The Fleurieu Peninsula is home to thousands of small business operators who make a major contribution to the region’s lifestyle, economy and community. That’s why the Fleurieu App has gathered the following resources in an effort to support these champions during unprecedented times.

Top of the list is mental wellbeing. Beyond Blue has published a guide for home based businesses and practical tips, such giving yourself a lunch break; going for a walk, pruning the roses. And if you’re embarrassed by your breakfast dishes as a backdrop to Zoom meetings check out the virtual scenes available at australia.com

Business SA also has your back. It provides weekly updates — including information on grants and tutorials — as well as a series of webinars on how to navigate your business through the pandemic and beyond. Register at business.sa.gov.au

Department of Innovation and Skills also offers a series of webinars, including Innovating through COVID-19 on 12 May and Working from Home – What are your Obligations on 14 May. 

Another valuable webinar, Resilience and Rebound, is online now and presented by SA Tourism Commission, which has also announced state government support for small tourism operators experiencing financial loss due to COVID-19. Visit tourism.sa.gov for more information.

Food SA’s virtual conference Fit for the Future will host a line-up of experts who’ll cover topics such restructuring the supply chain and operating securely on e-commerce platforms. The 17 June event is free for SA based attendees. More at foodsouthaustralia.com.au

Food and beverage producers who offer pickup or delivery services could benefit from listing on platforms such as:

• Fleurieu App — takeaway providers; 
• Toast the Locals — numerous categories, from baked goodies to gifts; and
• McLaren Vale Grape Wine and Tourism Association — eateries, wineries and breweries. 

Fleurieu councils are also striving to cushion the pandemic’s impact on local businesses. 

The City of Victor Harbor’s Buy Local campaign is uniting businesses through collaborative branding, resources and an online directory. 

Alexandrina Council has launched a Business Support Package, which includes financial assistance, a directory of operating food related businesses and a hotline at 8555 7455. 

If you operate within the City of Onkaparinga you are eligible for free membership to the ON Business Partner Program and COVID-specific support. ON Business also co-manages Southern Business Mentoring Program, a subsidised service where members receive specialist advice in areas such as strategic marketing and finances. Meet one of the consultants, Martin Pike, in our Lifestyle section. 

These are just a few of the resources available to support the region’s small businesses and the communities that depend on them.

Stay safe and stay in touch, for the Fleurieu App is here to support local businesses; now and into the future. Find out how by contacting director Susie Williams [email protected]

[Disclaimer: information current as at 7 May 2020]