THE festive season is well and truly upon us and I hope readers are enjoying the company around us, reflecting on what has been achieved and looking forward to the future.

GABN-Ararat Gift Card

This Christmas, Greater Ararat Business Network has launched the Ararat Gift Card – a card that works just like any other gift card except it can only be spent at participating businesses in Ararat Rural City. The gift card can be used to buy a pie at the Willaura Bakers, a new outfit at 2Taggs or something for your car at Ararat Autopro and Jaycar. Cards are easily purchased from The House of Nai or Grampians Office Services- and spent at the ever-growing list of businesses in the region. The gift card is a great way of supporting local businesses as well as giving someone you love a great shopping experience right here in Ararat. And the best part about it, if you buy or use a GABN gift card you will go into the draw to win one of twenty $500 gift cards.

Business After Dark

GABN has had a great run of BADs (Business after Dark). It has been great to get out past the city lights- and see businesses first hand at Pomonal, Moyston and Warrak. These nights are always insightful-and as well as the good stuff- we all learn from a few mistakes along the way too. Last night was the last BAD of the year held at Mountainside Wines.

As always the cost of doing business weighs heavily on owners- and GABN through the Victorian Regional Chambers Alliance is seeking input for a review of current WorkCover costs – and a more equitable system via hearings from the Victorian Parliament economics and Infrastructure Standing committee. VRCA is also hosting some webinars with the Ai group- on what changing workplace relations acts mean- and how to keep informed. For more information go to our website.

A big thank you to the GABN committee members who volunteer to help see our region prosper, for businesses to Network, Share and learn and promote business locally. A special thanks to Phillippa Cairns, ARCC Business Development and Engagement. Without her guidance, support and hardworkwe would simply not function. A shout out to Craig Wilson and his team at the Ararat Advocate for all their support, regular articles and news about town and country. Finally as you enjoy that Christmas drink, meal or snack, think of the work that went into growing, processing, transporting, packaging and serving it, and thank the businesses that make your life Merry! Have a great Christmas

http://gabn.org.au