Somerset Region, Queensland — On 20 May 2026, small business owners in Fernvale and the surrounding Somerset region are invited to a free expo designed to help them grow and adapt in a changing economy. The Somerset Future Ready Business Expo, hosted by the Somerset Business Chamber, will take place at the Esk Grand Hotel from 5:30pm arrivals, with the program running from 6:00pm to approximately 8:30pm.
This event is part of Queensland Small Business Month 2026, a statewide initiative under the theme ‘Future Ready’. The Crisafulli Government is supporting the expo to help the state’s 508,000+ small and family businesses build resilience and long-term success. Organisers say the evening is tailored for local business owners who want practical advice without the usual costs.
Four expert speakers will share insights on key areas:
Donna Thistlethwaite, an award-winning entrepreneur and mental health advocate, will discuss strategies for managing wellbeing under business pressure. Thistlethwaite, a Principal Master Mental Health First Aid Instructor, brings personal experience after her own mental health journey, making her a relatable voice for local operators. Thistlethwaite’s presentation will focus on practical tools to help business owners stay mentally strong during tough times.
BizGuard, a Queensland-based IT and cybersecurity company, will demonstrate how small businesses can use AI tools like ChatGPT to streamline daily tasks. Their session will cover free and low-cost ways to improve efficiency. Telstra’s Regional Engagement Manager Matt Thornton will then discuss how the NBN and new technologies can support local businesses, followed by a session with the Office of Open Data Business Concierge, which will outline government grants and support programs available to business owners.
Somerset Regional Council has declared 2026 a ‘year of change, growth, and forward planning’, with major infrastructure projects like the Fernvale South Productivity Link underway. The expo aligns with this push to prepare local businesses for future opportunities. Mayor Jason Wendt and Deputy Mayor Helen Brieschke have emphasised the importance of upskilling and networking for the region’s economic future.
The event is free to attend, with registration encouraged. It is made possible by funding from the Queensland Government’s Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business, alongside sponsors Bebe’s Country Weddings, the Somerset Business Chamber, and LNC Marketing. Small business owners can find more details and register online through the Somerset Business Chamber’s website.
About this article: This story was put together with the help of AI tools and checked by a real person on our team. We're a small crew trying to cover as much of Australia as we can on a limited budget. We're getting better every day - but we're not perfect yet. If something looks off, let us know here. You're part of the process.
