About
Our Story
In 1989, the Bundaberg Tourism Board performed a feasibility study on the establishment of a business incubator and business support organisation in Bundaberg. Two years later, through the work of a visionary group of local business leaders, The Riverside Enterprise Association was established and incorporated as a Not for Profit Association.
After launching and operating Bundaberg’s first business incubator in an old warehouse on the banks of the Burnett River from 1991, the former Wyper Peterson hardware building was purchased and fitted out, and in 2004, our organisation relocated into its current headquarters which comprises a 28-space business incubator, conference centre and business advisory service.
Thirty years on, our organisation now known as Regional Business HQ is one of Australia’s longest continuously running business incubators, and since establishing, we have directly assisted more than 7000 local businesses.
In January of 2019, Regional Business HQ expanded its operations to include The Generator coworking space and innovation hub located above the Bundaberg Post Office. In October of 2019, we further expanded our footprint and opened The Generator Gympie to house our team of business support staff and to provide the Gympie region with a premium coworking facility.
In 2020, we rebranded from our former trading name of Bundaberg Business Enterprise Centre and took on our current name of Regional Business HQ to better reflect the range of services that we offer and the support that we provide to businesses across regional Queensland.
Our organisation maintains it commitment to strengthening business in regional Queensland and to helping create sustainable regional employment by assisting and nurturing new and existing businesses. Our voluntary Board of Directors continue to drive our strategic direction and as we grow our support and assistance for regional business, our team of dedicated and skilled staff work tirelessly to achieve our organisation’s purpose.
Our Points of Difference
Regional Business HQ is a not for profit, community-based organisation governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. We have thirty years of experience in supporting the needs of small business and our focus is on strengthening business and growing employment for the betterment of our local communities. We deliver professional, cost-effective and flexible solutions that aim to accelerate the time that it takes for a business to establish viability.
Our activities are guided by our Vision, Purpose, Values and Strategic Pillars:
Our Vision
To be the leading provider for regional businesses delivering support, services, education and resources.
Our Purpose
We drive economic prosperity, employment growth and stronger business communities.
Our Values
- People
- Integrity
- Community
Strategic Pillars
- Grow the Regional Business HQ Brand
- Leverage systems and processes for optimal service delivery
- Positioning for the future
Service Delivery Model
Meet the Team
Brooke Fossey
General Manager
Brooke commenced with Regional Business HQ in November 2020 and brings more than 20 years’ experience in business planning, marketing and tendering to the organisation.
Brooke brings extensive experience in government and private enterprise, with a strong background in business development, communication, engagement and marketing activities as well as managing tenders and bids. With experience across the infrastructure, construction, energy and government sectors, she provides valuable insight to help our clients succeed by implementing targeted strategies tailored to key stakeholders across a range of industries.
Brooke’s Qualifications include:
- Executive Leadership training
- IAP2 Certificate in Public Participation
- GRI Sustainability Reporting Process certification
- Graduate Certificate of Public Policy and Governance
- Bachelor of Business Management
David Wise
Marketing manager
David commenced with Regional Business HQ in August 2022 in the dual role of Generator Community Manager and Agtech Coordinator before gradually taking on some of our marketing responsibilities. He became Marketing Manager in July 2024.
Prior to joining RBHQ, David operated his own communications and training business for approximately 11 years followed by a brief stint in community services.
Through his own business , David had worked on a number of projects with Regional Business HQ and was previously a tenant in our Quay St premises making him an easy fit with our team.
David oversees RBHQ’s overall marketing strategy and also provides a number of client-facing services including marketing advice, communication skills training, event MC, and workplace conflict resolution.
When he is not at RBHQ David likes to spend time with family and stay active through rowing and going to the gym. He also loves playing guitar but claims he wouldn’t go so far as to call it a skill!
David’s Qualifications:
- Nationally Accredited Mediator
- Bachelor of Behavioural Sciences (currently studying)
- Bachelor of Communications, Public Relations (DNC)
- Bachelor of Business, Human Resources & Marketing
Georgia Burgess
program coordinator and business advisor
Georgia Burgess is an accomplished human resources professional, with a passion for organisational development and partnering with businesses to ensure appropriate workforce strategies are effectively implemented to support business strategy and optimise organisational performance.
Georgia has worked across the for profit, not for profit and services sectors, including Bundaberg Regional Council, Friendly Society Private Hospital, Queensland Government, CUB, HSBC and Coca-Cola Enterprises, among others.
Georgia partners with business leaders to identify organisational needs and designs practical solutions to support organisational performance outcomes. With a passion for organisational development, Georgia is adept at project and change management, business transformation, process design, employee engagement, learning and development, leadership development, coaching and recruitment and selection.
Georgia’s qualifications include:
- Graduate Certificate in Applied Science, Innovation and Service Management
- DISC Accredited
- Articulate Storyline Expert
- Prosci Change Management Accredited
Jason virtue
Business Advisor – Gympie Office
Jason joined the team on a part-time basis in January 2019 as an Entrepreneurship Facilitator within our Business LEAP team based in Gympie. Followng the conclusion of the Business LEAP program in June 2023, Jason has continued in his role as a Business Advisor assisting new and existing enterprises with various aspects of business planning and strategy. Jason also runs a consulting and training firm that specialises in practical and innovative solutions for main street and rural-based businesses.
Beginning his career in a family owned hospitality business, Jason has had experience in retail and transportation before launching a successful farming business in 1994. Jason has worked with hundreds of individuals to help them to grow viable business operations.
Jason’s Qualifications include:
- Diploma of Business Management
- Holistic Management
- Cert IV in Training and Assessment
- Cert IV in OH+S
Helen Schirok
Business Advisor – Gympie Office
Helen joined the team in 2024 as a Business Advisor with Regional Business HQ, providing guidance and support to businesses seeking to improve their performance, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals. With a broad background across different industries from finance, marketing, hotel management and business ownership, Helen is known for her strong project management abilities and her expertise in client support and business growth.
Helen, having roles in finance counselling, marketing, advertising, tourism, and hospitality, brings a wealth of industry experience to her work. Alongside her professional background, she has firsthand experience as a business owner, having co-managed CanAussie Windows and Doors for 14 years, where she significantly increased the company’s sales and overall value. This diverse experience equips her with the practical knowledge to help businesses, particularly in the regional small business sector, thrive and grow.
Helen’s Qualifications include:
- Finance for Non Finance Managers
- Dealing with Difficult Behaviours
- Mental Health First Aid
- Professional Boundaries
- Various Business Management Modules
- Advanced Secretarial and Commercial Certificates
- Hotel Management Diploma
Kristy Callaghan
Administrator – Bundaberg
Kristy commenced with Regional Business HQ as a trainee receptionist in 2000 and in 2003 was promoted to Centre Administrator. Kristy has more than 20 years administration and financial experience and supports the financial and administrative functions of the organisation. Kristy is also a point of contact for our conference centre and provides support to tenants of our small business incubator.
Kristy’s qualifications include:
- Certificate lll in Business (Office Administration)
- Certificate IV in Financial Services (Bookkeeping)
Eden Williams
Administration Officer – Gympie
Eden, born and raised in the Kilkivan and Gympie area, began her career in the hospitality industry, where she honed her customer service skills. In 2019, she joined the Regional Business HQ team as an Administration Officer, bringing her business administration experience to the role.
As the friendly first point of contact in the Gympie office, Eden is always ready to provide information about The Generator Gympie and Business Advisory services to clients and visitors.
Over the past five years, Eden has continued to hone her skills and develop her expertise in business administration. With eight years of business administration experience under her belt, she is a dedicated professional who takes great pride in her work. Her exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail ensures that projects are completed to a high standard and delivered on time.
Eden’s qualifications include:
- Certificate II and III in Business
- Certificate III in Hospitality
Jasmine Lang
Receptionist and Administration Support Officer – Bundaberg
Jasmine is a dedicated Customer Service Representative based in the Bundaberg office, serving as the first point of contact as the receptionist and administration support officer.
Jasmine started her career by developing a strong foundation in customer service in the retail industry. After completing her Business Administration traineeship, Jasmine transitioned to a role with Regional Business HQ, where she ensures a positive experience for everyone who walks through the door.
Jasmine is always eager to assist clients and visitors with their inquiries, ensuring they receive the support they need. With her positive attitude and dedication to excellence, Jasmine consistently strives to deliver high-quality service and support.
Jasmine’s qualifications include:
- Certificate III in Business
- Workplace Resilience and Wellbeing micro-credential
- Effective Workplace Leadership micro-credential
Board of Directors
Tony Castro
Chairperson
Tony was born and bred in Bundaberg and owned a sugar cane farm as part of a family company which was sold in November 2017. Tony is a member on the Management Committee of The Waves as secretary and has held that position for the past 28 years. He also has a position on the Club’s corporate governance sub-committee. Tony was appointed to the Bundaberg Region Sport & Recreation Advisory Group by the Bundaberg Regional Council since November 2011. The role of this advisory group is to assist the Council with its strategic planning and development of sporting and recreational facilities within its regional boundaries.
Other commitments include being a director of Clubs Queensland, Bridges Health & Community Care and Queensland Thunder Netball Club (Sunshine Coast).
Maria Ebert
Secretary
Maria was re-elected as a director in 2021 having previously served on the board from 2016-2020 and currently co-owns and manages an incorporated legal practice that provides legal services online across Australia.
With a cross section of experience in customer relations, administration and management across various sectors in public, private and not for profit organisations, along with the creation and development of her own small businesses she has a broad view of local business. Maria was a tenant in the original incubator and enjoys being involved in the continued growth and development of RBHQ.
Maria’s qualifications include:
- Diploma of Business
- Diploma of Business Management and Leadership
- Cert IV Training and Assessment
- Justice of the Peace (Qualified)
Brant Duff
Treasurer
Brant is Secretary and treasurer of the organisation and has been a serving Director since 2015. Brant is a commercial real estate agent with Four Walls Realty and begun his real estate career in 2006 with Ray White after gaining experience in customer service, managerial and sales roles. Although committed to real estate, Brant enjoys time away with his family and actively volunteers in the community.
Brant’s qualifications include:
- Registered Real Estate Salesperson
Kelly Dwyer
Director
Kelly joined the Board in 2021. She was born in Bundaberg and joined Charltons Lawyers in 2017. Kelly became a Partner of the firm in January 2019. Kelly graduated from the Queensland University of Technology with dual degrees in Law and Business.
Kelly was admitted as a solicitor in 2009. In 2013, she returned to study and completed a Graduate Diploma in property valuation and is an Associate member of the Australian Property Institute as a Certified Property Practitioner (Law).
Kelly primarily practises in the area of commercial law advising small to medium sized business, acting in property transactions, sale and acquisition of businesses and commercial leasing.
STUART BONNETT
Director
Stuart Bonnett brings to his role extensive experience in business development, community engagement, and account management. He has a proven track record of creating environments that are conducive to long-term business success. His specialised strengths include working with project teams, marketing, community engagement and public relations to achieve positive outcomes.
Stuart holds qualifications in Hospital and Health Services Management, Human Resources and Business Management.
Having served on various boards, Stuart brings a valuable contribution to Regional Business HQ. As a not-for-profit organisation his perspective on community-focused projects and strategic initiatives that benefit both our organisation, and the wider regional economy are of immense value.
Tanya Howard
Director
Tanya joined the Board in 2023 and is Manager of Bundaberg CANEGROWERS Ltd. Tanya has been employed by Bundaberg CANEGROWERS for over 20 years and oversees the financial, accounting and administrative matters of Bundaberg CANEGROWERS Ltd, Bundaberg Sugar Services Limited, Bundaberg Regional Irrigators Group, Grain in Cane Cooperative and Bundaberg Ag-Food and Fibre Alliance Ltd.
Born in Bundaberg, Tanya is active in the community through her roles with Sandy Hook Ski Club and Bundaberg Hockey Association.
Tanya’s qualifications include:
• Bachelor of Accounting
• Registered BAS Agent
• Commissioner for Declarations
Hinkler Innovation Award
The Hinkler Innovation Award is a Bundaberg community-led collaboration to support, recognise, and foster Australian entrepreneurs making a local, national, and global contribution to innovation. Hinkler Innovation continues the pioneering spirit of the late Bert Hinkler.
