Yarra City Council fortnightly business e-news
Tuesday 11 December 2018
Seasons greetings and best wishes for the new year! The Economic Development team will be in the office until 24 December and back on 2 January if you have any business queries.
Guide to selling to government
The Department of Finance have developed the Selling to Government Guide as a starting point for businesses who are interested in doing business with the Australian Government.
Crime watch warning on EFTPOS machines
There has been an increase in offences involved EFTPOS machines across the state, including stealing portable machines or tampering with machines while attendants are distracted. Store attendants are reminded to watch for and report suspicious activity to police where possible.
Bike riders spend more
New research has found that people who ride bikes, walk or take public transport spend 40 per more each month in local shops than people who drive.
Up-to-date law changes from 2018
Stay up-to-date with law changes that might affect your business including minimum wage increases and single-touch payroll
Cathi Colla Architects
Cathi Colla architects will be celebrating 20 years on Rathdowne Street next year. The studio specialises in residential architecture, with many projects within City of Yarra. She says, of Yarra's architecture, "The City of Yarra has a wonderful diversity of character of streetscape and building stock. Each suburb varies."
We asked Cathi what changes she's seen in Rathdowne street in her time. She says, "It’s still the lovely tree lined street of old, the character of the place is changing though. There seems to be more coffee places now, and still a good mix of restaurants. There are fewer clothes and gift shops, and definitely more designers and architects!"
"I’ve heard from the local traders there’s been a decline in retail over the past 18 months. There’s also been a lot of infrastructure change of late. Other developments which I do love is the introduction of the Farmers Markets to our local school... Changes or otherwise, living and working in this area gives you a certain simplicity of lifestyle. Walking, cycling or tramming to the city, Princes Park, or to the kids footy is easy, we are pretty lucky."
As a seasoned business owner, Cathi has this advice to give for business survival, "Just keep doing what you love. Expect lean times, and benefit when it all goes well. I don’t think running a business is ever smooth sailing."
Her favourite local businesses are "Henry Sugar on Rathdowne St. Great service, with a friendly chat, consistently interesting menu, and always great wines... Johnny’s for a coffee (Rathdowne Street Cafe)... and my "go to”, The Biscotteria. I try not to be tempted by the multitude of sweet options, but if we are having a meeting, or morning tea it’s a good excuse ;)"
