FBA was created for members just like you. So it was wonderful to hear both local and interstate members share their stories at the annual Family Business Insights event recently.

These businesses shared their rollercoaster stories of wins and failures, which we are now able to learn lessons from and use to strengthen our own businesses in the future.

The September National Conference in Alice Springs will be another opportunity to hear behind the scenes stories from fellow businesspeople on what they have learnt on their own journeys. This will include household names such as Carman’s, Just Jeans, Linfox, Paspaley, Akubra and Hungry Jacks.

Personally, I view the National Conference as a key part of my own professional development. I find it inspiring and motivating, while also reassuring me that I’m not alone in many of the challenges that I face in family business. This is also a fantastic opportunity to meet key people who can help my family business, and general information sharing on how to tackle specific challenges.

Getting away from the capital cities also brings a new perspective to everything and I find myself much more creative and effective at thinking through big picture issues. In fact, it was a Northern Territory conference years ago that proved to be a very positive turning point for our business and family.

If you’ve been thinking about a board in your business then also be sure to come along to our Boards in the Family Business event on June 20th, as there are many ways to make it a smooth process.

Thanks also to my FBA Forum Group who helped fire me up again this month after a tough week. Joining a forum group after advice from my wife has been one of the best decisions that I’ve made! If you are interested in joining a forum group, please get in touch with Emily Spalding, Forum Group Manager espalding@fambiz.org.au.

Finally, I invite you to consider nominating for election to the WA committee. As a voluntary position, it’s a great way to get to know other members more closely and gain valuable experiences in the process of developing FBA here in WA. We’re going in a very positive direction, so it’s an ideal time to get on board. Please email our State Manager, Lorraine Willis lwillis@fambiz.org.au

Warm Regards,
Lance Stringer
WA State Chair