GABN held its Annual General Meeting on Thursday, March 25, to reflect on its efforts during the past 12 months.

Ms Whitford said 2020 had been a significant year for the Network.

"The association was in hiatus in 2019 and in 2020 a group of like-minded business people put their hands up to form GAB Net. From there we went from strength to strength," she said.

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"There was a planning day, we had a calendar full of events, we even managed to have 73 members join us, a great effort for a pandemic year."

Ms Whitford also noted the Network had helped businesses adapt to situations during the pandemic through various initiatives.

"We introduced a weekly Zoom that was labelled 'Square Table'. We reached 24 weeks in a row before Christmas which was a wonderful effort," she said.

"Our business network turned up week after week if nothing else to see others, connect, and keep abreast of the ever-changing landscape of the pandemic.

"The Network launched to other campaigns and launched and adopted a new brand #StrongerTogether in conjunction with the Ararat Rural City. The committee adapted to this brand and through a series of adverts that aimed to keep the town together from a business and community aspect. This campaign was a success, and there are plans for a repeat in 2021.

"Sometimes a closed door for a period can also be interpreted as 'closed for business'. During the lockdown, some businesses were working from home, and others had the ability to keep their doors open.

"The stickers 'Open for Business' were to create an awareness to the community that our members might not have their doors open, however, the were still operating to some capacity. This was another well-received campaign and today you still see these stickers on shop fronts."

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Dr Tim Harrison served as a temporary chair to enable the committee nominations to occur.

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Dr Harrison praised the Network for its efforts.

"The GAB Network has been a tremendous success since its inception. It's a great partnership between council and the business community," he said.

"Thanks for all the work, it's made a big difference to our town."

Following Ms Whitford's election, Gorst Rural general manager Cam Comboy was declared the Network's new vice president.

Elders Ararat director and sales agent David Jennings also continuing as secretary.

Mark Clyne is the one ordinary member to continue from 2020. He is joined by Peter McGrath, Geanie Bell, Serena Elderidge, and Kelsey Hocking.

Sertori & Co. were also appointed a the Network's auditor for 2021.

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