Be vigilant and seek help if struggling — Chamber

“Be alert, not alarmed” was the much-repeated message during the war on terror 20-years-ago.

A similar call to remain aware and reactive at all times, has been made to local businesses during the current pandemic sweeping the State by the Orange Business Chamber.

“Be Vigilant and Responsive” Chamber President Jack Evans recently summarised as the key message to hard-hit local businesses.

“The coming month or two could potentially be the most-difficult for our businesses since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, so it’s important that business owners and staff remain vigilant when it comes to maintaining compliance with NSW health guidelines,” Mr Evans said.

“I also urge all business owners to familiarise themselves with the support that is available from the NSW and Federal governments. This will allow them to be responsive to changing economic conditions and better manage their cash-flow,” he added.

Chamber Treasurer and Chartered Accountant, Dan Sutton, said that, knowing what help is available, and accessing it, if needed, will be vital for local small and medium enterprises.

“Both the State and Federal Governments have responded to the calls for assistance from business lobby groups and there is now help available.

“Whether you’re an employee on reduced hours, a sole trader, small business with no employees, or a business with employees, there is help available. We strongly encourage you to visit the Service NSW website to apply for or register to be kept up to date with information about the concessions,” Mr Sutton said.

Acknowledging the tough times currently being faced by operators of all sizes in Orange at present, the Chamber recently announced its finalists for the 2021 Orange Business Awards.

“Congratulations to all the Finalists. We look forward to a fantastic night of celebrating our great local business who have thrived through extraordinary times,” Mr Evans said.

Due to sudden Covid-19 restrictions, the Finalists night at the Orange Ex Services Club, was an invitation-only event. 

Selected businesses from Public nominations were invited to attend the announcement as a finalist in the Orange Business Awards.

Depending, as all our lives now do, on coronavirus positive test numbers, the slimmed-down Business Awards Gala Night is planned to be held on Friday, August 20 in the Grand Ballroom of the Hotel Canobolas.

“This event will be exclusive to the Awards Finalists. Businesses who are eligible will proceed to the NSW Regional Awards to compete against their peers from across the region,” Mr Evans said.

“After almost two years of not being able to hold the Awards, it is great to see a return to this great community event,” he added.

Sections for this year’s awards include Outstanding Employee (Any Age); Outstanding Young Business Leader; Outstanding Community Group: Excellence In Innovation; Excellence In Hospitality: Excellence In Personal Services: Excellence In Professional Services; and Excellence In Retail.

The Business of the Year Award will be announced at the Awards Night ceremony.

“To be nominated as a Finalist during challenging times for many businesses, is an extraordinary feat in itself,” Mr Evans concluded.