February was a jam packed month, which saw our Regional Connect events kick off for the year with a bang. They were so successful that we’re expanding them to include two additional LGAs. February also saw the regional visa program have another recent change in criteria, making it easier for skilled migrants to apply for the 491 visa.

Our team has been working at peak capacity and with that has come a succession of successful engagements. When we’re out in our regions, we make sure to speak to as many people as we can. We like to hear your perspectives, what’s challenging you and of course, what’s going really well. We meet with councils, tertiary educators, state government representatives, non-profit organisations, business advisors, chambers of commerce and most importantly businesses and the people who own and run them.

Recently RDASI has been your voice in several strategic discussions for our region. Participating in the Southern NSW Destination plan update, the Regional Economic Development Strategies updates, and the Resilience Blueprint project we have provided on the ground local intel contributing to the planning and sustainable development of our beautiful region.

Last month RDA Southern Inland had the pleasure of meeting new and previous attendees at our Connect events in the Southern Highlands, Goulburn and Yass Valley. We heard from up and coming and inspiring businesses, pitching their ideas and business concepts. These events have been created by the business community for business and we continue to hold these Regional Connect events to boost local B2B networking while providing information and support to help SME’s thrive.

We have collaborated with Goulburn Mulwaree Council and the Goulburn Chamber of Commerce to deliver a new initiative designed to boost the local economy and encourage local shopping via an innovative new Goulburn gift card.

Goulburn Connect were delighted to host Peter Strong, CEO of the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia, last Tuesday for their monthly networking event.

Goulburn Connect has recently relaunched after a break due to Covid-19 restrictions. The monthly event is now run with a maximum of 20 attendees and livestreamed to the Goulburn Region Innovation Network Facebook page.

There is more to Goulburn than grazing land and sheep. It’s a place for many different farming industries. When farmers have money, they circulate it round. When they are doing well, the towns are doing well.

Regional Development Australia Southern Inland (RDA Southern Inland) was delighted to receive a $10,000 grant from Coordinare - South Eastern NSW Primary Health Network, through their Empowering Communities Drought Support Program for Goulburn’s Ag Day Gala Dinners where the event will celebrate the contribution farmers make to our regional economy and provide an opportunity for farmers and the community to come together.