Helensburgh & District
HERALD www.helensburghdistrictherald.com.au
Volume 2 #2
MARCH 2012
editor@helensburghdistrictherald.com.au
Signs Of A Buzz In Business By Angela Fagerström After many months of vacant commercial properties creating an eyesore for the Helensburgh and Stanwell Park business precincts, it seems the tide has turned and properties are starting to fill. The recent activity is in contrast to the low business confidence levels reported across the Illawarra in mid February (NSW Business Chamber and Commonwealth Bank Business Conditions Survey). Recent arrivals in Stanwell Park includes new cafe 16 Feet Espresso, and nearby Mad Dog Deli is offering a gourmet deli and gelato bar experience with a unique dog friendly environment. Real Estate duo Robyn and John Venn are also set to open Coastline Real Estate in Stanwell Park in the coming weeks. Helensburgh Business Park (HBP) at 17 Cemetery Road now boasts around a 95% occupancy rate just three months since its completion. “We are thrilled with the way the Business Park has been received and we have even been able to attract new businesses from out of the area, others have used it as a platform for growth” said HBP developer Andy Offord.
HeartKids Page 7
The Arcade at 123 Parkes Street is now fully occupied with Reiki therapist Jasmine Sky moving in mid February. Also in Helensburgh, the Wattamolla building at 20-24 Walker Street is starting to fill its commercial spaces despite a slow start. In some instances the newcomers are upsizing from nearby premises, creating a void in another location, but the general activity is encouraging for local businesses. “The reduction of vacancy rates in the local business districts is great news. An increase in local businesses will have a positive effect on the local economy. A strong local economy will also provide much needed support for local charities, sporting groups and community projects. It’s of vital importance that we support our local businesses to maintain a strong local economy” said Quentin Field, spokesperson of the Northern Illawarra Chamber of Commerce. Wollongong City Council has responded to the more widespread lack of economic growth by announcing at an ordinary meeting of Council held on Monday February 27, a business-council partnership model for economic development. Continued on page 3
Rowers Win ASRL Gold! Page 42
HPS Turns 125! Page 8
Helensburgh Physiotherapy 4294 9990
& Sports Injury Clinic
Helensburgh & District Herald 1