The City of Mount Gambier will welcome South Australia's Small Business Commissioner Dan van Holst Pellekaan to Mount Gambier on Thursday 26 February 2026.
Council will host a 'Meet the Small Business Commissioner' event at 6:00pm at the Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre, and local businesses are encouraged to attend and share their experiences with the Commissioner. The event reflects Council's strong commitment to championing local enterprise and strengthening the voice of small business in Mount Gambier.
Mount Gambier is home to more than 2,000 local businesses, and Council recognises the vital role local operators play in providing jobs, delivering services and strengthening the local economy. From retail and hospitality to construction and professional services, small businesses shape the character and confidence of the city as it continues to grow as an ambitious regional capital.
City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin OAM says the event reflects Council's strong commitment to championing local enterprise and strengthening the voice of small business in Mount Gambier.
"Our local businesses are the core of Mount Gambier, driving growth and connection. They bring energy to our streets, strengthen the services and spaces our community relies on, and make our city a better place in which to live," Mayor Martin said.
"Inviting the Small Business Commissioner to Mount Gambier ensures our business community has direct access to state-level leadership and support strengthening collaboration and reinforcing Mount Gambier as a city that is proactive, connected and focused on growth," the Mayor added.
City of Mount Gambier CEO Paul Simpson highlighted the importance of supporting small business given its importance to the city's economy.
"We are really happy to be facilitating this event and strengthening the connection between the Small Business Commission and our small business community. This reflects our commitment to supporting the broader economy of the city of Mount Gambier and we know that small business plays a vital role in this economy," Mr Simpson said.
Commissioner van Holst Pellekaan, appointed in 2025, supports 164,000 small businesses across South Australia. With experience as a small business owner and senior leadership roles in government he brings practical insight to the role.
"Small businesses are the heartbeat of our regional communities. I'm committed to ensuring business owners are heard, supported, and empowered to grow," Mr van Holst Pellekaan said.
Local business owners and operators are encouraged to attend this free event and be part of the conversation. Registrations are essential via mountgambier-events.bookable.net.au
