Our Story
The story of the Blackwood Chamber of Commerce and Industry is one of resilience, collaboration, and a shared commitment to regional prosperity.
Three years ago, following an eight-year hiatus, the business community voted to re-establish a chamber of commerce to represent and support the interests of the region. Recognising the need for a unified voice, local leaders came together with a renewed sense of purpose. Driven by the dedication of advocates such as Greg Giblett, the Chamber first reformed as a working party, embarking on the demanding yet vital process of building an organisation capable of making a meaningful difference.
Under the leadership of entrepreneur Tracey Hodgkins, the Bridgetown Chamber was successfully re-established. With a clear vision and a collaborative spirit, it brought together the collective needs and aspirations of local businesses. This momentum led to the formation of the Blackwood Regional Prosperity Plan—a strategic blueprint designed to strengthen the regional economy and support sustainable growth.
The plan has since catalysed four major initiatives that are shaping the future of the Blackwood region. These projects aim to boost sustainable tourism, grow industry and infrastructure, deliver training and professional development opportunities, and celebrate excellence through a Business Excellence Awards program. Together, they reflect a forward-thinking approach to economic development and community empowerment.
Today, the Blackwood Chamber of Commerce and Industry stands as a dynamic and influential organisation. Guided by its members and driven by a shared vision, it continues to champion innovation, foster
Meet The Team
Tracey Hodgkins
President
As President, Tracey is dedicated to ensuring the Chamber effectively supports its members and strengthens the wider community. With over 30 years of experience in entrepreneurial education, product, service, and tourism development, she brings a wealth of expertise across multiple industries.
Tracey is the owner of Fox and Clay Studio which designs, project manages and stages properties for short-term rental, Blackwood Valley Escapes, specialising in short-term rental hosting, and Purple Fox Global, home to The Sustainable Host—a sustainability and tiny house education platform. She is also the author of three books on sustainable living and STR tourism development.
Beyond her business ventures, Tracey serves as the Chair of Industry OneCard, a global employee training and compliance tracking software solution that supports safer, more efficient workplaces.
A recognised leader in the tiny house and sustainability movement, Tracey continues to champion education, innovation, and community-driven growth across the region. Her awards include Telstra Business Woman of the Year, BHERT Entrepreneurial Educator of the Year and many more.
John Bergasmaschi
Secretary Treasurer
John is a chef of 44 years’ experience, with a background in business, owning multiple restaurants and food outlets as well as many retail outlets. John and his partner are now running Cottagecore Living, a homewares and furniture store in the heart of Bridgetown.
Phil Beach
Board Member
A self-motivated and results-driven leader with over 25 years of senior and project management experience, including software development, infrastructure deployment, and business solution design. His background includes managing major commercial and aeronautical systems projects with IBM UK and British Airways, as well as leading WA Government initiatives such as the $27 million Shared Land Information Platform (SLIP) and multiple web systems for Landgate. Now based in Bridgetown, he manages Maranup Ford Caravan Park, overseeing its commercial kitchen and working farm operations. He is also a proud member of the BGTA and is leading the EV Charge Up Project at Puzzletown.
Sherylyn Gawel
Board Member
Chris Maher
Chair Experience Bridgetown Greenbushes Sub Committee
Accomplished entrepreneur, business advisor, and community leader with over 40 years of diverse professional experience in both the government and private sectors across Western Australia. Proven success in founding, growing, and managing multiple businesses in the retail, tourism, and digital sectors. A strategic thinker with a deep commitment to community development, demonstrated through long-term voluntary leadership roles. Now leveraging a lifetime of skills and experience from the Kimberley in a new chapter in the South West of Western Australia.
Rachel Mott
Board Member
Rachel Mott is the founder of Growing Wild Consulting, working with small businesses, community organisations and events across the South West to help them grow through strategic, authentic marketing. She joined the Chamber Board to support the ongoing prosperity of the local business community and strengthen collaboration between business, tourism and community sectors. Her focus is on building regional visibility, fostering partnerships and helping local businesses tell their stories in ways that attract both locals and visitors. With more than 20 years’ experience in business and brand strategy, marketing and communications, Rachel is passionate about sustainable growth, regional advocacy and showcasing what makes Bridgetown and the Blackwood Valley such vibrant places to visit, live and work.
Kaylene Power
Board Member
Kaylene is a consultant working in Bridgetown and the surrounding region. She collaborates with businesses to conceive, plan, and implement effective strategies that drive growth and success. Drawing on her extensive experience in managerial and project management roles within the public sector, as well as leadership positions in education, corporate environments, and retail sales, she brings a well-rounded and practical approach to her work. Her background also includes developing copywriter briefs for the radio and television industry.
Committed to building strong client relationships and delivering impactful marketing strategies, Kaylene works diligently to achieve measurable business outcomes. She is known for her excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to navigate complexity while fostering collaboration. Underpinning her work is a genuine passion, energy, and dedication to achieving collective success.
Kailee Lingard
Board Member
Kailee Lingard is the Commercial Director at Talison Lithium, the region’s largest employer. With a strong background in mining, commercial operations and asset management, Kailee plays a key role in shaping Talison’s strategic and operational outcomes. She is deeply committed to strengthening Talison’s contribution as a genuine community partner and is passionate about ensuring the company’s success supports long-term prosperity and sustainability across the Bridgetown–Greenbushes region beyond the life of the mine.
Beyond her role at Talison, Kailee brings a broader regional perspective to this group. She is a strong advocate for the South West and contributes a diverse set of professional skills, commercial insight and collaborative leadership to her role on the board, adding value well beyond a single organisational lens.