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Week beginning 4 April 2022

New Strategic Direction for RDALC


Last week Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast (RDALC) staff and Board got together in Coonawarra for a Strategic Planning session to map out our goals and objectives for the next 3 years.

It was a great opportunity for our whole organisation to reflect on the past few years, assess how we are traveling and to target our focus through to 2025. We look forward to sharing our new plan with you.

Special thanks to Louise Stock for facilitating the session. 
L-R: David Wheaton, RDALC CEO, Minister Clare Scriven and Scott Whicker, GTE Deputy Chair & RDALC Board member.
This week our CEO David Wheaton attended the Group Training Employment Apprentice Awards, which recognised the outstanding efforts of apprentices and trainees employed by Group Training and Employment. It was a fantastic to see so many host employers in attendance, playing their part in developing our regional workforce. Congratulations to all involved!

Congratulations Erika!


RDALC would like to congratulate our Board Member, Mayor Erika Vickery OAM for being named one of  the finalists of this year's Joy Baluch Award. This annual award was established to recognise the contributions of women currently serving as Elected Members of South Australian councils. 

Last Chance to Complete Survey


RDALC have been working with the South Eastern Water Conservation and Drainage Board (SEWCDB) to put together the Limestone Coast Bridges and Drains Impact Survey.

We are asking regional road users to complete the survey, including primary producers, transport operators, Local Government, emergency services and tourism operators. The information we gather will help the SEWCDB to plan and prioritise future upgrades for the bridge network across the Limestone Coast.

The survey will be closing soon - don't miss your opportunity to have your say here.

The 2022 Tatiara Masters Games Are Open!


The Tatiara Masters Games officially kicked off in Bordertown this week, hosted by the Tatiara District Council. The week long games will welcome hundreds of athletes and supporters to compete in over 30 sports across the district. 

Find out how you can get involved here

Current South Australian COVID Regulations

 

For the list of current activity restrictions, visit covid-19.sa.gov.au.

For information on testing, if you have tested positive or are a close contact, visit the SA Health website for information here. A full list of requirements regarding testing and quarantine of people who have been diagnosed with or exposed to COVID-19 is available here.

Close contacts of a positive COVID-19 case are eligible to collect a Rapid Antigen Test kit from a nominated collection point. Find out more here

For more information on vaccination clinic opening hours, and to book an appointment click here. For information on how to add proof of your vaccination status to the mySAGOV app, click here

You can also call the SA COVID-19 Information Line on 1800 253 787 from 8am to 8pm everyday.

Creating a Mentally Healthy Small Business

In Australia, 20% of all people will experience a mental illness in any given year, and 45% will experience a mental illness at some time in their life. Chances are you or one of your employees may deal with mental ill-health at some point. As such, it is important to do what you can in your workplace to help support mental health and those who may be experiencing problems.

This World Health Day, take a moment to think about how you can prioritise wellbeing at your small business. Find out more here

eInvoicing Can Save You Time and Money


eInvoicing streamlines the exchange and processing of invoices, with invoices automatically appearing digitally in software. It removes the need for manual entry, reduces errors, limits missing and incorrect information and eliminates lost invoices. Invoices are sent directly to your trading partner’s software using their ABN, so the right information gets to the right contact in seconds. eInvoicing is becoming increasingly available in major accounting software products and is inexpensive, so getting started is easy. With eInvoicing, you can save time, get paid faster and make better business decisions based on accurate and real-time financial information.

Find out more and access tools via the business.gov.au site here

Regional Telecommunications Review Response


The Australian Government is investing $1.3 billion in regional telecommunications in response to the 2021 Regional Telecommunications review. The centrepiece of the Government’s response is the $811.8 million Connecting Regional Australia initiative, delivering targeted investment across regional, rural and remote Australia and in the urban fringe over 5 years to build digital infrastructure and skills.

A key objective is to provide an estimated 8,000 kms of new open access mobile coverage, giving consumers a greater choice of providers. Connecting Regional Australia will also fund:
  • place-based and targeted investment to address gaps in broadband and other telecommunication services
  • better network resilience in vulnerable locations
  • trials of emerging technology
  • improvements to connectivity in Indigenous communities
  • enhancements to affordability for low income and income support consumers in regional Australia.
Read more here.

Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program


The Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program is a flagship of the National Farmers Federation (NFF). It is designed to increase the representation of women in the leadership ranks of Australian Agriculture. The NFF has a goal to double the number of women in agriculture’s leadership ranks by 2030.

The program is suited to women with a connection to the sector and are passionate about being part of its future. It matches successful applicants with a mentor to explore leadership goals and strategies.

Applications close 17 April. More details on the program can be found here.

2022 South Australian AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award

 
Robyn Verall from Bully’s Meats (Keith) has won the prestigious award for her work with ‘Kere to Country’ - an Aboriginal owned and operated food supply company bringing high quality and affordable meat into First Nations communities in South Australia and the Northern Territory. Kere to Country works in partnership with Bully’s Meats to specialise in bulk beef and lamb packs and establish a sustainable and cost-effective way to supply fresh meat to Aboriginal communities.

Stronger Communities Grants Success


Four local organisations have benefitted from accessing up to $20,000 in grants each through the Federal Government's Stronger Communities Program. The program is about encouraging and supporting participation in local projects, improving local community participation and contributing to vibrant and viable communities.
 
Mount Gambier Karting Club is owned and operated by the current members and has been providing karting to the local community and interstate for over 60 years. The Club have received a grant of $20,000 to construct a double shower block for club members and competitors to use when competitions take place. The Mount Gambier Karting Club will now offer quality facilities to accompany what is often referred to as one of the best tracks in the country.

Old Mount Gambier Gaol Community Garden received a grant of $20,000 to build a toilet at the community garden for the use of members. The Old Mount Gambier Gaol Community Garden is a not-for-profit organisation where members of the community (including disadvantaged residents and recent migrants) participate in growing fruit and vegetables in the centre of town. Installing toilet facilities will enable the elderly and young families to utilise the garden for longer periods.

East Gambier Sportsmen’s Club have received $20,000 to update and combine their kitchen facilities creating a compliant and safe environment for volunteers to work in. The addition of a new cool-room meets their sustainability policy by reducing our on-going electricity costs and further reduces our impact on our carbon footprint. By combining the canteen and kitchen areas, they will reduce the volunteer burden on maintaining and cleaning 2 separate areas.
 
Tantanoola Progress Association have received a grant of $11,176, allowing the residents of Tantanoola to begin the restoration of the dilapidated Railway Station and preserve the history of the town. This is stage one of the total project which also includes the restoration of the Good Shed and will complement the upgrade of the central area of Tantanoola.

Upcoming Webinars & Workshops

Please note that events, particularly in-person events, are subject to change given the unpredictability of the current environment. We recommend that you check with event organisers directly. 
Marketing Automation: Email Effectiveness Workshop
General Assembly
Monday 11 April
Register here
 
Productivity in Australian Manufacturing
BDO Australia
Wednesday 13 April
Register here

Advanced Facebook Ads Workshop
General Assembly
Thursday 14 April
Register here
 
Product Marketing Fundamentals
General Assembly
Friday 22 April
Register here
 
What does “Net Zero” Mean for Australian Small-Medium Businesses?
AusIndustry
Wednesday 27 April
Register here
 
Transformative Action in the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals
EDA Australia
Wednesday 27 April
Register here

Wine Australia’s Market Update – Australia
Wine Communicators of Australia
Wednesday 12 April
Register here
Into to Facebook Ads
General Assembly
Tuesday 12 April
Register here

Advanced Facebook Ads Workshop
General Assembly
Thursday 14 April
Register here
 
Product Marketing Fundamentals
General Assembly
Friday 22 April
Register here
 
Discover Business SA
Business SA
Wednesday 27 April
Register here
 
Livestream – Is Australian Business On-Track for Net-Zero by 2050?
CEDA
Wednesday 27 April
Register here
 
Masterclass: An Introduction to Behavioural Economics
Business SA
Friday 29 April
Register here
 
Are We Building Enough Green Skills in the Wide Brown Land?
CEDA
Friday 29 April
Register here
For more business specific webinars click here >

2022 SA Science Excellence + Innovation Awards

 
Brought to you by the Department for Innovation and Skills, these awards showcase the critical importance of science, research and innovation to the development of industry and society as a whole. The awards provide a remarkable opportunity to recognise the work of inspiring Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM) leaders and teams working in research and education institutions, schools, industry and the community.
 
Nominations close 24 May. More details can be found here.

Feedback Sought

Alternative waste treatment method variation


The Emissions Reduction Assurance Committee is seeking feedback on a draft variation to the alternative waste treatment method under the Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF). They are also seeking feedback on changes to supporting legislation. The ERF incentivises Australian businesses to cut greenhouse gases and store carbon.

The proposed changes will give the waste sector more ways to reduce emissions through biomethane activities. Biomethane is produced by refining biogas made from waste. It can be used as a substitute for natural gas. Submissions close 27 April. More details can be found here.

Scholarships Open


Now in its 33rd year, the James Morrison Jazz Scholarship provides $10,000 for an emerging artist, aged 19 years and under, to assist the development of their musical career. This scholarship is funded by the Melbourne philanthropist Andrea Evans and family, recognising the late Ron Evans who had a lifelong love of jazz and strong desire to encourage and foster musical talent.
The GIJ Vocal Scholarship, which is celebrating its 18th year, provides $10,000 for an emerging artist aged 21 years and under encouraging the development of jazz vocalists and recognising outstanding achievement in their genre. The scholarship is sponsored by the Scott family from Mount Gambier.

Six finalists will be selected for both scholarships who will perform and be adjudicated in Mount Gambier, prior to the gala concert at Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre on June 16. Applications are closing soon, apply here

Community Spirit Award


Kingston District Council recognise the valuable commitment and contribution volunteers make to their community and to celebrate, have introduced the ‘Community Spirit Award’.

The purpose of this award is to acknowledge an individual over the age of 18 for exceptional voluntary service within the Kingston District Council. A copy of the nomination form and guidelines is available from the Council office or via the link here

Nominations for the Community Spirit Award close at 5.00pm Friday 22 April 2022. The award winner will be acknowledged at a celebratory community event, The Ball in the Hall, on Saturday 21 May 2022.

Dip ‘N’ Clip Mobile Dog Spa 

 
Dip ‘N’ Clip Mobile Dog Spa provide a top quality, friendly service and are available to Mount Gambier and surrounding areas. Their services include Hydrobaths, blow drying, clipping, ear cleaning and nail trimming. Check them out on Facebook or give them a call on 0439 364 611.

Funding Available for AI and Digital Capability Centres

 
The Australian Government is offering $44 million in grants to establish 4 Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Capability Centres.
The centres will:
  • help Australian businesses improve their AI skills
  • connect small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with AI equipment and tools
  • increase the adoption of AI technologies
  • provide training and guidance on AI technologies
  • support the development and commercialisation of AI products and services for domestic and global markets.
 Applications close 12 May. More information can be found here.

Global Connections Fund


The Global Connections Fund (GCF) provides initial funding to promote international collaboration between researchers and small to medium enterprises (SMEs).

The Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering (ATSE) runs the GCF, which is supported by the Australian Government as part of the Global Innovation Strategy under the Australian Government’s National Innovation and Science Agenda. Bridging Grants of up to $50,000 help international SME-researcher partnerships grow beyond an initial level of engagement to collaboration that can lead to the translation of research knowledge and intellectual property into market-ready products or services.

The eligibility test is open now. Click here for further details.

Adaptive Agriculture Grants

 
The Adaptive Agriculture Grants program supports agricultural industries to respond to the threats and market opportunities created by future climate projections for the Limestone Coast.
 
The Limestone Coast Landscape Board invites applications for the 2022/2023 Adaptive Agriculture ‘Agricultural Industries Adapting to Variable Climates and Markets’ grant program, which commenced from 18 March. The grants will find activities that support the principle of sustainable management of natural resources to enable communities in primary production to develop resilience, respond to the threats and market opportunities created by climate change for the Limestone Coast.
 
Total grant funding available is $40,000 with a minimum application of $2,500. Applications close 2 May. More details can be found here.

Financial Assistance for the Tourism Sector


Round 3 of the COVID-19 Consumer Travel Support Program is now open to travel agents and tour arrangement service providers. The grant, which is providing up to $75.5 million in funding, is designed to help businesses rebook travel impacted by COVID-19 using existing credits.

Grant payments range from $7,500 to $90,000. Applications are now open, and will close Wednesday 20 April. Find out more here

Searching for a Grant? 

RDALC provides free access to the Limestone Coast Grant Finder to all businesses, Local Government, community groups, not-for-profits and individuals. The site provides a comprehensive list of grant and funding opportunities available across our region.
 
Visit the Limestone Coast Grant Finder here >

Population Figures for 2021


The ABS released their estimated population figures (ERP) for LGAs and smaller areas earlier this week. This dataset (for June 30 2021) is now reflected in our community profile sites, including at the small-area level. This adds a fascinating insight into how the pandemic has affected population in different areas. There are also small adjustments to the 2020 data, and a major revision to the last 5 years will occur after the Census data release later this year.
 
Explore RDA Limestone Coast Region ERP here >

Sous Chef

Naracoorte Hotel

Australian Venue Co. are looking for a qualified Sous Chef to join their team in a full-time position at the Naracoorte Hotel.

What are they looking for?

  • A career professional with experience in staff management
  • A leader that can train and motivate a kitchen team
  • Genuine commitment to a successful career in hospitality 
  • A friendly, enthusiastic, and positive can-do attitude 
  • Maintaining and exceeding overall minimum standards 
  • Thrives under pressure 
  • A team player
  • Creative flair and excellent presentation skills

What will you bring to the table?

  • Proven experience in a Sous Chef role
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to develop, support, and mentor the team
  • Implement and manage stock control, ordering, and checking of deliveries  
  • Provide high quality meals in a fast-paced environment 
  • Ability to order and maintain stock, including delivery checks
  • Strong compliance focus
  • Ability to take direction well from Head Chef 
  • Ability to engage with the local community.
Find out more here

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Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast.
PO Box 1445, Mount Gambier, SA 5290, Australia

 
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