Nestled in the heart of Victoria, the picturesque regional town of Bright is renowned for its cycling culture, stunning scenery, and vibrant local businesses. This charming destination is the perfect getaway, but it also serves as a fascinating case study in how small businesses thrive under pressure. During a recent visit, Michelle and I spent a week cycling through the scenic trails and supporting the local economy. This experience offered us valuable insights into the resilience and adaptability of the Bright community.
A Job Seekers' Paradise – Short-Term or Long-Term
If you're seeking employment, Bright is the place to be. Many businesses in town are struggling to find workers and are going to great lengths to attract staff. Some even offer accommodation to make relocation easier for employees.
One young woman worked at one of our favourite restaurants in the evening and did the 6:00 a.m. shift at the laundromat the next morning, all while managing to fit in her master's degree studies from Canada.
Another couple, both school teachers, return to Bright every year during this busy period to help their friends by working in two local restaurants.
A Butcher’s Strategy for January Madness
January is a whirlwind for Bright’s local butcher, whose turnover increases by a staggering 400% during the month. How does he manage? By implementing a simple yet effective strategy: postponing his golf days.
Three months ahead of the busy period, he begins talking to suppliers to ensure everything is in place. He then reorganises his team, asking his part-time sausage maker to work more hours, enlisting his wife to help at the counter (as the shop is always busy), and giving his apprentice more responsibilities.
While this might seem like a small sacrifice, it highlights the dedication required to meet the demands of a seasonal business. By focusing on the busy period and prioritising his time, he has increased his best daily turnover by 100% year-on-year.
Teamwork at Richie's IGA
Richie’s IGA is another excellent example of adaptability under pressure. To keep shelves stocked and customers satisfied during peak times, they’ve brought in five workers from a nearby store.
This move is a reminder that sometimes solving local challenges requires thinking beyond the immediate environment and being creative. It also shows the willingness of people to relocate during a time when they could easily choose to stay home with family and friends.
The Electric Bike Revolution
Electric bikes are revolutionising the cycling experience in Bright, making it accessible to virtually everyone. Whether you're an avid MTB cyclist or a beginner, these bikes level the playing field, inviting more people to participate in the town's cycling culture. This shift not only enhances tourism but also creates new opportunities for local businesses to cater to a broader audience.
By Brett Tarlington
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