Going local 2009. Creating resilient local economies

Can we grow new local economies from the grassroots, from within the communities that sustain us day-to-day? What business models, local development strategies, and public and private investment do we need? Is community-based economic development the answer?

To find out the answers to these and other questions, a seminar titled ‘Going local 2009 – creating resilient local economies’ is being held at the Novotel Pacific Bay Resort, Coffs Harbour, on Friday, June 26, from 5.30pm to 9pm.

“This event is being brought to Coffs Harbour by Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour and Bellingen councils, Enterprise and Training Company, Novotel Pacific Bay Resort and the Coffs Coast Independent,” said Ms Strom, from the University’s Office of Regional Engagement.

“We have three exciting speakers, Michael Shuman, a US-based economist; Gillian French, executive manager of BCU; and Associate Professor Rick van der Zwan from Southern Cross University,” said Ms Strom. “Each speaker will bring a different perspective and we hope all attendees will find something of value that they can ‘take home’ to implement in their professional or personal lives.”

Michael Shuman, the keynote speaker, is presenting in Coffs Harbour as part of a two-week Australian tour. He is the author of numerous articles and two books, and an entrepreneur who is widely recognised for his research into the economic advantages of small-scale businesses in an era of globalisation and international chains.

“In recent years Michael has led community-based economic development efforts in a number of regions in the US. He is currently preparing studies on global models of local food businesses for the Gates Foundation. He is also active with the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE),” Ms Strom said.

“BALLE works with small business leaders, economic development professionals, government officials, social innovators, and community leaders. It focuses on entrepreneurship to establish a new economic model that is built on local ownership and environmental stewardship.”

Building personal, professional and organisational resilience is an issue that Associate Professor Rick van der Zwan will address.

“Many locals will be familiar with 'Dr Rick' who is heard regularly on ABC radio and is a lecturer in psychology with the School of Health and Human Sciences,” Ms Strom said.

BCU executive manager Gillian French, will speak about ‘Community banking - a sustainable alternative’. The BCU was established in 1970 when a group of banana growers decided to pool their resources and form a credit union because they had difficulty getting finance through the banks of the day.

The cost for the evening is $36 and you need to register at www.scu.conferenceonline.com.au. Bookings close Monday, June 22. For more information contact Donna McIntyre on 6620 3503, or 0427 906 606 or on donna.mcintyre@scu.edu.au.

Photo: Michael Shuman.