Forum addresses local sustainability

Protecting local jobs and creating a resilient local economy will be the topic of discussion at a public business forum called Going Local – Creating New Economies to be held in Coffs Harbour, sponsored by BCU.

BCU Executive Manager, Gillian French, said when the credit union learned about the forum, it jumped at the opportunity to become involved.

“The theme Going Local ties in perfectly with everything BCU stands for, even down to our Vision that is at the heart of everything we do – To be the best people locally, to talk to about money,” Gillian said.

Speaking about sustainable community finance at the forum, Gillian said the highlight would be hearing guest speaker, US author Michael Shuman’s ideas on the topic of Creating New Local Economies.

Michael Shuman is the Vice President for Enterprise Development with the Training and Development Corporation based in Bucksport, Maine, USA. Michael has significant experience in community-based economic and enterprise development and has written numerous articles including two books: The Small Mart Revolution: How Local Businesses are Beating the Global Competition (2006), and Going Local: Creating Self-Reliant Communities in the Global Age (1998). He is also the co-founder and an active participant in the Business Alliance for Growing Local Living Economies (BALLE).

“By presenting Michael’s ideas to the people who are the leaders and drivers of our local business community, we are hoping that they will act as catalysts within their own networks to get the message out that by spending and saving locally everyone can make a difference,” Gillian said.

The Going Local – Creating New Economies forum will be held on June 26 from 5.30pm to 9pm at Novotel Pacific Bay Resort, Coffs Harbour. The cost is $36.00 and includes a light meal and refreshments. Register at www.scu.conferenceonline.com.au before June 22. For more information call Donna McIntyre on 02 66203503.