Sunshine Coast Business Expo 2011

More than 2,000 bizoids converged on the Mooloolaba TAFE last week, visiting up to 60 exhibitor booths and attending the various business seminars and networking events offered as part of the 2011 Sunshine Coast Business Expo program.
Maroochydore Chamber of Commerce President Myles McNamara said the event had exceeded all expectations and was being hailed as the go-to premier business event for the Sunshine Coast region amongst local business owners and operators.
“The feedback we’ve received about the Expo from the Sunshine Coast business community has been absolutely phenomenal,” Mr McNamara said.
“In developing the event, our aim was to reinvigorate local businesses and equip owners and operators with the tools and techniques necessary to help their businesses prosper,” he said.
“Already, we’re noticing members of the Sunshine Coast business community are feeling more positive, confident and enthused, which is a key ingredient in building a strong local economy.”
Sunshine Coast Mayor Bob Abbot attended the opening breakfast event on day one of the Expo, which featured a stellar performance from Brumby’s Bakeries founder and business commentator Michael Sherlock.
Mayor Abbott said the Expo provided widespread exposure for local business owners and had given them a much needed boost.
“Attendees left the Expo equipped with a variety of tools for accelerating their business success and feeling inspired by the high-calibre business professionals who presented at the event,” Mayor Abbott said.
Throughout the two-day event, exhibitors and visitors were treated to a variety of inspiring business seminars, and were also given the chance to network with other movers and shakers leading local industry.
Mr McNamara said finance expert and business guru (and Sunrise presenter) David ‘Kochie’ Koch’s keynote presentation was one of the highlights of the Expo, along with ‘Gadget Guy’ Peter Blasina’s address and celebrity fashion designer Sacha Drake’s presentation over a mouth-watering lunch on day one.
“Tickets to the special breakfast and lunch events featuring our keynote presenters were a hot commodity, with all of the events having been completely booked out,” Mr McNamara said.
“The David Koch event alone drew a crowd of 180 people who were keen to see a handful of local businesses go under the microscope and be provided with tips for bettering their business.”
“A large number of attendees also flocked to see best-selling business author Andrew Griffiths’ presentation to obtain practical advice on keeping ahead of the pack and building a successful business.”
Mr McNamara said the large number of business people who walked through the Expo doors was testament to the drive and determination possessed by business owners and operators on the Coast.
“So many business owners and operators gave up a few hours or even a full day of work to invest in their professional development,” Mr McNamara said.
“Such dedication just goes to show the local business community is willing to do whatever it takes to succeed.”
Leanne Porter of The Sunshine Coast Creative Alliance said the Expo had proved a great way to meet potential business partners and promote the wares and services of local businesses.
“Our business promotes the development of creative and knowledge industries and being a part of the Expo has done just that,” Ms Porter said.
Mr McNamara said the Expo had provided attendees with the opportunity to network with a diverse cross-section of businesses, learn valuable skills and also get their brand noticed.
“The Expo has proved to be a huge success on all fronts, and we’re really excited to continue this momentum in future years.”