About Us - Capricornia Chamber of Commerce

A brief history…

The Capricornia Chamber of Commerce was formed in June 2013, after resounding feedback from the business community that a chamber presence in this region is vital for the growth and sustainability of business and industry.

The Chamber committee have a strong commitment to support the business community in Capricornia and are passionate about this region, and the opportunities represented here.

We believe that The Capricornia region is in a prime position to launch itself into the future and offer a dynamic environment for existing and potential businesses, in which to prosper and grow.

The vision of the committee is clear, their mission is achievable and their values unwavering.

We encourage you to become involved; to be part of a united movement that represents business and community in our region.

As a member of the Capricornia Chamber of Commerce, you are connected to a diverse group of local companies and will have ample opportunity to engage with like-minded business people who are keen to succeed.

The Capricornia Chamber had a vested interest in supporting your business to succeed.

Our Vision

A member-driven association that connects & empowers local business growth

Our Mission

Actively support Capricornia business through
– advocacy & representation
– networking & connecting
– educating & informing

Our Values

commitment
credibility
empowerment
inclusiveness
political neutrality
relevance

Committee

The Capricornia Chamber of Commerce committee is a team of dedicated volunteers who are committed to helping local businesses grow their networks and become more effective.

Jason Foss

President

Co-founder and main geek at Almost Anything. Jason has a passion for innovation, experimentation, and coffee. He has over two decades of experience helping businesses get online and embrace all things digital. More recently he has made it his mission to help businesses brand and differentiate themselves effectively.
He travelled to Los Angeles in February 2020 to obtain his “Certified Brand Strategist” qualifications. One of the few people who’ll be able to say they visited the USA in 2020!
He can also quote most of the script from Monty Python & the Holy Grail.

Phil Henry

Vice President & External Relations

Phil is the owner and director of pH7 Consulting, established in 2015 after a long and diverse public service career that commenced in 1970 at the Department of Immigration. From 1975 Phil worked in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, both in Canberra and overseas. Phil then moved to Brisbane with the State Government before retiring as Regional Director, Fitzroy and Central West, Department of State Development based in Rockhampton, a role he held for over 7 years.Following retirement, Phil established an economic and organisational development consultancy, pH7 Consulting. This foray into the private sector led him to join the Capricornia Chamber of Commerce where in 2017 he became Secretary and then, in February 2019, Acting President before being confirmed in that role at the Chamber’s 2019 AGM in September 2019. Phil is also Chair of the Capricorn Village Festival Ltd and active in the MG Club of Queensland’s Capricornia Chapter.Phil and his wife Margaret live in Yeppoon.

Michael Polkinghorne

Membership

Michael has been involved in the banking & finance sector for 39 years, and has 32 years’ experience in Commercial, Small Business & Rural Banking. For 18 years Michael was the Owner Manager of the BOQ Franchise in North Rockhampton, with his business partner Matthew Sleaford. Michael & Matt were very proud of their banking business, and the opportunity to look after the banking & finance needs of their customer base. Having operated a small business, Michael has a good understanding of the challenges and issues that a small business faces on a day-to-day basis. In February 2025, BOQ bought back all their franchises, which gave Michael an opportunity for a well-earned break. After enjoying several months off, Michael commenced a position as a Small Business Specialist with Esdale Sinclair & Associates Finance Brokers in Rockhampton.
He has a keen interest in sports such as rugby league & AFL, & enjoys outdoor activities, like camping, bike riding, & hiking.
Michael & his wife packed up & made the big move from Rockhampton to Emu Park 7 years ago, and they are really enjoying the coastal lifestyle, & the small town community atmosphere of Emu Park.