
Happy new year to all as we kick start 2025 which is shaping up to be yet another year of dynamic change for businesses to navigate.
With the holiday season and Christmas trade behind us it’s time to look to the opportunities that a new year can bring to our region.
GSBN is here to support all business across Greater Shepparton as an advocate with local government on all matters impacting our business community.
Our partnership with Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) not only provides GSBN members with access to a wealth of business resources, it also gives us a strong line of advocacy with Victorian State Government. I encourage you to reach out to our Admin team to arrange a one-on-one appointment if there are critical issues or opportunities impacting your business.
Through our strong connections we can work with you to connect with the appropriate channels of communication.
We encourage you to attend our networking events across the year as these forums are a great way to share your observations and experiences with fellow businesses as often you will find you are not alone in your business challenges. From these conversations actions can grow as together we can achieve great things in Greater Shepparton.
Stephen Schneider
President – GSBN

Happy New Year from the GSBN team! We officially returned to the office on 6 January 2025, refreshed and ready to make this year our best yet. Whether you’re looking to connect with other local businesses, explore new opportunities, or simply get more involved in the Greater Shepparton business community, we’re here to help you grow and succeed.
Our team is dedicated to supporting our members and fostering a thriving business network. As a reminder, here’s how we can assist you:
Membership Support: Need help accessing your benefits, renewing your memberships, updating your details, or getting your membership directory profile up-to-date? Let us know – we’re here to make the process seamless.
Event Information: Have questions about upcoming networking events, workshops, or training opportunities? Reach out for all the details.
Business Resources: From VCCI training opportunities to government grant application resources, we can guide you through resources tailored to help your business thrive.
General Enquiries: Whether it’s an idea, concern, or question, we’re just an email away!
January is the perfect time to set the tone for a successful year, and GSBN have a host of exciting initiatives and events lined up to support your goals. Make sure to check out the GSBN Events Page for updates and to RSVP for our After 5 Networking Events (more details coming soon so stay tuned!).
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to GSBN. Here’s to a year full of connection, collaboration, and growth!

Are you looking to connect with like-minded professionals, grow your business network, and uncover exciting opportunities within Greater Shepparton? Look no further than our monthly After 5 Networking Events, designed exclusively for the community to foster meaningful relationships and collaboration within the local business community.
What Are After 5 Networking Events?
The After 5 Networking Events are a cornerstone of the Greater Shepparton Business Network’s mission to empower and support businesses in our region. These informal, yet highly productive events offer a relaxed environment for professionals to connect, share ideas, and explore ways to collaborate. Held after business hours, these events are perfect for professionals who want to enhance their network without interrupting their workday.
Why Attend?
Build Valuable Connections: Meet fellow business owners, industry leaders, and innovators from a wide range of sectors across the Greater Shepparton region. Whether you’re looking for potential clients, partners, or simply inspiration, these events are a goldmine of opportunities.
Showcase Your Business: Every After 5 Networking Event is hosted by a different member business, offering the host an invaluable platform to showcase your products, services, and story to attendees. This is your chance to step into the spotlight, share your expertise, and make a lasting impression on the local business community.
Stay Informed and Inspired: Discover what’s happening in the local business landscape, learn about the latest innovations, and gain valuable insights through presentations and guest speakers.
Enjoy a Friendly, Relaxed Atmosphere: These events are designed to be casual and welcoming, making them an ideal setting for both seasoned networkers and those new to the idea of business networking.
Ready to take the next step in building your network? Don’t miss out on this year’s After 5 Networking Events! Stay tuned for more details on upcoming events and keep an eye on our Events Page for all the latest updates and upcoming opportunities to connect.
At GSBN, we’re committed to empowering our members by offering a wide array of exclusive benefits designed to help you thrive in business and beyond. Here’s a reminder of some of the incredible perks you can take advantage of when you’re a member of the Greater Shepparton Business Network:
Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) Partnership: Access a range of resources, including complimentary e-learning training courses, assistance with government grant applications, and invitations to VCCI After Dark networking events.
Networking Opportunities: Participate in our popular After 5 Networking Events and other community-focused events, offering countless chances to connect, collaborate, and grow.
Promotional Support: Showcase your business through our member spotlights, member directory, social media features, and event hosting opportunities.
Member-Only Offers: Gain access to exclusive discounts, promotions, and services available only to GSBN members.
These benefits are designed to give you the tools, connections, and support you need to succeed. Whether you’re looking to expand your network, increase your visibility, or develop new skills, GSBN has you covered.
Need help utilising your membership benefits? Contact us at admin@gsbn.net.au and we’ll guide you through the opportunities available to you. Let’s make 2025 your most successful year yet!
The new year is the perfect time to set fresh goals and create a roadmap for your business success. Here are some powerful resolutions to help you start 2025 strong:
Strengthen Your Business Network
Make it a priority to attend networking events and build connections with like-minded professionals. Mark your calendar for our February After 5 Networking Event for your first chance to reconnect and grow your circle this year.
Embrace Continuous Learning
Invest in your professional development by taking advantage of GSBN member benefits like VCCI’s complimentary e-learning courses. Upskilling can open doors to new opportunities and keep you ahead of the curve in your industry.
Review Your Goals
Take time to reflect on your 2024 achievements and set measurable, actionable goals for 2025. Break your goals into smaller milestones to stay focused and track progress throughout the year.
Revisit Your Online Presence
Ensure your business website, social media profiles, and other online platforms are up to date. A fresh, engaging digital presence can boost your visibility and attract new clients.
Prioritise Customer Relationships
Strengthen connections with your existing customers by offering loyalty incentives or reaching out to thank them for their support. Happy customers are your biggest advocates.
Reassess Your Finances
Review your business budget and financial goals for the year. Look for areas where you can reduce costs, increase efficiency, or invest in growth.
Leverage Your Membership Benefits
Don’t forget to maximise the exclusive perks GSBN membership offers, from networking opportunities to marketing support. If you need assistance navigating your benefits, we’re here to help!
Cultivate Work-Life Balance
Remember to prioritise your wellbeing and mental health. A healthy, focused mindset will empower you to achieve your business goals while avoiding burnout.
Start 2025 with a renewed sense of purpose and direction. If you need any support or resources to help you succeed, GSBN is here for you every step of the way. It’s time to make this year your most productive and fulfilling year yet! Are you ready?

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!
At GSBN. we’re all about collaboration and connection. As we kick off 2025, there are a variety of ways for you to get more involved, amplify your presence in the local business community, and make the most of your membership. Here’s how you can dive in:
Host an After 5 Networking Event
Be the spotlight of our signature monthly networking evenings by hosting an event at your workplace. Hosting allows you to showcase your business, share your story, and connect with fellow members in a dynamic and engaging setting. Interested? Reach out to us to discuss hosting opportunities for 2025.
Nominate for the Business Awards
2025 will bring another round of the prestigious Business Excellence Awards! Keep an eye out for nominations opening later this year. Whether you want to nominate your business or another standout business, the awards are a great way to recognise and celebrate the achievements of our local business community.
Attend Networking Events and Workshops
Mark your calendar for upcoming GSBN events and workshops. These are opportunities to expand your knowledge, grow your network, and engage in meaningful conversations with like-minded professionals.
Share Your Feedback
Your voice matters! Let us know how we can improve your experience as a member. From event suggestions to new members benefits, we’re always looking for ways to serve you better.

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.

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.
General Members
Connecting Futures Australia
Perfect Paws Dog Spa
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!


