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Opportunity: A Role That Builds Careers, Not Just Skills

Michael Shadforth, President Caloundra Chamber of Commerce

Over the years, one of the things I’ve been most proud of as President of the Caloundra Chamber of Commerce is the role we’ve played in helping people build meaningful careers.

Right now, we’re looking for someone to step into a flexible, part-time Accounts & Administration role supporting the Chamber across finance, administration, and member services.

This role isn’t just about helping us run the Chamber — it’s about giving someone the kind of real-world experience, responsibility, and connections that can genuinely shape their future.

We’re looking for support with: • Payroll processing, timesheets, and fortnightly pay runs • Accounts receivable and payable, including invoicing, reconciliations, and debt follow-up • Bank and Stripe/Square reconciliations, and managing multiple accounts • Month-end processes including journals, accruals, and financial reviews • Cashflow reporting, budgeting, and financial reporting to support decision-making • Compliance and statutory reporting (BAS, ATO, Workcover) • Member account support and administration support • Working with the Chamber team to lead regional propsperity

You’ll gain exposure to systems including Xero, CRM platforms, payment systems, and real business financial processes — not just theory.

But what matters most is what this role can become for the right person.

Over the years, people who have stepped into roles like this with the Chamber include: • Amy Bennett, now a leading real estate agent on the Sunshine Coast (Harcourts) • Susan Toft, founder and CEO of The Laundry Lady, who built a national business and secured investment on Shark Tank • Laura Pettigrew, now working across journalism and communications with major media outlets • Along with Hannah Woods, Mitch Bland, and Shae Allan, who have all gone on to build strong careers across business and the local community

These individuals didn’t just gain experience — they were mentored, supported, and exposed to a business community that genuinely wants to see people succeed.

Through this role, you’re not sitting behind a desk doing theory.

You’re: • Managing real financial processes and understanding how organisations operate • Supporting events and seeing the commercial impact firsthand • Working alongside business leaders and decision-makers • Building a network that most people take years to develop • Being supported by a General Manager and Commercial Manager that genuinely care about the development of Caloundra.

This is what makes the Chamber special.

We believe in giving people a real opportunity — not just to work, but to grow, contribute, and build a future in the community they care about.

And as someone who has seen so many come through this pathway and go on to do incredible things, I can say with confidence — this role matters.

If you know someone studying (or recently finished) business, accounting, commerce or similar — or someone looking for a meaningful role within Sunshine Coast business community— we would love an introduction.

With Easter here, it’s the perfect time to reach out. Let’s find the next great person together.

This role is a Part-time role with a preference for 3 days working days per week, 15 – 20 hours per week. Please contact Rachel Smith, General Manager gm@caloundrachamber.com.au for more information or send your resume and introduction letter outlining why you are the right person for the job via email.