THE Wimmera Development Association is calling for patience as the region adjusts to the second wave of Stage Three restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Executive director Chris Sounness said WDA is working with support services, commonwealth, state and local governments to ensure Wimmera businesses receive and understand what the latest orders mean for them.
"Many businesses adapted quickly before, and they will do it again. But for many, it won't come without its challenges," he said.
"We will see impacts that weren't as evident the first time around.
"For many industries, this is a complex time. The ripple effects of Stage Four restrictions in Melbourne flowing onto the Wimmera Southern Mallee is not insignificant."
Mr Sounness said there are opportunities out there for businesses to get back on their feet.
"The state and federal government have all the funds and resources," he said.
"We are working with business communities and local governments to highlight the opportunities and make sure they come our way.
"The state government gave an opportunity for a lot of agricultural manufactures to apply for funds to become COVID-19 compliant.
"It will allow a lot of businesses to not only become COVID-19 safe, but to modernise their systems and processes, which will increase efficiency and become a better place to work."
Mr Sounness offered a simple piece of advice for Wimmera residents looking to help local businesses.
"I encourage people to spend locally and support local businesses if you can," he said.
"Look local before you look online, support local and give local the best chance of emerging strongly from this period."
Mr Sounness warned the region should not rely on its location and "luck" to avoid further impacts of the pandemic.
"The impacts of this lockdown ... is not necessarily a six-week prospect; it impacts everyone - and impacts everyone differently," he said.
"I encourage businesses to make themselves aware of the financial and wellbeing support available to them.
"Looking out for the mental health of our community during this period is paramount and a little kindness could go a long way."
The executive director encouraged businesses to speak with their local government economic development officers to help disseminate the latest Stage Three lockdown restrictions.
Business packages are available from the Rural Financial Counselling Service, who can also assist people to understand their financial position and prepare budgets or action plans. For more information, call 1300 735 578.
Uniting Wimmera's support line can connect people with a range of support agencies and services locally. For more information, call 1800 195 115.
Did you know you can receive updates straight to your inbox? To make sure you're up-to-date with news from across the region, sign up below.
Ben Fraser
Ben is the Editor with the Wimmera Mail-Times, Stawell Times-News and Ararat Advertiser. Ben is the former chief of staff at the Portland Observer, a qualified teacher, and an Leadership Great South Coast alumni (2019).
Ben is the Editor with the Wimmera Mail-Times, Stawell Times-News and Ararat Advertiser. Ben is the former chief of staff at the Portland Observer, a qualified teacher, and an Leadership Great South Coast alumni (2019).
