With over 35 years experience in small business my knowledge of various types of trade and business is extensive, from Property, automotive parts, mobile communications an early adopter in Cellular phone sales in 1988, project farming, internet technology services ( founder of a large regional ISP 1995 ) In recent years Food & Beverage & Hospitality. Retail or wholesale it`s all the same to me - customer service is the key. From a business development perspective I have generally been on the ground floor with new technology and new markets as an early adopter. Its a matter of identifying a need and fulfilling the expectation. During my business life I have always been drawn to public life through service to my industry and community. With these desires I have been active in many organisations mostly revolving around small business - in 1990 As Chairman of the Tweed district Business enterprise centres I was very active in supporting new business start ups and small business services. My work with BEC`s extended to the regional board and the state body BCL ( Business in the Community Ltd ) who`s role was to oversee operations and funding to 55 BEC`s across three states. As a director of BCL my connection to big business and government was expended to a very high level with co-directors coming from some of Australia's top 10 companies and dealing with senior politicians and public servants.At more local levels I have assisted Chambers of Commerce in the Tweed Region and Byron Bay serving as president for an cumulative 7 years. These roles have allowed me access to local government, state government and the community. Throughout my work in these roles I have been exposed to extensive media coverage and have a strong understanding of the power of media. I have developed a regional network of friends and supporters during my work in the area .I expect to be involved in community and small to medium business for many more years to come