At the Board Meeting on February 20, 2023, existing Board Member Gavin Daniell was nominated, and voted to be the new Chairperson, and enthusiastically accepted the role. “To be trusted by my peers to lead our organisation into 2024 and beyond is an honour,” said Gavin. “I look forward to working closely with our EO and Board, and all of the Business Victor Harbor Members for the good of our region.”

As the former owner of Victor Harbor's McDonald's (between 2001 to 2023), and Aldinga Beach Restaurant since 2010, Gavin has created countless jobs for the local community and served on various boards. His community involvement extends to sports clubs and charities, leaving a lasting legacy. Now at the helm of Business Victor Harbor, Gavin's dedication, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit will continue to benefit our organisation, Members, the wider Victor Harbor community and beyond. 

The change comes as after four years as Chairperson, Michael Schubert made the tough decision to step down from his post in December, feeling that it was time for someone else to take the mantle. Taking Business Victor Harbor from strength to strength, the organisation flourished under Michael’s leadership. He remains an active and passionate Board Member and will still be heavily involved in shaping the business landscape of our region.

“I’d like to thank Michael for his hard work and dedication during his tenure as Business Victor Harbor Chairperson,” said Gavin. “Michael went above and beyond and gave so much of his time to Business Victor Harbor. If I am half the Chairperson he was, we will all be in good stead.”

The role of Deputy Chair also changed, with existing Deputy Chair Kirsten Pitman now co-sharing the role with new BVH Board Member Steve Little. This change means a great unique mix of experience and expertise from Kirsten who has been so successful already in this role, with an enthusiasm and fresh approach from Steve. Rounding out the new appointments is Mark McLaren as Treasurer, announced earlier this year – with Secretary Tim Donlan retaining his role.

“I’m really excited at these developments for the new year,” noted Business Victor Harbor’s Executive Officer Colin Shearing, who also echoed Gavin’s sentiment – thanking Michael for his dedication and commitment to Business Victor Harbor during the meeting. “Our organisation continues to go from strength to strength, and we have even more planned for this year and beyond.”