February 2024 – Greater Shepparton Business Network Newsletter

Welcome to the information packed February 2024 edition of the Greater Shepparton Business Network newsletter. GSBN is a member-based organisation, and the newsletter is an important way we can share information about upcoming events and important business updates. We also want to hear from you our members across the Greater Shepparton Business community. To find out more about how you can share and celebrate your business success with fellow GSBN members, email member@gsbn.net.au

Greater Shepparton Citizen of the Year

Congratulations to our long serving board member and outgoing GSBN chair John Anderson on receiving the honor of the 2023 Citizen of the Year at the January Greater Shepparton City Council 2024 Australia Day Awards Ceremony. The GSBN Board also presented John with a Honorary Life member status at our November 2023 AGM in appreciation of his tireless efforts and contribution in shaping the Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and GSBN. John and his wife Agata have been heavily involved in the Shepparton Business sector and numerous service groups within our community over many years and are well deserved of this recognition.

Honorary lifetime membership presentation, pictured with Stephen Schneider, John Anderson and Geoff Adams

Board Introduction

2024 see a new executive team and some fresh faces to our GSBN Board. Having served in the role of secretary in more recent times Stephen Schneider has taken on the role of President from John Anderson. Stephen is the owner of Stephens Jewellers and is passionate about Greater Shepparton and building connectivity across our dynamic and diverse businesses. We also welcome Vince Gagliardi, Simon Quattrocchi and Michaela Sargeant to the board.

L-R Stephen Schneider President, Simon Quattrocchi – Vice president

Wayne Sutton – Vic President, Vince Gagliardi – Treasurer

Board Members from L-R: John Anderson, Geoff Adams,
Wendy Crow, Jac McCarty

Board Members from L-R: Michaela Sargeant, Anthony Spadaro,
Jo Spencer

Don’t Miss the Must-Attend Community Event Addressing Mental Health in Regional Victoria!

Shepparton, VIC (February 9, 2024) – Get ready for the most uplifting and empowering event of the year! On March 3 at the Mooroopna Community Hub from 10:30am to 2:30pm, a dynamic community event focused on mental health and wellbeing will take place.

Presented by GV Finance Brokers, this is THE event you don’t want to miss. Former Australian Rules Football legend Ray “Razor” Chamberlain will be the guest speaker, sharing his inspirational story of overcoming mental health struggles.

You will also hear from an expert panel connecting attendees with the best local mental health resources including Donna McMahon CEO of Qualify/Well at Work will, Dale Wright from Talking Straight, Sönke Tremper from Giz a Break, as well as representatives from Headspace Shepparton, Goulburn Valley Health, Beyond Blue and more who will provide tools, insights, and information for fostering mental wellness.

Simon Quattrocchi of GV Finance Brokers has organised this community-focused event to break down stigma, foster connections, and ignite positive change around mental health in regional Victoria.

“Mental health challenges don’t discriminate – they can affect anyone. This event will help us support each other on the path to wellness,” said Quattrocchi. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the solution!

Secure your FREE tickets now on TryBooking to ensure your spot at this uplifting and empowering event.

Sponsorship opportunities are open to businesses wanting to support this amazing initiative.

Contact Jamie Lea at
jamie@jlproductions.net.au / 0408330453 for details.
Contact Simon Quattrocchi at Simon@GVFinancebrokers.com.au / 0419 479 769 for all media comments.

Help create positive mental health change in regional Victoria.

For event details, visit
https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1172094.

GSBN upcoming events

Photos from our GSBN members Christmas Networking Event

March 2024

Photos from our GSBN November After 5 Networking Event

Greater Shepparton Business Network presents

In Conversation with Jelena Dokic

Greater Shepparton Business Network (GSBN) invite you to embark on a captivating journey through the remarkable life of former Tennis World Number 4 and author Jelena Dokic.

From her awe-inspiring triumph over then World Number 1, Martina Hingis, at the tender age of 16 to the tremendous challenges she faced off the court, Jelena’s story is one of resilience, courage, and unyielding strength.

Details:
Wednesday, 20 March 2024
6pm arrival, welcome drink, and networking for 7pm start

Venue:
The Woolshed at Emerald Bank
7719 Goulburn Valley Highway
KIALLA, Vic 3631

Seating:
Seating will be allocated at the time of booking. If you wish to sit together, we recommend booking as a table of 10 or making a note in your ticket order, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Ticket Inclusions:
Welcome Drink on arrival and 2-course sit down meal.

Special Dietary Requirements:
Please advise at time of booking or via email: admin@gsbn.net.au

Sponsors:
We would like to thank our generous media sponsor Channel 7

Contact:
GSBN Admin Team | admin@gsbn.net.au | 0407 503 886

Tickets can be purchased through Riverlinks website.

Ticket Price:
$156.00* | GSBN Gold & Platinum Members & Sponsors

$175.50* | GSBN General & Silver Members

$195.00 | Non-Members

* Already discounted price, Max 10 tickets per membership

Tickets for In Conversation with Jelena Dokic will be sold through Riverlinks, keep an eye on our socials and your inbox this week for sale date and time. If you have not received your members discount code please email members@gsbn.net.au as these have already been sent out.

VCCI Training Announcement

Managing Mental Health in the workplace Masterclass

We are looking forward to working collaboratively with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry to provide the Greater Shepparton Business Community members with access to VCCI’s highly regarded training courses.
We are eagerly awaiting the dates and training space information; more information will be sent out to all members. The training we will offer is Managing Mental Health in the Workplace Masterclass. Link below.

https://www.victorianchamber.com.au/training-course/managing-mental-health-in-the-workplace-masterclass

Below is the Managing Mental Health in the workplace Masterclass course outline.

Managing Mental Health in the Workplace Masterclass

Session overview
Mental Health problems can be hard to talk about, especially in the workplace. This session has been designed to raise awareness of common mental health conditions, reduce stigma and empower managers to have a supportive conversation with someone they may be concerned about.
Additionally, the session covers workplace obligations under privacy, disability discrimination, workplace relations and safety laws. Participants learn how to support and manage employees with mental health conditions and build a mentally healthy and productive workplace.

Duration:
One-day session

Participants
This course is suited to business owners, HR and OHS professionals, Return to Work Coordinators and people managers.

Learning Outcomes
During this program you will increase your knowledge of the following:

Knowledge of facts about mental health in Australia
Understanding why health is a workplace issue
Recognising early warning signs of poor mental health
How to have a supportive conversation
Dealing with a mental health crisis
Knowing the importance of engaging with doctors
Managing team impact
Making reasonable adjustments
Understanding performance management in relation to mental health
Mental health and workers’ compensation
Creating a mentally healthy workplace

By completing this course, you will achieve a digital credential:

Business grants for energy-efficient upgrades

A new round of the Energy Efficiency Grants (EEG) program will provide eligible small and medium businesses up to $25,000 to purchase energy efficient equipment.
Energy upgrade grants for business: https://www.victorianchamber.com.au/news/business-grants-for-energy-efficient-upgrades

Best Training Courses to upskill in 2024

The Victorian Chamber is committed to providing excellence in our learning and development services, delivering hundreds of short courses, diplomas, certificates, briefings, and webinars to businesses of all sectors across the state each year.
Best training courses to upskill in 2024 | Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Grants and Funding

Greater Shepparton City Council offers a range of grants and funding each year to local residents, businesses and community groups. Click here to view funding available.

GRANT PROGRAMS NOW OPEN
Community Grants Program

Council offers a range of grant programs each year to local residents, businesses and community groups. Funding is currently available in the following programs:

Minor and Major Event;
Creative City;
Community Matching;
Our Sporting Future;
Healthy Communities; and
Small Towns Festive Decorations

Applications close Monday 17 March at 5pm.

Small Town Festive Decorations Grants Now Open

Summertime is shopping time at the Summer City Market!
Greater Shepparton City Council encourages community members and visitors to save the date and enjoy the last days of summer at the Summer City Market, on Friday 23 and Saturday 24 February 2024.
Shepparton’s CBD will come to life on Friday 23 from 10am to 6pm and Saturday 24 from 10am to 3pm, with market stalls, live music, delicious food and fun and games for the whole family to enjoy.
Council’s Place Manager, Bonnie McIntosh, said she is working closely with local merchants to activate the economy and create opportunities for businesses in the precinct.
“A range of kid’s activities including giant games, silent disco and interactive wildlife display will be under the shade of trees near the Telstra Tower in Fraser Street, and boutique craft stalls will be ready for the community to enjoy across the two-day event,” she said.
“These annual markets are important to support our local hospitality and retail businesses. We are looking forward to visitors and locals taking advantage of the special offers and having a good time with their families.”
Stephen Schneider, President of the Greater Shepparton Business Network, invited all traders and shoppers to participate and enjoy the fun and bargains available at the Summer City Market.
“The Greater Shepparton Business Network encourages all traders to get behind this iconic Shepparton sale event. The Summer City Market provides traders from all retail sectors with a perfect opportunity to offer local and visiting consumers’ exceptional end of season clearance bargains,” he said.
“Whether you gear up in store, on your footpath, or book a stall in the fresh new Maude Street Precinct, we encourage all Shepparton CBD traders to optimise this excellent opportunity to celebrate the end of summer and prepare for the impending autumn and winter season. This truly is a great way to clear out end of season lines and offer your loyal customers some exceptional bargains!”
Residents are encouraged to get out, shop local and enjoy the great promotions and entertainment on offer across the CBD.
For further event details, follow Council’s social media pages or view the Facebook Event Page.
Please note, Maude Street between Fryers Street and High Street will be closed to traffic from 6am Friday 23 and reopen on Saturday 24 at 4.30pm.

The Australian Government is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of ethics and integrity in its operations and partnerships with businesses. To reinforce this commitment, they are introducing the Commonwealth Supplier Code of Conduct (Code).

The Code establishes the minimum expectations for suppliers, their personnel, and subcontractors when working with the Commonwealth. It places a proactive duty on suppliers to prevent and discourage breaches of the Code. These expectations do not replace existing obligations.

The Code will be incorporated into request documentation and contracts, with the extent of due diligence based on the procurement’s scale, scope, and risk. Suppliers must demonstrate appropriate policies on ethics, governance, and accountability when required.

Non-compliance with the Code may lead to corrective measures or contract termination. The Code is set to take effect in April 2024, applying to new contracts. Commonwealth entities may add Code clauses to existing agreements where suitable.

Guidance for implementation will be provided, and feedback on the draft Code and contract clauses is welcomed until March 1, 2024, via email to ethicalsourcing@finance.gov.au.

Unlocking Cybersecurity Success: Essential Tips for Business Leaders

In an era dominated by technology, cybersecurity is paramount, especially for business leaders. Cyber threats loom large, and protecting your devices, accounts, and sensitive information is crucial. We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help business leaders navigate the complex landscape of cybersecurity. From securing your devices and accounts to protecting your communications and travel, these practical tips will fortify your defenses and empower you to stay ahead of cyber adversaries.
Click below for more expert insights on safeguarding your digital world and preventing unauthorized access.

We would like to take this opportunity to welcome the following new local businesses to the Greater Shepparton Business Network.

Additionally, we would like to extend our gratitude to the many businesses that have renewed their memberships with us.

Platinum Members

Gold Members

Silver Members
Conquest Pools
Quicklift Crane Hire
Diverse Builders Pty Ltd

General Members
Country Carpet Cleaning & Restoration
Evolve People Consulting
Diverse Builders Pty Ltd
OCTEC Limited
Office of Kim O’Keeffe MP

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. 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!

We exist for our members.

Do you need unlimited access to the Workplace Relations Advice Line?

Access to the modern award directory and subscription service, that comes with phone advice as well?

Click the link below and visit our website or email members@gsbn.net.au and request a call back to find out how we can help your business today.

GSBN Website

Greater Shepparton Business Network
PO Box 364 SHEPPARTON VIC 3632
M: 0407 503 886 / E: admin@gsbn.net.au / members@gsbn.net.au
www.gsbn.net.au

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News From The Greater Shepparton Business Network February Newsletter