Murrindindi businesses connect at recovery breakfast
Published on 13 March 2026
Local businesses from across Murrindindi Shire gathered in Alexandra on Thursday 12 March for the first Murrindindi Business Network Breakfast for 2026, providing an opportunity to reconnect, share timely information and access practical support as the community continues its recovery and rebuilding from the January 2026 Longwood bushfires.
Held at On Point Brewery, the well-attended event brought together business owners, industry representatives and recovery agencies to discuss the ongoing impacts of the fires and the programs available to support local businesses.
Attendees heard updates from Community Business Connect, Tourism North East and AgBiz Assist on advisory services, financial counselling and recovery support programs available to businesses.
Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher welcomed attendees and acknowledged the important role local businesses play in the strength and resilience of Murrindindi communities.
“Local businesses are the backbone of our towns, and events like this help make sure they have access to the information, advice and connections they need to stabilise operations, adapt to changed conditions and rebuild with confidence,” Cr Gallagher said.
“While the fires were extinguished weeks ago, we know the economic impacts on small regional businesses can last months or even years, particularly for those reliant on visitor spending.”
Portfolio Councillor for Economic Development, Local Jobs and Skills, Cr Sandice McAulay, said events like the Business Network Breakfast help strengthen connections across the local business community.
“Local businesses are a vital part of Murrindindi’s economy and identity, and creating opportunities for businesses to come together, share ideas and hear directly from support agencies is incredibly valuable,” Cr McAulay said.
“These breakfasts are part of Council’s ongoing Murrindindi Business Network program, providing regular opportunities for businesses to connect, learn and support one another.
“Today’s event also highlighted the importance of working together to support local businesses as our region continues to recover from the impacts of the January bushfires.”
Council also shared findings from its recent Business Bushfire Impact Survey, which confirmed that many local businesses experienced significant disruption during January and February, with flow-on effects felt across accommodation, hospitality, retail, agriculture and services.
Director Community and Development Andrew Paxton said the breakfast formed part of Council’s ongoing business engagement program.
“Council regularly hosts these business networking events with different themes and guest speakers, providing opportunities for local businesses to connect, learn and access support,” Mr Paxton said.
“Recovery is about restoring business viability, supporting livelihoods, rebuilding confidence and strengthening long‑term resilience across the local economy,”
“Bringing agencies, industry representatives and business owners together in the same room makes it easier to ask questions, build connections and access coordinated support when it is most needed.”
Attendees also heard about regional tourism recovery initiatives, including new destination trails and marketing campaigns designed to encourage visitors back to Murrindindi and support local businesses.
Council will continue working with State agencies and regional partners to support economic recovery and advocate for local businesses as the community rebuilds following the fires.
More information about business support programs, including Murrindindi Business Month, and upcoming networking opportunities will be shared through Council communication channels.