With the sudden and recent changes to rules and regulations affecting businesses in the Forbes Shire, and Australia as a whole, there has been much talk concerning job loss and a lack of resources Forbes residents would endure if business are forced to shut down in the face of an economic recession. The University of South Australia’s business growth expert, Professor Jana Matthews, has urged business to reassess their current model in order to survive these challenging times.

Jana says that the survival of business is dependent on the changes business owners make in adapting to the shift in the market. One crucial way in which Forbes businesses can maintain themselves is by “doubling down on winners,” meaning, business owners must assess which services or products are in demand, and identify a demographic of existing customers to target their marketing and focus on providing their most in demand services.

Social media has and will continue to play a fundamental role in shaping the way in which money and services flow throughout the community. By changing the way in which a service or product is offered, that is in line with the restrictions in place, employers are also able to retain staff by identifying and transferring their skills and resources to new positions.

Professor Jana Matthews goes on to advise businesses to identify “weak spots” by thinking critically to identify where the first cuts need to be made. It is time for business owners to lead with both their brains and hearts and have the courage to enter unchartered territory and implement change, no matter how daunting it may seem.

Forbes resident Tracey Mowbray is maintaining high spirits in isolation by getting stuck into the front garden.

As government guidelines and laws constrict to curb the spread of COVID-19, more people are taking social distancing measures and following the advice to stay home unless attending an essential task. While this is a commendable sacrifice to ensure the health of individuals and the community, the limited social contact can impact our mental health. Isolation may trigger feelings of loneliness, anxiety, helplessness and depression, however, there are ways to protect and boost your mental health and immunity.

It is important to keep busy, if you have a hobby or household project you have been putting off, now is your chance to start and complete it. If you have always wanted to learn a new language or skill there are apps and websites that can be accessed for free and put the information you need right at your fingertips. Skillshare, Duolingo, Masterclass and Scholastic are offering free virtual classes during this time. Feeling that your time is being optimised can reduce feelings of anxiety and helplessness, so keeping routine with scheduled projects and hobbies can contribute to positive feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction.

If news and social media increase your anxiety, digital distancing may help to alleviate stress while giving more time to do more healthy and productive things like reading a book, practicing yoga or even dancing. It is also important to reach out to friends and family. No one is in this alone, so call friends, neighbours, family and talk. Hosting a digital party through a video conference can also lessen the social isolation people may feel.

There are many mental health services that can be accessed from home, offering phone and online services. Beyond Blue, Kids Helpline, MensLine Australia, Open Arms, Lifeline and Suicide Call Back Services are just a few available in Australia. The most effective way to receive mental health support help is to ask for help.

Mayor of Forbes, Phyllis Miller OAM

Forbes Shire Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM has urged Shire residents to fully support and comply with the stay home directions from Federal and State authorities.

“As we all battle with the introduction of the Coronavirus into our lives, this simple action of staying home could save the virus from spreading into our community,” said Mayor Miller. “Council is in daily contact with NSW Health and the State Authorities and we will continue to update the community on the latest communications.”

Council Town Hall has closed its doors to the public, but services continue to operate inside under new social distancing protocols. Forbes residents will still be able to talk to Council staff regarding DA’s and planning proposals over the phone and via email. The health and safety of Council staff and the public are the main priority and social distancing is the most effective means of ensuring this. So while there will be no face-to-face interactions, it is still business as usual for Council.

Council is now exploring the potential for Council meetings to be conducted electronically through online systems that enable Councillors to attend from locations off-site due to new social distancing laws.

“It is important the community continue to check the Council and State Government websites and refrain from relying on social media commentary for their information,” said Mayor Miller. “The new Australian Government Coronavirus App has the most up-to-date information you need.”

The April Council Meeting is scheduled for 16th April.