Access resources for the shop local campaign, get all the latest news and more!
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Welcome to the Valley Business News - keeping Nambucca Valley business informed, updated and across local, state, and national opportunities.
Join the Campaign - Shop Local
The Nambucca Valley Shop Local Campaign launches this Friday 2 October and there are a number of ways that you can get involved.
- Attend the Introduction to Canva Workshop this Friday 2 October.
- Pick up a campaign poster featuring our shop local competition to display in store, available from Wednesday afternoon at: Macksville or Nambucca Libraries, the Visitor Information Centre, Council's Administration Building or the Bowraville Technology Centre.
- Use the free Canva templates to create your own social tiles and posters to promote your business as part of the campaign.
- Re-share the social tiles and reels from Council's social media accounts.
The campaign and shop local competition will also be featured in News of the Area throughout the month of October.
Local stories from across the Valley
Nambucca Oyster Co head to Singapore
Nambucca Oyster Company owners Nicolas and Delphine recently attended Seafood Expo Asia / Seafood Processing Asia in Singapore. It was a great opportunity to discover new ideas, make industry connections and understand emerging trends across the international seafood industry.
Award Winner!
Congratulations to Remote Infrastructure Group who won Outstanding New Business at the recent Mid North Coast Business Awards. They are now eligible to contest the Business NSW State Awards to be announced in Sydney on 30 October.
Bare Nature Beauty
Known for their friendly and professional staff, Bare Nature Beauty Nambucca Heads creates a welcoming space where every client can relax, unwind, and enjoy a personalised wellness experience. Whether you're looking for a soothing massage or a little self-care, their team is dedicated to helping you feel refreshed, rejuvenated, and your best.
Chasing Sundays
Congratulations to Bec and the Chasing Sundays team who are celebrating 10 years in business this month. Chasing Sundays is an Australian lifestyle brand offering beach‑ready bags, Turkish towels, clothing, and family‑friendly outdoor essentials. Visit the Casing Sundays HQ at 7 Duke Street Nambucca Heads or online to shop the range.
October is Small Business Month
In addition to our Shop Local campaign there are a range of other events happening across the Valley and the state.
Nambucca Valley Business Women's Network
An opportunity for local businesswomen to connect, share experiences and build professional networks. This month join Julie Humphris for an inspiring session exploring how to thrive through every season of business, from growth and change to renewal and opportunity.
Date: Thursday 8 October 2026
Time: 7am - 8:30am
Venue: Wharf Street Cafe
Nambucca Valley Business Networking Event
Business owners are invited to meet the region's new business support providers and learn about available services and assistance programs. Light refreshments provided.
Date: Wednesday 21 October 2026
Time: 8.30am to 9.30am
Venue: Nambucca TAFE Connect
DNC Business Events Workshop
Part of the Business Events Workshop Series, this interactive session will explore how businesses can leverage the region's unique strengths to create memorable customer experiences and unlock new opportunities for growth.
Date: Thursday 22 October 2026
Time: 10.00am to 12.00pm
Venue: Nambucca RSL
Small Business Month Online Events
NSW Small Business Month returns in October 2026, offering small business owners access to hundreds of free and low-cost events, workshops and networking opportunities across the state. It's a great chance to build new skills, explore emerging trends, make valuable connections and celebrate the vital contribution small businesses make to the NSW
economy.
News and updates
Surcharge Ban Taking Effect
From 1 October 2026, businesses across Australia will no longer be able to charge card payment surcharges, following reforms aimed at making pricing more transparent and easier for consumers to understand.
Small businesses are encouraged to review their pricing and payment systems now to ensure they are prepared for the changes before they take effect.
Small Business Advisory Program
Free expert support is available for NSW small businesses through the Service NSW Small Business Advisory Program.
Eligible businesses can access up to four hours of free one-on-one advice, plus workshops, webinars and practical resources to help start, grow or strengthen their business.
Grants and opportunities
Gulfood Dubai 2027 Trade Mission
Australian food and beverage exporters have an opportunity to participate in Gulfood Dubai 2027, one of the world's largest food and hospitality trade exhibitions.
Participation can provide valuable market exposure, distributor connections and export opportunities in the Middle East and international markets.
ATO Masterclass Series
The ATO Small Business Masterclasses are free online sessions designed to help business owners improve financial management, record keeping, tax compliance and business planning.
The practical workshops are suitable for new and established businesses looking to strengthen their operations and build confidence in managing their finances.
Industrial Hemp Prospectus
The newly released Industrial Hemp Prospectus highlights the significant growth potential of Australia's industrial hemp industry, showcasing opportunities across food production, fibre, construction materials, manufacturing and sustainable products. The prospectus identifies regional NSW as well positioned to benefit from industry expansion, with opportunities for growers, processors, manufacturers and investors to participate in an emerging high-value sector.
Innovative Manufacturing Adoption
The NSW Government’s Innovative Manufacturing Adoption Fund Stage 1 is now open, offering grants of $10,000 to $50,000 to help eligible NSW manufacturers explore advanced technologies through feasibility studies, pilot projects and early-stage testing.
The program aims to boost productivity, competitiveness and growth, with applications closing on 6 October 2026 and funding available for up to 50% of eligible project costs.
Early Stage Seed Fund – Trailblazer for Recycling & Clean Energy
The Early Stage Seed Fund provides early-stage funding and support for innovative startups and researchers developing ideas in recycling, circular economy and clean energy technologies. The program aims to help promising projects move from concept to commercialisation, creating new opportunities for sustainable industries and economic growth.
Net Zero Planning Grant Round 2
The Net Zero Planning Grant Round 2 supports NSW businesses and organisations to develop plans and strategies that reduce emissions and prepare for a low-carbon future. Funding can be used to assess current operations, identify emissions reduction opportunities and create practical pathways towards net zero.
Applications close 30 November 2026
Have Your Say
Cyber Security for Small Business
The NSW Small Business Commissioner is seeking feedback from small businesses on cyber security challenges and support needs.
Business owners are encouraged to share their experiences to help shape future cyber security resources, education and support programs for small business.
Workers Compensation Premiums
The NSW Government is seeking feedback from employers and stakeholders as part of a review into how workers compensation premiums are calculated.
Businesses are encouraged to share their experiences and insights through the online survey, with consultation open until 25 October 2026.
