EMPOWERED Locals

There’s no doubt that the hospitality and tourism sector have faced the biggest burden of disruption caused by COVID 19. Those operating in the food and beverage industry have had to pivot, pirouette and swivel to fight for survival.

Eat Local Noosa, a forever-free online marketplace of all things eat and drink was born out of an identified need to support food and drink operators of all kinds – from wholesalers to farmers, fish & chip shops to fine dining.

As part of its charter to empower and support the local hospitality industry, the Eat Local Noosa team brought together industry experts in the areas of customer insights, recruitment and tourism as well as well-known leaders from the industry.

The appropriately-named “Lockdown Survivor: Essential Conversations from Industry for Industry” sold-out event at Peppers Noosa Resort and Villas was humming with more than 70 people from the food and beverage industry.

Farmers and artisan producers, chefs, restaurant owners, distillers, craft beer makers and more came together to share experiences and plan ahead. MC Matt Golinski hosted a day of insightful presentations including Amanda Stevens – The Consumer Futurist who delivered entertaining insights into how we can adapt to accommodate the customer experience. Tourism Noosa CEO Melanie Anderson shared important statistics, initiatives and programs to support the region; Luke Butler, managing director of Hastings People revealed employment trends and tactics to attract and secure staff. Matt Golinski discussed the importance of mental health in the workplace and restaurateur Tony Kelly shared lessons he has learnt from building a business that operates seven venues – and growing!

A panel session with the guest speakers offered attendees the chance to dive deeper into how to survive and thrive in a challenging and changing market.

The event included a locally-sourced morning tea and two-course lunch curated by Matt and enjoyed at View by Matt Golinski thanks to the support of Tourism Noosa and Noosa Council.

WHAT IS EAT LOCAL NOOSA?

Born out of a need to connect the community with the hospitality industry during COVID, Eat Local Noosa is a FOREVER FREE online little black book of everything eat, drink and experience in Noosa. The not-for-profit passion project was started by Michelle Mason (Social Tap); Alesha Gooderham (Peppermint) and Deb Caruso (IN Noosa Magazine + Hello Sunshine Magazine). The website listing has over 200 local businesses listed and continues to remain relevant and loved by locals searching for where to eat, drink and enjoy. Listings are free and will always be so, because the trio want to share their love and appreciation for great food and a good drink in the region! Local businesses that supply goods to the Noosa region (even if they are based outside the area) can list their business for free at www.eatlocalnoosa.com.au