'Opportunity knocks' at Alumni breakfast

May 16, 2007

The Commerce & Business Alumni Network held its first Breakfast Seminar for 2007 recently, titled Opportunity Knocks - Illawarra.

The breakfast's special guest was Manager of the Office of Economic Development for Wollongong City Council, Mr Bob Doyle.

The Opportunity Knocks - Illawarra series aims to explore the concept of entrepreneurship in a regional context.

The purpose of the Commerce & Business Alumni Network is to:

. Maintain and strengthen the networks and social connections of alumni, students and staff

. Promote the Faculty of Commerce and UOW

. Inform alumni about developments at the University and

. Facilitate professional development

Mr Doyle gave an engaging presentation about his perceptions on emerging opportunities in the Illawarra and his ideas on innovation in business.

Mr Doyle has a distinguished career in tourism and economic development. He had held a number of posts throughout Australia. Of particular note is his role as Chair and CEO of the Northern Territory Tourism Commission and his many consultancy projects focusing on both domestic and international tourism.

The breakfast was well attended with over 35 alumni members and University staff participating in the event.

Chair of the Commerce & Business Alumni Network, Michael Jones, said that he was extremely grateful for Mr Doyle taking the time to be guest speaker at the event.

"Mr Doyle gave a wonderful overview on the future direction of tourism and economic development in the Illawarra and the positive effect this will have on the community," said Mr Jones.