November has been a busy month for Kiama Business Network, filled with events, community initiatives and achievements that highlight the strength and spirit of our local business community.

From networking opportunities to major fundraising efforts, November has set a strong tone as we head toward the end of the year.

Business Connect at The Collective Beat

We wrapped up October with our Business Connect evening at The Collective Beat Kiama, where KBN members gathered to share updates, exchange ideas and explore opportunities for collaboration.

These evenings play an important role in strengthening our business community, giving members dedicated time to promote their services and build relationships.

The atmosphere was warm and engaging, and we extend our thanks to Sheree Bailey and her team for providing such a welcoming venue and delicious feast.

Coffee Connect at Slow Dough

The ever-popular Coffee Connect was this month hosted by KBN members Lucy and Richard King from Slow Dough.

It was worth the early morning start. They provide just the right mix of a relaxed outdoor setting with delicious treats, creating the perfect environment for members to meet, chat and share ideas.

Conversations ranged from upcoming events to shared challenges and new collaborations, making it another successful morning of community building.

KBN takes on the Kiama Ultra Challenge

Mid-month, KBN proudly supported and took part in the Kiama Ultra Challenge, a charity fundraiser based around ultra-endurance indoor rowing and cycling at the local surf club.

Our KBN team was a wonderfully mixed group of members with all levels of fitness, but everyone embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and plenty of encouragement.

The standout moment of the day was watching KBN member Nardia Guillaumier complete her incredible 100km rowing challenge, contributing to an extraordinary $64,847 raised for charity.

It was a fantastic event to be part of, and the spirit displayed by the community was truly inspiring.

Local Retail & Food Map released

November also saw the soft launch of the KBN Local Retail & Food Map, a project designed to shine a spotlight on how many exceptional businesses Kiama has packed into its town centre.

In just a small cluster of surrounding streets, we identified over 100 retailers, cafés, restaurants and services, demonstrating the strength and diversity of our local offering.

This initial map release is just the beginning.

A larger, more detailed version will be unveiled in late December, expanding across more areas and providing visitors and locals with an easy way to discover and support local businesses during the busy holiday season and beyond.

The project has already received excellent feedback and is set to become an ongoing fixture in our “shop local” efforts.

We’re excited to be working with local illustrator Felicity Gardner, whose talent will help bring this initiative to life.

Celebrating excellence: Saltwater cafe wins national award

KBN recently celebrated the national success of one of its members, Saltwater café.

They were awarded the Australian Small Business Champion Award in the café category, a prestigious achievement, triumphing over cafés from right across Australia.

This recognition is a testament to their hard work, exceptional service and commitment to quality.

KBN congratulates Gulcin Topel and her Saltwater team on an incredible and well-deserved win.

Looking ahead

November has been a month full of connection, energy and impressive achievements within the Kiama business community.

As we prepare for the festive season and welcome the year ahead, KBN remains committed to supporting and promoting local businesses through collaboration, advocacy and community-building initiatives.

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