Rather than the traditional business awards, this year’s conclusion to Maroondah Business Week focused on welcoming the newly established businesses within Maroondah, as well as congratulating the long-standing Maroondah based businesses that have existed for more than 30 years.

The event sponsored by Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC), who own Eastland, provided an opportunity for both new and long established businesses to network and learn from each other. The evening included a presentation from Richard Carter, from Carter Real Estate, a business that has existed within Maroondah for 85 years.

Richard’s grandfather founded the real estate business in 1923 to capitalise on Ringwood’s expansion following the electrification of the rail line. Electrification, which coincided with the proclamation of the Borough of Ringwood and severance from the Shire of Lilydale, provided the impetus for Ringwood’s growth and expansion.

A common theme that has emerged throughout business week is having a passion for what you do and Richard reinforced this as an essential factor for the longevity of Carter Real Estate. Richard also spoke about the need for businesses to diversify to provide multiple income streams and to respect both staff and clients, as well as continually evolve to meet new challenges and opportunities.

The QIC celebrating businesses in Maroondah provided a fitting conclusion to the 2008 Maroondah Business Week and to commemorate the businesses that exist within the municipality.