Reporting from the Chamber of Commerce

It is never too early to bugle a good networking lunch, and what better networking and what better lunches than the very popular Docklands News/Chamber of Commerce lunches.

The next assembly promises to be hugely spectacular – and why? – because it will be in the spectacular Wonderland Spiegeltent in Docklands, lying in the shadow of the Melbourne Star observation wheel in
Harbour Town.

Here is another opportunity to discover this part of Docklands on Friday, September 12. Numbers are strictly limited so book now via [email protected] Cost is a very reasonable $60, representing exceptional value for money. I have booked mine, so see you there!

The AIDS2014 conference has now finished and it was hugely successful. Many buildings illuminated red to show support for the cause. It was very sad that the event started off with the Malaysian Air tragedy that claimed many lives – and it was originally feared a large number of delegates. It is very sad to report that, although the numbers were fewer than feared, there were a number of delegates on board. As a mark of respect the plans for Friday night welcome fireworks were cancelled and public buildings flew flags at half-mast.

August sees the Melbourne Regatta and Blessing of the Fleet take place on Victoria Harbour. Father Bob will preside over ceremonies. The day is to commemorate Melbourne Day and to celebrate Melbourne’s maritime heritage. The event is proudly brought to you by the Mission to Seafarers and Melbourne Passenger Boating Association, who are organising the event on Saturday, August 30. Robert Doyle, Lord Mayor of Melbourne has publicly declared his support for activation of Melbourne’s waterways and its maritime heritage – and here we are ticking those boxes!

Thanks to the City of Melbourne, Docklands Chamber of Commerce, Port of Melbourne Corporation, Lend Lease, MAB and Wonderland Fun Park who have all generously sponsored the event. From this line-up of sponsors you see a fine example of where larger corporates, community groups and smaller enterprises can come together to deliver a fantastic community day. Make sure you come because there is something for everyone.

Check out the numerous cruise options available on the day. Mission to Seafarers and Melbourne Passenger Boating Association are running cruises to suit all budgets. We need prizes to give away to visitors to encourage return visitation. If you run a business and would like to donate a prize, such as dining package, accommodation or whatever – contact me at [email protected]. For more information see http://www.melbourneregatta.com.au or follow on http://www.facebook.com/BlessingoftheFleet

Fireworks in Docklands have kicked off with good crowds coming to watch the spectacle. There are plenty of dining and cruise options available to those looking for something special. You might choose to head over to Victoria Harbour and witness the Carnivale spirit that is happening there. Drop down after work, pull up a deck chair and enjoy the live music along with some spectacular fire and light performances. Tuck into one of the $5 food specials provided by Watermark Docklands and look up to see the spectacular fireworks show at 7pm. All this for the next two Friday nights August 1 and 8.

It is all happening here in Docklands.

Now then, HTR Docklands Online Radio – they are very excited with the feedback they are getting from a growing audience with HTR. Obviously their cool music format has hit the right note!

HTR are announcing a once in a blue moon special for one member of the Docklands Chamber of Commerce. HTR is soon to print and distribute throughout the city 10,000 double-sided postcards. Only one side is needed by HTR so if there is a business that would like to be a part of that initiative, then please contact Docklands Chamber of Commerce for more information. HTR will also throw in six weeks with your commercial/message on HTR. Your Chamber working for you.

And looking into October briefly. Seniors Festival announcements are imminent! What I can tell you is the festival runs from October 5 to 12. Our seniors are a significant and valuable part of our community. They have plenty of time and they want to enjoy life.  So keep your eyes open on the Chamber website for announcements as to how you can become involved. The City of Melbourne is encouraging precincts to be “age friendly”, and the Docklands Chamber of Commerce is working hard to ensure Docklands is right up there.

If your business is not yet a member of the Docklands Chamber of Commerce, for as little as $100 a year you can join a growing association that is recognised by the City of Melbourne as the representative body of Docklands businesses. You should be a part of that.

The more members we have, the greater the influence we exact. Once again contact the Docklands Chamber of Commerce at [email protected]

So have a safe and prosperous August folks, it is going to be a good one for Docklands as we continue to be recognised as new precinct worth visiting. Consider what The Age had to say about Docklands:

“While all the attention has focused on the fledgling suburb’s shortcomings, Docklands has quietly become one of the nation’s economic engine rooms.

A new report by the Grattan Institute, identifies Docklands as second only to Perth’s central business district in terms of wealth generation. It states that Docklands employees,  more than half of whom work in finance and insurance, generate an average $103 worth of goods and services for every hour worked. The average for the entire Melbourne city-wide area was $53 an hour.”

So how is that? Keep talking it up! Docklands is Beautiful! Be a part of your Community.

See you all at the Melbourne Regatta!