Upper Blue Mountains businesses met in Katoomba on Monday [January 20] to prepare ideas for a major meeting on the bushfire economic recovery to be held on January 29.
About 45 people attended the meeting at GalleryONE88 to help plan a cohesive message for the upcoming meeting at the Fairmont Resort in Leura. Representatives from Leura to Mount Victoria made their voices heard from industries including accommodation, entertainment, retail and food.
"It was really wonderful to see so many people come together to discuss the issue at hand," said Sharon Peralta of GalleryONE88. "It is easy to feel despondent and alone when you are going through something like this. Having this meeting allowed us to connect the business community and share our concerns with others in the same situation. I feel positive that we can all work together to find a way forward."
The group pinpointed key issues for government and other organisations, but also brainstormed ideas that can be implemented straight away. Many local businesses in the Mountains have stated that business is down 50-60 per cent with some saying they could see their doors closed in two months' time.
Whilst small businesses are grateful for the incentives that Blue Mountains City Council has created such as the Love Local scheme, they are also aware many locals have already been supporting them through the recent period, and that many locals have reduced shifts or are at risk of losing their own jobs because of the bushfires
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The businesses are now calling for out of town visitation and are asking everyone to spread the word, whether it be via word of mouth or through sharing posts on social media.
Diipali Lilburne from Kent & Lane said: "We need Sydney folk to come back to our towns, stay a night or two, visits our shops and cafes and enjoy the beautiful surrounds. We need locals to help get the word out, either by sharing posts or speaking to friends, that we are still a great destination, and would love visitors to return."
Small businesses interested in further information can contact Omnia, GalleryONE88 Fine Arts, The Little Lost Book shop or Kent & Lane.