MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
By Jos Mitchell
REDLAND City is home to almost 13,000 businesses and almost 98 per cent of them are small businesses.
Together, they help generate an economy worth over $8 billion and provide thousands of local jobs.
That’s a big achievement for an area of 170,000 residents.
I recently had the pleasure of presenting an award at the Redlands Coast Business Excellence Awards and it was an opportunity for everyone present to reflect on the drive and resilience it takes business owners and their families to create and grow a local business.
It was fantastic to see and hear stories of people following their passions and succeeding.
Having been a co-director of a start-up company and a local government manager of Economic Development, I intimately understand the challenges of building a business from the ground up and keeping it going.
Our local businesses drive employment, support families, and contribute to the social fabric of our city.
As our city grows and our population increases, we need local businesses supported by a strong business community to generate the prosperity and jobs that will sustain our future.
Now with the Brisbane 2032 Olympics on the horizon, we also need to ensure our businesses can play a vital role in shaping the region’s Olympic legacy.
That is why it is beneficial for all levels of government to work together to ensure our businesses are ready and afforded the best opportunities to take part in what lies ahead.
Redland City Council is actively engaged in supporting local businesses through a variety of initiatives and ongoing programs.
Council supports the three local Chambers of Commerce, and our economic development team works closely with local enterprises – providing advice, resources, and opportunities to assist.
This includes facilitating networking events, offering workshops, and training sessions, and providing access to information about grants and support programs.
I would like to see us explore the best ways for Council to support small business owners to foster collaboration, enable sharing of ideas, identify opportunities, and develop strategies to seize them.
We all want to create a thriving environment where our local businesses can flourish and contribute to the prosperity of Redland City.
