The Women in Business (WIB) network covered new trainee and apprenticeship models, business insurance and the local economy at its October meetings on the Fleurieu.

The trainee and apprenticeship landscape has come a long way from the days of a four-year locked in full-time contract.

This was the message from Skilling SA representatives when they addressed the WIB Regional Network lunch in Victor Harbor on 14 October.

Skilling SA has partnered with the network to deliver information and assist regional women in business to take on apprentices and trainees, and to explain the many opportunities for financial and other assistance, plus the scope of training options available.

The dangers of online transactions and the need for regular business insurance assessments were among the lessons learned at the WIB Regional Network dinner at McLaren Vale on 15 October.

Guest speaker Graeme Jameson, of Fleurieu and Hills Insurance, has more than 40 years’ experience in the industry and specialises in business insurance.

He emphasised the need for proper staff induction and training and highlighted the risk of cyber attacks. 

The challenges and opportunities for the Victor Harbor economy were discussed at the WIB Regional Network dinner in Victor Harbor on 25 October.

The guest speaker was Mark Przibilla, the City of Victor Harbor’s Manager of Planning and Activation, who gave an outline of the latest economic profile for the city.

Concerning statistics included household incomes well below the state average, a high dependency on welfare and relatively high youth unemployment. The city also imports more goods and services than it exports, to the tune of $152 million a year leaving the local economy.

Despite the challenges, Mark says business confidence is on the rise locally. The council is about to form an advisory committee to complete the economic development strategy for the area. 

The next network event in McLaren Vale will be lunch at Blessed Cheese on Wednesday 6 November with tips on how to create valuable connections with others to help you in business and in your personal life.

The next dinner will be on 26 November at the Meeting Place McLaren Vale and the next Victor Harbor lunch will be on Wednesday 27 November. A

representative from nbn™ Local will speak at both about how to get the most out of your internet connection for business.

The Women in Business Regional Network is open to business owners, managers, staff and those dreaming of owning their own business. You don’t have to be a member to attend events but bookings are essential via Eventbrite.

For more information visit the Women in Business Regional Network website or phone Carolyn on 0435 432 203.