By BRIDGET COOK
THE Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce (CCC) is taking a number of steps to help it become a thriving business group in the future.
CCC president Mark Carusi spoke to members about the group’s vision for the future at its first networking event for the year last week, held at the Amstel Golf Club.
Mr Carusi addressed the group about the launch of their new promotion and marketing materials, including a new value statement and redesigned application form, and new website and Facebook page.
The new statement is: the CCC promotes, supports and represents businesses and business development within Cranbourne and the surrounding area, to build a thriving local trade and commerce to benefit everyone.
“We are trying to re-establish what the Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce is all about,” Mr Carusi said.
“What contribution we can make to our community?
“We have achieved some great things in the past but that hasn’t translated into increased membership.
“We want to show businesses what we are all about and our purpose and what benefits there are by being involved with us.”
Mr Carusi also spoke to the group about a forum that was held last month to discuss ways businesses could benefit from the GP Run.
“We discussed how we can make it work for Cranbourne as it was basically a ghost town after 1pm last year,” he said.
“We have goals to make it truly special.
“We are on the right path but there’s still a bit to do.
“A lot of ideas have been put out there that will come to light very soon.
“The forum was all about how the chamber could add value to the event.
“Cranbourne is not just a thoroughfare to the island. We need to show them otherwise and we can do that by showing them what a great place it is at the GP Run.”
City of Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon also addressed the CCC members and spoke about what the council has been doing over the past few months.
“Cranbourne is a significant hub in Casey,” she said.
“It’s exciting times ahead and we value the work you’re doing in the area.”
Cr Stapledon also spoke about the recently launched investment attraction partnership launch and Casey Cardinia Business Group.
To join the CCC or find out more about the group, email cranbournecc@gmail.com.
For details about the Casey Cardinia Business Group call 9705 5200 or visit the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/caseycardiniabusinessgroup.