A pioneering initiative that supports rural women to start their own businesses is open to new applicants.
Since launching in 2017, Gulf Savannah NRM’s Bush Business Program has helped more than 20 female entrepreneurs from the Northern Gulf region turn their business ideas into reality.
Expressions of interest (EOIs) are now open for the next round of the program, which includes training to develop core business skills and mentorship from established business owners.
‘This is a great opportunity to turn hobbies into thriving small businesses and generate another source of income for your household,’ said Gulf Savannah NRM’s Kasmin Brotherton.
‘Having delivered the Bush Business initiative before, we know that one of the most important aspects is creating a network of like-minded participants to support each other through the process.’
Bekky Haase participated in the program in 2020 and last year opened the Grey Galah BnB in Georgetown.
‘The Bush Business Program provided clarity to my decision-making on what to pursue as a business — this was helped by having a group of local women who served as a safe sounding board,’ said Bekky.
Kaila Kingsley (pictured), owner of Outback Orchids near Chillagoe — the only licensed supplier of the protected Wild Australian Black Orchid — said the skills she gained from the program were fundamental to her success.
‘It was so encouraging to have a group to bounce my thoughts off and get their feedback on how unique my idea was. Back then it was a distant dream and now we have a commercial nursery on a remote cattle station,’ said Kaila.
Register your EOI at gulfsavannahnrm.org/bush-business by Sunday 8 September 2024.
This project received funding from Queensland Government’s Office for Women, through the Investing in Queensland Women grant program.
Read more about the Bush Business Program in the latest edition of the Gulf Croaker: