Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, left, and Uralla Shire Mayor Mick Pearce have today announced a $100,000 initiative to help get Uralla businesses back on their feet after bushfires, arsenic in the water and now COVID-19 impacts.
Thursday, 21 May 2020
A SHIRE-WIDE business directory, a promotional tourism campaign and education programs to improve business resilience are all part of a suite of measures which have been funded by a $100,000 State Government grant to kick-start Uralla’s local economy.
Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall said Uralla Shire Council had developed two projects which would prepare businesses for future disasters and help get visitors back through their doors.
“With COVID-19 restrictions on gatherings and travel starting to ease, now is the time to start promoting Uralla’s quality eateries and retail stores, which have all taken a financial hit due to drought, bushfire, COVID-19 and arsenic in the water,” Mr Marshall said.
“Using this funding from the Bushfire Community Resilience and Economic Recovery Fund, council is progressing with its plan to develop a tourism strategy to encourage visitors back to the region.
”Initially, a business map will be developed, which will be available both digitally and in hard copy, highlighting the different businesses in Uralla township which may be attractive to tourists.
“This will be coupled with a larger shire-wide business directory available for residents through Council and the Visitor Information Centre.
“A travel writer will also be sponsored to write a promotional piece on what the Uralla Shire has to offer. This will be distributed to various media outlets and online through social media.
“Regional economies are in the balance and there is not time to waste in implementing these strategies in the hope towns like Uralla can return to business as usual.
“I cannot wait to see Uralla back firing on all cylinders again and all the retail shops and cafes bustling with locals and visitors.”
Uralla Shire Mayor Mick Pearce said council was passionate about keeping every shop front with someone in it.
“I believe Uralla has one of the most proactive business communities in the region,” Cr Pearce said.
“Council will engage a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to conduct workshops and online webinars, to equip operators with the skills they need to be adaptable and prepared for future disasters.
“In particular, during COVID-19, we have seen local businesses really step-up and change the way they provide services through home delivery and online purchases.
“It’s my hope these courses will give those who have struggled the tools and confidence they need to adapt their operation when the next disaster strikes.
“Council would like to thank Adam and the State Government for this funding and I look forward to the benefits these projects will bring to the community.”