps, you can host a party that’s both fun and meaningful — without the stress.

NSW Police Force CCTV Register

The use of closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance in crime prevention has become common across the Australian public and private sectors, with CCTV recordings regularly contributing to the identification and prosecution of criminals. In an effort to better utilise this valuable crime fighting resource, the NSW Police Force has implemented a CCTV Register to record the locations of CCTV camera systems operating throughout the state. The Register aims to provide police officers in the field with a map of camera locations, along with other useful information, to assist them when investigating criminal activity in a particular area and to support police operations.

New seafood labelling rules mandatory from next July

New seafood labelling rules will come into effect from 1 July 2026. This new information standard will affect hospitality businesses who sell seafood for immediate consumption such as restaurants, cafes, pubs, clubs and takeaway outlets. Under the changes, businesses will be required to label seafood dishes with country of origin information using the Australian-Imported-Mixed (AIM) model. A 12-month transition period is now underway to give businesses time to apply the changes.

2025 Think Local Shop Local the most successful yet!

Workplace Changes from 1 July 2025

NSW Budget 2025–26: What’s in It for Tamworth and the North West

Think Local, Shop Local on track to break records

July 2025 - Presidents Report

Shop Local Campaign Drives Over $355,000 into Local Economy in First Two Weeks

We’re excited to share that the Think Local, Shop Local Campaign has already delivered strong results just two weeks into the 10-week promotion! With over 2,900 valid entries received and an average spend of $129, our community has injected more than $355,000 into the local economy — and we’re only just getting started.

May 2025- Presidents report

As we reflect on a dynamic April, I am proud to share how the Chamber continues to create valuable opportunities for our business community to connect, engage, and thrive.

Support Local Conservation with a Tax-Deductible Gift to Tamworth Regional Landcare Association

Tamworth Regional Landcare Association (TRLA) is dedicated to protecting and restoring our region’s natural landscapes, supporting biodiversity, and empowering local communities to take action for the environment. From habitat restoration and native vegetation projects to sustainable land management and youth and community education, our work is essential in ensuring a healthier future for our region.

Chamber Connect Update - May 2025

Our most recent Business After 5 event at Powerhouse Hotel Tamworth by Rydges was a stellar night out - with over 65 Business Chamber members coming together for an evening of conversation, connection, and canapés. A huge thanks to our hosts - Powerhouse Hotel Tamworth, and management team Greg, Monty and Daine for their outstanding hospitality. It was a treat to gather in a space that’s equal parts class and character. We can't wait to see what's next as the Powerhouse Hotel continues to set the standard for world-class luxury accomodation and sophisticated dining in our region.

2025 Think Local, Shop Local Campaign Now Underway!

The Tamworth Business Chamber is proud to announce that the 2025 Think Local, Shop Local campaign has officially launched! Running for 12 weeks, this initiative celebrates and supports our region’s vibrant business-to-consumer community.

TAFE NSW Industry Insights Job Expo

On Wednesday 11th June 2025, TAFE Tamworth campus will host an Industry Insights Job Expo reaching out to a large student catchment campus wide. The primary objective of this expo is to highlight potential career pathways available to these students upon successful completion of their studies. Local Employers are invited to participate in this event and showcase employment opportunities within their organisation. These opportunities may span across various roles including in casual, part-time and full-time positions as well as apprenticeships and traineeships.

Welcome to the New Resident Connection event!

Moving to a new place can be exciting. But it can be overwhelming to settle in, find your place and meet new people. That’s why we’re rolling out the welcome mat just for you!Join us for the New Resident Connection Event, a relaxed and family-friendly gathering designed to help you meet other new residents and locals in the Tamworth Region, make new friends, and feel right at home here in Tamworth.

Joblink Plus and the High Conflict Institute are pleased to present the Conflict Influencer Masterclass: Navigating high-conflict scenarios with confidence.

The Conflict Influencer Masterclass, presented by High Conflict Institute Co-founder and CEO Megan Hunter, MBA, enables participants to understand the dynamics at play and respond effectively to defuse conflicts and foster positive outcomes, whether client-facing or within the workplace team.

Candidates Face the Community in Tamworth Ahead of Federal Election

As voters across the New England region headed to the polls this week, many did so equipped with firsthand insight thanks to the Meet the Candidates forum hosted by Tamworth Business Chamber and 88.9FM on Wednesday, 23 April.

Think local, shop local to keep our regional economy strong

Make the choice to shop locally and you could drive home this winter in a brand-new Hyundai Venue. That’s the challenge Tamworth Business Chamber is putting to shoppers with the launch of this year’s Think Local, Shop Local campaign.

Meet the Federal Candidates Forum

As Australia continues to stare down the barrel of a severe cost of living crisis, the best vote is an informed vote. That’s the message from Tamworth Business Chamber President Dave Errington who today confirmed his Chamber is hosting a live and unscripted “Meet the Candidates” event which Tamworth locals are encouraged to attend in person, with the rest of the electorate able to tune-in online. Scheduled for Wednesday 23 April at 5.30pm in the Tamworth Town Hall, the Forum is free to attend with six out of the seven candidates, including sitting member Barnaby Joyce, already confirmed as participating.

What does the 2025-26 Federal Budget mean for your business?

The Federal Budget offers small wins for business, but many of the real challenges facing regional NSW — like workforce shortages, rising costs, and lack of infrastructure — remain. 1. Rising Costs & Energy Relief Energy Bill Relief: Small businesses can receive $150 in energy rebates (two payments of $75) through to December 2025 — helpful but not enough for high power users in our region. No Instant Asset Write-Off Extension: The popular tax break for equipment purchases ends on 30 June 2025, reverting to a $1,000 limit.

Tamworth Businesses are getting behind the 2025 Kids Cancer Project!

Donations are rolling in from Tamworth businesses with a target of $2,000.00 Among the first to pledge are McKnight Signs, UNE Tamworth and Dave’s Custom Cavaletti & Jump Sets Tamworth.

Enhance your profile on Tamworth Business Chamber Member Portal

If you're a member of the Tamworth Business Chamber, you already have a profile on our website – and the best part? You can customise it. By logging into your membership portal, you can update and enhance your profile to help your business stand out. Here’s what you can do:

Calling All Event Organisers: Funding Now Open for 2025/26 Regional Events

Tamworth Business Chamber members are encouraged to apply for the 2025/26 Regional Event Fund, now open through Destination NSW. This is a fantastic opportunity to secure funding for events that showcase our region, attract visitors, and boost the local economy. Over $14 million has already been distributed to more than 530 regional events since the program began – and your event could be next!

Tamworth's Digital Future: Election Promises and the Regional Imperative

The upcoming election holds significant implications for Tamworth's economic future, particularly concerning digital infrastructure and innovation. We must ensure that national promises translate into tangible benefits for our region, bridging the digital divide and fostering sustainable growth. 

Chamber Connect April Update

As we close out another month, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on one of the highlights of the month, which was our Business After 5pm event at Commonwealth Bank last Wednesday, 26th March 2025. It was a privilege to partner with Commonwealth Bank to provide an insightful evening focused on financial growth and business development. A huge thank you to Branch Manager, Mathew Wilkinson, and the team at Commonwealth Bank for their generosity in hosting us and for sharing their expertise with us.

Presidents Report April Newsletter

April has arrived, and it’s a great time to look back at what we’ve achieved so far this year. The Tamworth Business Chamber remains committed to supporting our local business community through advocacy, networking, and delivering valuable events.

Council leaders talk “State of the City” at annual Chamber Breakfast

As part of its advocacy efforts for the local business community, Tamworth Business Chamber is pleased to announce the launch of the 2025 Leader Forums which starts with the State of the City Breakfast on Wednesday 5 March at the Tamworth Jockey Club.

Presidents Report January 2025

Happy New Year from the Tamworth Business Chamber! As we welcome 2025, here’s a quick update and a look at what’s ahead: ✅ December Highlights Our new Directors attended the Business NSW New England and Northwest Economic Luncheon, where Chief Economist Dr. Sherman Chan shared insights on the economy. Key takeaways: moderate GDP growth, stable inflation, and strong regional workforce participation. Challenges like skill shortages and productivity pressures remain, but Tamworth’s strengths in workforce development and tourism offer exciting opportunities for growth. 🎶 Tamworth Country Music Festival (TCMF) From 17–26 January 2025, TCMF will once again showcase Tamworth as a cultural and economic powerhouse! With $100M+ in economic impact and thousands of visitors, this event is a massive opportunity for businesses in hospitality, retail, services, and tourism. 👉 Tips for Success: 1. Deliver exceptional customer experiences. 2. Leverage the Festival to drive long-term business growth. 3. Work collectively to uphold Tamworth’s stellar reputation. Here’s to a year of growth, collaboration, and shared success for our business community. Let’s make 2025 one to remember!

JT Photography

Meet Josh, a passionate and creative force in the world of photography, graphic design, and marketing!

Children First - Tamworth South Outside School Hours

Tamworth South Outside School Hours operates within the grounds of Tamworth South Public School and has Before and After School Care and Vacation Care.

Tamworth Regional Council- Skywalk Works

Preliminary construction works in Victoria Park for the Tamworth Regional Skywalk will ramp up in February.

Amanda Thomas Energetic Life Coaching

Counsellor | Psychotherapist | Coach of Wellbeing and Creating Life Changes | Beauty Therapist | Western Feng Shui Consultant | YTT Teacher (Yoga & Meditation).

Tamworth Regional Council: Tamworth to Host 2025 Koori Knockout

The 2025 Koori Knockout is coming to Tamworth, with the city set to host one of the largest gatherings of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the country. Scheduled to take place over the October long weekend, from October 3 to October 6, this prestigious event will unite players, supporters, and spectators in a celebration of sport, culture, and community.

Presidents Welcome

Chamber Connect - Final BA5 for 2024

The Southwell Property Business After Five (BA5) event was a hit! Bringing together local business leaders and Chamber members for an evening of connection and celebration. Hosted by Stuart and Brooke Southwell at their recently renovated offices, we were treated to a fantastic presentation on the founding and growth of their small business.

2024: A Year of Growth and Transformation for Chamber Connect

UNE launches engagement and research program to align Tamworth campus with local needs in a new era

The University of New England (UNE) is inviting feedback from the Tamworth Business community on how the Tamworth Campus can best serve Tamworth and the surrounding areas.

Annual Report 2023-2024

The Tamworth Business Chamber proudly presents its Annual Report for 2023-2024, a comprehensive overview of a remarkable year of growth, resilience, and commitment to strengthening the Tamworth business community. This report captures our journey over the past year, reflecting on the impact of our key initiatives, events, and advocacy efforts that have driven economic progress and fostered connections among local businesses.

Chris Ward

Chris Ward

Daniel Gillett

Daniel Gillett

David Errington

David Errington

Mary Ryan-Garnett

Mary Ryan-Garnett

Simon Walden

Simon Walden

📢 Meet the Candidates for the Tamworth Business Chamber Board of Directors!

📢 Meet the Candidates for the Tamworth Business Chamber Board of Directors!

Caroline Lumley

Caroline Lumley

Tamworth's Apollo Engineering: Leading the Way as Manufacturer of the Year with Innovation, Sustainability, and Growth

Chamber Connect Kick Start Program: Support Tamworth’s Next Generation of Business Leaders!

Riverside Connections & New Beginnings: A Recap of the Long Lunch 2024

November Update

Annual General Meeting 2024

We are pleased to announce the Annual General Meeting 2024.

August Chamber Update

As we step into October, we'd like to take a moment to reflect on what an incredible month September has been, especially with the Tamworth Quality Business Awards. It was a fantastic evening celebrating the achievements of our local businesses. A huge congratulations to our winners and finalists—your innovation, commitment, and excellence continue to inspire us all! This evening could not have been such a success without our judges, sponsors, and vendors. We are very appreciative and thankful for your hard work and continued support.

Lifeline Tamworth Golf Day 2024

It’s going to be a huge day at the Longyard Golf Course on Friday 18th October.

October Small Business Month Chamber Events

Join us this October for Small Business Month and take advantage of a series of dynamic events designed to empower and grow your business! Tickets are selling fast, Register Today!

Key numbers to focus on in your business now

What are the key reports to focus on in your business? We'll show you how to track performance, take action and position your company for growth.

Beyond Profits: How Community Engagement Fuels Business Growth

In today’s fast-paced world, businesses are relentlessly focused on growth, reducing costs, and chasing targets. But amid this drive for success, one powerful objective is often overlooked in a business strategy and that’s community engagement. This is not just a checkbox; it’s the heartbeat that can breathe life into a brand. It’s about more than profits or milestones - it’s about truly connecting with your community, building trust, and fostering a sense of belonging. Businesses that invest in their community unlock a deeper purpose, creating loyalty that makes a business unforgettable. It’s important to recognise that this goes beyond a one-off sponsorship or donation; it’s about active, ongoing participation and involvement in the community.

President's Update - June

Welcome to the May newsletter. April and May have been busy months for the Chamber with the Shop Local campaign in full swing, the hosting of the 2024 State of the City breakfast and the welcoming of the launch of the inaugural Regional Leaders event by alliance partner BusinessNSW.

2024 Quality Business Awards winners announced

After a two month nomination period, an exhaustive judging process of over 400 businesses, 29 winners have been awarded top honours in the 2024 Quality Business Awards. Category award sponsors presented each winner with a trophy recognising their achievements in front of 800 of their peers, at a glittering gala dinner at TRECC. Tamworth Business Chamber congratulated the individuals and businesses recognised as part of the Awards and praised their contribution to the Tamworth region business community.

New Podcast – Electrifying business car fleets: Exploring three pathways to decarbonisation

In the latest podcast, Joseph Capurso, Head of International and Sustainable Economics, and John Oh, Sustainable Economist sit down to discuss electrification themes playing out in Australia’s car market. Looking to the future, they identify the different ways in which the supply of electric vehicles could help meet demand preferences for various buyers in Australia.

Another Successful Business After 5 Event Hosted by PRD Real Estate

We are excited to share that our recent Business After 5 (BA5) event, hosted by PRD Real Estate at the iconic Leader Building, was a remarkable success. Building on the success of our inaugural event, this gathering surpassed expectations, drawing a diverse and engaged crowd to a packed house. The evening was highlighted by PRD Real Estate’s compelling presentation, which not only provided a detailed overview of Tamworth’s real estate market but also offered valuable insights into their own history and successful business processes. Their team shared a wealth of knowledge, outlining the strategies and practices that have contributed to their success in the industry. This in-depth look into PRD’s operational excellence was both informative and inspiring.

NSW Premier Chris Minns Tours Apollo Engineering

We were honoured to host NSW Premier Chris Minns at our Apollo Engineering facility in Tamworth. During his visit, Premier Minns was guided through our advanced manufacturing operations by David Errington and the Apollo team.

Why productivity matters and what you can do about it

Productivity is a term associated with strong economies, robust businesses and the efficiency gains of clever staff. If only businesses were efficient, then we would have fewer of them failing, more employment and better incomes for owners and workers alike.

Meet The Candidates Forum

On the August 22, 2024, we hosted a pivotal forum where 15 of the 24 candidates running in the upcoming elections had the opportunity to connect directly with the Tamworth Community. This engaging event drew over 200 residents and Tamworth Business Chamber members, all eager to learn more about the candidates and their positions on key issues. As we approach the elections scheduled for September 14th, this forum proved to be an invaluable platform for dialogue and exchange.

2024 Noel Park Award recipient - Lia Mahony

Lia Mahony is a pharmacist with a long history of service in Tamworth and the larger New England North West community. With a passion for improving access to healthcare and raising health literacy, Lia inspires current and future health professionals through mentoring as well developing and delivering professional education. A former past president of Chamber, she is a long-standing advocate of securing regional employment opportunities, retaining young people within our community, and attracting and retaining high level executives and professionals to our city. Generous with her time to support community projects, she is also past recipient of the New England Northwest Zonta Business Woman of the Year award and the Distinguished Toastmaster Medal.

2024 Quality Business Award winners

After a two-month nomination period, an exhaustive judging process of over 400 businesses, 29 winners have been awarded top honors in year’s Quality Business Awards. We’d like to congratulate all the individuals and businesses who received Awards for their exceptional contribution to the Tamworth Region business community. This year represents the 40th anniversary of the Quality Business Awards and to have such a high calibre of entries is a tremendous testament to the strength of our business community, and an indication of the esteem in which these awards are held. Eighteen of the night’s categories were awarded for excellence in customer service, as nominated by the general public. Those judging these awards were instructed to score solely on their customer experience, ignoring the business size and whether it was a franchise or recognised brand. Those business who entered categories aligned to the NSW Business Chamber, and who are members of the Tamworth Business Chamber automatically progress as a finalist in the 2024 New England Northwest Business Awards with winners to be announced at an award ceremony at the Gunnedah Town Hall on 20 September.

September Presidents Update

It has been a busy month here at the Chamber, leading up to the Quality Business Awards. The night was a great success and on behalf of the Tamworth Business Chamber, we congratulate all winners and finalists on their achievements. We thank our sponsors for supporting the Chamber and the Awards night, and finally we thank everyone who attended. The night shaped up to be a great success. The Chamber Connect program kicked off at Apollo Engineering on 31 July and then PRD on 28 August. This new look networking program, run in conjunction with rebranded Junior Chamber committee, is a way of showcasing member businesses, introducing new members, updating everyone on Chamber news and of course networking opportunities that everyone is keen on attending.

Business NSW Media Release: Workplace Law Changes hit at Challenging time for Business

WORKPLACE LAW CHANGES HIT AT CHALLENGING TIME FOR BUSINESS

Finalists for the 40th Quality Business Awards unveiled

After hundreds of hours of judging, the finalists’ results are in for the 2024 Quality Business Awards.

Advocating for a Safer Community

Crime and anti-social behavior in the Tamworth community is a significant issue that has a direct impact on local and member businesses. This ongoing problem highlights the need for us to advocate on behalf of our members for a safer community.

Tamworth Regional Council, ‘A Winter’s Night’

Embrace the magic of winter on Saturday, 10 August for ‘A Winter’s Night’, a free event hosted by Tamworth Regional Council to be held on Peel Street between Bourke and Brisbane Street. This enchanting evening promises to warm your heart and lift your spirits with the best of winter’s comforts.

August Presidents Update

Welcome to the 2024 August Tamworth Business Chamber Newsletter

The Skills Gap Crisis in Australian Trades: An Urgent Call for Reform

Australia is facing a critical juncture, grappling with a widening skills gap that threatens the future of its trades. Our own business, with critical requirements for Cert III qualified tradespeople, has witnessed the alarming decline in the value provided by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) over the last 15 years. This decline, driven by bureaucratic inefficiency, compliance restrictions, inadequate funding, and deteriorating teaching standards, has resulted in a poorly trained workforce. The Mechanical Engineering department at our local TAFE has been fighting an uphill battle for years regarding funding and attracting and retaining skilled teachers, and it shows in the quality of the apprentices completing their trades. Although there have been significant improvements with fantastic local teachers joining the TAFE ranks, there is still much room for improvement.

Announcing Our Rebrand: Welcome to Tamworth Business Chamber Connect

Tamworth Junior Chamber rebrands to Tamworth Chamber Connect; a new direction to support members to connect, collaborate and grow.

Business After 5 - Series 1

Last Night marked the exciting launch of the Business After 5 (BA5)series, hosted by Apollo Engineering and organized by ChamberConnect, the newly rebranded subcommittee of the TamworthBusiness Chamber.The event, held at Apollo Engineering's premises,brought together over 100 members of the Tamworth Business Chamber for an evening of networking, collaboration, andcommunity engagement.

Quality Business Awards 2024: Exciting Updates and Key Dates

The 2024 Quality Business Awards are shaping up to be one of the best

Tamworth Regional Council- Paving the way for education

Building a future of education in Tamworth is getting closer, as demolition works commence at the former velodrome site to make way for the new University of New England (UNE) Tamworth Campus.

Fire Stations Upgrades Must Be Prioritised

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson has continued his campaign to have the Werris Creek and Manilla Fire and Rescue Stations upgraded following his meeting with Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib and Fire and Rescue NSW.

July Presidents Update

Welcome to the July newsletter. The June month was as usual a busy time of all and the end of financial year has finally arrived with a number of changes coming into play from 1 July 2024.

Nominations closing soon for the Quality Business Awards

With one week to go before nominations officially close for the 2024 Quality Business Awards, Tamworth Business Chamber is urging the community to get behind the Awards with even more customer service nominations.

Casual Employment Changes

There have been recent changes to casual employment laws in Australia. These changes impact the definition of casual employees, the pathway to permanent employment, and the responsibilities of both employees and employers.

Have your say on Council strategy

Tamworth Regional Council have a number of important strategies currently on public exhibition that impact business and the overall growth of our Region.

Quality Business Awards Update

Once again, the community are showing their unwavering support for local business with nominations flying in the door for our Customer Service Awards. Of course, you can never have too many nominations so keep em’ coming with the closing date being Friday 19 July.

Exciting News: MembershipWorks Platform Now Live!

We are thrilled to announce the Tamworth Business Chamber has transitioned to a new membership platform called MembershipWorks! This upgrade is designed to enhance your experience and streamline our operations.

Unlock Exclusive Benefits: Join the Tamworth Business Chamber Today!

Are you ready to take your business to the next level? Look no further! As a valued member of the Tamworth Business Chamber, you’ll gain access to a wealth of resources, networking opportunities, and exclusive perks. Plus, when you join you get free access Business NSW Alliance Program, so your benefits multiply!

REVIVE and THRIVE

Your business and career success don't have to come at the expense of your health, peace and wellbeing.

Headspace Work and Study Program

If you’re having a tough time, getting into work and study might be the last thing on your mind, but it can really help your mental health.

Local Projects Still on Track in Budget

The 2024/25 NSW Budget has delivered important funding to ensure local projects will stay on track however this is despite a skin and bones budget that delivered little else for new projects.

2024 Quality Business Awards Unveiled

Tamworth Business Chamber is excited to announce that entries are now open for the region’s own Quality Business Awards.

Events Update

Thank you to all those who have previously and are still supporting Tamworth Business Chamber events. We have been a bit low on eventing in the last few months, but big things are coming up!