The “Your Business in the Bush” forum will be held on Wednesday September 23 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at the Nyngan RSL Bowler Bar and will be hosted by rural entrepreneur Robbie Sefton.

“I run my own business in the bush and I have to apply business principles to the rural and regional environment,” said Robbie Sefton.

“Managing a small business in a rural area is different to the city but this does not need to limit our business growth and development.”

Robbie Sefton is a NSW Rural Woman of the Year, a board member of the Australia Day Council (NSW) and on the Federal Government’s Rural Women’s Advisory Group. She has been a board member of The Woolmark Company; Australian Rural Leadership Foundation and was an advisory member of the Australian Taxation Office Small Business Advisory Group advising on business issues in rural and regional areas.

Michael Brady, General Manager, Bogan Shire Council is encouraging local business people to participate.

“We are fortunate that most of the businesses in our town are owner-operated and offer a personal level of service beyond the sale of goods and services,” said Michael.

“Our community also has a strong commitment to supporting local and regional suppliers. Our prices are invariably cheaper than our immediate regional counterparts and we have an excellent variety of services and products.

“However, despite these positives, local business operators do face challenges and this is an excellent opportunity for us to focus on building better businesses in the shire.

“The forum will concentrate on tips and ideas to make small businesses more competitive, but will also discuss business and community leadership.’’

Ms Sefton said she is passionately interested in leadership styles and skills. “I believe that by working to become effective leaders in business and the community we can each help create thriving rural communities,” she said.

“Many business owners are ideally placed to become leaders in our towns and help ensure rural NSW is sustainable”.

Please confirm your attendance with Cathy Ellison at Bogan Shire Council on 6831 1100.