Words from the CEO - August 2021

August 3, 2021
CEO Update

Djilba - August signals Growth

Kaya!

While I am definitely a cooler weather type of person, this year I'm excited to say that although it may not feel like it yet, August to September is a transitional season, welcoming in Djilba means that warmer and dryer weather is on the way.

The Growing Season is represented by yellow and cream blossoms and some very cold and clear days combining with warmer, rainy, and windy days mixing with the occasional sunny day.

Feedback from BGCCI members indicates that most sectors continue to experience high productivity, at levels some might argue are not sustainable given the current labour and supply chain shortages. One of my personal concerns for our business community is burn-out and fatigue. As hard as it is to take some time out, carving out even 30 minutes every day will make a big difference to your overall wellbeing. If that's asking too much, just schedule a 15-20 minute walk to clear your head, put it in your calendar, if your anything like me, if it's not in my calendar it doesn't happen. Pop down to a cafe, order a hot drink and just watch the world go by for a bit. Disconnecting is sometimes the best way you can reconnect more purposefully.

We have just started the marketing and promotional campaign for the South West Future Jobs and Skills Forum on the 28 September 2021. Between now and the 13 August we are calling for expressions of interest from all local businesses to be a part of the exhibition. Businesses will have the opportunity to showcase the exciting and innovative advances within their business and how these changes are transforming the job and skills requirements they are recruiting for. If you are interested in registering your business, please go to www.bgcci.com.au for more information.

During July, BGCCI provided feedback and comments from our members to the Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry WA (RCCIWA) to represent our community at the Skills Summit in Perth on Friday 30 July. Our regional community was well represented through our association with RCCIWA. Chief Executive Officer - Kitty Prodonovich attended this event to represent our feedback.

The two main questions being asked were;

1) What practical actions should be taken to address WA's skills needs over the coming months?

2) What actions should be taken now to avoid future skills shortages.

The responses from our members called on industry, government and education providers to work together more collaboratively on strategies that not only catered to our cities but gave the infrastructure and support required to meet the needs of our regions. Specifically, our members requested; better job matching in terms of forward planning and education requirements, providing more pathways for work experience and exposure, incentivising upskilling and cross-skilling of employees, more effective and earlier engagement regarding career direction within the education system, more attractive conditions in some of our most in demand sectors that struggle to attract employees, and strategies to increase retention of skills and trainees in our regions.

Our July Business After Hours event was hosted by Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) Bunbury, home of Triple M and Hit FM. As one of BGCCI's Gold Media partners it was so great to be able to bring our members into the station so they could meet the talent that entertain us and keep us up to date on current affairs, and see how a radio station operates behind the scenes. SCA General Sales Manager for the South West, Lauren Hoskins gave us a great overview of the value of radio advertising and just how dedicated her team of account managers are in making sure your business objectives are achieved through radio and digital supporting campaigns. Lauren also introduced her team of announcers; Angie and Cliff for Triple M, Ben, Alan and Michelle for Hit FM.

We were educated, we were entertained, we were even quizzed. It was a fantastic event with a great turn out from members.

Thanks again to our host for their hospitality and an engaging look behind the scenes.

BGCCI Events - August

11 August   VISA Information Session - Get more information on the Skilled Visa Programs available to your business

10am - 11am Session 1 - Department of Home Affairs,

11am - 12pm Session 2 - Visa Go Australia

12 August   Lunch & Learn: South Regional Tafe - Benefits of Boosting your Business by Taking on a Trainee - FREE EVENT

11.30 - 1.30pm light lunch included

17 August   Lunch & Learn - Growth & Profit Solutions - Profit Improvement - Increase your profit FAST

11.30 - 1.30pm light lunch included

19 August   Mare Lawyers Lunch & Learn - Modern Awards Interpretations

11:30am - 1:30pm light lunch provided

23 August   South West Business Association 2021 AGM - Members only

From 5pm - Networking and drinks

25 August    Fullers Co-Op - Business After Hours - Members Only Sundowner

5.15pm - 7.30pm

To register for any of these events please go to www.bgcci.com.au/events/

Now is a great time to join a growing and thriving community of like-minded businesses. For more information about how you can become a member contact the Chamber 9791 2292 or admin@bgcci.com.au

Previous
Next