Reviving MATTERS: a multimedia ecosystem for community connection

In a recent episode of the Coast and Commerce podcast, host Ben Amos from Innovate Media engaged in a compelling dialogue with Luke Hawley, the new CEO of Matters Magazine. Luke is known for his exceptional ability to connect entrepreneurs and foster meaningful collaborations. Luke discusses the revival of Matters Magazine and how traditional print media is adapting into a multimedia ecosystem for community connection.

Luke’s transition from a corporate position at Procter & Gamble in Sydney to becoming a prominent figure in the Sunshine Coast’s business community is a story of adaptation and seizing opportunities. His initial venture into the business world was marked by a strong desire to create something of his own, leading him back to the Sunshine Coast with a vision to make a difference in the local business landscape.

Central to Luke’s business philosophy is the concept of being a connector, which he embodies through initiatives like Marketing Broker Australia and B2B Sunshine Coast. Whether it’s creating engaging websites for local business owners or networking at his monthly LinkedIn Local events, proactive connection is what led him to helm of Matters Magazine.

“My job is to help Sunshine Coast business owners share their stories, advice and offers with their local community,” Luke says.

When Luke learned of the potential closure of Matters Magazine, a beloved local publication on the Sunshine Coast for 17 years, he sensed an opportunity to preserve and evolve this iconic community asset. He connected with Vickie Magic, the former owner, who was open to the possibility, and suggested he meet Dr Shari Hall who had been writing the stories in the magazine for the past eight years. Together, Vickie imagined they’d form a great partnership, each possessing skills that complemented the other’s expertise.

A Multimedia Ecosystem

Through the revival of MATTERS, Luke and his business partner, Dr Shari, are redefining the role of print media and integrating it with digital strategies to enhance reach and engagement.

“The magazine and the new mobile app become a portal to engage with premium, longer-form Sunshine Coast business community content,” Luke says. This approach demonstrates how traditional media can adapt and thrive by embracing digital tools and platforms.

Luke advocates for networking as a strategy for developing genuine, meaningful relationships within the business community. He advises against approaching networking with a purely transactional mindset, emphasising the value of trust and mutual support.

“It’s trust that then leads to doing business with you,” Luke notes, highlighting the significance of building a network based on authenticity and shared values.

Community Connection

For Sunshine Coast business owners, Luke’s experiences and insights offer practical advice on leveraging those community connections and innovating within traditional business models like print media. Creating mutually beneficial partnerships with local chambers of commerce, educational institutions, radio stations, and organisers of a multitude of business events and expos, the Matters Magazine ecosystem continues to expand. These important collaborative endeavours drive business growth for all.

“If you are curious about how to engage with the diverse Sunshine Coast business community, reach out,” Luke encourages during the podcast. Through Luke’s story and insights, business owners can gain valuable perspectives on building strong networks and embracing innovative approaches to traditional advertising mediums.

You are invited to watch the full episode of Coast and Commerce, https://innovatemedia.com.au/S1-5