I’M pleased to say that 2023 ended well for Ararat Rural City, with the majority of local businesses reporting positive trade in the lead up to Christmas.

There was some concern that increasing interest rates and cost of living pressures would impact on local traders, but it seems we dodged a bullet. 2024 remains a bit uncertain in the minds of some traders, but I’m confident we will continue to pull together for the greater good of our region.

The holiday period is always a good time to showcase our town and region. It has been great to see lots of visitors and new faces around. This is an ideal period to advertise our local businesses, community , services and attractions. You never know, it might be your next employee, tradie, business owner or investor!

For local farmers and agribusiness, the weather has been a challenge and harvest has been extended. Higher than average rainfall for this time of year and mild conditions, has meant difficult conditions to meet delivery specifications and crops are not coming off like they should. Please take time and care on the roads when the weather does improve, as farmers will be very keen to get the last of their crops off.

GABN 2024 - AGM

We have another busy year planned at Greater Ararat Business Network kicking off with our AGM in March. We are always on the look out for new ideas, and those that wish to contribute to the committee and help take on roles. We have a great committee of committed volunteers including Peter McGrath, Geannie Bell, Kelsey Hosking, Toby Steele, Matt Linsley, Craig Wilson and myself, but we could always do with a few new faces and new and fresh ideas. We are also fortunate to have the services of Phillippa Cairns who is the backbone of our organisation. If you have something to offer GABN or would like to contribute please get in contact.

Gift Card Program

I’d like to finish off my contribution this week promoting the positives of the GABN gift card scheme. The GABN gift cards work like other gift cards where a dollar value is placed on the card which is then gifted to a friend, family member or employee. The difference is the GABN gift card can only be spent locally, meaning your gift keeps money flowing through our local businesses. Already over $10, 000 has been spent in the local economy and we expect the popularity of the GABN gift cards to grow as more and more people learn of the benefits. Pick up your card at House of Nai Asian Grocers or Grampians Office Services.

http://gabn.org.au