Callaghan Hospitality Group Business Network has sought to connect small and emerging business owners across Echuca-Moama
Photo by
Emma Harrop Photography
Callaghan Hospitality Group is working to connect Echuca-Moama businesses through its business network.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
The network, created in 2025, aims to offer small and emerging local business owners opportunities for cross-industry collaboration and innovation through a variety of methods, including in-person events.
CHG business development manager Stuart Addicott, who has been heading the program since January, described it as “speed-dating for businesses”.
He explained that while organisations like Committee For Echuca Moama and shire-based business advocacy groups exist, he believes that the CHG Business Network fills a gap in the Echuca-Moama region by focusing solely on bringing business owners together.
Echuca-Moama once had a dedicated business group that promoted shopping locally and networking events for business owners, but it has been defunct for several years.
“Previously there’s been a lack of business networking models for early and young businesses to lean on and get some advice,” Mr Addicott said.
“We’re not looking to lobby council or state and federal government for extra funds, we’re just about introductory [advice] for local business and building that local business network.
‘’We do have some crossover with C4EM with some of our members... [and] we’re actually working closely with C4EM to discuss how we can work together.”
Local business owners at one of Callaghan Hospitality Group Business Network's events
Photo by
Emma Harrop Photography
The network consists of around 65 members, with varied reasons for joining, including wanting advice, brand exposure and access to a range of potential clients.
Mr Addicott said interest is growing.
‘’[Some members] do a little bit of work together, and I think that connection will there will start to build as we’ve changed the format to encourage [collaboration] a bit more,’’ he said.
“There’s been collaborations where people have made really good friendships, and they bounce ideas off each other ‒ we’re really starting to get some momentum.”
People who would like to know more can contact Mr Addicott at stuart@callaghanhospitalitygroup.com.au
9°C