A message from AACC PNW President Martin Gorman

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Looking back on 2022, our chamber has achieved quite a lot in a short time.

AACC Pacific Northwest was founded in April and formed an interim volunteer board. We confirmed the support of the Australian Consulate General in San Francisco and Austrade, transferred many of ANZAS’s existing membership across to our organization, and then grew that base.

We have put on two successful social events – a summer BBQ and a Christmas party – each drawing nearly 100 people. And, we have coalesced around a commitment to creating a sense of community for Aussie expats moving to, or already in, the Pacific Northwest.

Our board is made up of talented professionals who are united in that purpose.

The Christmas party, our first as a chamber, was a great success and quintessentially Australian. The weather posed a challenge, but ultimately behaved. With heaters, firepits and covered seating, everybody was able to enjoy themselves – no small feat for an outdoor event in Seattle.

San Francisco Consul General Nick Nichles and Deputy Consul General Odette Hampton made the trip north to visit with us, and Nick gave a brief but informative talk about the role that Austrade and the consulate play in the lives of Australians living in the United States.

Many thanks to the entire AACC PNW board for organizing the party and pitching in to make it a success. The biggest shout-out goes to Wayne and Shannon Huggins for hosting such a massive event at their home. It was a great time with an excellent turnout, and a sign that Aussies in the Pacific Northwest remain eager for opportunities to mingle.

The AACC PNW board has been busy planning and setting some ambitious goals for the next few years. We are aiming to grow both our membership and sponsorship base in 2023, and hope to have more than 1,000 members by 2028.

We are looking forward to an upcoming year of social and professional networking events, including joint efforts with our British and New Zealand counterparts. Our first Australia Day celebration in January will be a highlight of 2023.

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous new year,

Martin Gorman

AACC Pacific Northwest President