As we leave the 2016 financial year behind, it is a time to reflect on what has transpired in the last six months and where we are heading in the next six and beyond. As an organiser I always have a plan as to how I am going to tackle a certain project or problem. Building anything worthwhile takes patience, commitment and clear vision of the end result. This happens when your partners and membership support your endeavors & share the vision and belief that you can make a change and build something together for the benefit of all.

In my short time here at FBA SA, I see daily the commitment shown by family businesses, businesses that strive for excellence which is shown in the number of nominations, stories and awards through The Advertiser, InDaily, Business SA, SA Life and Brand SA to name a few.  FBA SA are working with these organisations to build a better understanding of family business issues and requirements here in South Australia.

It’s imperative that your industry body collaborates, provides guidance, and most importantly offers a platform to engage, network and ask the tough questions and provide the answers. South Australia has recently seen our local dairy industry struggle to meet “sky rocketing “ demand as consumers backlash against below–cost dairy products, it’s amazing what social media can achieve, the power of a common purpose. I’d invite you to support your local family business community by attending events, providing feedback to FBA through our numerous surveys, and spread the word to others in your network about the great work we do here at FBA.

The South Australian branch is currently working on delivering a series of events for South Australian members, coming up next is our Families in Fashion. Meet the owners Melanie & Dean Flintoff – this will be a one off opportunity to tour this beautiful facility and hear firsthand their incredible story.  

Following the National Conference in Melbourne (August 17- 19) help FBA South Australia celebrate National Family Business Day at Adelaide University. The theme of this year’s event is The Value of Family Branding. We will be hearing from 3 guest panel speakers who are all experts in the field of family business, branding and advertising. More details follow but save the date Monday 19 September 6.00-8.00pm.

On September 28 join us for an Adviser Connect Session at KPMG Pirie Street with a brief overview of the South Australian Economy, insights and trends identified in the KPMG-FBA 2015 Family Business Survey and the implications for family businesses.

Our final event for the year will be the Inaugural Hall of Fame to be held again at the National Wine Centre, Wednesday November 23. This year has some changes so please save the date for this our final event for the year. Celebrate with us those that will be recognised as exemplary in their field.

One final note, Congratulations to Peter Hurley AO on his recent award for the Queen’s Birthday Honors June 12, his AO citation reflects his varied areas of his support and involvement within the tourism and hospitality industries here in South Australia. It’s a credit to Peter, his wife Jenny and children Nick, Samantha and Anna.

Yvonne McClaren
State Manager – SA/ NT