It is so lovely to have a touch of warm weather after a particularly cold wet Winter.  We were fortunate to have a taste of that warm weather at the National Conference on Hamilton Island which we all enjoyed.  Scott and I always come back refreshed and enthused from what we learn at the conference and this year was no exception. Some of the standout presentations was the Masterclass with the Corporate Rebels from Holland who really make you think about the need for change in the way we manage our day to day business, Bernard Salt’s report on where Australia is headed and Dom Pelligana interview with 2 Victorian companies Quin Scalzo from Scalzo Food Industries and Daniel O’Sullivan Abbe Corrugated  on how they have successfully transitioned their business to the next generation. 

They both spoke of the value of being part of a forum group and how that had helped with transitioning their business.  It was  also a highlight to see SA do so well with the Awards.  Congratulations to Beerenberg   – Entrepreneur Award and Ennio Interational Distinguished Family Business  winners for 2017.

In late August we held a family Insider event at Detmold’s LaunchPad the centre for innovation and prototyping.   Zoe Detmold and Tom Lunn spoke about how the Detmold family had transformed the packaging company into a centre of innovation and design to meet the needs of their customers.   

This month we celebrated Family Business Day on the 19^th.  Family Business Australia (FBA) recognises the achievements of family owned Australian businesses who contribute positively to our community, economy and culture. The FBA State Hall of Fame Award recognises and rewards successful family businesses ‘best fit’ practices that all family businesses can learn from.  A morning tea was held at the office for Small Business Commissioner as a recognition of family business’ contribution to the state. 

Our next Forum information breakfast will be held at the Republic Hotel on Tuesday November 15^th.  If you are interested in attending this breakfast please contact Yvonne for more details. Since hearing the 2 Victorian companies endorsement of Forum groups at the National conference I am more convinced of their great value to a family business.     Our first “Women in Family Business” lunch to be held in October has successfully sold out.   We are hoping to have these lunches on a regular basis, if you are interested in being part of this event please contact Yvonne for more information. 

Until next time enjoy this lovely Spring weather. 

Debbie Reed

Chair FBA SA