Sunshine Coast Council Business Support Publication, June 2020

OPERATION: BOUNCE BACK HOW SUNSHINE COAST BUS BUSINESSES SINESSES ARE TACKLING THE COVID-19 CHALLENGE

LET’S CELEBRATE local business

COVID-19 TAX TIPS START YOUR CHECKLIST

+ CONNECT WITH YOUR LOCAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

JUNE 2020

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FROM THE MAYOR//

WHAT’S INSIDE // Council is both a supporter and customer of local businesses. Council responded quickly as the public health restrictions were put in place. We expedited paying Council contractors and released two separate business support packages.

Council’s support packages have already benefited more than 3000 business and community groups directly and more than 10,000 indirectly, via business advice, support, assistance and referrals.

From the Mayor

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he Sunshine Coast community has made a tremendous contribution to help keep our community safe.

From what I have observed, the vast majority of people have complied with social distancing requirements to stop the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

This is a great testament to the ability of our community to pull together in times of adversity. Now restrictions are easing, we’re calling on everyone in our community to support local businesses and in doing so, protect local jobs.

“We’re calling on everyone in our community to support local businesses” Council is working closely with other tiers of government, chambers and industry groups to help our regional economy bounce back, keep people employed, support job creation and contribute to growing consumer and business confidence.

Many businesses have done a tremendous job to change operating models in response to the pandemic and health directions. However, we recognise this has been challenging. With this in mind, the B-Well and Prosper portal, available via Council’s website, has free information available for business owners on mental health and wellbeing support. Our Level Up

Program is also available and supports business operators to enhance their online and technology skills.

As COVID-19 restrictions progressively ease, the Sunshine Coast will face an unprecedented opportunity as more Australians look to holiday at home. I’m confident the region will have a strong appeal for the nine million Australians who take an international trip each year but won’t be able to do so in 2020.

Our stunning natural resources will bring tourists back to our region as restrictions ease, and those visitors will spend time and money with our local businesses. We have world-famous beaches, foodie trails, breathtaking scenery and we are safe and accessible – all of which is sure to be very attractive to the travelling public.

Council applauds our local business community, which has worked hard to adapt to an ever-changing environment. The road ahead will be challenging as we chart the journey to recovery – as businesses seek to re-enter many markets and as we all contribute to reinvigorating our economy.

But I am sure that by working together, we will come through this period and be stronger and more resilient than before.

Mark Jamieson Mayor Sunshine Coast Council

03 Professional advice program 04 Stimulus packages 05 Tax info & checklist 06 Vitality brings jobs 08 Business awards 09 From your council 10 Making PPE 11 Business bites 14 Major events 15 Virtually racing 16 Funding Finder 17 Building industry 18 Up-skill at TAFE 20 Chamber news 27 Industry news Front cover photo participants: Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson Commlink CEO Feda Adra Spirit House owner Ackland Brierty Australian Cycling Academy’s Alexandra Martin-Wallace The people and businesses featured throughout are not endorsed by Council and people should seek their own professional advice.

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FREE PROFESSIONAL ADVICE PROGRAM//

Professional advice helps ease the strain on businesses Sunshine Coast Council has launched a new program for business owners who need extra support at this time.

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unshine Coast businesses critically impacted by COVID-19 disruptions have been accessing fully funded professional business advice across accounting and insolvency, human resources and legal services to help them make crucial decisions about the future of their businesses.

Sunshine Coast Council’s Professional Advice Support Program launched in April and was developed in response to feedback from business operators who said there was confusion and anxiety due to the complexities and overload of COVID-19 information being circulated.

The program was announced as part of Council’s tranche 2 COVID-19 business support, and continues to connect local businesses to up to one-hour of free confidential professional advice.

Business owners have been very appreciative of the support, in a time when many felt overwhelmed and unsure where to turn to for advice.

One local business owner said when she accessed legal advice through the program, “I’m so appreciative of this service during this difficult time, so a big thanks to the Council for being such a

great support to local businesses.”

Sunshine Coast Mayor and Local Disaster Management Chair Mark Mayor Jamieson said the Professional Advice Support Program would help business owners across a range of industries navigate the information and access support available.

“Business owners have been very appreciative of the support, in a time when many felt overwhelmed” “In a win-win for the local business community we are drawing on local expertise to deliver a localised service to local businesses,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“We want to ensure our local businesses are well placed to access the assistance measures available from other tiers of government and elsewhere, which is the key focus of this service.”

To apply for support, complete the simple expression of interest form and submit for assessment.

Your application will be assessed and you will be contacted by one of our team within 48 hours to advise if your business is eligible for this program.

A Council representative will contact you should we need to clarify any additional information.

Businesses across the region that provide accounting and insolvency services, human resources advice and legal advice are welcome to express interest in becoming a supplier on the Professional Advice Support Program.

All businesses interested must meet the selected criteria and may only be engaged where the need arises. The selection criteria is available on the supplier expression of interest form.

For more information on the program go to www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/ Business/Business-Programs/ Professional-Advice-SupportProgram

Useful business tips One local accountancy firm taking part in the program is MJJ Accounting and Business Solutions. Director Melanie Jacobson provided some useful tips for business operators that have experienced a downturn.

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Research government stimulus packages – claim what you are entitled to;

Take the time to implement a new budget or update an old one to save money while cash flow is strained;

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LOOK AT OTHER WAYS

you may be able to generate extra income – this may not be as crazy as you think. Think outside the box and maximise any opportunity;

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Create a new and exciting marketing plan to kick-start your business when restrictions ease. A slow period is the perfect opportunity to implement exciting changes;

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Create new business partnerships. Are there any businesses you could make a positive business connection with now and work together?

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STIMULUS PACKAGES//

Regional Development Sunshine Coast RDA is here to help develop the Sunshine Coast community and its businesses through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

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egional Development Australia (RDA) Sunshine Coast is part of a national network of 52 committees made up of local leaders who work with all levels of government, business and community groups to support the development of their regions.

A Federal Government initiative, we identify local priorities, align resources, engage stakeholders and promote

solutions to strengthen and build the region.

RDA Sunshine Coast’s highly experienced committee has a unique insight into federal, state and local government policies and initiatives, including those addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing us to play a key leadership role in engaging our local community in change and innovation.

Stimulus packages – what you need to know For employers & sole traders JobKeeper payment to continue paying employees: Access a subsidy to continue paying your employees.

Affected employers will be able to claim a fortnightly payment of $1500 per eligible employee from March 30, 2020, for a maximum period of six months. If you are self-employed, you may also be eligible.

Payroll Tax relief: You may be eligible for one or more of a range of payroll tax-relief measures, including refunds of payroll tax for two months, a payroll tax holiday for three months and deferral of paying payroll tax for the 2020 calendar year.

apply for a wage subsidy of 50 per cent of an apprentice or trainee’s wages paid between January 1, 2020 to September 30, 2020.

Coronavirus SME Guarantee Scheme: The Australian Government will provide a guarantee for lenders to small and medium enterprises for new unsecured loans to be used for working capital.

Banking and finance assistance: The Australian Banking Association has information on how your bank can provide support. You may be eligible for loan repayment deferrals, fee and charge waivers, interest free periods or debt consolidation.

Tourism lease payment waiver and deferral: If you hold a lease, licence or permit on state land for tourism purposes you may be eligible for a rent waiver or deferral.

Sunshine Coast Council Professional Advice Support Program: Council will fund the Professional Advice Support Program, which is designed to connect critically impacted local businesses to confidential professional advice to support them through the business impacts resulting from the COVID-19 crisis. Eligible businesses will be able to access up to one hour of professional advice at no charge in accounting and insolvency, human resources or legal services.

Wage subsidy for apprentices and trainees: Eligible employers can

Support for commercial tenants: Assistance is available for commercial

Increased asset write-off: Changed eligibility criteria for instant asset write-off. Immediately write off the costs of each asset that cost less than $150,000 (up from $30,000) for businesses with an aggregated turnover of less than $500 million (up from $50 million).

tenants to help manage lease and rental obligations.

Support for commercial landlords: Assistance is available for commercial landlords to help manage leasing arrangements with tenants.

R&D Tax Incentive: April 30 deadline extended! If your company’s income year ends on June 30 and you are intending to claim the R&D Tax Incentive for the 2018-19 income year, your R&D Tax Incentive registration application may now be lodged by September 30, 2020.

Registration applications will be accepted from companies with substituted accounting periods on the same terms, while the impacts of COVID-19 apply; that is, up to a five month extension will be applied to these registration applications.

For Employees Banking and finance assistance: The Australian Banking Association has information on how your bank can provide support. You may be eligible for loan repayment deferrals, fee and charge waivers, interest-free periods or debt consolidation.

Working from home: To make it easier when claiming a deduction for additional running costs

you incur as a result of working from home, special arrangements have been announced.

Tax on employer payments: If you take leave, are stood down or lose your job because of COVID-19, there are different tax consequences for payments you may receive from your employer.

JobKeeper Payment: The JobKeeper Payment helps employers to cover the costs of their employees’ wages, so more Australians can retain their jobs and continue to earn an income during COVID-19. Your employer will notify you if they intend to claim the JobKeeper payment of $1500 per fortnight on your behalf.

Early access to superannuation: From April 20, eligible individuals will be able to apply online through myGov to access up to $10,000 of their superannuation before July 1, 2020 and up to a further $10,000 from July 1, 2020 until September 24, 2020.

For more detailed information visit www.rdasunshinecoast.org.au

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Checklist Top 10 business tips Immediate asset write-off: Take advantage of the one-time increase to $150,000 (ex GST) of the instant asset write-off if cash flow allows and is aligned with your business goals. Remember, this may cause a tax bill when you sell the asset.

Cash flow boost: Record any COVID-19 relief package payments in a new income account. This will be non-assessable non-exempt income for tax purposes and not reportable on the BAS. Learn more: www.mjjaccountants.com.au/ items-of-interest/cashflow-boosthave-you-received-a-refund-with-thelodgement-of-your-bas/

JobKeeper payments: These payments are assessable income for your business. Record these receipts in a new income account in your accounting software.

Trust minutes: Discretionary (or family) trustees are required to document how trust income should be distributed to beneficiaries for the financial year

by June 30, otherwise the trustee will be taxed at the highest marginal tax rate (48 per cent).

Superannuation payments: Make the June quarter superannuation payment a week or so before June 30 to allow for processing time to ensure it is tax deductible this financial year.

PLAN AND REVIEW

your financial position now

While there is no instruction manual to navigate business owners through this unprecedented time, having a plan and actively reviewing your financial position will give you a clearer picture of where you are now and where you will land

Top 10 employee tips

Do a stocktake: Review your stock valuation and write off any damaged or obsolete stock. Complete a stocktake on, or before, June 30.

Don’t delay: Lodge your tax return earlier if you haven’t earned income for part of the year, as you may be entitled to a greater tax refund.

Write off bad debts: Review your debtors and write off any unrecoverable debts so you obtain a tax deduction this year.

Keep good records: The more tax records you keep, the more deductions you can substantiate, and the less tax you’ll pay.

Motor vehicle logbooks: Update your logbooks to ensure you claim the most accurate amounts. If your logbook is more than five years old, start a new logbook for a continuous 12-week period.

JobSeeker/JobKeeper payments: If you receive these payments, ensure the withholding tax is taken out for you to avoid a nasty tax bill when you lodge your personal income tax return.

Read more: www.ato.gov.au/ uploadedFiles/Content/MEI/ Downloads/TaxTimeToolkit_SB_ motor-vehicle.pdf

Timing of expenses: These are deductible when incurred. Follow up all contractor and supplier invoices to ensure you obtain the tax deduction in the correct tax year.

after June 30, 2020. By working with your accountant now you can implement tax-planning strategies to maximise your savings for the year, and plan for tax payments over the next 12 months, so there are no surprises.

Home office and working from home: A new shortcut method allows you to claim a rate of 80 cents per hour for running expenses, rather than calculating costs for specific running expenses.

This makes it easier to claim deductions for working from home during COVID-19 (between March 1, 2020 and June 30, 2020).

More information: www.ato.gov.au/ general/covid-19/support-forindividuals-and-employees/ employees-working-from-home/

Entertainment expenses: Food and drink expenses are generally not tax deductible, however, if you have a light refreshment with a client it could be tax deductible, especially if you have a home-based business or don’t have an office for client meetings. Learn more:

Study and self-education: You can only claim a tax deduction for the portion of these expenses directly related to improving your skills in your current employment.

www.mjjaccountants.com.au/tax/ tax-deduction-taking-staff-or-clientsout-to-lunch/

More information: www.ato.gov.au/ uploadedFiles/Content/IND/Downloads/ self-education-expenses.pdf

Cut this out and work through the checklist

Your financial

Uniform: You can only claim a deduction for buying or cleaning work clothes which have a business logo, are occupation specific (for example, chef’s pants) or protective (such as hi-vis safety wear or steel-capped boots).

Phone and internet: To claim a deduction of more than $50 you must keep a four-week diary of use (reflective of your entire year). More details: www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/ Income-and-deductions/Deductions-youcan-claim/Other-work-relateddeductions/Claiming-mobile-phone,internet-and-home-phone-expenses/

ATO industry guides: More than 30 industry guides are available to assist you to claim tax deductions for work-related expenses. www.ato.gov. au/Individuals/Income-and-deductions/ Occupation-and-industry-specific-guides/

Motor vehicle: If your annual travel claim is less than 5000km you can claim on the cents-per-kilometre basis (travel between your home and office is not claimable). If your business travel exceeds 5000km you must use a logbook to claim a deduction. More information: www.mjjaccountants.com. au/tax/motor-vehicle-tax-deductions-tobe-scrutinised-by-the-ato/

Personal superannuation contributions: To claim a deduction, you must have lodged a notice of intent with your superannuation fund and received a letter confirming the tax-deductible amount. Provide a copy of this letter to your tax agent to claim the deduction.

Tax tips provided by MJJ Accounting and Business Solutions. For the full article visit www.mjjaccountants.com.au/tax/tax-planning-tips-for-2020 Disclaimer: This article contains general information only. It is not designed to be a substitute for professional advice and does not take into account your individual circumstances.

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VITALITY BRINGS JOBS//

Additional programs delivered by ComLink: • Welfare checks and tele-friends program delivered to more than 2250 people.

• Delivery of newsletters with welfare check to more than 1200 Coast residents.

• Book exchange program (including DVD, audio books and board games), due to libraries being closed.

• Ageless Grace is a fun, simple senior health and fitness program. You can exercise seated, standing or even lying down. The 21 simple exercises based on the science of neuroplasticity work all parts of the body and brain in ways that help develop, maintain or regenerate functionality.

• Home delivering food from favourite local takeaways.

• ComLink has just been awarded funding by the Federal Government to purchase and lend out 4G preloaded iPads to connect people for online conversations.

Post-construction, Vitality Village will provide:

Artist’s impression

It takes a village ComLink’s innovative new health and wellness hub, Vitality Village, promises a welcome boost to the local economy.

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ith COVID-19 dampening many spirits across industry, it is an injection of vitality that we all seek, and luckily, the Sunshine Coast has just received it, with a side of jobs on offer as well.

On May 11, ComLink announced that construction of the transformative Sunshine Coast health hub Vitality Village had commenced in Birtinya.

The first of its kind in Australia, the health and wellness hub will take a collaborative approach to tackle some of the nation’s major health challenges including isolation, loneliness and mental health.

ComLink CEO Feda Adra said the $20 million Vitality Village hub will be a five-storey, 4700-square metre building in the heart of the health precinct at Birtinya, and will include designated office spaces with drop-in services, open space for presentations and events, community gardens as well as a cafe.

“Vitality Village will bring together innovators in the not-for-profit, private business and public sectors to collaborate their skills and knowledge to solve global

problems locally. This will be underpinned by four sectors including services, innovation, research and education,” Ms Adra said.

“It is timely that we are commencing construction of this project given the impact that coronavirus is having on our daily lives.

When we came up with this concept, we never envisaged we would face a global pandemic, and the purpose of Vitality Village will be to tackle issues such as isolation, mental illness, ageing well and finding ways to better connect our community to promote mental and physical wellbeing.”

Project manager Scott Lisle said during the construction phase, about 49 full-timeequivalent employees will be on site with around 118 full-time positions supported indirectly, for a total employment impact of 168 full-time jobs over the next 12 months.

“Vitality Village will have a total industry impact of $33.4 million during the construction phase, supporting local jobs and promoting market-leading innovation,” Mr Lisle said.

“We anticipate Vitality Village will make a fantastic contribution to gross regional

product of about 0.15 per cent each year and deliver for local workers and businesses on the Sunshine Coast.

“This project is supporting local investment, jobs and related industries like construction, retail and manufacturing.”

Vitality Village has been designed by Maroochydore-based BRD Group and developed by McNab Construction.

McNab Sunshine Coast manager Carl Nancarrow said it is great timing to see a local community-based organisation like ComLink investing in the future of the region.

“We are delighted that they’ve selected McNab to undertake this build,” Mr Nancarrow said.

“More than ever, supporting local employment is critical and we expect to have approximately 100 local Sunshine Coast staff and subcontractors on site at peak times, so this commencement is not only good news for McNab, but also the local construction industry and economy.”

The project is expected to be completed by mid-2021. Leasing enquiries can be made through CBRE Sunshine Coast (Ryan Parry, 0419 675 758).

• Direct annual income (wages and salaries) of $8.5 million with $1.6 million in additional income generated through flowon effects in other industries and a further $4.5 million from household spending.

• Approximately 122.9 direct full-timeequivalent (FTE) employment positions, with an estimated additional 102.7 employment positions supported indirectly through other industries and household consumption for a total employment impact of 225.6 FTEs.

Podcast – Bound For Success with Feda Adra “If you’re not feeling uncomfortable, you are not doing amazing things,” said ComLink CEO, Feda Adra, who recently featured on the podcast Bound for Success. A powerhouse of contribution, Ms Adra has turned not-forprofits into highly successful businesses while continuing to help people remain at the core of her practice. For tips on leadership and finding your purpose listen in on Council’s website, www.sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au/Business/Business-Podcasts.

ComLink’s journey Established more than 30 years ago, ComLink is focused on providing innovative and individualised solutions to help people live fulfilling and meaningful lives. With locations across Queensland, almost 500 staff and ComLink volunteers provide aged care and transport solutions to more than 30,000 clients.

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10 tips

Celebrating local

For small business wellbeing

Wearing the many hats of running a small business has looked more like a topsy-turvy juggle this year for many of us, but it’s never been a more important time to implement some wellbeing practices.

Sunshine Su Suns uns nsh hiine ne C Coast oa oa ast st m st manufacturers anuf anuf an ufac actu ture ure rers rs are getting are ar gett ge ettin tttin ng together tto ogeth geth ge he err to to show sh ho ow w w wh h hat att tthey he he eyy are arre made a ma ade de of. of. f. what

Laura from Hyne Timber Sunshine Coast Warehouse is #MakingItForQLD

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he Queensland Government has been showcasing Queensland’s mighty manufacturers as part of the #MakingItForQLD campaign, which commenced in April 2020.

Manufacturers across the state are invited to share their photos and videos including the hashtag ‘MakingItForQLD’.

Sunshine Coast companies Helimods, Sunshine Coast Brewery and Smartline Medical are just some of the businesses sharing great stories about how they are delivering products for Queenslanders.

Smartline Medical has expanded its product line to supply Smart Guards that are installed at counters for frontline service staff and non-contact infrared thermometers in response to COVID-19.

This campaign is raising the profile of Queensland manufacturers as well as

sharing the stories of companies that have re-tooled and adapted to produce essential products and helped to secure our supply chains.

More than 100 companies have participated in the #MakingItForQLD campaign, which has been viewed five million times since April 2020.

Sunshine Coast manufacturers, are you #MakingItForQLD? Whether you’re a manufacturer, meat processor, clothes designer, builder, baker or barista, we want to showcase the work you’re doing, so post a photo or video on social media using the hashtag #MakingItForQLD. Follow Growing Queensland on Facebook to see all of the companies #MakingItForQLD. Visit www.facebook.com/growingqld

If you haven’t joined this free resource for Sunshine Coast businesses to help manage business stress, please visit https://bwell.mindstar.com.au and register today.

1. Be resourceful Carefully consider any additional resources, training and support that needs to take place to enable your employees to work well in this current season.

2. Breathe More specifically, learn and practise some breathing techniques to help you through those tough phone calls, moments or deadlines.

3. Keep perspective Stressful situations naturally make us view things as worse than they really are, and can quickly have us picturing the worst-case scenario.

4. Find your wellbeing Walk the dog, try a new recipe or treat yourself to a blissful weekend sleep-in.

Find what small routines help you to ‘breathe’.

5. Empathy is king More than ever, empathy is key in fostering strong and sustainable work environments.

6. Empower your team Ensure everyone is aware of how they can access additional wellbeing support when needed.

7. Have some non-meetings It’s important that your team still has the opportunity to be social and check in with each other.

8. Check in Every family’s situation changes frequently, and every person will react differently to changes.

9. Establish healthy rituals Stick to the rituals of a normal workday.

Get up, have a shower and get dressed like you’re going to work.

10. Mobile out of your room Those first few moments of morning are the most important part of the day and shouldn’t be interrupted by our phones until we are properly awake.

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BUSINESS AWARDS – CELEBRATING LOCAL SUCCESS//

Kokopod Chocolate wins business award

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enacity is the key to Brigid Woolnough’s success. She is a woman who does not take no for an answer. She simply finds another way to get the job done.

Mrs Woolnough has taken her home-based business, and with the guidance of Sunshine Coast Council, turned it into an award-winning brand that now sees her incredible chocolate creations sold all over the world.

Despite the turmoil that is all around us, she has managed to secure a Federal Government grant of $54,771 that will allow her to say goodbye to the tedious processes that are currently done by hand and truly start to scale up.

Just before Kokopod was awarded Sunshine Coast Business Awards Winner (Small) in the Food & Agribusiness

category last November, Mrs Woolnough threw her hat into the ring and was one of 1000 applicants to apply for the Manufacturing Modernisation Fund that supports the transformation of small and medium manufacturing businesses.

“her incredible chocolate creations are sold all over the world ” Last month Federal Member for Fairfax Ted O’Brien was the bearer of good news when he announced that all her hard work had paid off and that Kokopod was one of four local businesses to receive funding under this grant.

Dale and Brigid Woolnough Mrs Woolnough will use the funds to purchase equipment, upgrade the power facilities at her factory and gain her HACCP certification that will allow her to compete competitively on the international stage. But there is hard work to do as the grant requires her to match the funding, dollar for dollar.

“We are not changing what we are doing – we are just scaling what we are

doing – and this grant will help us to achieve that,’’ she said.

Mrs Woolnough’s success to date is a combination of her commitment to delivering a quality product, having a diverse customer base and never taking her eye off the end goal.

There is no stopping this extraordinary chocolatier as she now embarks on the next exciting chapter.

HRM Contracting and Consulting Diversification and flexibility have been the keys to survival for this Sunshine Coast business success story.

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hen asked how she has managed to get through the past few months, Sally Desch, founder of HRM Contracting and Consulting, will tell you that diversification has been the number one reason her business will come out the other side.

Ms Desch has built her business, which provides recruitment and human resource services to businesses all over the Sunshine Coast, on three key pillars: the provision of outsourced HR services; permanent recruitment; and labour hire (temporary recruitment).

Each of her sectors has been affected by recent events with recruitment for permanent roles all but disappearing.

However, the impact of the decline in this arm of her business has been offset by an increase of employers needing HR advice, assistance and support as they dealt with changes to contracts, redundancy advice and managing staff through this crisis.

The labour hire component of her business has remained steady as some

Lyn Davies, Angela McKenzie, Sally Desch, Stefan Desch, Veronica Rea “There will be positives that will come out of this for us, and for me, it has been the realisation that I do not need to be in the office every day to deliver an outstanding service to my clients.”

When some semblance of normalcy returns, Ms Desch and the team will look to offer more flexibility for people who need or choose to work from home.

She believes this will be the case for many employers who now realise they can trust people to get the work done

sectors needed additional staff and some employers opted to fill what roles they had with temporary solutions until some certainty about the future was established.

Through all this Ms Desch has managed to retain her staff, but that doesn’t mean the business has not changed.

“Post-COVID we will not go back to the traditional way we did things, and neither will a lot of employers,” Ms Desch said.

and they can still have a productive, happy workforce.

Ms Desch expects the HR side of her business will continue to grow as employers grapple with work-from-home policies, safety checklists and inductions for staff who will be working from home.

For many small businesses, it makes sense to outsource these services to a specialist company like HRM if they are not large enough to have a full-time HR person.

“People see our service as a cost, but they also realise the benefit of having these things set up properly, so that if things go wrong or relationships sour, everything is documented,” Ms Desch said.

As a sign of growing confidence that we are starting to come back from this, Ms Desch is now seeing an increase in employers talking about putting people back on as restrictions ease, which she expects will continue as we move through each stage of kick-starting the economy.

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FROM YOUR COUNCIL//

Council committed to COVID-19 response and recovery

Cr Jason O’Pray, Economic Development Portfolio Sunshine Coast Council

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inancial Year 2019/2020 hasn’t been kind to us. Between bushfires and novel coronavirus (COVID-19), it has affected our beautiful community and our wonderful businesses in so many negative ways.

As your new Economic Development Portfolio Councillor and a former small business owner, I want to give you my commitment that I will be doing everything in my power and through your Council to assist local business get through these times.

Council has released two economic stimulus tranches to complement those of the Federal and State governments. We provided support to the most impacted industries of accommodation and food services and retail. To date, more than 3000 businesses have received financial support and 10,000 businesses have received advice.

Recently we launched the Professional Advice Support Program to provide advice for local businesses who are critically impacted by the global pandemic so they can get a free initial consultation with financial, human resource or legal advice.

This may be the most important chat about your business this year as it could help connect you to funding and support.

Another great Council initiative is the Level Up program, which helps local start-ups and small and medium businesses connect to the NBN (where available), and use digital tools, innovation principles and business solutions to enable them to improve productivity, profitability and ability to compete nationally and internationally, where desired.

It has been very tough for many businesses in our region, which is why I was so glad that we as a Council were able to provide some relief through our various support packages and programs.

We are working with local chambers of commerce and industry groups to ensure that whatever we do, it helps you directly.

I will continue doing my bit to support local businesses by grabbing takeaway food and coffee and working with Council to get business back on track and visitors back into our region. Stay strong Sunshine Coast. We are an amazing region and we will come out of this stronger than ever before.

Cr Terry Landsberg, Economic Development Portfolio Sunshine Coast Council

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s a Sunshine Coast small business owner for more than 20 years I know ations. the challenges of business operations. obal Having had to manage through the Global he Financial Crisis, I also can appreciate the ness financial and personal impacts on business and families during difficult times.

Of course, this year has been even more d difficult. There has been unprecedented us stress on us all due to novel coronavirus (COVID-19), and the impact has been significant for local businesses and solee traders. Our region and our communityy rely on local business and one in five of ourr cal workforce is self-employed, so when local business suffers, we all suffer. ent As your new Economic Development d to Portfolio Councillor, I am really pleased see our Council responding with a locall

business support package and a range of programs that help manage business stress.

If you haven’t accessed the B-Well + Prosper program, I encourage you to do so now. In an Australian-first, Council partnered with industry leaders from across the region to ensure that our local business owners and their staff have access to a range of tips and tricks to manage business stress. There’s even a manager toolkit to help you look after your employees and also ways to connect with other support.

I know it is hard to make the time for self-care when you are thinking about your business, your family, your staff and all the bills and deadlines, but we can’t help others to the best of our ability if we don’t put on our own oxygen mask first. Helping local business thrive is one of my top priorities and I look forward to hearing from many of you and talking to the chambers and industry groups to ensure that Council assists wherever we can.

For now, please take a look at the Top 10 business tips on page 5. Online, explore the B-Well + Prosper website and the COVID-19 resources, fact sheets, interviews with other local businesses, workshops, and podcasts if you want to listen while working. Together we can ensure we all stay safe, and B-Well as we move towards our economic recovery.

Visit https://bwell.mindstar.com.au/bwellsignup

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MAKING PPE//

Community space becomes pop-up PPE factory during pandemic Sunshine Coast Maker Space’s Dominic Vrolijks at Kawana Community Space making PPE for local frontline staff

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he Sunshine Coast’s renowned sense of community spirit has flourished during the COVID-19 pandemic and we have seen that in abundance through initiatives like volunteers producing more than 1000 medical-grade face shields for use across the region.

The 3D-printed personal protective equipment (PPE) has been helping keep the region’s health workers safe during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

During the CV19 Sunshine Coast Hackathon, more than 50 volunteers worked at venues across the Sunshine Coast, including Kawana Community Space.

Face shields were made daily to support Sunshine Coast University Hospital (SCUH), Buderim Hospital and other healthcare providers in the region.

The project started when five Sunshine Coast Maker Space and Peregian Digital Hub members heard global supplies of PPE were quickly diminishing. They decided they wanted to help their community.

Dominic Vrolijks runs the Sunshine Coast Maker Space. He is a qualified fitter machinist with 20 years’ experience in manufacturing, 15 years’ experience in mechanical design and he ran a design consultancy. He joined forces with Peregian Digital Hub’s Chris Boden and their teams tested and experimented with various facemask designs.

“Since March we’ve been liaising with the team at SCUH, offering to make 3D-printed face shields for use in the ICU ward,” Mr Vrolijks said. “The SCUH team was very

supportive, so I rallied a team and setup a Facebook group to invite people to help.

“The group grew very quickly, and within two days, we were able to present two advanced prototypes for evaluation.

“Over the next few days we modified the design and delivered our first batch of 60 face shields the same week.”

Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service Surgical Services Clinical Director, Dr Owain Evans, said the health service had been humbled by the support of the Sunshine Coast business community during these challenging times.

“We’re very fortunate to be living in a community that has really rallied together to support one another. Equally we’re proud to be able to support our local entrepreneurs,” Dr Evans said.

The volunteers, including high school students and University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) professionals, helped to adapt an existing open-source design to meet the intensive care unit needs at SCUH. Mr Vrolijks said the volunteers were instrumental in the project’s outcomes, which had helped save lives.

“Not only have we managed to supply more than 1000 face shields to hospitals and independent practices, we have also passed on our design to other makers around Australia to help other frontline workers.

“The health workers needed more protection from aerosolised fluids than the other designs could give. We were lucky, there had been a huge amount of work done globally, but the existing designs weren’t

suitable. The surgical team wanted some improvements so we got to work to adjust the design as quickly as we could.”

Mr Vrolijks said Czech-based company Prusa Printers led the charge with designs for PPE, advanced through a partnership with the Czech Ministry of Health. “In three weeks they’d delivered more than 80,000 face shields,” he said.

USC Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Professor Roland De Marco said he and his team were glad they could provide support to help ensure the health and safety of our community.

“With limited supply of PPE posing a serious threat, USC was committed to assisting the local effort to create a pop-up PPE factory on the Sunshine Coast,” he said.

“USC loaned 3D printers, provided access to autoclaves for disinfection of PPE, and provided advice from our microbiology experts on disinfection regimes. USC wanted

to do everything it could to assist this important work in a time of need.”

Mr Vrolijks said those 3D printers were invaluable to the success of the project and meant the volunteers had the chance to learn new skills to help the community.

“Some of the work is simple like cutting and gluing foam and elastic, but running the 3D printers can be quite technical. Then there’s keeping them maintained, doing repairs, adjusting the print settings, cleaning the finished prints ready for assembly and things like that,” Mr Vrolijks said.

Sunshine Coast Council Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group Chair Mark Jamieson said Council was pleased to offer Council-run community facilities to provide the space and venue for the PPE production and applauded the community spirit demonstrated throughout the project.

“The work of these entrepreneurs shows the innovative and wonderfully supportive community that we have here on the Sunshine Coast,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“What they have achieved has been the right help, for the right people at the right time.”

“Council has been working with local start-ups and innovators as part of the Regional Economic Development Strategy for many years to support our local entrepreneurs ecosystem, so repurposing the Council-run community facility to produce such vital equipment was a great opportunity to provide practical assistance.”

Mr Vrolijks said collaboration between the education sector, entrepreneurs, businesses, various levels of government and the community that allowed this project to happen. He hoped to be able to turn what was a community project, born from a time of need, into an ongoing Sunshine Coast commercial venture.

“Supporting entrepreneurs and innovation spaces and working together to build and maintain networks and relationships can make amazing things happen,” he said. “I am starting to work with Sunshine Coast suppliers on a commercial venture as we are now getting calls for our face shields from around Australia.

“Hopefully, working together to build innovation in our region will lead to new businesses, jobs, up-skilling in the community and exports.”

Make your big idea a reality at the Sunshine Coast Maker Space: www.scmakerspace.com.au/

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Business Bites Local businesses are coping with COVID-19 in many innovative ways.

All you need is groceries!

Espresso and essentials

While many people were out panic buying, Michael and Roz White and their teams were trying to swiftly get on to suppliers, find new suppliers and keep shelves packed.

The White’s commenced their retail journey on the Sunshine Coast with the purchase of a small convenience store in Maroochydore in October 1993, growing to five busy IGA marketplaces. So when COVID-19 hit, their many staff felt its impact with swift intensity.

They worked around the clock due to panic buying and adaptations of normal business operations to address essential safety and preventative measures.

They had to remodel their work force – increasing it by 12 per cent.

“We expanded our service delivery to accommodate the needs of all consumers, such as increasing home delivery options, introduced a pack and collect system and collaborated with another local organisation ComLink to provide essential deliveries to their elderly and vulnerable client base,” Roz White said.

The Urban – Caloundra is a sleek, elegant espresso bar in the heart of Caloundra specialising in creating the best coffee in the CBD precinct, using Campos Coffee.

Owner and trained barista Alex Rutherford caters for a mostly in-town crowd. He said he had to use a good dose of ingenuity to keep his doors open during COVID-19. This included creating a small general store in his shop so customers could grab the pantry essentials without having to go to a major supermarket.

Mr Rutherford used the main seating area of the cafe to house his produce fridges and product shelves. He said the assistance from Council and other sources was a great support, and he took advantage of offerings such as the reserved car park signage Council had created and provided.

Mr Rutherford also had a think about how he could provide some specials to entice customers and offered a new lunch deal, where customers could pre-order their choice of prepared wrap or sandwich, a piece of fresh fruit and a sweet treat, all neatly packed into a sanitised lunch box.

Bumps in the roads

Purpose built for fitness

ZONE RV directors saw a need for improved technology, design and operating efficiencies in the traditional caravan industry. ZONE RV manufactures caravans, campers and vehicle canopies in Coolum Beach.

Commencing in 2015 with three staff, ZONE RV’s world-class innovation, design and techniques have set a new benchmark for caravan manufacturing standards in Australia, leading to exponential growth and demand requiring a staff of 85. But COVID-19 has impacted the supply chain, with some fixtures and parts coming from international suppliers.

To allow for these delays, Zone RV has adjusted its manufacturing schedule and introduced a new Base Series to appeal to a wider audience and cater to the expected shift to domestic ‘caravan cruising’ and more domestic travel, caravanning and camping.

Despite having to close their doors in March, F45 Caloundra managed to retain 100 per cent of their employees. Group training workouts coached by personal trainers moved online, an equipment library was set up so clients could ‘check out’ a piece of equipment each week, and interaction with clients continued seven days a week thanks to video and phone catch-ups.

Studio manager Alex Robbins said the team collaborated with other professionals to set up webinars for clients covering mental health, injury prevention and gut health. “At the start we didn’t think it was possible to continue business under COVID-19, but aft er the initial panic, we looked at ways to get ahead of it,” he said.

“We carried across into our new business model the main values we already had – community and purpose. Our workouts have always been about pushing hard at your own pace but we do it together.”

Key lessons

Key lessons

Key lessons

Key lessons

• The sales team quickly pivoted to doing Zoom meetings rather than onsite visits.

• Having just moved into a new property in January 2020, with the goal of higher production volumes, Zone RV is sticking to the business plan and the release of the new Base Series will help tap into new markets.

• Maintain personal service through regular interactions.

• Network with other similar businesses, and be willing to share ideas and take action.

• Think innovatively and adapt to what the market tells you.

• Have a crisis management plan so you can be well prepared and able to quickly respond.

• Be flexible to make changes in quick succession with consistent messaging and communication for staff and community.

• Consistency – keeping up business as usual really helped.

• Customer relationships – creating lasting relationships with customers.

• Change to meet customer needs – customers appreciate the ability to grab essentials without having to go to an additional shop during COVID-19.

Zone RV, Coolum, 5471 6410 www.zonerv.com.au

F45 Training Caloundra, Currimundi, 0498 611 990 www.f45training.com.au/caloundra

SUPA IGA Baringa, SUPA IGA Bli Bli, IGA Mooloolah, IGA Mt Coolum and IGA Peregian Beach, 5479 4727 www.whitesgrocers.com.au

The Urban – Caloundra, 5492 7990 theurbancaloundra@gmail.com

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BUSINESS BITES//

Local business staying afloat

The Brouhaha brainstorm

Clouds Montville Lodge your next destination reimagined

Sunshine Coast Afloat is a local family business based in Mooloolaba, delivering marine and water-based adventures for more than a decade. But due to COVID-19 regulations, the main charter vessel and source of income for this micro tourism business, vessel Crusader 1, has been left floating empty as the team eagerly awaits an end to the lockdown.

Thankfully, the kayaking tours and rentals have been able to continue, and the team decided to make the most of the extra time to re-evaluate their business model.

Owner Paddy van Driel-vis said, “we identified areas that required changes for when we get to re-open, knowing that people will have different expectations, and it will be a different marketplace”.

The team is now able to implement a workable, domestic-focused business plan which will help them continue to grow and service the Sunshine Coast tourism market as effectively as possible. “We are hoping to be operating as close to normal as possible for the whale season which, begins July 1,” Mr van Driel-vis said.

The Brouhaha Brewery journey began in 2016 when doors first opened. In 2018, the Maleny-based brewery doubled the size of its annual brewing capacity and underwent a rebrand by investing in a canning and packaging line. In 2020, COVID-19 has forced a remodelled business plan and the brewery doors will remain closed until at least stage three.

Market and events manager Toby Stodart said, “to make sure that we made it through the hibernation period, we put our heads together and created a new online home delivery business model and had it operational within two days”. Shifting from a restaurant and brewery to an online meal delivery service, grocer and brewery, they continued to work with existing suppliers to offer fresh produce boxes and other essential pantry items. Chefs created heat and eat meals and a Mother’s Day special, where husbands were able to follow a recipe and cook up their own Brouhaha-inspired meals using ingredients delivered direct to their door. Home delivery and takeaway options continue through stage two.

Friday March 13, 2020 was in the true sense a Black Friday for many in the accommodation sector.

Gai Carroll from Country Lodge Motel Flaxton said they suffered more than 200 accommodation cancellations and were swept off their feet by the non-stop emails and phone calls for cancellations from those that had booked into their many tour packages.

“We had scores of wedding group cancellations and lost our overnight trade,” she said. “Our business as we knew it was turned off overnight.”

But she said that with the introduction of JobKeeper payments, three staff were able to be retained, all of whom have since gone on to receive certificates in COVID-19 Infection Control training through Aspen Medical and the Australian Government.

Staff have been kept busy refreshing all rooms and tending to garden and vehicle maintenance. “We can only hope that when intrastate restrictions ease, we will start to see people coming back,” Ms Carroll said.

After extensive renovations, Clouds Montville was ready to open the doors of its new The Glasshouse café and alfresco dining as well as the elegant Bergin Lounge Bar the same week COVID-19 restrictions were imposed. Sadly, some staff stand downs were required, but the remaining team members were determined to meet the challenges.

The chef quickly got to preparing a fresh or frozen take-home menu for the Glasshouse, with the availability of takeaway boutique wines and craft beer.

The team came up with others ways to continue to support the community and keep the business afloat and introduced Clouds Gourmet Pantry, providing an online selection of relishes, dips, sauces, and savoury snacks from local producers and suppliers, delivered to your door.

Marketing co-ordinator Phoebe Cheesman for Clouds Montville said staff are looking forward to diners and wine lovers returning now The Glasshouse at Clouds Montville is open seven days.

Key lessons

Key lessons

Key lessons

Key lessons

• Use down-time to work on administrative projects, re-evaluate, research and learn.

• In changing times, change the business model.

• Question everything.

• Look at what can be sustained over the long haul, not just band-aid fixes.

• Build a new venue experience for customers to return to once doors open again.

• Update your website to make it as easy as possible to order online.

• Contact Centrelink and other agencies and find out what can help you.

• Think about all those jobs you always want to get done that you never have the time and ask staff to help with those.

• Think of ways to up-skill and promote your WHS practices to show clients you are on top of keeping them safe.

• Think quick! You need to assess what you can change to keep meeting demands.

• Network – talk to those businesses around you and see how you can work together on offerings.

• Social media is key! Use it!

Sunshine Coast Afloat, Mooloolaba 5452 6697

Brouhaha Brewery, Maleny, 5435 2018

Country Lodge Flaxton, 5445 7555

Clouds Montville, 5442 9174

www.sunshinecoastafloat.com.au

www.brouhahabrewery.com.au

www.countrylodgemotel.com.au

www.cloudsmontville.com.au

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Bean there, done that

Motoring on in Coolum

Kleen and keen

That’s the spirit

“COVID-19 has been one hell of a ride,” said young local barista Zac Carew, who opened Bean There Done That Espresso Bar in Pacific Paradise in 2014 with fellow barista Daniel Carew. “While the generosity and local support has been nothing short of spectacular,” Zac said, “it has been tough.”

The duo started the bar with two coffee blends on offer, a selection of homemade cakes and food, with a funky distressed pre-loved furniture look, with the furniture also for sale! Now with five businesses on the Coast, the COVID-19 affects came in many different ways. “It made things difficult – some cafes were heavily reliant on dine-in, while our other cafes were affected by the elderly demographic we usually cater for staying home,” Zac said.

But the team decided to create a new takeaway brunch menu, making everything quicker and easier to coincide with the rules of social distancing as they continued to try to even out their bottom line. Adapting and ensuring they could still offer their loyal customers some options that they could enjoy in safety and isolation really helped.

While Coolum Motors had grown from just two staff in 1980, to nine staff and are usually booked out three weeks in advance, owner Steve Houghton found himself having difficult conversations with his staff in March.

Workshop manager Steve Grist decided to email the customer database to let them know mechanics had been listed as an essential service so they were open for business. He also jumped online to see what free tools he could access and came across Canva and Mailchimp and got to work with their templates to create a marketing campaign which they emailed out and put on social media.

They also came up with specials they could offer and new services for customers, such as pick up and drop off for those stuck in isolation. They contacted Queensland Health and asked what free COVID-19 WHS courses they could do and ensured they stepped up their workplace WHS to ensure the safety of staff and customers. Within days, the work picked back up, as customers had assumed all businesses were closed and hadn’t thought to call to check.

Staying ahead of the COVID-19 challenges, the water treatment experts at Ozzi Kleen have managed to keep their entire workforce employed and safe.

They made sure they could help out in the fight against COVID-19 and when they saw a possible need they offered to lend a hand. They supplied and remotely installed a commercial transportable sewage treatment system at an infectious disease hospital in Jiangsu, north of Shanghai, China. This system was installed to treat trace levels of COVID-19 in the hospital’s waste stream for safe release to the environment. Acting GM Michael Blee said split shifts and working remotely were key changes implemented to maintain business continuity.

As was WHS, with custom physical barriers rolled out in the factory to keep work areas segregated and ensure staff had minimal contact while still being able to meet production requirements.

Ozzi Kleen produce household sewage treatment systems, usually for the Australian market.

The Spirit House at Yandina has managed to keep staff spirits high, even when faced with a global pandemic. Left with coolrooms full of produce that would no longer be sold, head chef Aaron Tucker turned the produce into 800 frozen curries to support locals needing a night off from cooking. They also had plenty of highly sought-after goods, such as toilet paper, rice and other ingredients, so they opened their stores to support their staff ’s households.

Spirit House director Acland Brierty said they wanted to ensure they offered an opportunity for all their staff to make money during the crisis, so they started to brainstorm ideas. “If we had simply offered takeaway, the chefs would have work, but the floor staff would be left out of the loop, so we took it one step further - the staff could buy the meals from us at cost and sell them to friends, family or in the neighbourhood and keep the balance,” she said. Spirit House also provides takeaway, so you can order frozen curries online and pick them up in the carpark between 10am and 3pm Thursdays to Sundays.

Key lessons

Key lessons

Key lessons

Key lessons

• Work quickly to adapt and move with the changing landscape.

• Post COVID-19 – continue with new menu items that have become favourites.

• Appreciate the generosity and support of the local and surrounding community in times like this.

• Having a customer database means you can be proactive.

• Think about how you can pivot and offer what people need in new times.

• Are there any items you can offer as a special discount to help attract people to spend?

• Put yourself in your customers’ shoes.

• Communication with customers is key.

• If you see a need, don’t assume it’s filled or that you are too small or too far away; jump in and pitch your product.

• Act quickly and always think of new markets and customers.

• Your staff are everything, make sure you look after them.

• Out of adversity comes opportunity – as long as you’re prepared to act.

• Don’t underestimate the power of your staff network.

• Producing 2000 frozen curries a week has made us re-think how we do business in the future – consider keeping what worked during the pandemic.

Bean There Done That Espresso Bar, Pacific Paradise, 0416 928 504 beantheredonethat@icloud.com

Coolum Motors, 5446 1566

Ozzi Kleen Water and Waste Water, Kunda Park, 1800 450 767

Spirit House, Yandina, 5446 8977

www.coolummotors.com.au

www.ozzikleen.com.au

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MAJOR EVENTS//

Healthy, smart, creative Major events play a huge role in the economic successes of our region.

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ver the past 10 years, the Sunshine Coast has built a reputation as one of the premier destinations for major events across the country. Dedication from local stakeholders and businesses, along with the support of the Sunshine Coast Council, has allowed the region to develop an events calendar that includes some of Australia’s highest profile events. Since 2014, more than 631,000 visitors have come to our region to participate in sponsored major events, spending $376 million directly with local businesses. These visitors fill our accommodation houses, keep our cafes buzzing, and provide income for a wide range of contractors, suppliers and outlets.

Maleny Wood Expo

“Since 2014, more than 631,000 visitors have come to our region to participate in sponsored major events” Mooloolaba Triathlon

NRL games have been held on the Sunshine Coast

“Council has continued to work hard behind the scenes… with event operators and suppliers” But, this year, the impact of COVID-19 has placed huge economic stress on event operators, on tourism and supply industries.

In the past (and again soon hopefully), events have been a powerful marketing tool for the region. Events such as the South Sydney Rabbitohs playing the first NRL regular season game on the Coast, The Curated Plate Food Festival and the hugely successful Elton John concerts supplemented long-time favourites such as the Caloundra Music Festival, Queensland Garden Expo, Maleny Wood Expo and the Mooloolaba Triathlon to send images and coverage of the region to enormous audiences nationally and globally.

In the 2018/19 financial year, marketing and media activity associated with 31 of our major events generated 3680 media pieces and reached more than 31 million people.

Through these activities we are able to tell the wider story of our healthy, smart and creative region.

However, recently, it has been a different reality. Due to safety concerns and gathering restrictions, numerous events have been postponed or cancelled since the lockdown

came into full effect in March 2020. Travel restrictions have also hit these same businesses – with tourist and local customer numbers dwindling to zero in some areas.

The COVID-19 lockdown also highlighted the social and community value of events of all types – as isolation deprived locals of the chances to participate in activities they know and love. It is heartening that now, as restrictions start to lift, we can again start working towards bringing some great events to our region.

It is important the community and event organisers know as we move towards the gradual return to ‘normal’ operations – Council and its local partners understand the need for activity and stimulus to drive customers back to the local businesses most harshly impacted by COVID-19.

Council has continued to work hard behind the scenes during the lockdown with event operators and suppliers to chart a way forward in the not-too-distant future.

Initially we are focusing on those events that have the strongest impact on local business, both from a visitation point of view, but also for the value they provide in promoting the region. Our positioning as owners or major sponsors of many of these events allows us to determine the messaging that will be sent to the national audiences of these products when the lockdown is eased – concentrating on the key message that we are ‘open for business’, and that our region’s accommodation, restaurants, activities and retail need your support to get back on their feet.

As it is likely that it will be some time before international travel resumes, we believe there is a unique opportunity for the Sunshine Coast to drive additional business as a high-quality, welcoming location for visitors who need to re-locate a previously planned overseas trip to our natural treasure instead. We will also be activating local campaigns to encourage locals to engage with events and their favourite places of the Sunshine Coast – we know that postisolation the desire for community interaction will be strong, and events provide a great opportunity to get together while supporting local providers.

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VIRTUALLY RACING// Palmwoods’ Taj Jones winning a stage of one of the biggest cycling tours in Asia, Le Tour de Langkawi.

A new way to race ARA Pro Racing Sunshine Coast has had to get creative with training and racing during the COVID-19 lockdown

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or Sunshine Coast-based cycling team ARA Pro Racing Sunshine Coast, travel is as much a part of the job as riding a bike.

The team, a Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Continental team which is part of the Australian Cycling Academy (ACA) at the University of the Sunshine Coast, with a roster of primarily under 23-year-old riders, estimates they are on the road 150 days out of each year, with 100 race days spread throughout Australia, Asia, the US and Europe.

With travel bans in place and the cancellation of all racing on both the domestic and international calendar for the foreseeable future, the team had to get creative.

And it did just that, moving to online competition via the virtual platform Zwift , which allows riders to ride from home and follow their avatar through a virtual race scenario.

ARA Pro Racing Sunshine Coast managing director Ben Kersten said, “utilising the digital technology available has been crucial.

“It’s a unique situation we find ourselves in, along with every other

industry hit by COVID-19. We spend our year travelling to races, racing, and traveling some more. With this on hold, digital platforms like Zwift have been critical in allowing us to continue training and racing together as a team in a virtual capacity,” he said.

The sport’s national body, Cycling Australia, also partnered with Zwift to bring the regular racing season online.

This includes a six-round series where the country’s top teams race each other in a fortnightly program through May and June.

Audiences can tune in and watch the virtual stream online through SBS and the Cycling Australia Facebook page.

The team has also initiated several weekly group Zoom training sessions, both on the bike and in the gym, to help keep their riders on track. The gym sessions have been led by the strength and conditioning trainers at the University of the Sunshine Coast’s high-performance precinct, where the team is based and trains.

Beyond racing, the team prioritises education and mental health. The riders are required to enrol in further study, with the majority enrolled in university. This education focus has provided a welcome

distraction and the break from travel and racing has given the young athletes extra time to really focus on their studies.

“From the beginning, the core philosophy of the team has been ensuring our riders develop on and off the bike.

This means they are encouraged to study – with many studying at our base at the University of the Sunshine Coast – and we have processes in place to ensure they are getting the emotional support they need,” Mr Kersten said.

“Many of our riders are young and have moved away from their families to live, train and study on the Sunshine Coast. So we have a huge responsibility, especially at this time to make sure they are coping emotionally. We’ve really stepped up the check-ins with the riders and we are always available to them so we’re able to help anyone that is struggling. We’re also finding that for the riders having their education to focus on through this has been really positive for their wellbeing.”

The third part of surviving COVID-19 has been focusing on the team’s sponsors, the lifeblood of the sport.

“Cycling as a sport relies very heavily on

sponsorship; there are no spectator or gate fees or TV broadcast payments that prop the teams up like many other sports. Without sponsorship investment, this sport simply wouldn’t exist,’’ Mr Kersten said.

“A positive of this time for us is that it’s given us space to focus on generating new styles of content in conjunction with our sponsors, and we’ve developed a great video series for our social platforms.

This has been great for us, but also for our sponsors who are also struggling with the economic conditions this has created.

These are little wins for us and our sponsors and that’s what it’s been about for us during all of this – finding the positives and wins where we can.”

At a time when cycling for pleasure or exercise has reached an all-time high, it’s great to know that the Sunshine Coast leads the way as home to the Australian Cycling Academy.

for More information about the ACA www.aca-cycling.cc

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FUNDING FINDER //

If you need a helping hand, Funding Finder has you covered A new Council innovation is helping connect local businesses with a range of grants.

S

unshine Coast Council has partnered with Australia’s most powerful grant search engine, Grant Guru, to connect the region’s businesses and community groups to more than $133.6 billion worth of COVID-19 grants.

The Sunshine Coast Funding Finder is a comprehensive search engine that connects you to local, state, federal and

private grants – all from one easy-toaccess location. You can simply use the search engine to find available grants and filter grants by specifying location, industry and type of project.

If you search “COVID-19” you will find around 47 grants that are available for you to apply for today.

Since COVID-19 started to affect our

region, there has been a 65 per cent increase in searches on the Funding Finder website.

The website also assists with advice and top tips for finding and applying for grants to maximise your chances of receiving the funding you need. Users can also register to receive alerts about funding programs relevant to them as they become available, allowing businesses and community groups an opportunity to develop well prepared funding applications.

Sunshine Coast Economic Development Portfolio Councillor Terry Landsberg said it was important Sunshine Coast businesses and community groups jumped online to see what sort of support they might be able to access to help them recover from the COVID-19 economic impacts.

“There are a lot of great funding opportunities out there, but the process of finding and applying for grants can be daunting and time consuming and many people don’t know where to start looking,” Cr Landsberg said.

“Our Funding Finder will take the guess work out of searching for grants and help groups and businesses navigate the process. The custom search tool hand picks grants and funding opportunities specifically for businesses and community groups in the Sunshine Coast region. It’s a powerful but easy-to-use tool that offers a one-stop funding search engine that represents all grants, government or non-government.”

Caloundra Chamber of Commerce CEO Olivia Sainsbury is excited the region is able to access this tailored funding tool.

“This is a fantastic Council initiative that will enable every business and organisation to prioritise their funding efforts, so that no time is wasted,” Ms Sainsbury said.

“Access to a range of grants and funding can make a huge difference to businesses and organisations and they can really benefit from the Sunshine Coast Funding Finder.”

Start searching today sunshinecoast.grantguru.com.au

CONNECTING YOU TO HUNDREDS OF GRANTS IN THE CLICK OF A BUTTON! Sunshine Coast Funding Finder shows you grants in your specific location, industry or type of project.

Search for ‘COVID-19’ to apply for more than

47 business grants worth over $133.6B Start searching today and grow your business ideas sunshinecoast.grantguru.com.au

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BUILDING INDUSTRY//

Building industry rallies with gusto As an essential service, the building industry shows what a positive and innovative culture we have here on the Sunshine Coast, writes Hari Kotrotsios.

Sunshine Coast Business Gateway

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he region’s building industry has responded with gusto and taken positive steps early to ensure local businesses continue to work safely since COVID-19 restrictions were introduced.

Locals that are able to have also been lending a helping hand by getting started on any renovations or building works they can afford, to keep jobs flowing across the region.

Master Builders Association Sunshine Coast Regional Manager Will Wilson said those able to work had stepped up by taking the restrictions seriously. “People were proactive by reaching out to us to make sure they were doing the right thing from the start,” he said.

“As an essential service, we’ve had a great reaction from our members, which shows what a positive and innovative culture we have here on the Sunshine Coast.”

Due to the high demand for information, Master Builders has been sending out regular updates and resources to members. Its series of business endurance webinars included topics such as finances, work health and safety, human resources, information technology and online platforms, contracts management, plus mental wellbeing.

“There has been a camaraderie and rallying together to keep the industry, and to a greater extent our economy, moving forward,” Mr Wilson said.

“For the most part, projects that were on the go when the restrictions came into place have continued.

“There was lot of pride in the industry being approved an essential service” “Commercial projects which have been up to a year or more in the ground are also still busy.”

But some smaller businesses have been particularly hit hard, with jobs stopped or on hold for projects such as individual homes or those which had not yet started, or where contracts havd been signed but people were still waiting on finance approvals.

“Anyone who’s been stood down or laid off from their job is now not able to access finance and they want more financial certainty before they spend $15,000 on a

minor renovation or $300,000 on their first home. Right now, that’s really hard and builders are starting to feel the flow-on pinch,” he said.

“Smaller operators, working on one or two houses at a time, or those focused on smaller maintenance, renovations and repairs, are also the first to experience a drop in enquiries.”

But Mr Wilson does believe there is a cautious optimism in the industry and he is encouraging builders to look at other opportunities to maintain their business and create income if their traditional focus has been impacted.

“There are some amazing people out there who can finance a project and have reached out to builders, which is fantastic,” he said.

Mr Wilson said there was also a lot of pride in the industry that it had been approved an essential service.

“We have a skilled and passionate construction industry on the coast, which has kept the morale up.

“That’s why we’ve decided to go ahead with our annual Master Builders Housing and Construction Awards, in a modified format, with winners announced in early August.”

www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/Business • Local businesses can create a profile to be considered for contracts and be kept up to date on work opportunities across the region.

• Project managers can also register their projects and connect with local businesses. Council capital works projects are also listed on the gateway.

Existing opportunities www.regional.icn.org.au Through the Business Gateway, Sunshine Coast Council and the Industry Capability Network stimulate local access to projects looking for Sunshine Coast inclusion.

The following trade and trade supply opportunities are now available: • Caloundra South State High School • New Palmview State Primary School and Special School

for More information www.mbqld.com.au/home-owners/ find-a-master-builder

Sunshine Coast Council Business Support Publication | June 2020 17

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TAFE QUEENLAND

SUPPORTING THE SUNSHINE COAST COMMUNITY In the midst of a global pandemic, the Sunshine Coast still has so much to offer. A growing population, expanding infrastructure, a brand new CBD and soon, the new international broadband submarine cable – with so many opportunities available on our doorstep, now is the time to rebuild a sense of confidence in the community and start the road to economic and social recovery.

The Sunshine Coast has earned a reputation for being the entrepreneurial capital of Australia based on the large proportion of the population owning their own businesses, and now with so many key industries facing uncertainty how the community responds to the challenges of COVID-19, it can shape the growth of local industry into the future. But as TAFE Queensland’s Dean Sherwell explains, mutually beneficial partnerships and quality training can give local enterprises an edge over their competitors.

“How we respond to COVID 19 is critical. We don’t know what the job market is going to look like in the future, but we do know that having skills you can use will be an asset”.

In his role managing TAFE Queensland East Coast region’s Business Development team, Dean connects with the Sunshine Coast Council, Chambers of Commerce and local businesses to ensure that TAFE Queensland is responsive to the training needs of the local community.

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“Quality, industry-standard training has the power to boost productivity and skills – which in turn can save a business plenty of time, effort and money in the long run,” Dean said.

“I don’t think the Sunshine Coast will ever lose that quality; it may be growing, but we are still very much a tight-knit community that care more about supporting people they believe in,” he said.

“TAFE Queensland remains dedicated to providing students with hands-on experience and organisations with training for their employees.

While COVID-19 is temporary, the skills students learn with us aren’t—they will last a lifetime”.

“TAFE Queensland has been around for over 135 years and is the largest training organisation in Queensland, so we clearly know what we’re doing. But it’s our authenticity, and our genuine desire to help local businesses be the best they can be, that draws industry to partner with us.”

“By being so heavily involved in the community and connecting with industry, we are not only ensuring the quality training of future and current employees, but are ensuring that we are across new developments so we can address the region’s training needs as they arise.”

Discover study options at TAFE Queensland by visiting tafeqld.edu.au or calling 1300 308 233 to learn more.

Dean has lived on the Sunshine Coast since 2011 and says although the region has grown and changed over the years, one thing he believes has remained consistent is the collaborative nature of local businesses, and how supportive the community are of local enterprises.

28/05/2020 2:31:54 PM

TAFE QUEENSLAND

WHY ISOLATE, WHEN YOU COULD ISOLEARN? In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, TAFE Queensland, in conjunction with the Queensland Government, is offering a range of education and training to support individuals, and small, medium and large businesses.

During this period where many of us are working from home or self-isolating, there is no better time to start learning, acquiring a new skill, or trying something different.

With our free micro-credentials and skill sets* you can turn uncertainty into opportunity. Our isolearn courses are designed for individuals who are looking to gain a new skill and add to their resume, or for those who are looking for a career change or restart.

STUDY ONLINE START NOW

1300 308 233 tafeqld.edu.au/isolearn * Eligibility criteria applies for skill sets. Free skill sets are available to job seekers or workers impacted by COVID-19.

RTO 0275 CRICOS 03020E

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SUNSHINE COAST CHAMBER ALLIANCE //

Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance New research identifies the needs and concerns of the Sunshine Coast business community in the face of COVID-19.

So much in our lives is different in 2020 to anything we have experienced in our lifetimes, and it has meant we have had to adapt and rethink so much, which of course includes how we do business. I know some of you may be thriving through the current situation, some of you may just be surviving and others somewhere in between.

Wherever you and your business are on that scale right now, you are not alone. There is such a wonderfully connected community in this great region, and it is more important than ever that we support each other. To understand the regional impacts of this pandemic, the Chamber Alliance Executive team is in regular communication with regional and political business leaders, and together we are working to identify solutions.

Linda Delamotte, President Understanding the effects of Covid-19

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o gain a greater understanding of the effects of COVID-19, the Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance conducted research of a point-in-time to identify the immediate needs of the business community and its direct impact. The purpose of the research was to attain quantifiable data that provides an accurate sense of the impact on businesses within the Sunshine Coast community and to identify immediate solutions and challenges facing businesses that can inform key decision makers at a local, state and national level.

The April research captured 101 responses from businesses across the Greater Sunshine Coast region revealing: • COVID-19 has directly impacted all businesses with 80 per cent of respondents experiencing a decrease in demand for their business.

• A combined loss of $5,030,000 in monthly sales was determined - this loss accounts for less than one per cent of the total businesses in the region.

• A small proportion (five per cent) of businesses are hiring staff and 49 per cent are continuing business as usual.

Not all businesses have experienced a

negative impact with only 23 per cent of businesses closing their doors and of these, 82 per cent intend to reopen in due course.

An increase in demand for their business was experienced by 14 per cent of respondents, totalling a combined increase in monthly sales of $186,000. Respondents expressed the need for assistance with: remunerating accountancy services; explanation of stimulus packages; covering rent and rate expenses; transitioning to online and being innovative to identify opportunities.

The research demonstrates the Sunshine Coast region has an innovative and resilient business community with many identifying this as an opportunistic time to move their business to an online platform; create a new product or service; up-skill staff; and undertake contingency and business planning.

The Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance will continue to support the region’s business community as it moves forward beyond COVID-19 and would like to thank the many chambers of commerce and business and industry groups who encouraged their members to complete this research – their contribution is always appreciated. A copy of the full report is available on request. Please email: programmgr@sunshinecoastchamber alliance.com.au

New co-ordinator joins the Business Mentoring Program

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s a result of the success of the Business Mentoring program, which now has 20 mentors and 34 mentees, the SC Chamber Alliance sought the skills of an experienced business person who would be able to expand on the great work the group has done to date.

John Bidwell was appointed as the co-ordinator of the program and comes with an impressive business background.

He has held senior management, and operational roles in the energy, resources and related sectors in Australia, New Zealand and South America and has considerable experience in business planning, development and strategy.

If you are interested in being mentored or becoming a mentee we would love to hear from you, please email info@ sunshinecoastchamberalliance.com.au for more information or visit our website www.businessmentoring.sunshine coastchamberalliance.com.au.

The Business Mentoring Program is proudly supported by the Sunshine Coast Council’s grants program, Sunshine FM 104.9 and The Hive Business Space.

The Virtual Business Roundtable

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hifting from the traditional Sunshine Coast Small Business Breakfast event to an online format, the Virtual Business Roundtable was born. And, what a fabulous engaging conversation by business leaders with business colleagues that turned out to be.

The always dynamic Kim McCosker from 4 Ingredients chatted with three winners from the 2019 Sunshine Coast Business Awards: Peter Kuruvita (Noosa Beach House), Naomi Elliott (Concept Labs) and Deb Caruso (IN Noosa magazine). 2020 has so far turned out very differently than anyone could have expected and hearing their insights and experiences was invaluable and inspirational.

Key messages from the trio were: • look after your locals first • be true and authentic at all times • value any time that you have now to reconnect with your loved ones • spend time conceptualising where to next and don’t wait till the fog lifts • opportunities exist right now • support local and buy locally • ‘Made in Australia’ is a prized quality assurance value • be accessible as a leader.

It’s true that business isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s for the brave, the patient and the persistent.

Thanks to our event sponsors RDA Sunshine Coast and Sunshine Coast Council and our event partner Balance Boardroom for the webinar expertise.

Anyone can watch the recording of the round table event available on our website and social media platforms.

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CHAMBER NEWS//

4556 Chamber of Commerce

Brendan Southey President www.4556chamber.com.au admin@4556chamber.com.au @4556Chamber

4556 update Buderim is bloomin’ beautiful in every season and you come here for the splendour of the views and the village feels.

Sippy Downs is booming alongside the growth of the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC). Forest Glen is home to a collection of businesses with ‘organic’ credentials surrounding Kunara. And, Kunda Park is an engine room of commercial and light industrial businesses busily manufacturing, designing, servicing and retailing for B2B and B2C trade.

Your local group helping business thrive

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556 Chamber covers Buderim, Sippy Downs, Forest Glen and Kunda Park including USC. We’ve made a decision to offer FREE memberships for micro/small businesses through to January 31, 2021.

Our intention is to connect and support more local businesses than ever before so that our cohort is stronger and more able to embrace future opportunities.

More than 70 businesses have joined to date. Existing memberships have all been extended for free too. The chamber’s communication platforms are serving an important function sharing critical government support information, good news stories and local news. The chamber is part of a coalition of organisations invested in the wellbeing of the local community. Become a member today.

Caloundra Chamber of Commerce

Michael Shadforth Enabling, connecting and promoting President www.caloundrachamber.com.au admin@caloundrachamber.com.au @CaloundraChamber

Caloundra Update We would love to see you down in Caloundra. We now have retail stores open again in Bulcock Street and in the Caloundra Shopping Centre and arcades, and, of course, we offer a wide range of food options and takeaways. Get your exercise walking from Bulcock Beach to Moffat Beach (and back) and stop on the way for a coffee or grab some food to take home or picnic locally.

To get a list of what else you can do or what stores are open, visit our website.

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he Caloundra Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic organisation that supports the business community by enabling, connecting, and promoting.

We offer a network that spans the Sunshine Coast, enabling our 500 members to build strong relationships and access a variety of services, information and education to support all parts of the business life cycle. We have a culture where members share in their experience of business, have fun, learn from their peers, and celebrate success.

We do this by creating a relaxed, non-competitive and collaborative environment through a range of events and activities during the year. If you are on the Sunshine Coast or have just arrived, and are seeking better business connections or to grow your business, join today.

Caloundra Chamber of Commerce

Expand your Network caloundrachamber.com.au F #caloundrachamber T @CaloundraChamb Sunshine Coast Council Business Support Publication | June 2020 21

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CHAMBER NEWS/

Coolum Business & Tourism

Mark Cameron President www.coolumbusinessandtourism.com.au info@coolumbusinessandtourism.com.au

@CoolumBusinessandTourism

COOLUM update We’re ready and waiting to welcome you to Coolum. Whether surfing a wave, climbing a mountain, walking the dog or taking in the sea air, you can leave your cares behind. Our retail and cafe precincts are now back in action, both onsite and online. Get outdoors, roam the countryside or stay beachside – we’re calling on you from where you’d rather be. To find out more about what’s happening around Coolum visit www.facebook.com/visitcoolum.

Eumundi Chamber of Commerce

David Perez

Vibrant, progressive and connected

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he ingenuity of the Coolum business community never ceases to amaze me – at once innovating while looking out for each another. Creating new product lines, introducing home delivery services – a lot of shutdown businesses are using their resources to help others in the community. CB&T has been proud to play its part connecting the dots and keeping business informed. As we move through this period of slowly seeing restrictions ease, we continue to support Coolum business owners with the mentoring, guidance and moral support they need to navigate this challenging time. As we begin to emerge from lockdown, we look forward to leading the Coolum business community to develop a plan of action for the long-term economic recovery of our region, so that Coolum emerges an even better region to live, work and play.

Discover the membership that will help you grow & develop your business

Become part of what makes Coolum so special! www.coolumbusinessandtourism.com.au

President www.eumundichamber.com.au secretary@eumundichamber.com.au @EumundiChamber

Eumundi UPDATE The world-famous Eumundi Markets will reopen soon, with many retail businesses already resuming trade. There is something for everyone with exceptional cafes, alfresco dining, craft beer, coffee roastery, bookstore, boutique clothing, designer furniture, jewellery, home décor, farm gate experiences, essential shopping and a playground for the kids. For hinterland escapes and weekend getaways, Eumundi has boutique accommodation and health and wellness retreats returning soon.

A combined voice for local business

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umundi Chamber of Commerce has several initiatives such as disseminating information from government bodies regarding COVID-19 updates, directives and government assistance grants via email and social media channels. We have also applied for a grant to invest in high-quality video content for promotion to the region as restrictions ease.

Our members have been invited to online video meetings with key industry stakeholders and connect members that can support each other. Working with Experience Eumundi, we have shared and provided content on the new COVID-19 support local business Facebook page and are collaborating to provide free workshops to members. We welcome new members and would appreciate the opportunity to find out how we can support your business.

We love welcoming new members, and would like the opportunity to find out how we can support you and your business

eumundichamber.com.au

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Glasshouse Country Chamber Kawana Chamber of Commerce

Ursula Starkovsky President www.glasshousecountrychamber.com.au info@glasshousecountrychamber.com.au @GlasshouseCountryChamberOfCommerce

Glasshouse update Breathtaking views, great mountain climbs and walks and exclusive boutique stays, the Glasshouse Country region is expansive and diverse, extending from Glenview to Beerburrum and Peachester.

Famous for the 11 stunning mountainous peaks, we are also home to tourist attractions including Australia Zoo and The Big Kart Track, cafes and restaurants, accommodation, retail outlets and many other small businesses. We would love for you to come and explore our region.

Hamish Procter

Local business champions

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he Glasshouse Country Chamber of Commerce encourages, supports and promotes the business interests of our members in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

Our members include retailers, accommodation providers, primary industries, professional services and more.

They have gone above and beyond to make changes to their businesses to adapt to the current laws, including implementing home deliveries and takeaway meals, online dance classes and other great implementations.

Our chamber has been connecting with members by phone, Facebook and email newsletters to keep them up-to-date with programs that are available to assist businesses. Our chamber has waived membership fees for a six-month period and our invoices for the 2020/21 financial year will not be sent out until October 2020.

President www.kawanachamber.com.au chamber@kawanachamber.com.au @Kawanabiz

Kawana UPDATE We are expecting local venues like the Sunshine Coast Stadium, Venue 114, Brightwater Tavern, Club Kawana and Gold Class cinemas to be back in action as further restrictions ease, so keep watching for announcements. In the meantime, Kawana Shoppingworld and Stockland Birtinya Shopping Centre are open, and you can enjoy our pristine beaches, coastal pathways, and Lake Kawana, which offers great walking circuit. Take a look at our members directory and support local!

Inspire, educate and connect

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he Kawana region is diverse in its industry mix and we have seen some businesses thrive as others aim to survive. With the hospital at the heart of our community, our focus on the health of our region has never been more prominent. The chamber is working hard to support our members through this challenging time.

We are running a Kindness, Connection & Collaboration campaign through our social media, highlighting our members’ businesses who have formed new or special incentives to continue serving their customers. We have leapt into the world of online events so none of our members miss out on learning and networking. What has become evident is how connected we are as a region and how many years of building solid relationships has helped us all to collaborate and support each other.

Making business connections fun!

We provide events and knowledge to help businesses network, promote their business, assist in community projects and build a better business community

We are the primary opportunity for our members to build strong business networks Connect with us today glasshousecountrychamber.com.au

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CHAMBER NEWS//

Maleny Chamber of Commerce

Nicole Hilton President www.malenycommerce.org.au info@malenycommerce.org.au @MalenyCommerce

Maleny update Come up the hill to Maleny. We provide a unique shopping experience – there are no retail chain stores up here, just mum and dad businesses creating wonderful shopping experiences. We have more than 20 cafes and restaurants providing fresh takeaway foods, many made with local produce. All your senses are heightened on the range with beautiful views, nature aplenty, delicious awardwinning foods and the smell of fresh country air and winter fires.

Maroochydore Chamber of Commerce

Brendan Bathersby

The town of local businesses

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aleny Commerce exists to promote, encourage, assist and protect the development of individuals engaged in free enterprise, business, the professions, tourism and industry who are members of the association. Maleny commerce currently has a number of programs in place: • Supporting our local cafes and restaurants with a successful local takeaway competition involving not only our members but all Maleny cafes and restaurants open for business; • Recording a series of business interviews to inform our community of changes, challenges and successes during this time, connecting business with the community; • Preparing to launch our Maleny Gift Card, securing local funds and supporting local businesses.

President

A smart chamber for a bright city

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www.maroochy.org admin@maroochy.org @MaroochydoreChamberofCommerce

Maroochydore Update There’s no time like now to support local businesses, not just in Maroochydore but across the Sunshine Coast. Money spent locally stays local and that’s great for the local economy and keeping muchneeded businesses open and locals employed. In Maroochydore, it’s great to see cafes, restaurants, bars and even some markets begin to open, along with a host of other businesses. Please support local business when you can but continue to exercise social distancing.

OVID-19 has challenged the whole community and the Maroochydore Chamber is no exception. We quickly moved to the online realm to ensure our members could stay informed during the shutdown period with a number of Zoom events held in April and May. This change has been warmly received with strong participation. In keeping with learnings from COVID-19, online events could become a regular activity.

The chamber’s executive leadership team has continued to meet via Microsoft Teams to ensure members are able to network and receive advocacy services. With chamber memberships due soon, the team is exploring options to assist those members whose business has been affected during the pandemic. Become a member or search for local businesses on our website.

A Smart Chamber for a Bright City Supporting the Sunshine Coast’s business comunity since 1991

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Montville Chamber of Commerce Mooloolaba Chamber of Commerce

Shiralee Cooper

An Artisan destination

President

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www.montvillecommerce.com.au info@montvillecommerce.com.au @montvillechamberofcommerce

Montville update From galleries to vineyards, coffee and cakes all with sweeping views from the mountains to the sea. The welcome mats are back! Montville has reopened to visitors and from June 12 you can book a stay. Soon we’ll be celebrating Christmas in July. We also eagerly anticipate presenting our annual A Village Wedding Expo in late August – visit www. avillagewedding.com.au to learn more.

To find out more about this artisan destination visit our chamber website.

ontville Chamber of Commerce is focused on continuing to support its business community during and beyond trading restrictions and the uncertainty of the broader environment.

We are using new tools and technologies to effectively operate and connect. With our monthly networking meetings off the menu, we are spending more time on developing regular newsletters, featuring a range of important self-help resources and webinars.

While we wish we never faced these challenges, we also believe it’s important to use this time to future-proof our operations and support our business community. We have been taking part in online meetings with representatives from the Council, Federal Government and Visit Sunshine Coast and believe innovation, evolution and resilience are integral to our resurgence.

Have a voice in our future!

info@montvillecommerce.com.au montvillecommerce.com.au

Graeme Juniper President www.discovermooloolaba.com.au business@mooloolabatourism.com.au @mooloolabachamber4557

Mooloolaba Update Mooloolaba is open for your business – the Esplanade, Brisbane Road, the Wharf and other areas of commerce are all here for your needs and wants. From delicious donuts and designer dresses to yoghurt, aromatic coffee, boutique brews, fresh local seafood and delicious gelato, it’s all here. Beach weddings are also back, so book now at www.mooloolabaweddings.com.au #discovermooloolaba #lovemooloolaba

Helping business in Mooloolaba prosper

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e have embraced the saying ‘Queensland backing Queensland’.

Encouraging members to support local business that have managed to stay open has been one of our key communications. Sharing information and positivity through social media platforms, and keeping our members informed and up-to-date on local council, state and federal initiatives have been our main focus. Liaising with Council and Visit Sunshine Coast to plan ahead for when we are through this unique event in history and the tourists can return has been ongoing and will continue.

We are looking forward to a new normal when Mooloolaba can welcome all back to this award-winning region. The chamber has made a commitment to help all businesses in Mooloolaba prosper and new members are invited to join us today.

Making Mooloolaba shine!

d i s c o v e r m o o l o o l a b a .c o m . a u Sunshine Coast Council Business Support Publication | June 2020 25

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CHAMBER NEWS//

Nambour Chamber of Commerce Yandina Chamber of Commerce

Timothy Smith President www.nambour.com enquiries@nambour.com @NambourChamber

nambour update The Nambour Library has re-opened its doors and continues to offer a click and collect service. Nambour Plaza and the Nambour Mills Shopping centre are still trading, and Nambour News is open daily.

The Majestic Cinema will be back showing movies very soon, and other C-Square businesses like Endless Time Cafe are re-opening their doors. Wander along Queen Street and support small businesses – you’ll find fresh baked goods, locally made preserves and organic produce.

John O’Leary

Reimagining Nambour

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hile we traditionally think of a community as the people in a given geographical location, there is also a business community that is a vital cog in our overall community that is represented by NCOC. We would encourage all of the Nambour residents to shop locally and support those businesses so that we can continue to grow as a community.

The Nambour Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit member-based organisation of passionate volunteers working to advance the interests of member businesses to ensure a prosperous, vibrant and sustainable future for Nambour.

For the latest information on Nambour businesses visit our website or Facebook page.

Prosperous, vibrant & sustainable future for Nambour

President www.yandinachamberofcommerce.com.au admin@yandinachamberofcommerce.com.au

@YandiinaChamberOfCommerce

Yandina Update Yandina is characterised by “Different is Better”. The historic precinct of Stevens and Farrell Streets is at the heart of this quirky, artistic town. The other good news? We’re open for business! A perfect example is Cindy Lidington’s Stay Wild Collective of natural fabrics and materials with unique designs. In the shadow of Mt Ninderry and a stone’s throw from historic Yandina Pub, visitors can enjoy fashion, coffee, art and a range of cuisines – all within an easy walk.

A community in harmony

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ur sole purpose is to make Yandina business better and in doing so make our community better. Yandina and the surrounding district is blessed with the best that nature offers.

We work in harmony with our community and the environment to ensure a vibrant business community that will endure into the future. The annual street fair, Christmas carols and ANZAC Day are examples where the chamber supports the local community. We also liaise closely with community groups such as YADCA on resolving issues of local concern.

Next time you’re in Yandina visit the Historic House to see how we engage with our past. As the first gazetted town here, we recognise our story goes back a lot further prior to settlement. Simultaneously we’re building a bright and interesting future.

Trust, Respect, Teamwork

www. nambour.com

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INDUSTRY NEWS//

Local Industry Associations Local industry groups support the region and the workers who live here.

Staying connected and inspired online

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he purpose of the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network (SCBWN) is to empower and celebrate women to achieve in business. Now, and always, SCBWN provides support. The organisation is currently offering free and discounted online events along with resources on a range of relevant topics to motivate, educate and support women in business.

Free to members and the public are a series of Wake Up With SCBWN Zoom events featuring guest speakers who discuss relevant and timely topics. Plus, the Leverage

And Learn sessions teach practical skills in a range of business areas. Members enjoy Wind Down With SCBWN online evening events to wrap up the week with a supportive group to bounce ideas off, share challenges or frustrations with, or to celebrate wins. The Inside Edge events give members access to SCBWN award winners to learn their special tips on creating a successful business or career.

Learn more and register at www.scbwn.org.au

An eco-business hub for a clean future

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hat is a cleantech business? It could be an electrical business offering a service to reduce electricity usage, a solar business, or a business that offers recycling or reduces plastic waste. You could be in the building industry offering ways to save resources.

Do you have a sustainably built product available to hire like an ecotourism venue? Do you offer ways to save on water like rainwater tanks? Do you offer eco-friendly transport like electric

bikes? Do you sell sustainable products?

If you answered yes to any of these, then you are a cleantech or sustainable business, and Cleantech Industries Sunshine Coast (CISC) wants to help you!

CISC is offering FREE membership until December 2020. Join now and receive information with the latest cleantech and sustainability news and inside industry information to help your business grow.

Visit www.cleantechsunshinecoast.org.au

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INDUSTRY NEWS//

Let’s keep our industry moving

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aintaining business operations through the impact of COVID-19 is challenging. So, the Housing Industry Association (HIA) has built a library of resources to help its members through these unprecedented times.

HIA is Australia’s largest national association for the residential building industry, providing access to an enormous range of industry products and services designed to help members manage, operate and grow their business.

Given the important role that small businesses play in the growth of the regional economy and the impact COVID-19 has had on small businesses, Construction Skills

Small businesses, big impact

Queensland (CSQ) and HIA have teamed up to deliver a small business training program tailored to the Queensland building and construction industry.

Through digital training sessions and with ongoing support, the program aims to increase the capability and capacity of small construction businesses so that they can not only survive, but grow and prosper.

Sign up to be a HIA member to receive a 20 per cent discount on your annual subscription. Call Mark on 0414 458 985, for further information.

Offer valid until June 30, 2020. Visit www.hia.com.au

Education: now more important than ever

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t is unlikely that there has been another time in history that has so distinctly brought home the importance of education and revealed the dedication of our local workforce across two highly ranked universities, more than 80 schools and 150 registered training organisations.

Education Sunshine Coast wishes to acknowledge the effort and goodwill demonstrated by teachers, academics, tutors, support staff, students and families who are experiencing the unprecedented educational landscape of COVID-19.

The community is looking to our universities and colleges to find a cure for COVID-19, which they are working on, and to supply an expertly trained workforce to care for those affected. Schools play a vital role in children’s social, physical and mental development and have been providing learning materials for parents and carers supporting learning@home.

It is Education Sunshine Coast’s hope that our community stays safe, we can keep virus cases to a minimum and that those who get unwell recover quickly.

Visit www.educationsunshinecoast.com

Sharpen your small business skills with the fully subsidised* HIA-CSQ Small Business Program.

Sign up today at hia.com.au/csq or call 07 5587 7405

*Eligible Small Building and Construction Businesses only

Brings together the region’s diverse education providers and vested agencies to work together to influence, improve and advocate for the best possible educational outcomes for all students educated on the Sunshine Coast

www.educationsunshinecoast.com

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INDUSTRY NEWS//

Upskill leaders to empower our teams

FAN connections through COVID-19

W

orking together to strengthen connections and collaborations has been the core focus of the Food and Agribusiness Network (FAN), during the COVID-19 crisis.

FAN works with its members across the food value chain and advocates for the food and agribusiness industry in the greater Sunshine Coast region.

During the crisis, FAN has connected its members with ongoing support, resource and collaborative opportunities.

The breadth of FAN’s membership has meant it’s been well placed to help its members find creative and innovative

More than ever, it is important regional business communities stay united as we pave the road to recovery. The Institute of Managers and Leaders (IML ANZ) is supporting the Sunshine Coast by providing a range of virtual resources and services helping people re-skill, adapt and sharpen their knowledge so they can nurture their businesses back to success.

1. Networking IML ANZ’s regular sessions connect professionals across the country to offer peer-to-peer support, share experiences and meet others in similar circumstances.

2. Virtual learning The organisation has also designed a

solutions for COVID-19 related challenges.

FAN has rolled out a comprehensive series of business information resources and online webinars and leveraged its relationships with the wider industry to connect members with specific support.

With the easing of restrictions, FAN’s focus will be on sharing information and support to assist businesses transitioning back to a new normal.

For information on how FAN can help your food or beverage business contact: nicole@foodagribusiness.org.au

www.foodagribusiness.org.au

suite of online webinars, masterclasses and programs to equip professionals with the relevant skills to lead their businesses during crisis.

3. Mentoring IML ANZ’s additional mentoring cohort supports members in need of one-to-one support from others over this challenging time. These initiatives are available for free to members and at low cost to businesses. Let’s work together to emerge safe and stronger.

Find out more about membership at www.managersandleaders.com.au/ professional-community

e Join the

information resources support programs collaborations

0 strong 11,000 strong ber community Member community at the Institute of Managers

titute of Managers and Leaders ANZ

ers ANZ ma managersandleaders.com.au/ professional-community

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INDUSTRY NEWS//

Visit Sunshine Coast supports local tourism industry

Building a better Australia

T

he Sunshine Coast property industry employs more than 13,000 locals directly and a further 16,863 indirectly, making it the third largest employer in the region.

With $893.6 million going into wages and salaries from the industry, those working in property are striving to protect jobs and boost the economy by working closely with the Queensland Government and the Sunshine Coast Council to ensure a strong recovery for the Coast following this pandemic.

The Urban Development Institute of Australia listens to members and advocates on the issues preventing the delivery of better development. This work keeps members building new homes for Coast residents and creating sustainable local jobs, which benefits many families.

Join more than 4500 member companies spanning top-tier global enterprises and consultants, to local governments and small-scale developers at www.udia.com.au

V

isit Sunshine Coast (VSC) is a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about promoting the Sunshine Coast to potential visitors as a must-visit destination.

The impact COVID-19 has had on our region’s tourism industry has been unprecedented.

As the regional tourism organisation for the Sunshine Coast, VSC is here to support tourism businesses as we transition from crisis to recovery.

We want to make sure businesses can find a way back from these challenging times

VisitSunshine Coast Queensland Naturally refreshing

THE STATE’S LARGEST NETWORK OF COMMUNITY CREATORS

Visit Sunshine Coast have announced a fee waiver for all existing members and a reduced fee of only $10 for new members.

and emerge stronger and ready to grow.

Unprecedented times call for extraordinary responses and that’s why VSC is waiving membership fees for all current financial members.

VSC is offering a reduced fee of only $10 for new tourism essential members for the 2020/2021 financial year.

To accelerate your tourism business to the market post COVID-19, email membership@visitsunshinecoast.com or visit www.teamsunshinecoast.com/10

JOIN

TEAM SUNSHINE COAST TODAY Supporting the Tourism Industry to grow and prosper post COVID-19

Visit to join: teamsunshinecoast.com/10

Visit udiaqld.com.au

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