Do you have a Big Idea?

11 November 2019

Two workshops to capture issues and identify the solutions for creating and recruiting local jobs will be taking place in Bega and Eden next week.

The Big Ideas workshops are part of Bega Valley Shire Council’s Jobs & Skills Bega Valley project, which aims to get a better understanding of the local jobs market as it is currently and what needs to happen to expand employment opportunities.

Council’s Economic Development Officer, Alison Vandenbergh, said Jobs & Skills Bega Valley, through these Big Ideas workshops, is a once in a decade opportunity to have voices heard about our jobs future that will become a part of resource used by industry, government and education and training providers to make decisions affecting our community’s future.

“The workshops, that are open to every member of the community are a key part of the Jobs & Skills Bega Valley consultation process.

“The Eden event is designed to capture the voices and ideas of the Eden community and those with an interest in Eden. Should the event be successful in capturing the unique challenges and opportunities at a town level, future workshops in other towns may be planned.

“The intention is to bring local representatives of business, employees and future job seekers together to understand priorities and generate ideas on how locals can fill the kinds of jobs that are required in our local economy now and into the future,” Ms Vandenbergh said.

The Western Research Institute (WRI), that is working with Council on the project and will be running the workshops, has also designed a business survey and interview schedule.

CEO, Kathy Woolley, said WRI will be using technology to assist in capturing all the ideas from workshop participants in both Bega and Eden. 

“This means we will have a list of ideas and participants will have voted on them to gauge which ones are supported.  It is an easy process and only requires the use of your smart phone, tablet or laptop,” Ms Woolley said.

Big Ideas for Bega Valley will be held on Wednesday, 20 November from 2.30 - 5.30pm at the Bega Valley Commemorative Civic Centre. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/76858147789 to book your spot.

Big Ideas for Eden will be held on Thursday, 21 November from 2.30 - 5.30pm at the Eden RSL Memorial Hall. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/78110278947 to book your spot.

For more information on the Jobs & Skills Bega Valley project and the Big Ideas workshops, contact Council’s Economic Development Officer, Alison Vandenbergh, on (02) 6499 2423.

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