February 5, 2026
Bringing the Valley together as Council backs Local Business Networking Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee and Council’s Manager Economic Development and Tourism Janice Rooney at Dawkins Park, Macksville. Photo: supplied.

Bringing the Valley together as Council backs Local Business Networking

LOCAL businesses and tourism operators across the Nambucca Valley are being invited to connect, collaborate and hear the latest industry updates at two free networking events hosted by Nambucca Valley Council this February.

The sessions, to be held in Macksville on 12 February and 26 February, aim to strengthen local partnerships, share timely information and support continued economic growth across the valley.

Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee said the networking program reflects Council’s commitment to supporting local industry and strengthening the regional economy.

“Local businesses and tourism providers play a vital role in creating jobs and driving economic prosperity in the Nambucca Valley,” he said.

“Council is hosting two great events across February, one for tourism operators and the other for mixed businesses to share timely information and provide a platform for relationship building and connection.

“I encourage our local business owners and operators to register for our February events and take advantage of hearing timely news and catching up together.”

The first gathering will focus on the region’s tourism sector and will be held at the Macksville Hotel on Wednesday 12 February from 5pm.

Attendees will hear directly from NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service about the proposed Great Koala National Park, including what it could mean for the Nambucca Valley and the opportunities that may emerge for local operators.

Council will also provide an update on its destination brand project, an initiative aimed at strengthening the valley’s tourism identity.

Later in the month, the Valley Business Leaders event will be held at Dawkins Park in Macksville on Thursday 26 February from midday.

The session will feature a presentation from Regional Manager Northern NSW for Industry Capability Network NSW, Brad Donnan, alongside updates on key regional projects and a guided tour of the Macksville Library upgrade.

Council’s Manager Economic Development and Tourism, Janice Rooney, who leads the Valley Business Leaders Networking Program, said February was an ideal time for businesses to reconnect after the summer period and plan ahead.

“These events will share timely information about projects and opportunities and provide tangible benefits to local businesses, no matter what your size or industry is,” she said.

With both sessions free to attend, Council hopes to see strong participation from across the business community, from sole traders and tourism operators to larger employers and service providers.

Registrations are now open via Council’s website, with expressions of interest for the tourism industry event closing on Monday 9 February and the business leaders event closing on Friday 20 February.

By Mick BIRTLES

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