With 30+ years in business, industry sectors include building and construction, community services, disability, events, franchising, hairdressing, health, local government, property, real estate, retail and trades and recently elected president of Victor Harbor Rotary, today we get to know local business owner Julie Irwin.

We all know you as owner of Encounter Business Management, can you please tell us a little more about Julie Irwin and what inspired you to found your small business

I have always enjoyed admin work, dotting the I’s crossing the T’s, making sure things come together and are organised. After working as State Manager and helping to manage around 60 stores I found there was a shortage of certain skills within many businesses, and also certain tasks were not a priority because business owners are often time poor. So I started EBM to act as a virtual personal assistant, where I could work for various people performing those types of tasks. Mainly data entry and keeping things up to date and compliant. I could do as many or as few hours as they needed to take the pressure off and work from my own home office, so businesses don't need to provide a space for me.

Tells us a little about your business life before Encounter Business Management

My husband and I ran the local Video store in Victor Harbor for many many years, and then I was the State Manager and the National Franchise Trainer. I got to travel and see much of Australia and work with business owners on processes etc. A very rewarding role and as the industry declined gave me the opportunity to support business owners prepare to exit the industry. 

Congratulations on recently being elected president of Victor Harbor Rotary. Please tell us more about your passion for Rotary and why you became involved

I have always had a strong desire to give back to the amazing community which has provided so much to our family. As a highly recognised and trusted brand it was my service club of choice. The Rotary wheel (logo) is instantly recognised around the world, and often the first service club you see on the ground when there’s a world disaster. With international support and a trusted brand I felt it was the right fit for me. Diversity is something I enjoy and Rotary provides that its never boring. As a service club we are able to draw on our members strengths to provide service to our community and beyond. Whether providing manual labour to plant trees, working at the football gates, catering to the masses at the Tour Down Under to providing emergency housing for those in need. A lot of what Rotary does goes unnoticed, and that's fine, we are not there to be seen, we are happy working in the background, but also very proud to get our Rotary branded marquee out on display at our community BBQ’s. Service above self. Every member is valued and everyone is important. 

On a more personal note, tell us a little about Julie and what she loves to do in her spare time 

I enjoy spending time with family and friends, walking on the beach with my husband Mark and Max our dog, Yoga Tree on the Coast has also come into my life over the past few years and it is something I try to practise most days in some form or another and has given me a sense of peace and a relaxation I have never previously enjoyed. I have been lucky enough to have travelled extensively and never lose that desire to do another trip. Last year Mark and I went to Europe and the Greek Islands. It was simply wonderful. 

What is something that most locals wouldn’t know about you? 

I have had the pleasure of walking down the red carpet at a World Movie Premier in London. 

We know you are passionate about the Fleurieu – please tell us more

I feel safe in our community, we are lucky to have a great local hospital and other businesses that provide what we need. We live in a beautiful part of the world, amazing beaches, natural beauty everywhere. Surrounded by vast coastlines, delicious fresh, local produce and wineries within a short distance. Open spaces and access to impressive schools. An international airport less than 2 hours away, the world is our oyster. Access to high speed internet for businesses and a caring community. Why would I want to be anywhere else. 

Have you always lived and worked here? What is it that has made you proud to call the Fleurieu home? 

The Fleurieu has been our family home for the past 36 years. We moved here as Mark was an electrician and got a job working at the VH Recreation Centre when it was being built. Our girls completed all the schooling here and then moved to Adelaide for University. Both work in Adelaide but still like to come home to visit family and friends. Moving here was the best decision we ever made for all the reasons I stated above. We have been involved in various sporting groups and clubs and this is home. 

YOUR TOP TIPS 

Best place to.... 

● Grab a quick bite…Boulevard Cafe 

● Have a more serious feed…Nino’s 

● Get a cuppa… Avondale Deli 

● Have a beer (or cold drink) Eat at Whalers 

● Taste some wine (or just enjoy the winery atmosphere)... Hamilton Winery McLaren Vale 

● Go for a dip…Fleurieu Aquatic Hydro Pool 

● Explore nature…Bashams Beach and King Beach

When I’m on the Fleurieu and/or KI, I… 

● feel…Safe and relaxed 

● always make sure I visit… Bashams Beach 

● stock up on… Strawberries and Ice Cream at the Causeway 

Weirdest thing that’s happened to me here 

Ended up Secretary of the Southern Agricultural Show within months of moving here. Maybe not weird but unexpected, But gave me a quick intro into life on the coast. 

Best memory of being here 

Being embraced and welcomed into the community through sport and the local show society. 

Most colourful character I’ve run into

Helen Grantham, an absolute beautiful person inside and out, great mentor and character. Sadly Helen has passed away but has left a great legacy as a Nurse and Aged Care Lecturer. 

My best piece of advice for anyone heading to the region 

Visit Kings Beach Whale Viewing Platform and walk along the coast between Bashams Beach and Horseshoe Bay, enjoy the natural beauty. 

Any links for further information/social media links for you & your business?

www.hamperwarehouse.com.au & encounterbusinessmanagement.com.au