Gerringong business on the go

NEW, old, small and large businesses in Gerringong have found a voice through the newly established Southern Network business association.

The associations Chairman, Glenn Steele of Gerringong Pharmacy, described the Southern Network as, an association of local business owners who are motivated and want to see things happening in Gerringong.

The Kiama Chamber of Commerce and Kiama Council agree and are supporting the project.

Ive very pleased to see the Southern Network established, up and running and making significant progress&I think it will go from strength to strength, said Kiama Mayor Sandra McCarthy.

Southern Network was established after 30 local businesses declared their need for a representative body within the local community.

Were looking for an environment thats going to encourage a sense of business growth in all our members, Mr Steele said.

The Network has been established as a sub-branch of the Kiama and District Chamber of Commerce.

They have the insurance and resources from the Kiama District Chamber of Commerce at their disposal, the Mayor said.

Despite this partnership, the Network is essentially a stand-alone association

Kerry Fair, a member and business communicator, is excited by the associations formation.

I think, in a small community, it is fantastic to be able to work together I think theres tremendous potential for joint endeavours, she said.

The Networks infancy is seen as an advantage. It will be tailor-made to suit Gerringong and will augment its structure in response to the needs and wishes of the local business environment, which includes 90 home-based businesses.

Were bringing a lot of these businesses out of the woodwork and theyre coming in, talking together and wanting to be part of it, Ms Fair said.

?Mayor Sandra McCarthy remarks on Gerringongs growth and dependence on both tourism and small business.

?? Theres been a lot of changes in Gerringong in the last 10 years& it has become a destination in its own right, its not the place that you drive through to get to somewhere else.

?? Its important that the businesses are working with each other and helping to promote, not only their own business, but sharing their experiences, helping each other and also promoting Gerringong, she said.

?The opportunity to network and work collectively within the community will eventually enable small businesses in the area to be profitable and sustainable.

?? I think what is terrific about this group is that theyre very open to exploring new ideas, Kerry Fair said.

?Southern Network currently has 20 businesses and membership is on offer at each meeting.

The next meeting of the group will be held on June 13 at Jacks Grill, Gerringong Hotel, from 12:30pm.