NEBC Chats October 2026
7th October 2026
Dendy Cinemas Newtown
What happens when you bring local business leaders together during challenging economic times?
On October 7th, we held an intimate panel discussion focused on a central question posed by Heleana: In an era of economic volatility and cash-flow strain for SMEs, what is the role of belonging?
Despite the holiday long weekend, business owners gathered for an incredibly intimate, honest conversation about navigating the weight of running a small-to-medium business today.
Heleana kicked off the night with a question many of us feel deeply: Amid constant shifts and cash-flow pressures, where does belonging fit? What followed was an inspiring session of collective reassurance:
Lucy (All Buttons Great & Small) reminded us that after 36 years in business, these hard times are a blip—we adapt, and Newtown always endures.
Oscar shared how Young Henrys’ founding value to “serve the people” keeps their vision long-term (and touched on local moves on Wilford St and South King!).
Amy (The Social Outfit) highlighted the dignity and skill behind every garment—showing that quality and care create true value and pride.
Pasan (Earl’s Juke Joint) brought perspective to corporate shifts like Maccas coming to Newtown, reminding us of the strength of our local identity and the importance of small bars as third spaces.
The takeaway? Belonging is a business superpower.
When you build community beyond the transaction, an intelligent, discerning community shows up to back you, which to many of us feels unique to Newtown.
Special thanks to Tom McDonald from the Newtown Neighbourhood Centre for leaving us with a crucial challenge: how do we actively steward this culture without taking it for granted? Which we will keep working at on our next session in November.
Swipe through the gallery for a glimpse of the night.