A message from Mayor Sam Elmir 

In Georges River Council, diversity isn’t just a word, it’s the strength of our community. Over 50% of our residents connect with their own language at home and nearly half were born beyond our shores. We host a range of events to support our diverse community.  

This weekend we will celebrate Lunar New Year and are expecting up to 50,000 people to join in the celebrations. We welcome the Year of the Dragon – a symbol that can represent great talent, leadership, and success – a vision we can apply when we see the mark of the dragon across our region. 

We have embarked on a transformative journey that will empower our community and businesses to actively shape the public realm. We recognise the need to provide more quality spaces that are dedicated to performance and art as well as activating our streets and plaza to showcase and celebrate who we are as a community.  

I am proud of the opportunities that we provide and continue to grow to strengthen our diversity.   

Tell us what else you would like to see in BUSINESS UNITE via email business@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au

Georges River is open for business.

Georges River Economic Leadership Group – Expression of Interest (EOI) closes Monday 12 February 2024.

We are seeking a diverse and dynamic group of individuals to join the Economic Leadership Group (ELG). Your insights and expertise will directly influence the Economic Development Strategy, shaping the growth and opportunities of the Georges River region. This is your chance to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our community’s economy and advocate for key sectors. 

As a member you have:

  • Industry know-how: You possess deep understanding and connections within relevant sectors like nightlife, tourism, manufacturing, creative industries, or innovation.
  • Strategic vision: You can think big and offer insightful advice on the economic future of Georges River.
  • Passionate advocate: You are a champion for our local community and driven to attract new businesses and investments.
  • Collaborative spirit: You thrive in a team environment and can work effectively with diverse stakeholders.               
  • Creative problem solver: You bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to complex challenges.

Ready to make your mark?

Learn more about the Economic Leadership Group and complete your Expression of Interest today through Georges River Council’s YourSay Page.

Add your business to the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse

As we gear up for the launch of the Georges River Tourism Website in March 2024, the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse invites all visitor-based businesses to seize the opportunity to enhance your visibility.

By registering your business, you not only position yourself for inclusion in the upcoming Georges River Tourism website launch but also open doors to wider reach through prominent platforms like Tourism Australia and Destination NSW.

Take five minutes to register your business today through the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse to showcase your offerings to a broader audience.

Sydney Resilience Survey – closes end of February 2024 

The Resilient Sydney Network are developing a new resilience strategy for Sydney. We are talking to communities and stakeholders to identify actions where we can work together to strengthen the resilience of Sydney, and we need your help!  

Complete the Resilient Sydney Community survey today for your voice to be included. 

We are thrilled to announce the successful launch of Sydney's inaugural metropolitan e-scooter trial on 10 January 2024. In just the first fortnight, an impressive 1,105 trips were made, tracking a cumulative time of more than 188 hours in Kogarah and Carlton.  

The popularity of e-scooters is attributed to their efficiency, offering a transportation option that is approximately four times faster than walking.  

The largest ever study on micro-transport was released and reported that 3.6 million e-scooter riders contributed $728 million in direct and indirect spend in 2022. This is equivalent of 18% of the Australian population spending money on e-scooters.  

As consumers increasingly seek convenient and eco-friendly alternatives, the introduction of e-scooters is poised to encourage more individuals to use micro-transport with a flow-on effect on economic activity in the region.  

The e-scooter trial is for 12 months.  

To learn more about the e-scooter trial and provide your feedback visit the YourSay page

Georges River Micro Grants | Applications Open on 1 February 2024 

The Micro Grants Program offers up to $1,000 for individuals, sole traders and small businesses to improve community wellbeing and achieve social change.  

Register to attend an Information Session to learn more about applying for a Micro Grant by visiting Council’s Grants Help Hub

Check your ABN details are up to date to support your business in times of emergency. 

Make sure your ABN details and business location are correct on the Australian Business Register (ABR). This information is used by emergency services and government agencies to identify businesses who might need help or support during and after a disaster. If your ABN details are out of date, your business is at risk of missing out on important information, support or financial assistance such as government grants.

Your ABN details must be updated on the ABR within 28 days of becoming aware of changes. If you haven’t updated your ABN details for some time, check and update your ABN details today.


Useful Links
 

Led by local businesspeople across various sectors, the St George Business Chamber is committed to fostering robust business connections and advocating for its members at all levels of government.  

The St George Business Chamber’s Four Pillar Strategy focuses attention on Collaboration, Economic Development, Infrastructure and the Beautification and Activation of Public Spaces.  The St George Business Chamber provides support and learning opportunities for your business to grow.  

Small Business Forum with the Hon. Stephen Kamper MP
Wednesday 21 February | 6.00pm – 9.00pm | Georges River 16ft Sailing Club | $50 (includes 2 course meal and beverages)

Hear directly from Small Business Minister Kamper about the government’s initiatives supporting small businesses along with the opportunity to network with fellow businesses and peers for a good cause. 

RSVP: 8th February 2024 HERE 

All event proceeds go to the Autism Community Network, our chosen Charity Partner.   

“The St George Business Chamber thanks everyone who attended their first Chill & Chat session on the 28th of November, held at King Carlos Coffee Roasters, in Hurstville. The exchange of ideas, jokes and genuine interest in each other's business was awesome to watch. On behalf of the chamber executive, we wanted to extend a big thank you to Val Colyer, Vice President and Chairperson of the chamber’s Economic Development Committee for hosting the event and keeping the conversation and exchange of ideas flowing.” President – Tony Baddour 

To keep up to date with all St George Business Chamber activities including the regular ‘Chill and Chat’ sessions and become a member please visit their website StGeorgeBC.org.

Do you know the 7 Key Digital Strategies for a Small Business? 

To kick off 2024, the St George Business Chamber is collaborating with Realise Business, to provide our small business community with important information about the ever-evolving digital landscape.  

 7 Key Digital Strategies for Australian Small Businesses in 2024, outlines the most effective digital trends and strategies crucial for your business's growth and success. 

Join the Digital Solutions Program 

‘Digital Solutions’ is a comprehensive program to empower business owners with the right tools, resources, and expert guidance to accelerate their growth, productivity, and efficiency in the digital age. 

By joining this program, you gain access to: 

  • Live Webinars
  • 4 hours of 1:1 Advisory  
  • Face-to-face workshops  
  • Digital Content Library

To register, go to the Digital Solutions Program website.

Georges River Australia Day Awards

The awards ceremony recognises and celebrates three remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to the local community. 

Young Citizens of the Year 

Vaughn Vaios Arambatzis – ‘community for a cause’
During the 2020 pandemic lockdowns, turned a simple school project into a sustainable initiative to support recycling and neglected animals. Now in it’s third year, Vaughn has raised over $3,500 for Sydney Dogs and Cats Home.  

Daniel Su – ‘elevating youth to help the homeless’  
In 2023, Daniel chaired the Community Services Committee at Sydney Boys High School, orchestrating various fundraising events that amassed nearly $40,000 for 13 charities. He founded Help Elevate Youth (HEY), a youth-led non-profit aiding the homeless in Sydney, serves as the Chief Financial Officer for Dear Asian Youth to advocate for intersectional activism, and contributes to the Youth Advisory Committee for Georges River Council. 

Volunteer of the Year

Michael Flanagan – ‘compassion in action’
For over two decades, Lugarno resident Michael Flanagan has been a source of hope and compassion for those facing hardship, from Riverwood residents to Northern Rivers flood victims in New South Wales. As a dedicated volunteer with the St Vincent de Paul Society and Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Peakhurst, Michael has supported hundreds of disadvantaged individuals and families in the Georges River area through weekly deliveries of donated food and essential items. 

To read more about the achievements of our community champions go to the Georges River Website

Lunar New Year  
Saturday, 3 February 2024 | 12pm – 9pm | Forest Rd and Hurstville Plaza  

Join us on Forest Road, Hurstville to enjoy a range of food and entertainment.  

Funding for this event is provided by NSW Government (Multicultural NSW). This event is also sponsored by SBS, Asian Inspirations, Chemist Warehouse and Club Central.  

In Good Taste
Friday 16 February 2024 | 4.30pm – 9.00pm | MacMahon St, Hurstville  

The festival celebrates food, music and dance from around the globe representing the multicultural and diverse city we live in. 

Taste Tours 

Take your tastebuds on a cuisine adventure to China, Mongolia, Nepal and other Asian countries this February with a 2.5 hour Lunar New Year Tasting tour in Hurstville. Hosted by Taste Tours and proudly supported by Georges River Council. 

To book visit Taste Tours 

Every ticket purchased supports the training and employment of refugees, migrants, local youth. 

International Women’s Day Celebrating Georges River Women - Breakfast
Friday 8 March | 7.30am-10am | Southern Sydney Event Centre, Hurstville | Tickets $50 (includes booking fee) 

Join us for breakfast and support the 2024 theme #InspireInclusion. Hear internationally sought after motivational speaker Kath Koschel, founder of the Kindness Factory. Koschel is a former Oatley local and professional cricketer and will share her story for overcoming almost unimaginable hurdles to inspire the world to partake in acts of kindness.  

To book a ticket or a table visit the What’s On page. This event is sponsored by the St George Business Chamber and all proceeds from tickets sales will be donated to the Kindness Factory. 



To learn more about what’s happening in Georges River Council go to the What’s On Page.

By becoming a sponsor for our events, your business not only enjoys prominent exposure through our marketing channels but also plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth within our community. Learn more about how you can make an impact by becoming a sponsor and visit our Sponsorship website page

Georges River Council
Corner MacMahon and Dora Streets
Hurstville NSW 2220

Phone: (02) 9330 6400

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