THE Leeton Chamber of Commerce and Industry is on the brink.
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The organisation held its annual general meeting on Monday night, but it was unable to fill two of the key executive positions.
With outgoing president Maryann Vitelli standing down from the role, the position is still vacant following the meeting.
While the positions of secretary and treasurer were filled, the role of vice president has also been left hanging.
Another AGM has been set down for next month, but Miss Vitelli is concerned if there is no interest it could mean the end of Leeton’s chamber.
She said if the two top roles were not filled at the next meeting it was likely the chamber would fold.
“It is very concerning,” she said.
“I’ve said I won’t be going back into the role even if we can’t find someone. I’ve given it time over the last few years and now I have to focus on other things.
“It’s at that serious stage now.”
The chamber has worked hard during the last financial year and the many before that to ensure Leeton shire businesses are given a voice.
It has strong connections with Leeton Shire Council and the Murray-Riverina NSW Business Chamber.
A focal point of that success has been the reinstating of the Leeton Outstanding Business Awards by the chamber.
Murray-Riverina NSW Business Chamber regional manager Ben Foley said it was critical for Leeton to retain its organisation.
“They play such a vital role in the business community context,” he said.
“The chamber is a strong voice for businesses at many different levels.
“Those currently part of the Leeton chamber are there on a volunteer basis. It’s not a paid role, which I guess can make it difficult.”
Both Mr Foley and Miss Vitelli have urged business leaders to put their hand up to fill the remaining roles.
“We definitely don’t want to have to fold,” Miss Vitelli said.
“The town would lose so much. The impacts would be pretty wide-reaching I would think.”
New members are also encouraged to join to help ensure the saying “many hands make light work” can come to fruition.
The second AGM will be held in the form of a business breakfast on August 14 at Mick’s Bakehouse at 7.30am.