One of Australia’s largest privately owned digital print and applications companies, Excel Australasia, is also based in Carrum Downs. The establishment of OMNIconnect means it can purchase its business-grade internet and hosting services locally.

Mark Vieros of OMNIconnect said that having technology companies in Frankston would draw similar businesses to the are. “Using Excel Australasia as an example, they buy their business-grade internet and hosting from us, giving them fast access to the internet and their other sites, and we use them for our digital printing needs. Networking is vital in the IT industry and being in this area is good for business.”

Frankston council’s economic development team has been working with businesses to facilitate networking and other business opportunities in the area. In conjunction with Frankston Business Chamber, Mornington Peninsula Shire, Chisholm TAFE and the State Government, it is hosting a technology business networking event next week (more details page 12).

The free event will feature three industry-leading speakers – Melanie Ingrey of research company Nielsen Online, Andrew Beecher of search engine company Webfirm, and Tony Lentino of local web firm Instra Corporation. The council says the forum provides an opportunity to learn from three experts and to network with other technology business owner and operators.

Every business that attends will receive a $100 voucher for targeted online advertising through Google Adwords.

The forum is at Boulevard Events Centre in Frankston on Wednesday, September 17.

Click here to view the article in The Independent or in The Frankston Times.