The role was offered to Liz Grant, who has been supporting businesses and helping them grow for 14 years through her business, ‘What Your Customers Want’.

The Commerce Moyne Executive Committee met last Wednesday morning to officially welcome Ms Grant to the role, with chairperson Ashley King saying he was excited to see the vision for Commerce Moyne coming to life.

“The vision for Commerce Moyne is to be the number one relevant source for business in the Moyne Shire,” he said.

“Liz’s appointment gives us the opportunity to develop and implement the objectives of Commerce Moyne, focusing on all sectors of commerce that operate in our Shire.

“Her strong background in supporting business will help us move forward to consult with business, develop our membership base, and provide strong, reliable leadership and advocacy to business.

“This really is a landmark appointment.”

The Commerce Moyne pilot program was funded through Community Bank Port Fairy and District, as well as Moyne Shire, with each providing $25,000 to fund operations for 12 months.

The aim was to empower the Shire’s businesses to thrive throughout the year and into the future.

In her role, Ms Grant will work closely with the Shire’s Economic Development team to implement events, share learnings, and create more effective communication between the Shire and business operators - resulting in a stronger and more supportive business community.

Ms Grant reiterated that Commerce Moyne was created to support all businesses in the Shire, no matter the location or size.

“Commerce Moyne supports and represents business and all enterprise across the Moyne Shire region, it’s not just for the south-west or large organisations,” she said.

“I’m excited to support business in the region to collaborate, grow and become more sustainable.”

Ready to hit the ground running, Ms Grant said there were plans to not just work with business owners, but also employees, helping staff develop their expertise.

“Save the date for the official launch of Commerce Moyne, which will take place on Friday, April 28 with a networking breakfast,” she said.

“Keep updated on the details via the Commerce Moyne social media channels and website.”

Membership to Commerce Moyne is free and members are entitled to a regular newsletter, member pricing to events, a voice at the table, access to local decision makers and more. For more information on Commerce Moyne, visit commercemoyne.au