RDASI Newsletter - November 2000
A Message from the CEO
As 2020 draws to a close the coronavirus pandemic and its impacts have been unique and remarkable, requiring all of us to think and act in new ways.
Throughout this period, RDA Southern Inland has remained focused on being a trusted source of information and support for our region. BusSi has been a regional game-changer and we’re so proud of the positive engagement that has seen. Although events have looked a bit different this year, we have been lucky enough to maintain some of them in a COVID safe way. Food in the Capital went from a three-day mega event to three one-day in person and online events being held over twelve-months. RDASI applauds the way RDAACT managed to pivot this important initiative and the feedback from attendees of the first day was very positive. RDASI and RDAACT continue to prove the power is in the collaborations and it’s been a joy working with Michael Claessens and Suzanne Gearing!
Our Regional Connect networking events have continued with the support of the community, sponsors and guest speakers. It was unfortunate that we had to limit our regional visits, however, we are grateful to have been able to visit Yass, Young, Jindabyne and the Highlands during less restricted times during the latter part of the year.
The pandemic has also borne some wonderful opportunities, including the introduction of weekly RDA Teleconferences with the Hon Nola Merino MP. RDASI is pleased to have grown stronger collaborative relationships with many other RDA’s, regional businesses and all levels of Government.
Here at RDASI, we tried to take the complications of this year in our stride and work towards new and adjusted plans for the present into the future. I’d like to thank our RDASI staff for their commitment, consistency and calm over such a challenging year. They have been a huge support to me and our committee, always maintaining the upmost of professionalism.
Thank you to our partners and stakeholders, for their ongoing support and encouragement enabling our great work to continue. Without your on the ground, lived experiences and consistent communications we could not have achieved the level of cut-through to decision makers required to effect policy decisions and outcomes.
Thank you to the RDASI committee for their unwavering dedication to the development of Southern Inland NSW. Every one of our members holds this region close their heart and your passion and enthusiasm bolsters our vision.
Finally, I wish to thank Hugh Cooke for his time as Chair. We have built a strong, unified and positive culture within our team and his steadfast energy has seen RDASI’s reputation prosper. I’d like to thank Hugh personally for all his assistance and look forward to our continued relationship with him maintaining his position as a committee member.
2021 will be an exciting year for us, with a range of new programs and projects planned as part of our ongoing support to the Southern Inland Region.
A Farewell to our Chairman
After three years of dedicated service as our Chairman, RDASI is bidding farewell to Hugh Cooke.
Our Staff and Board Members past and present, have had the pleasure of working alongside Hugh, who has been consistent in striving for a stronger and more collaborative region.
Hugh’s work with RDASI has been well recognised, from pushing to move Yennora Wool selling centres to Goulburn, joining RDA Teleconferences with Minister Nola Merino, representing RDASI in events such as the launch of blueprint for agriculture-led recovery and meeting with Angus Taylor MP. He has gone above and beyond wherever possible to boost the Southern Inland Region through presenting at events such as Peppergreen Berrima Southern Highlands Growers Day and our very own AG Days.
These are only a few of many memorable and important events that took place during Hugh’s presence as Chairman of the Board. Although this is goodbye to Hugh as our Chairman, we know his ongoing support will not cease.
Once again, thank you Hugh for everything you have done for RDASI, we wish you a happy and safe holiday season.
Jobs Plus Program
The NSW Government is putting job creation at the centre of our recovery efforts, with the $250 million Jobs Plus Program now open.
Announced by the Premier as a 2020-21 NSW Budget commitment, the Program is designed to attract local and international companies looking to start or expand business operations in NSW. The Jobs Plus program is open until 30 June 2022. For more information: VISIT.
JobKeeper 2021
The Australian Taxation Office has addressed what businesses need to know and understand to stay on top of the immediate changes to the JobKeeper scheme that will apply when 2021 kicks off. READ HERE
Small business COVID grants given tax-free treatment
The federal government has made small-business grants relating to the recovery from the coronavirus crisis tax-free under new legislation that has passed Parliament. READ HERE.
