August 5, 2021
The Kingaroy Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) plans to launch a shared business space in Kingaroy’s CBD aimed at helping new small businesses to grow and expand.
The KCCI Business Hub will provide the opportunity for small and micro-businesses struggling to get a foothold in the market to develop their base in a professional and affordable setting.
The KCCI said they were in the process of negotiating a two-year lease on the Trendsetter building at 195 Kingaroy Street with the South Burnett Regional Council
Once an agreement has been signed, they hope to refurbish the building to create four private offices, a bank of hot desks, a board room and a shared meeting space.
The premises will also be wired for technology, air-conditioned and have its own bathroom and tea and coffee facilities.
The KCCI are now seeking expressions of interest from members willing to donate time and materials to help with the building’s fitout.
They are particularly seeking members who can contribute building, electrical, cabinets, painting, flooring, data cabling, plumbing, and painting materials and expertise.
“Your valuable time will not go unnoticed, and we will make sure your business is recognised for the contribution made to the building of the project during the process and for a long time after completion,” KCCI president Damien Martoo said.
“Please express your interest to supply labour or materials to this project by emailing the KCCI and we will develop a plan of attack and get this project under way as soon as possible.”
South Burnett Regional Council bought the Trendsetter building in late 2020 when it came on the market, with the long-term aim of demolishing it to create a connecting laneway between Kingaroy and Glendon streets.
However – because this plan is unlikely to be acted on for at least two years – the Council authorised CEO Mark Pitt at its July general meeting to negotiate a 24-month lease with the KCCI.
The new business hub will be the first time the KCCI has had a physical presence in the Kingaroy CBD since it stopped leasing the old Railway Station building in O’Neill Square from Council in late 2009.
