New president takes the helm at Maleny Chamber

8 Jun

**Kay Ridge brings experience in small business, logistics, corporate, government and insurance to her presidency.**

Recently elected president of the Maleny Chamber of Commerce Kay Ridge has big plans to foster an environment that supports businesspeople in the beautiful hinterland town.

The founder of Dash Social, a social media and marketing company, spoke to the Gazette about her background and ideas for the Maleny business community.

Why did you decide to run for Maleny Chamber of Commerce president? This role is important for the business community of Maleny and I felt that I had something to offer the business community.

What do you bring to the role? I have more than 25 years of small business experience as well as experience in corporate and government. With this in mind, I have the experience that I would like to share with our business community.

What are your plans/hopes for Maleny COC?

Maleny Means Business is our new business strategy and with that, we are focused on creating a business community that supports each other. We are the ear to government organisations and by becoming a member you have us to represent your concerns to government bodies.

What’s your background?

I have more than 25 years of knowledge-building. I have been involved in small business, sales & marketing, logistics, the corporate sphere, government and insurance.

I have qualifications in social media and marketing, travel and real estate and I bring a unique sense of marketing, backed by business acumen.

What the best thing about Maleny businesses community?

We are passionate about other businesses in Maleny and assisting each other so the town continues to prosper.

Would you like to give a shout out to anyone in Maleny who has or will help boost Maleny COC?

Maleny IGA and Queensland Country Bank are two big businesses that are generously sponsoring the Chamber.

What’s the next major event the COC has planned?

• Thursday 29th July 2021 at 5.30pm Tranquil Park — Keynote Speaker Eric Bailey. This will be a fabulous night to enjoy the company of other Maleny businesses and get ready and motivated for the new financial year. Tickets are $45 Members and $65 non-members.Book through our website: www.malenycommerce.org.au