Our Committee Members |
Simon France | President Simon has 20 years communications, people management and strategy development experience across a range of organisations and areas from science, to sport, to business, to digital transformation, to government. Simon's business 1722 is delivering strategic support for Business, Corporates, Schools and Not For Profits
In supporting this work Simon is encouraging Business and Executive Retreats to come to town. "Enjoy our beautiful environment, great accomodation and amazing local businesses while you do your strategic planning with local experts." Simon has had the privilege of being involved in a large range of activities from national events and strategies to local business transformations and he is looking forward to his time on the Chamber Committee to bring some of that experience to support our local business community. Jessica Gray | Vice President Jessica is the Director and Licenced Conveyancer of Smart Coast Conveyancing in Tuncurry. After moving to Forster approximately 10 years ago, her goal was to provide a cost effective and friendly legal service to the local area. She is a driven and motivated business women who is always excited to provide her energy towards a new idea. Jessica is a passionate person who loves to help others and give back to the community. She loves being a mum to her 3 boys and along with husband Jeremy, enjoys many weekends fishing, playing sport and exploring the beautiful area we live in. Marcus Hunt | Treasurer Marcus Hunt is a local business vehicle & equipment finance broker trading as Smyth Financial Mid North Coast NSW. Prior to his brokerage role, Marcus’s experience includes over 30 years in business banking (across a handful of banks) and he also holds accounting qualifications. Marcus’s partner Kylie also works in the brokerage business, and they live on the family beef cattle farm near Taree. Marcus became FTBC Treasurer at the 2023 AGM to help support the chamber’s efforts in assisting our business members to grow and prosper. Hector Lucenti The Visionary Founder of Beach Geek, your local tech experts, boasts a three-decade career in Technology Application and Cyber Security. He has held diverse global tech roles, and as a devoted family man, His interests range from studying behavioural patterns and AI to enjoying virtual reality, road trips, Texas BBQ, and beach walks. As member of the business community, his desire is to contribute to our local economy and see it flourish, he continues to add value to our committee through innovative ideas, technology enhancements and business networks. Jemma McDonald | Membership Jemma is a seasoned leader with over a decade of experience managing large teams across the Mid North Coast. A true local, Jemma was born and raised in the area, which instilled in her a deep understanding of the community she serves. Enthusiastic and motivated, Jemma embarked on a career in Real Estate with a focus on Commercial Property Management. Her exceptional communication skills enable her to foster positive relationships with tenants, owners, and stakeholders. She is driven to learn and stay updated with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies, constantly seeking opportunities to enhance her skills and bring innovative solutions to property management challenges. In her leisure time, Jemma finds joy spending time with her family, horseback riding, and immersing herself in outdoor activities such as boating and camping. Pamela South | Communication Team Pamela opted for a sea/tree change to this region nearly a decade ago and has found that work-life balance on a tranquil 2-acre property. Initially on her arrival from Sydney, she worked close to 3 years at Great Lakes FM Community Radio, responsible for fundraising events, obtaining sponsorship from local business, and creating scripts and directing voice-overs which were attractive to the audience and promoted growth in sponsor business. This role offered a great opportunity for Pamela to get a better understanding of local businesses firsthand and to identify their strengths and weaknesses and offer a platform and insight to enhance their strengths. Currently, Pamela is part-time Operations Manager for a family-owned Digital Marketing business and volunteers with Great Lakes Women’s Shelter and the Forster Tuncurry Neighbourhood Centre. Sales and communication are her strengths, which have taken her to many parts of the world, but the Mid Coast is her sanctuary. Her passions and downtime lie in the creative and healing space. She enjoys keeping reasonably active with yoga and pilates, upcycling furniture with chalk painting, meditating, and practising Reiki, and Reflexology. However, family will always be her priority. Margaret Shannon | Business Development Manager Margaret brings over two decades of senior management experience in holiday accommodation, conferencing and events, cruising, and hotel industries. Having lived, played and worked in Forster for a decade, she possesses a deep understanding, and passion, for the local business community and wider region. She currently operates a consultancy, specialising in business development and strategy for visitor economy businesses and regional destinations. She also holds governance roles as a director on both the National Caravan and Camping Industry Association board, and the Destination North Coast Board, and is also highly respected for her input as a judge for the NSW state and Australian Tourism awards. Margaret aims to drive growth through the attraction and retention of Chamber members, securing grants and sponsorships, and organising impactful events. Success, in her view, involves cultivating a vibrant and engaged chamber community. Peter Flower | Secretary As Secretary of the Business Chamber, Pete brings a wealth of community spirit and expertise to the table. Since establishing Eternity Counselling in 2017, Pete has been a beacon of support for individuals navigating life's challenges. A proud resident of our community since 2001, Pete is deeply invested in its well-being. Beyond the boardroom, he has played an integral role in the local Football community, contributing to the Summer Sixes Competition and the Viking Challenge. With a heart for philanthropy, Pete and his wife have had six children of their own while also opening their home to support numerous foster children from the community. Pete is not just a business owner but a compassionate advocate for community welfare. He finds joy in giving back, and his commitment extends beyond the counselling room. The passion for his work is evident in his dedication to fostering a resilient and connected community. Whether on the field or in the counselling session, Pete embodies the spirit of service and community building. He is a testament to the belief that success is not only measured in personal achievements but also in the positive impact one leaves on the community. Mia Gentz | Events Mia Gentz is a dynamic and dedicated events coordinator with a diverse background in entrepreneurship and sales. As the Founder of Forster Yoga Studio, Mia demonstrated her passion for wellness and community building, creating a welcoming space where individuals could connect and grow. Her experience in managing a successful small business has given her invaluable insights into event planning, customer service, and community engagement. Currently, Mia brings her expertise to Ray White as a sales agent, where she excels in fostering relationships and helping clients achieve their real estate goals. Her commitment to building inclusive communities remains at the heart of her work, whether she is coordinating events or assisting clients with their property needs. Mia's passion for creating events where everyone feels welcome and where small businesses can thrive is evident in every project she undertakes. With her strong organizational skills, creative vision, and dedication to excellence, Mia continues to make a positive impact in her community. |