The inaugural Upper Hunter Inspirations Conference staged by the Muswellbrook Chamber of Commerce and Industry was held on May 12 and has proved to be a big hit.
The theme this year was ‘Bouncing Back – Bouncing Forward’ and was geared around providing an inspirational message and moral boost to those attending following the recent years of drought, bush fires, floods, and of course, Covid-19.
Local guest speakers included, Steve Fordham from Blackrock Industries, who shared his journey of overcoming challenges at an early age, to now, at only 29, where he owns and manages a multi-million-dollar company. Vicki Collins from Travel Partners told her very personal story of the impact the Covid-19 Pandemic has had her business, and how she has not only survived but reinvented both her business and herself, and as result has gone onto thrive. Couple, Chris Lavis and Nicky Ainley shared a heart-warming story of ‘Growing stronger together’ through the pandemic and how they have worked to counter the impact on their business and personal life. Wayne Toms, Member Services Manager at the Chamber, also shared his story on the impact the GFC had on his business back then and the Snakes and Ladders journey since that time to not only Bounce Back, but also Bounce Forward.
Tabatha Kattau from Sincerus Mindset Coaching gave a very informative workshop on resilience, and also participated in a panel discussion joined by Julian Campbell, from Catalyst for Growth and Claire Quigley, from Launchpad9.
Scattered throughout the day attendees were treated to various inspirational videos and a number of shout-out videos from people like, Gavin Morris from NBN Television and Amber Lawrence, 5 times Golden Guitar winner.
The audience was also treated to, not one, but two international renowned special guest speakers, the very bubbly Julie Cross, and closing out the day was inspirational Michael Crossland.
The Chamber hopes the event will become an annual event for the Upper Hunter and based on the enthusiasm from those attending this event, they are already looking forward to the event again in 2022.
