
A call to action for all GSBN members and subscribers – we need to five minutes of your time to complete our Training Needs Survey! I recently attended a national conference at which one of our keynote speakers was discussing the importance of investing in employees’ growth and wellbeing as a core strategy of addressing some of the challenges around staff recruitment and retention. It was interesting to note that an investment of approximately 3% of turnover in staff training and personal development is considered an essential part of proactive business planning.
GSBN is eager to provide our members with opportunities to participate in quality training and development resources. Our partnership with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) gives our members access to a wealth of business, HR, and operational information, including training programs. Both VCCI and GSBN need your input by completing the short Business Training Needs survey to help us deliver the resources that best suit our region’s needs.
This is an important opportunity for you to contribute to the delivery of VCCI training resources in Greater Shepparton and I ask you to please complete the survey prior to March 2, 2025.
Stephen Schneider
President – GSBN

The Greater Shepparton Business Network (GSBN), in partnership with the Greater Shepparton Business Centre, is conducting a short survey to better understand the training needs of local businesses. As business operators ourselves, we know the challenges of finding the right training programs and planning for skill development in today’s fast-paced economy.
This 5-minute survey is your chance to let us know what training and development opportunities would most benefit your business. Your input will help us collaborate with training providers to bring valuable, professionally facilitated programs to Greater Shepparton.
Your feedback matters! Take a few moments to complete the survey and contribute to the growth and success of our local business community.

We are excited to kick off our first After 5 Networking Event of the year on Wednesday 19 February, hosted by Shepparton Club, a valued Business Excellence Awards Sponsor, and we’re thrilled to share that the event has officially sold out!
With many local businesses registered to attend, this event is set to be a fantastic evening of networking, knowledge-sharing, and strengthening business connections. This overwhelming response highlights the enthusiasm within our business community and the value of these events for fostering meaningful connections within the Greater Shepparton region.
For those who missed out this time, don’t worry – there will be plenty more opportunities to connect throughout the year! We encourage you to register early for future After 5 Networking Events to secure your spot. Keep an eye on your emails and our social media channels for announcements about upcoming events.
We look forward to seeing all registered attendees on Wednesday 19 February for the launch of our 2025 events calendar!

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) was established in 2016 to advocate for, and give assistance to, small business and family enterprises. This includes assistance with disputes.
The independent review considers whether the ASBFEO’s functions and operations are effective, and further feedback is bought sought through a survey.
The survey will help the Independent Reviewer to ensure the ASBFEO is meeting the needs of the small business community.
Small businesses, family enterprises, the franchising sector and their representatives are invited to provide feedback through the survey. The survey closes on 31 March 2025.

Careers Day Out 2025, Regional Victoria’s premier youth careers expo, is seeking local support for this one-day event on 8 May. By sponsoring Careers Day Out, you’ll provide invaluable opportunities for students of all abilities to explore diverse career and education pathways. Engage with over 3,500 students and 100+ exhibitors on-site, showcase your organisation, and connect with future leaders. Make a real difference in students’ lives by guiding them towards educational, vocational, and career options. Additionally, Careers Day Out welcomes registrations from potential exhibitors. For more information, please visit the link below.

Nominations for the 16th annual Greater Shepparton Volunteer Recognition Awards are closing soon!
If you know a volunteer or volunteer team who deserve to be recognised for the contribution they make – nominate them today!
There are four award categories for 2025:
The Bella Ainsworth Young Volunteer: 12 to 25 years of age.
Adult Volunteer: 26 years of age and over.
Volunteer Team: A group of two or more people.
Long Serving Volunteer: 15 years or more service.
For further information and to nominate, click the link below!
*Nominations close at 5pm on Monday 24 February 2025.

Destination Goulburn Valley invites you to an unforgettable long-table lunch, nestled under the tranquil shade of Olive House’s olive grove. Celebrate the region’s finest farm-to-table produce with a three-course menu featuring local favourites like Bunbartha Beef, Redevski’s Coolstores, Goodlookin Googees, Olivehouse, and Plunkett’s Orchards. Sip on handcrafted wines and soak in the acoustic melodies of the Matty and Jamie Duo, creating the perfect backdrop for this celebration of community, flavour, and land.
Event Details:
📍 Location: Olive House, Kialla West
🗓️ Date: Sunday, 23rd February 2025
💵 Tickets: $125pp | Discounted rates for groups of 10+
🍷 Additional Info: Drinks available at bar prices
Make it a weekend! Contact Quest Shepparton on 5814 4800 and mention “Our Table” event and provide a copy of your receipt to receive a 15% discount on your accommodation.
Supported by the Victorian Government, this event honours the growers, makers, and partners who bring the Goulburn Valley to life. Gather your friends, family and colleagues for a memorale dining experience, and celebrate the season!

Greater Shepparton City Council offer a range of Grants and Funding opportunities each year to local residents, businesses, and community groups.
To view available funding, click here.
We would like to take this opportunity to extend a warm welcome to the following new local businesses to join the Greater Shepparton Business Network this last month.
Additionally, we would like to extend our gratitude to the many businesses that have renewed their memberships with us.
Silver Members
Gold Members



Please visit our website at www.gsbn.net.au to learn more about: Membership, Events, Training and the SPC Business Excellence Awards.
We have a range of membership options to suit your business, and our events provide networking opportunities for you and your business.
A membership can be obtained for as little as $330.00 per year, join us today!


