At the Whitsundays Coast Chamber of Commerce, we are committed to fostering economic growth in our region.
As part of our new strategic direction, we recently hosted a dynamic event called Chamber on Tap. This gathering was designed to bring together business owners, promote networking, and provide valuable insights to help our members thrive in today’s ever-changing landscape.
An Insightful Evening
With a turnout of forty attendees, Chamber on Tap proved to be a refreshing and engaging event. Held after work hours, it allowed participants to unwind with complimentary drinks, a few snacks, connect with fellow business owners, and gain valuable knowledge.
Highlighting Government Support
The centrepiece of the event was a showcase by the Queensland Government Department of Youth Justice, Employment, Small Business, and Training.
The speakers shed light on essential programs and initiatives aimed at supporting businesses in our community:
1. Mentoring for Growth: Jo McKee provided insights into the Mentoring for Growth program. This free program connects business owners with experienced mentors who can help navigate changing business conditions, seize new opportunities, and overcome challenges. These mentoring sessions, conducted via Zoom, offer impartial advice and typically last 45-90 minutes. The mentors possess diverse expertise, covering areas such as growth strategies, marketing, finance, human resources, and more. You can even request mentors with expertise tailored to your specific needs. The great news is that this is a FREE service.
Interested in becoming a mentor for the program? See their website for details.
2. Business Wellness Coaching: Kristy Wilson from Business Wellness Coaching North Queensland offered information on their one-on-one support program, specifically addressing the impacts of stress. This program helps individuals identify the sources of their challenges and provides strategies to make informed decisions. These sessions, lasting approximately 60 minutes, are open to business owners, their family members, and staff. With two years left to run, this program offers crucial assistance in managing stress and anxiety often experienced by businesses. This excellent service is also FREE!
3. Back to Work Program: Kim Carlyon and Natalie Link shared insights into the Back to Work program, emphasising its benefits for both employers and employees.
For employers, this program offers funding of up to $20,000 for hiring eligible unemployed Queenslanders from target groups including young job seekers, Indigenous individuals, people with disabilities, and long-term unemployed individuals. Payments are disbursed over a 12-month period, with funds capped at four hires until 2025. This initiative aims to provide opportunities for vulnerable job seekers. The Back to Work program is perfect for eligible job seekers who hope to gain, change, or retain employment.
For jobseekers and employees, the Back to Work program is perfect for gaining, changing, or retaining employment. The program supports jobseekers and employees at risk of unemployment to identify and connect with training and skills development. Under the program individuals can access pre-employment program; learn more about their work style, strengths, and preferences; access subsidised funding aligned with genuine job opportunities; and other benefits.
4. TAFE Queensland Whitsunday Campus & Fee Free courses: Julia Wheway highlighted the developments happening at TAFE Queensland Whitsunday Campus, celebrating its 30th year in the region. An open day is scheduled for October 7th to showcase their progressive facilities and new Aquaculture Centre.
There was more great news with TAFE Queensland offering range of FEE FREE face-to-face and virtual courses in various fields, ensuring that business owners, managers, and staff can access training that aligns with local skills demand.
Time is of the essence. Enrol in an eligible fee-free course at TAFE Queensland by December 31, 2023, to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity to upskill yourself or provide your team with FREE professional development.
5. Find business grants: Also discussed were the Queensland Government’s Grant Finder service to help Queensland businesses easily find grants and assistance programs, and SmartyGrants for both grant providers and seekers.
Missed Opportunity?
If you couldn’t make it to this event, you may have missed out on valuable information and networking opportunities.
Your Chamber is working tirelessly to prioritise educational and networking events, and we value your feedback and engagement. Please get in touch and share with us topics and learning experiences that will help us all achieve achieve remarkable growth and success in our region.
We encourage you to keep an eye out for upcoming events and make an effort to attend. Your active participation is key to maximising the benefits of your Chamber membership.
Queensland Small Business – Beyond the pandemic