Welcome to the BEC

Maria Cook - BEC Executive Officer

BEC Executive Officer, Maria Cook has had a very extensive career in a wide range of positions and industries including Local Government, TAFE lecturer, CEO of charities and corporate experience as a McDonalds' employee. Maria was a finalist in the 2000 Telstra Business Woman of The Year. 

Maria sees her strengths as a general manager combining the ingenuity required to work for under funded charities with direct experience of models of best practice evident by multinational companies with extensive funds. The challenge is therefore to be able to achieve best practice on a limited budget just as small businesses must do to survive and thrive.

The major role for the Business Enterprise Centre is to provide a one stop shop for local businesses and people wanting to establish a business.  The BEC strives to provide support, advice, training, mentoring and networking opportunities that are affordable and accessible. 

There are a wide range of government and non government services, supports, training and grants available to assist businesses.  Unfortunately most businesses are not aware of the support available and often feel they need to succeed on their own. All three levels of Government, Federal, State and Local, recognise the huge role played in our economy of successful businesses and therefore have a vested interest in their success.  The BEC’s role is to facilitate access to these various services for local businesses.