Mount Eliza Village going from strength to strength

After a decade as the marketing and events co-ordinator for Mount Eliza Chamber of Commerce, Alison Doherty is handing the reins over to Jade Gillan and looking forward to retirement.

“I have a long history working in chambers of commerce,” Alison says. “I was with Rosebud Chamber of Commerce for 16 years before coming to Mount Eliza. I’ve loved working with business owners, being part of the community, and running fantastic events and promotions, but it’s time for the chamber to have someone new with new ideas in line with younger business owners.”

A highlight of Alison’s time has been the friends she has made within the business community and the support she’s had from the chamber committee. “It’s been a real team effort. I’ve been blessed over the years working with a committee of volunteers who are both running businesses in Mount Eliza and are also dedicated to doing the best for the village as a whole.”

The other highlight was being part of the running of Mount Eliza Farmers’ Market. “I wasn’t involved in setting the market up; it is a chamber of commerce initiative supported by Mount Eliza Lions and Rotary clubs, but I’ve loved being involved and making sure it stays strong. It is such a great community day each month.”

While Alison will be brushing up on her golf game, Jade is looking forward to amping up the village spirit and facilitating connections between businesses, locals and visitors alike. Jade and her husband have been locals for seven years. “I was attracted to the diversity of the role and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to use the various skills I’ve gained in 16 years working in communications,” Jade says. “It is such a gift to be able to work with a community I love so much.”