Mr Hamilton, of SJH Communications, was elected at last month's annual general meeting to replace outgoing president Judy Brown. A new executive committee was also elected.

The "nearly 42" year-old Mr Hamilton said he was thrilled with the confidence shown in him.

"I like to give back and the Maitland business people have always been very good to me and SJH Communications," he said.

"I was asked to join the committee a while back and I enjoyed that, so when I was asked about the president's role I thought why not. I feel like I have more to give so I see this as an opportunity to do that."

SJH is a multi faceted tech business that, among other things, provides internet and phone systems, IT for businesses along with WIFI and security systems.

Not that the Sawyers Gully-raised man was always involved in that field.

"No, I was originally a coal miner but I was laid off in 2011 and that meant I had to reinvent myself," he said. "So I re-skilled and have gone on from there.

"I found that with SJH I was doing a lot of business in Maitland and it just made sense to establish our office here.

"Besides that, I like what the Business Chamber stands for.

"Our members have always been supportive of each other and that's a really good thing. Maitland is a good place to do business."

Mr Hamilton was full of praise for the job Judy Brown had done as president.

"She was fantastic for the Chamber," he said. "She was a strong leader who left us in a great position, and she still has a lot to give.

"I'll do things my way ... try to bring my own flair to it and make sure we continue to provide value for our members.

"One thing I am keen to do is get keynote speakers to offer up their insights and expertise."

And how does he see business in Maitland in these challenging times?

"The dynamics are changing. We're seeing a lot more professional services coming in, especially in central Maitland. And COVID has meant some businesses have suffered, but it's a two-edged sword because others are thriving."

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