Local businesses in the Shoalhaven are still feeling the impact of the most disastrous peek season in the region’s history. With the decrease in domestics & international travellers (corona/fires/floods/storms), corporates are stepping in to fill the gap and #MakeTravelMatter.
Corporate banks, the transportation sector and private companies have been using their networks and influence as a force for good and seeking opportunities to help local communities. Companies like Redbull and Thirdi Group have already visitied our towns, our shops, sampled our amazing produce and purchased locally crafted gifts to take home to their family and friends. Others are pledging their support and planning their next corporate meeting or conference in a bushfire affected community.
“The fires and their devastating damage to the environment, communities, animals and human life are the first wave of the crisis. For local businesses, the resulting economic downturn is the second wave,” says Michelle Bishop, owner and proprietor of Bangalay Luxury Villas & Bangalay Dining.
Not only are they supporting local businesses, they also want to get their hands dirty with community volunteering opportunities such as building wildlife feeding stations and habitat rehabilitation through Bushcare.
The Shoalhaven has seen incredible support by amazing initiatives dedicated to boosting local tourism and giving bushfire affected communities hope. Including, but not limited to: #EmptyEsky #SpendWithThem #HolidayHereThisYear #roadtripforgood #bookthemout #stayinthebush #LoveNSW www.roadtripforgood.org.au, & www.backingthebush.com.au
The Shoalhaven is the ideal destination for corporate retreats, offsites and conferences; with train links to Bomaderry/Nowra, Illawarra aiport nearby and Albatross airport available for private charters. A scenic two hour drive south of Sydney or three from Canberra will have teams arriving at a relaxed coastal setting; buzzing with enthusiasm and creativity.
Bangalay Luxury Villas located in Shoalhaven Heads offers exclusive use of it’s 16 Luxury Villas and on-site nature inspired restaurant Bangalay Dining for corporate groups. A few hundred metres from Bangalay sits the Shoalhaven Heads Surf Club, offering daily bookings for their venue overlooking Seven Mile Beach.
The region is a year-round destination. Bangalay’s friendly team is on-hand to help organise local team bonding experiences such as surf lessons, beach horse rides, wine tastings, cooking schools or local tours. All of which supports local businesses.
If companies can’t do an overnight stay but would like to help local communities, Bangalay Luxury Villas + Bangalay Dining have partnered with Empty Esky and AAT Kings Travel to create single and multi-day tours from Sydney to assist the recovery of the NSW South Coast economy.
“I encourage everyone to visit the Shopalhaven and get behind local businesses. It will make a significant difference to businesses in towns both directly and indirectly affected by the bushfires.” Says Michelle.
Thank you for making corporate travel matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How has Bangalay Luxury Villas’ projected income been affected?
Prior to the fire situation deteriorating in late December, Bangalay Luxury Villas had projected 90% occupancy at peak rates. The family owned and built operation suffered from approximately $80,000 in accommodation cancellations during the two week prior to Christmas with a further 25 booked guests requesting date changes to later in the year. On-site restaurant Bangalay Dining was forced to close due to fire hazard warnings on two key trading occasions, resulting in a 50% drop in anticipated revenue.
Bangalay Luxury Villas + Bangalay Dining employ 45 local staff and, like so many other businesses, are now completely reviewing their business, marketing and operational plans.
Where can I volunteer or donate?
Buying from South Coast businesses or visiting affected areas is the best way to assist. We also encourage people to donate to the Shoalhaven Council Mayoral relief fund.
Bushcare will be offering opportunities for people to get involved by building wildlife feeding stations and helping rehabilitate lost habitats around the local area. www.bushcare.org.au
Visit emptyesky.com.au for further inspiration.
High resolution images available on request
