Hamilton’s business community is gearing-up for a big year.

The Board of Hamilton Chamber launched its 2019 calendar of events this week which provides a mix of business networking, information functions and major community street festivals as well as work behind the scenes that will improve visitation and experience into the suburb.

Chamber President, Nathan Errington, said that the year ahead provided great opportunity for the Hamilton business community.

“The year really kicks into action with the Beaumont Street Carnivale, which showcases the suburb’s unique and cosmopolitan culture and lifestyle, rich multicultural heritage, fabulous food options and our love of great live music. We expect more than 30,000 people to take advantage of the line-up of about 100 retail and cafes as well as more than 100 market stalls,” Nathan said.

“Other key events for our community will include welcoming back to Hamilton the China Week festivities and the Supercars Start-up.

“Importantly, Hamilton will remember 30 years since the earthquake when three people tragically lost their lives and most of the businesses in Beaumont Street were severely damaged,” Nathan said.

Behind the scenes, the Chamber will be working with the City of Newcastle to begin the masterplan process for the revitalisation of James Street Plaza and the surrounding streetscapes along Beaumont Street. Additionally, work is expected to begin on activating space in the park area near the train station.

“The Chamber also looks forward to working with Council to determine a new framework for the association as part of the decision to cease the current funding model. Our approach to the new model is about ensuring that businesses in Hamilton will have the right support to enhance our reputation as Newcastle’s most cosmopolitan suburb offering a great place to live, work and play into the future,” Nathan said.

IMAGE | The Hamilton Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for a big calendar of business and community events in 2019.