Western Sydney Business Access

Each year the Chamber is proud to host the State of the City Address and this year we were doubly proud. The performance of Parramatta over the past 12 months has been remarkable. One of the more pleasing aspects of this performance is that the economic output has reached $14 billion.

We often refer to Parramatta as the "gateway" to Western Sydney, which in many respects it is; but Parramatta is very much a destination. People are recognising that a vibrant city offers an attractive lifestyle and employment. It is no surprise then that Parramatta has the second fastest residential growth rate in the state with approvals up a staggering 95% over last year.

The growth in our business community has enabled the Chamber to expand its reach. This week our Parramatta Business Access magazine will launch the first of the monthly editions - now called Western Sydney Business Access. The broader reach follows the expansion of our business excellence awards to include all of Western Sydney; the awards will be launched at a special event soon.

In this our 100^th year, the Parramatta Chamber is in a great position to continue growing; along with our great city.

TREVOR OLDFIELD

PRESIDENT