Charlotte Varcoe
AFTER 25 years of service to the community, the Women in Business and Regional Development officially disintegrated.
First coming together in 1999, the organisation was set up as a networking event for women who had started businesses.
Although there were not many women at the time the organisation started, over the years membership continued to grow.
Women in Business and Regional Development secretary Brittany Shelton said originally, those who started up businesses found they had a different business style to others.
“They found they really needed that network and connection to sort of speak to each other, share experiences, support and resources,” Ms Shelton said.
“They really helped each other crack into that market and then fast forward to the last three to five years and we have shaken things up from those early days and incorporating a lot more structured support.”
She said this included dedicated resource pages, masterclass series and keynote speakers from all around.
“We also had local speakers here to share on things like whether it be human resources or marketing and social media, things that if you start up your own business you might have a real passion in a particular area but not necessarily have those other skills,” Ms Shelton said.
“The networking always cvontinued and we also started our Business awards which gave women a kudos and pat on the back for their amazing achievements.”
As well as the awards, the Women in Business and Regional Development also started a mentoring program in 2022 which helped others connect with those in particular skill sets to further support them.
“It gave them that opportunity to talk to someone who does not know who they are, does not know their business and can give them completely frank advice about whatever issue they are facing,” Ms Shelton said.
“That was really an amazing success as well, so the organisation has really evolved over time to meet the needs of our community as they have arisen.”
She said community members were saddened by the closure of the organisation stating it would be harder for them to reach out.
“I am one of the newer members but I have quickly become very involved over the past couple of years and I cannot express how disappointing it is to see the business organisation come to an end,” Ms Shelton said.
“I know so many others would say the same as the learning opportunities and support I have received through knowing women in the network and the broader community has been a real game changer for me and I know others as well.”
She said despite the disappointment, there were no longer enough volunteers to support the organisation.
Redgum Country owner and long term Women in Business and Regional Development member Wendy Richardson said the organisation had benefited her for many years.
“It was very good for your business because you mingled and met people who knew different things,” Ms Richardson said.
“You learnt things from people whether they were guest speakers coming down, there were lots of fabulous functions and you learned from people what was around.”
She said the loss of the organisation was a “big loss” for her and to lots of businesses in the region.
“More and more people have gotten involved in the Chamber of Commerce and that is another organisation which does so much for your business and for the cost you pay to become a member it is only a small amount,” Ms Richardson said.
“There is a lot of support for women in business in Mount Gambier and we have also had the men involved, banks involved and they have all stood behind the women making decisions too.”
Ms Richardson said she hoped women in business would continue to work together and support one another despite the organisation not existing anymore.
“I think a lot of people need help with the steps to take when you are going into business and I hope we all watch out for one another,” she said.
