Media Release

Local businesses are reaping the benefits of projects supported by the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme – Extension, with two programs underway to boost business growth and promotion.

Ten Cohuna-based businesses are currently taking part in Bush Biz Boost, a pilot program developed by Cohuna-based business and community support collaborative, CohunaCo and supported by the Cohuna and District Progress Association.

The six-week program aims to motivate and develop growth in rural businesses, focusing on six core areas - innovation, business planning, marketing, online opportunities, finance and mental health.

“Each presenter has created a two-hour training session focusing on their area of expertise, with each session delivered in person, where possible, or via Zoom. All presenters have also provided extra resources, with participants given the opportunity to meet with each presenter one-on-one to explore their individual needs,” CohunaCo co-founder, Amy Treacy said.

“We have also been asked to create an advanced version for those businesses who already have a handle on many of the basics that the current program covers, and there has been interest from other rural communities as they recognise that this is something that many of their local businesses may benefit from.”

Meanwhile, the Kerang Traders are utilising funding initially allocated to the proposed Kerang Winter Festival – cancelled due to COVID-19 social distancing restrictions – to develop a local shopping promotion program.

The Shop Kerang program involves the creation of a “shop local” gift card that can be used with any registered business in the town.

“The Shop Kerang program will promote money being spent locally and allow businesses the opportunity to work together and promote a strong shop local message,” Kerang Traders president, Robert Basile said.

The Bush Biz Boost and Shop Kerang programs are two of more than 60 initiatives to benefit from the $2 million support from the Federal Government.

“The Drought Communities Programme – Extension aims to stimulate local community spending and provide a long-lasting benefits to communities, and the Bush Biz Boost and Shop Kerang programs meet these criteria,” Gannawarra Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.

“Council looks forward to seeing the positive outcomes of these two initiatives, as well as the many projects completed and still to be undertaken thanks to this Federal Government funding.”

Details and updates on all projects supported by funding from the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme – Extension is available online at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/droughtfunding