Kiama’s business community had plenty to celebrate and reflect on this year, with the Kiama Business Network (KBN) closing out 2025 as stronger and more connected than ever.

As members gathered for the annual end-of-year celebration, the spirit in the room made one thing clear: for KBN, success has always been about community.

Early in the year, uncertainty was still hanging over many small businesses, a leftover from the long economic tailwinds affecting so many of our local business owners.

With many still in recovery mode KBN responded with action. The regular Business Connect events drew record participation, welcoming new faces, sparking lively conversations, and rekindling the sense of belonging and shared purpose that keeps local enterprise moving forward.

One of the highlights was KBN’s first-ever Micro-Business event at The Pavilion, which showcased a roster of impressive up-and-coming businesses.

Bee Burnett’s energy as MC brought the night to life and new business relationships were formed, reinforcing the benefits of locals buying local, including business to business.

July saw another milestone: the inaugural Kiama Business Awards, pulled together in just six weeks with support from the Kiama Municipal Council, Mayor Cameron McDonald and several Councillors, plus many small business owners who stepped in to make it a night to remember.

A record nine businesses and leaders from across the LGA were celebrated at the Business Illawarra Awards - a proud record, now set to return even bigger in 2026.

KBN also doubled down on practical support for its members.

Digital marketing and business mentoring workshops delivered hands-on advice, and spirited social media sessions drew strong attendance.

“Business Health Check” day in May - run with local accountants - started honest conversations about keeping businesses robust and future-ready.

Plans are already in motion for next year’s workshops on AI, cybersecurity, and smart marketing - especially for the quiet tourist seasons.

Focus increased on mental health in 2025, with demand for mental health first aid sessions outpacing supply, underscoring the network’s ongoing need for support.

Those conversations have already sparked new efforts around youth employment.

KBN welcomed its first "Markets Crew," a group of high school students learning the ropes of casual work by helping at the Seaside Markets - assisting stallholders, guiding visitors with new retail maps, and forging connections between shops and markets.

It’s a small but promising step towards youth empowerment as well as building strong links between the busy monthly markets and our retail stores.

Advocacy remained front and centre with KBN organising roundtables and conversations with Council on the Employment Lands strategy, Housing consultation, 24 Hour Economy, Special Entertainment Precinct, CCTV, Lighting, events such as the NYE fireworks, and Night time Economy initiatives, alongside working with Business Illawarra and our regional Chamber peers on key issues facing businesses such as insurance costs, payroll tax, superannuation, utility costs and lack of suitable commercial space.

And then there’s the ways KBN members keep finding to give back.

Recently 18 of our own members lined up for the 100km Kiama Ultra Challenge spearheaded by the inspirational Nadia Guillaumier from NEG Photography - raising over $63,000 for four worthy charities.

The energy and commitment in the room was incredible to be a part of and so very indicative of what Kiama is all about - pitching in, showing up, and making a difference together.

Esther Keenan of Known Designs has also been instrumental in another fantastic community initiative - The Every Day Table - where affordable groceries, shared meals and real connection meet, restoring dignity and rebuilding community, together.

There are many more in this community who quietly give back in so many ways and at this time of year, when we think of others, we salute you!

As 2026 approaches, one thing is clear: Kiama’s businesses go further when they go together.

The Network continues to evolve, not just as a place to swap contacts, but as a robust source of learning, support, and belonging.

The Seaside Markets are still a monthly highlight three decades on, and KBN is already working on fresh ideas to bring even more life to the town centre.

There’s more work ahead - new business leader mentoring programs, digital skills, and partnership with regional neighbours - but faith in the collective spirit is strong.

Special thanks are owed to our KBN Board - Mat King, Rachel Edwards, Tanya Emmett, Bee Burnett, Anne Marie Esler, Derek McMahaon, Greg Langford, and Michael Emmett - your volunteer hours and dedication fly under the radar but makes a meaningful difference, and to KBN Executive Officer Mel Scarr and Membership Manager Leanne Brookes, the heart and soul of the KBN network - thank you!

Thank you to everyone who showed up, rolled up your sleeves, and made this network stronger over the past year. Your energy and openness are what make this all worthwhile.

We look forward to growing the network, creating new business relationships, and supporting all our Members in 2026.

If the last year proved anything, it’s that Kiama’s business network is ready for whatever comes next - together.

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