PORT Stephens Mayor and Tomaree Business Chamber President Ryan Palmer announced this week that he will step down as president of the Business Chamber.

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The change will take place at the Chamber AGM which will be held in November.

The move will allow him to focus on his new role of Mayor, at Port Stephens Council.

The announcement was made at the Tomaree Business Chamber Breakfast meeting attended by around 100 local business people at the new Nelson Bay Golf Club.

Ryan Palmer in his capacity of President of the Tomaree Business Chamber said, “Chamber is in good hands, we are rolling out some really good projects including Tastes at the Bay.”

He believes in the importance of events like the business breakfasts for business, and the community, as they help businesses stay connected and informed.

“Chamber was one of the instigators of the Yacaaba Street extension, which will see better traffic flow throughout the Nelson Bay Township,” he said.

Guest speaker Susan Wilson of Regional Development of Australia spoke at the breakfast about the opportunities that regional communities can pursue and gain funding for.

She spoke of potential opportunities including a satellite university campus in the Port Stephens region, and the need for school students to undertake studies in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

These studies will ensure that youth are industry ready when they are seeking employment.

Susan Wilson’s presentation included information on opportunities for communities.

“Now is the time,” she said.

Interested groups should connect with Regional Development Australia, to take advantage of future opportunities.

By Marian SAMPSON