Episode 1 — Jemma Tribe & Alison Henry: The Uptown Program

In this first episode, host Barron Hanson sits down with Jemma Tribe and Alison Henry to learn about the Uptown Program — an initiative helping to create a vibrant, inclusive and authentically Nowra future for everyone. From placemaking to local business support, this conversation unpacks what it really takes to breathe new life into a CBD.


About the Guests

Jemma Tribe

Jemma Tribe started her career as a journalist with a simple but powerful goal: to speak up for those who couldn’t speak for themselves. That commitment to advocacy has shaped a career spanning media, business, leadership and community impact. With a Bachelor of Media and Communication Studies and an MBA, Jemma blends storytelling with strategy. She is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has contributed to several boards, alongside her work as an author, speaker, mum and Social Enterprise Ambassador. Jemma currently Chairs the Nowra Community Food Store Board and was recognised as the 2024 Shoalhaven Business Leader of the Year. After six years as President of the Shoalhaven Business Chamber, she now serves as a local government Councillor and runs her own business — where she continues to champion initiatives like Nowra.org.au and the future of her community.

Alison Henry

With more than 25 years’ experience in events and community activation, Alison Henry brings a deep understanding of how to create places people genuinely want to spend time in. A proud Nowra local, she owned and operated a retail store in the Nowra CBD for five years, giving her firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities facing local businesses. She later served as Nowra’s CBD Place Manager and is a qualified placemaker, with a strong focus on creating vibrant, connected and people-focused town centres. Now working as Office Manager and District Coordinator for the Nowra.org.au project, Ali continues to play a key role in shaping initiatives that bring energy, activity and pride back into the CBD.

Learn more: Jemma Tribe

A Conversation with Nooky

Barron Hanson sits down with Yuin rapper, Triple J Blak Out host and Nowra local Nooky (Corey Webster) for an honest conversation about growing up in Nowra, hip-hop, identity, and coming home.

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