The Healesville Trader Group has officially formed after a meeting this week saw the election of a new committee, and a unanimous vote to become an incorporated association. The Group’s purpose is to connect and support members to work together to strengthen Healesville’s vibrant township and business community.
Newly elected president of the Trader Group, Nina Sturgess from Verso Books, said the group would represent and advocate for the business and community interests of Healesville.
“We are thrilled to have a trader’s group in Healesville. Yarra Ranges Council has been instrumental in helping us get the group up and running. It will make us a more resilient business community in the future,” she said.
The incorporation of the Trader’s Group is an exciting next step for the dedicated local businesses that have been committed to working towards this outcome over the year.
The initial, unincorporated group was able to be auspiced by the Healesville Rotary, making them eligible for Round 1 of Council’s Business and Traders Led Recovery Grant. Securing the grant enabled the group to lay the foundations of a business and traders-driven forum.
The work began with a small meeting to discuss the potential of a Healesville B&TG, with traders Ms Sturgess, Maria Konecsny of Gewürzhaus Herbs and Spices, and Ben Arnold, owner of My Little Kitchen, Keeley Mahoney from the local Bendigo Bank, and Council’s Trader Group officer.
After an enormous effort by all involved, the incorporated group now has over 30 interested businesses, and exciting plans for future benefits for Healesville.
Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said Council recognises how important local business are to the community.
“Being a part of a business or trader group is a terrific opportunity to get involved, and really advocate for your business community. Council values our relationship with our trader groups and business networks. They’re a vital voice into what our communities and business need,” he said.
Some of the many benefits of being part of a BT&G are that incorporated groups are eligible for an array of grants and funding from various bodies, having a unified business voice on local issues strengthens advocacy positions, and the groups provide networking and marketing opportunities for businesses and the local area.
Council works closely with BT&G’s, with a dedicated officer able to be their single point of contact in the organisation, ensuring consistant communication. Council can assist with the training of office bearers and guidance to encourage best practise, and support locally led initiatives and events that encourage economic participation.
Council can connect you with existing groups in your area, or assist you in forming a new B&TG. Get in contact via 1300 368 333 or [email protected]
