Ararat Rural City Council and Greater Ararat Business Network (GABN) successfully hosted a well-attended business breakfast this morning, welcoming local leaders and business owners for an inspiring conversation with Architect Adam Haddow, Geoffrey Toone from CommBanks's Regional and Agribusiness division, and Ararat Rural City Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison.
Participants engaged with leading architect Adam Haddow, originally from Ararat, whose presentation delivered a powerful snapshot of Ararat's economic outlook and future housing needs. Drawing on global insights gained through his Churchill Fellowship, Adam cautioned against repeating common planning mistakes, encouraging the community to maintain a livable, vibrant city.
Adam stressed the importance of balancing tourism with local needs, sharing examples such as a Japanese town whose investment in public art drew a million visitors annually. Adam outlined his vision for Barkly Street to become one of Australia's most beautiful main streets, proposing a landscape master plan, increased housing density, and a signature local festival to boost vibrancy and community pride.
Geoffrey Toone, Executive Manager, Regional & Agribusiness Banking, Commonwealth Bank, provided a practical overview of the benefits of strong financial strategies for both individuals and businesses. Geoffrey explained tools and techniques that empower regional business owners, highlighting effective investment, resilience-building, and financial forecasting for long-term sustainability.
Dr Tim Harrison, CEO of Ararat Rural City Council, shared the Council's commitment to community-led growth in the face of changing housing markets. "We need to bring the community along with us as we move forward," Dr Harrison said. "There is immense opportunity and a growth mindset here, and our goal is to ensure the community not only survives, but thrives with a strong mix of sensible, sustainable and attractive housing options for people at various life stages."
Dr Harrison also provided updates on major regional projects, thanked Adam for his inspiring address, and celebrated the upcoming local business awards, encouraging enthusiastic participation from across the community.
Dr Tim said, "Today's business breakfast is a perfect demonstration of our ability to innovate and be forward-thinking. It's been brilliant to have Adam, a local who is now a Sydney-based world-leading architect share his insights and perspectives with our guests today".
Enthusiastic questions from guests, focusing on a blend of major projects and housing options, were a highlight. Council will continue to support GABN and our industry leaders to deliver opportunities that help businesses stay informed, resilient, and connected.
For future updates, sign up to Council's official e-newsletter and visit the Ararat Rural City Council website regularly. We also recommend interested organisations join GABN for early invites and insights. https://www.gabn.org.au/
