Among key activities shared in the president’s and executive officer reports presented last week, it was highlighted that campaigns to encourage shopping local continue to be well supported.
In her report, EO Kate Pitt said between November 2024 and October 2025, another $85,440 worth of Why Leave Town Deni Gift Cards were purchased.
In the same period, $80,033 of gift cards were used within the Deniliquin community.
While gift card sales are down slightly on the previous 12 months (when $96,145 in cards were sold), the redemption of cards is up from $71,212 in the previous 12 months.
The gift cards work like a bank card or shopping vouchers, but ensure the money remains with local business.
And Ms Pitt said they’re a great option for friend, family or event staff presents with Christmas fast approaching.
Returned president Angela Parker said perfectly complementing the program is the Chamber’s continued support of the Pastoral Times’ Think B4 U Click campaigns, which this year includes the $6000 ‘Think B4 U Click this Christmas’ promotion.
Mrs Parker said other key activities for Chamber in the past 12 months have included various events and advocacy opportunities.
Chief among them was the Deniliquin Business Chamber Business Excellence Awards, from which 15 progressed to the Murray Riverina Regional Business Awards and two then winning their way to the NSW Business Awards.
“And of course, the incredible news that DeniSPOT won at the state awards,” Mrs Parker said.
“This is a remarkable achievement, and possibly the first time a Deniliquin business has been recognised at the state level in this category.
“DeniSPOT is an amazing business doing such important work in our town, and their recognition is a reflection of the innovation and excellence that thrives in Deniliquin.”
Mrs Parker also spoke of Chamber’s annual Deni Lights Up Christmas lights competition, the amazing success of the recent Spirit of the Muster event to support the Deni Ute Muster, advocacy on the impact of water buybacks, and the annual Deniliquin Telephone & Business Directory, which is a significant source of income for Chamber.
Coffee with Chamber events will also continue as a great means of sharing ideas and networking.
“These opportunities to connect are so important,” Mrs Parker said.
“Often, it’s the incidental conversations that lead to the most valuable business ideas and collaborations.
“We look forward to seeing even more members get involved in these gatherings in the year ahead.
“The Deniliquin Business Chamber plays such a pivotal role in our local business community, and I truly believe that together we can continue to create incredible things.
“Let’s keep collaborating, supporting, and growing for the benefit of all who live and work in this great town.
“The new committee is ready to tackle what the coming year has in store for us.”
Other executive committee members include vice president Helen Flisher and treasurer Iain Goodway.
Jess Kitchin continues as a committee member, along with newcomers Peter Duncan, Jennifer Pate and Chloe Johnson.
Mrs Parker and other Chamber members took time at the AGM to pay tribute to Paula Rutter, who has resigned from the committee after an extended tenure.
“I would also like to acknowledge and thank Paula Rutter for her incredible contribution to the Chamber,” Mrs Parker said.
“Paula has decided to step back, but over an amazing 15 years she held every position on Chamber and was responsible for some of the key Chamber initiatives that are still running to date.”
Other resignations from the committee include Daniel Webb, who left Deniliquin before the AGM, and Karen Azzopardi.
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