Eltham Business Association's Judith Rodgers has passed the leader's baton to Jocelyn Carter.
Judith, who held the position for eight years, says it was gratifying to have seen the town redevelop and attract new businesses and residents.
"It developed from looking empty and down and out to fabulously different and exciting for people to come to. And we are not asleep, there is lots happening."
She is not retiring from the association, she says, just sidestepping.
"It is time for someone to bring in the next stage."