An upcoming business expo plans to put Maldon on the map at the centre of a network of small towns. The Village Business Expo, to take place on Tuesday 8 October, is designed to be a showcase that connects Maldon businesses with others in the region.

Founder of The Village Business and organiser of the expo Luz Restrepo OAM says the focus is on making connections. “This expo is not just for Maldon, but to connect with other small towns,” she says. “Most resources go to larger towns. We need to start the conversation regarding resources such as knowledge, training and opportunities; what do we need to do to build economic opportunities for small towns?”

Ms Restrepo hopes to see Maldon emerge as the centre of a business hub and is hoping businesses from small towns within a radius of 60km of Maldon, such as Harcourt, Clunes and Dunolly, will all become involved. “Small towns can support each other, regardless of which local government area we are from,” she says.

The Village Business Expo will feature expert speakers from across the business and government spectrum, including Victorian Small Business Minister Natalie Suleyman, Goldfields Shire Council Mayor Liesbeth Long and Rebecca Barnett, owner of Maldon Bakery. There will be opportunities to meet others, share problems, seek solutions and learn about the support that is available to help small businesses from small towns to thrive and grow.

Maldon businesses are invited to attend, exhibit, sponsor or partner with the Village Business Expo, Tuesday 8 October at Maldon Golf Club from 11am to 5pm. Buy tickets at the Village Business website: villagebusiness.com.au/village-business-expo.

This article appeared in the Tarrangower Times, 16 August 2024.