Building Business in the Mary Valley
Click here to download the full MV BEAR report (PDF, 3.8 MB)
The Mary Valley business community was given the opportunity to provide a 'snapshot' of its operations in 2008. This is your handy reference guide to the opportunities identified in the Mary Valley Business Expansion and Retention Program (MV BEAR).
The following six strategies outline an exciting new direction for the Mary Valley, and were identified through a series of detailed business interviews. This list of goals is by no means exhaustive, but is designed to encourage informed take-up of these initiatives.
Visitor marketing strategy
- to create a united voice and image incorporating a 'whole of valley' attitude
- to promote events and activities
- from iconic through to recreational camping
- to strengthen linkages with Mary Valley Heritage Railway
- to develop signage
- both local and tourist-oriented
- to develop a destination marketing campaign
Promote lifestyle and community positivity
- to boost confidence, self-esteem, pride, community cohesion
- to sell the message that the Mary Valley is a good place for business, a good place to live
- to offer lifestyle and business opportunities
- to tell the story of the people who live 'in our valley'
Town beautification
- to upgrade streetscaping/appearance
- to investigate opportunities to involve youth in projects
- to create a "sense of community"
- to incorporate "work for the dole" programs
Skills for better business
- investigate management training
- investigate staff training
- support and educate business about apprenticeships and traineeships
- foster job readiness in youth 'school/work liaison' work experience
- engage motivational/inspirational speakers
- business coaching
Services
- to improve public transport
- to improve information technology incorporating broadband and mobile phone access
- investigate options to develop more industrial and residential estates
Communication, collaboration and liaison
- to establish transport group
- to establish business networking group and/or tourist accommodation group
- to develop a business directory and a directory of community organisations
It is further recommended that the best mechanism with which to realise these opportunities is:
- to bring them under the auspices of an umbrella group an existing organisation in the Mary Valley; and
- to fund the position of a paid coordinator to facilitate and support the process.