Fresh Faces, Real Impact and What’s Next

CityLife BUSINESS
Cairns Young Chamber

Fresh Faces, Real Impact and What’s Next

Rosie Mitchener
: (07) 4031 1838
: yc@cairnschamber.com.au
Chair, Cairns Young Chamber

It’s been a lively few months at the Cairns Young Chamber. We’ve welcomed some fantastic new committee members, thrown a few events (including one at Edge Hill Bowls Club that got a bit competitive), and launched fresh initiatives to support young professionals in Far North Queensland.

If you’re curious about what we’ve been up to — or thinking of getting involved — here’s the scoop.
Meet the new committee members

We’re excited to introduce some fresh faces to our committee, including:

• Jessica Hampton – Our new Committee Manager and an Architectural Graduate at CA Architects. Jessica’s blend of creativity and precision is already helping to keep things running smoothly.
• Rebecca Shield – Joining us as Social Media Manager, Rebecca also works as a Support Experience Coordinator at Mission Australia. With her on board, expect a wave of dynamic, engaging content that truly reflects our vibrant community.
• Georgia McRoberts – Our Events Manager. Georgia also shines as a Business Development Manager at the Cairns Convention Centre. She’s set to create epic events that aren’t just fun but also foster new connections within our community.
• Kaytlin Campbell – Our newest Memberships Manager. Kaytlin is a People and Culture Business Partner at Crystalbrook Collection. We’re excited to see how her expertise will help us grow and engage our member base.

We’re also bidding a fond farewell to Jemma Walker, who has been an incredible asset to the committee over the past two years. Her contributions have been invaluable, and we’re grateful for the lasting impact she’s made.

Out and about
The past few months have been a whirlwind of activity. In August, we hosted a social event at Edge Hill Bowls Club, giving young professionals a chance to mingle and channel their inner ‘Crackerjack’. It was a fantastic evening of relaxed networking.

We’ve been busy in the broader community as well. The CYC co-hosted the Young Leaders Breakfast in partnership with Ergon Energy and the Business Liaison Association, bringing together passionate high school students from across Cairns to hear from a panel of inspiring young leaders. Helping to moderate this event was a personal highlight for me, as we delved into practical advice and shared experiences that resonated with the students in the room.

I also had the pleasure of representing CYC at JCU’s Heroes in Business Panel alongside Nikki Giumelli, Ben Cole and Emma Hall. We shared career insights and tips with Year 11 and 12 students — a great opportunity to connect with the next generation and offer some real-world advice.

Finally, Kayla Child and I led a workshop for Carey Group’s Early Professionals Program, focusing on the power of networking, especially when you’re just starting out. Big thanks to Carey Group for having us!

Mindful Mornings with the CYC
We’re shaking things up with our new ‘Mindful Mornings’ series — a unique blend of networking and well-being. Our first event, a Yoga and Coffee Morning at Novotel, is set to be a hit.

Led by Claudia Richardson from Kynd Studio and sponsored by ADhesive Communication, it’s a refreshing way for young professionals to start the day. While this event is still on the horizon as I write this, I have no doubt it’ll be a success — keep an eye on our social media for highlights.

Looking ahead
As we look forward, our focus remains on fostering connections and creating opportunities for young professionals in Cairns. We’re growing, evolving and staying focused on what matters — building a thriving, supportive community.

If you’re a business owner with aspiring leaders in your team, consider sponsoring their yearly membership. It’s just $50 for professionals and $25 for university students — an investment that opens doors to invaluable experiences and connections.

We’re always on the lookout for new ways to engage with our community. Got a suggestion or keen to partner with us? We’d love to hear from you — feel free to reach out!

ogether, we’re building a bright future for the next generation of leaders.