Mr Holder was full of praise after a local business was last week recognised as one of Australia’s fastest growing companies.

The Australian Financial Review Fast 100 listing achieved by Launceston company S. Group is an example of entrepreneurship and a commitment to the local community, Mr Holder said.

“Their growth is exemplary … it demonstrates the power of leadership, vision and very hard work,” he said.

The FAST 100 listing for S. Group comes after the business was named on the AFR’s Fast Starters list for 2015 and announced the Launceston Chamber of Commerce 2015 Business of the Year.

“There is a new breed of entrepreneur coming through that collectively have the power to transform our economy,” Mr Holder said.

Taking on the role of chamber president earlier this month, Mr Holder said he believed quality business was fundamental to Launceston’s economic growth.

“Small businesses, such as the S.Group and many like it, are the key to our future prosperity,” he said. 

“With our connectedness to the mainland through NBN and with cheap air travel, businesses are no longer limited by geography. 

“Anything is possible for hungry business people today and with imagination and a gritty determination, the sky's the limit. We need people to have a red-hot go, to start businesses and take the risk … the reward can be enormous.”

He said the chamber would continue to “nurture” entrepreneurs and look at ways to “exploit” the city’s potential.

“The chamber provides significant networking opportunities, courses, resources and very actively represents the interests of business at a local, state and national government level. The future is great, but there is more to do to improve the environment.”