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New Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs Unite for a Transformative Event

Business leaders and entrepreneurs from Gippsland and Melbourne are invited to a transformative one-day event designed to foster connections and drive regional growth.

The C3 – It’s all about Connection event, part of the 2024 Latrobe City Business Festival, is an initiative of Latrobe City Council presented by John Calabro, founder of the Traralgon-based brand design agency The View From Here.

The theme of this year’s Business Festival is ‘Strengthening Regional Growth Through Connections’. C3 has been designed to benefit Small and Medium Enterprises in Latrobe City and broader Gippsland. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with local business owners and operators and hear from representatives of metropolitan networking organisations: Coraggio, IQ Club, Melbourne Business Network, and The Good Blokes Society.

Mayor of Latrobe City, Councillor Darren Howe said that the innovative nature of this networking event, provides local businesses with the chance to not only connect but also learn how these metropolitan networking organisations can help them thrive both locally and beyond.

“With a transitioning economy, Latrobe City businesses are actively seeking business opportunities in neighbouring economic centres as they diversify and strengthen their offerings,” said the Mayor.

“This event uniquely connects Latrobe City with Melbourne business communities, laying the foundations for long-term business relationships.”

Event organiser, John Calabro highlighted that C3 aims to keep attendees engaged throughout the day with a series of short, sharp, introductory ‘taster’ talks by a mix of business leaders and networking groups.

“The day will allow for lots of breaks and plenty of time to mingle between sessions, and will be punctuated by two keynote speeches – the first by Gippsland entrepreneurial success story, Andy McCarthy, founder of Gippsland Solar, the second by one of the most powerful forces of positivity that you are ever likely to come across, Victor Perton, CEO and Chief Optimism Officer at The Centre for Optimism.

“Bring your business cards and energy-this is your chance to meet a diverse range of businesses and networking representatives and build new professional relationships with businesses from Latrobe City, Gippsland, and Greater Metropolitan Melbourne areas.”

C3 Friday 16 August, 8.30AM-2.30PM, Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, Traralgon.

Tickets are on sale now and are limited. Secure yours at

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