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Mrs Sims said past members were welcome to attend and reconnect with current members, business owners and people in the community.<\/p>\n
“There are some still here that have retired,” Mrs Shanahan added. “We’re trying to get them to come along.<\/p>\n
“There are some businesses that still operate where the original owners have passed away, and we’re trying to invite the kids.”<\/p>\n
Mrs Sims said while being a chance to catch up in an informal setting, the event will also be an opportunity for business owners to network with each other and discuss topics of relevance to them.<\/p>\n
“But when we celebrate an achievement (the anniversary), we celebrate it as a community,” she said.<\/p>\n
Mrs Shanahan said the event will be open to anyone, not just current and past members.<\/p>\n
“Even if you own a business and you’re not a member and you’re interested, come and meet us,” she said.<\/p>\n
“If you have an online business in town or you work from home for a business, you can connect with people.”<\/p>\n
The event will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Ballan Autumn Festival, the 2026 instalment of which is scheduled for Sunday 15 March.<\/p>\n
Members of the festival committee, which is a chamber member, will be at the event.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
THE Ballan and District Chamber of Commerce will mark its 35th year at an official celebration event next week. The semi-formal cocktail event will take place at the Ballan Bakehouse and Bar in Inglis Street from 6.30pm on Friday 13 March. Tickets are $40 each and will cover a complimentary drink on arrival, substantial finger […]<\/p>\n