In the midst of an economic high, Lightning Ridge business owners have met to discuss forming a business chamber to help the town keep up momentum.

In August, business owners met with representatives from Business NSW, hoping to get an idea off the ground that has been in the works for years. 

“We had a tourism association committee and that’s just folded in the last couple of years…but there’s still lots of ideas that we want to get done,” Lightning Ridge business owner Damien Waterford said.

 

After the former committee folded, the meeting explored what progress might look like under the structure of a business chamber. 

“We’re just getting the feel for what we would want to include. All aspects of the businesses in town, the shire and different committees, it would be good to have a voice from,” Mr Waterford said. 

“Lightning Ridge is a bit of a drawcard town. We tend to be getting the people turning up, but we just need to develop it a little bit more in the right direction.”

“It would be a body with a bit more grunt, that we could take somewhere and maybe get some money to push these things forward or get local government to assist with some things.”

The addition of the Australian Opal Centre - which is under construction - will contribute to the town’s development, but also increase an already bustling tourist town. 

More restaurants, more accommodation - including a 4-star hotel - and a town beautification were all on the shopping list for things that would help grow the town. 

On the day of the meeting, Business NSW representatives were able to provide insights into what goes into a business chamber. 

While there is a lot of interest from the community, nothing will happen too fast. 

“The timing of (the meeting) just sort of fell a bit flat, a couple of key people were away, so the next steps will be another meeting. 

“This has been in the pipeline for two or three years now…but there is more commitment from people and businesses putting their hands up and showing interest.”