Mr Shelly is joined on the committee by Richard Mack (vice president), Debra Searl (secretary), Kathy Kelly (treasurer) and committee members Chris Greaves, Tom Bellingham, Tracey Frazer, Daryl Anderson, Gail Eastaway and Chris Brookes. Each committee member represents a cross section of business interests in town.

The main change from the previous committee sees Debra Searl take over as secretary from Mrs Frazer.

Mr Shelly said he was happy to get the nod as president for the second year in a row.

“I’m very pleased that the Chamber has shown confidence in me to fulfil the role for another year,” Mr Shelley said.

The ANZ bank manager in Cooma said in 2010 he wanted to focus on how the town could grow into the future. He believes an increase in population could benefit the community.

“It is always a balancing act in a small town. An increase in numbers could see Cooma receive and maintain essential services but the scale of the town is important, you don’t want it to lose your country community elements,” he said.

The Chamber president said any big plans regarding population growth would not happen overnight.

“We are talking five, 10, 15 years down the track,” he said.

Mr Shelly said Cooma has some wonderful business opportunities with the Polo Flat Industrial area just one highlight. Mr Shelley said Cooma’s business future is bright.

“The future of Cooma’s business community is positive. The chamber needs to continue to look at ways we can help community groups and council get the most out of the town,” he said.