After 12 years at the helm, Shiralee Cooper has stepped down as president of the Montville Chamber of Commerce, marking the end of an era and the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the organisation.
Ms Cooper, owner of Illume Creations, was honoured at the Chamber’s annual general meeting at Flaxton Gardens on September 24, where members warmly thanked her for her dedication and leadership over more than a decade. She will continue to play a vital role, stepping across to the position of Treasurer.
Taking over the presidency is Arabella Lubbers, owner of Montville Woods Gallery, who brings fresh enthusiasm and vision at a time when Montville’s Main Street is experiencing a surge of new businesses.
Daniel Hoffman from The Clock Shop Montville was elected vice president, while the committee includes a strong cross-section of local business leaders, such as Terri Koepenick from The Country House at Hunchy, Alan Dryden from Montville Falls, Tamara Large from Lovestone Cottages, Richard Sargent from Crystal Multiverse, David Moore from Emperor’s Medicine, and Wayne Parcell representing The Rangebow Festival.
The AGM at Flaxton Gardens offered the perfect opportunity to celebrate the Chamber’s achievements and look to the future. Generous support from Alan Thompson and the Flaxton Gardens team provided a memorable setting for the evening, with hospitality matched only by the Hinterland views.
Guest speakers Andrew Powell MP, Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism, and Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel shared valuable insights, setting an inspiring tone for the Chamber’s 2025/26 year.