Farewell to a Legend: Ella Collins Heads to Melbourne

After nine brilliant years with Solotel and the Inner West hospitality scene, our beloved Vice Chair and unstoppable advocate Ella Collins is making the move to Melbourne. We couldn’t be prouder — or sadder — to see her go.

Ella has been nothing short of a powerhouse in our precinct. Her fingerprints are all over the incredible growth and cohesion of the Newtown Enmore business community. She was instrumental in establishing our committee, and from day one, brought a fierce commitment to connection, culture, and care. A true community builder, Ella has championed our precinct through Purple Flag, late-night economy advocacy, and support for diverse and inclusive business.

Ella’s leadership has helped shape this chamber into what it is today — bold, inclusive, and deeply committed to the businesses that make our streets so unique. We will miss her tenacity, her sharp wit, her deep understanding of the hospitality landscape, and the way she could always bring people together.

While we say goodbye to Ella with full hearts, we’re also excited to announce that Oscar McMahon, founding committee member and another incredible advocate for the precinct, has been elected by the committee to step into the Vice Chair role. Oscar shares Ella’s commitment to growing our membership and amplifying the vibrancy and diversity of this incredible business community.

From all of us at the Chamber: thank you, Ella. You’ve left your mark on the Inner West, and we know you’ll do the same in Melbourne. We’ll see you on the other side of the bar — and hope you visit often.

All roles on the committee will be up for re-election at our next AGM in September 2025.