Our Town, Our Future Business Forum judged a success

October 31, 2024

From Jenn Capel at Oberon Business and Tourism Association

About twenty people came along to hear some of Oberon's major business owners talk about Our Town, Our Future, which was the business forum hosted by the Oberon Business and Tourism Association, held on October 24. There were five guest speakers.

Zac Rowlandson, who is one of the directors of Oberon Earthmoving, talked about the family owned group of businesses, which also includes Oberon Concrete, Middle Creek Quarry and Super Natural Farms. 

Zac talked about the many projects around Oberon that the group of companies is involved with, while also making the point that their priority is to employ local people, rather than importing staff.

Andrew LeLievre, who is Director of the Jenolan Caves Reserve Trust, described what is happening in and around Jenolan Caves, after "an almost 100 year hiatus." Apart from a huge renovation of Caves House, which is seeing nearly 100 contractors staying in the local area, there is also a lot of scientific work going on while the caves are closed.

Andrew was keen to make the point that local businesses need to work together to create multi day experiences to keep visitors in our area. Jenolan Caves is already working with Destination NSW to build packages and services to offer overseas groups of visitors.

Alex Muldoon, who "basically grew up here", gave the gathering a run down on the history of Mayfield Garden before talking about the future plans. Alex said that "Mayfield is still a young tourism destination", with currently around 80,000 visitors each year and employing 50 locals. Alex said that Mayfield is targeting travelling groups who can come during the week, working with Oberon Council and Destination NSW to achieve this.

Becoming a Certified Botanic Garden is one of Alex's aspirations for the future, which will help elevate the garden's profile as a horticultural destination. Alex also mentioned plans to develop educational programmes for children.

Matt Armstrong from NBN Co talked about upgrades around Oberon and what is planned for the future. He is a point of contact and a resource for anyone wishing to discuss connectivity in the Oberon area. Matt said that "connectivity is only going to increase and that AI is coming at us in a rush." Currently, Matt said that nbn is trying to move more businesses to fibre to the premises, however, fibre to the node is sufficient for those who don't have a high demand for fast upload speeds. Matt said that from September 2025, customers will be able to upgrade their service for additional speed and reliability. Matt also mentioned cyber security, recommending people go to https://www.cyber.gov.au/ to see the threats that small businesses are currently facing through the supply chain.

Trent Geddes from the Regional Tech Hub said he is happy to support people while they change technologies. He works as a conduit between the consumer and the tech company. The Regional Tech Hub provides practical, straightforward advice tailored one-on-one to address specific needs or resolve issues facing consumers.

"Our regionally based team understands the challenges faced by residents in rural, regional and remote areas. Regional Tech Hub is funded by the Australian Government and run by the National Farmers' Federation, ensuring our advice is completely free and independent", Trent said.

The forum provided a great deal of information for business owners, as well as interested residents. The format is one that OBTA intends repeating, as Oberon's wealth of successful businesses often "fly under the radar".

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