The state committee continues to be active on your behalf, and is continually looking at ways to better promote your business. It has recently made submission to SATC for a joint funded saturation-advertising venture on FiveAAA radio - focusing on member B&Bs and farmstays.
There has been much work done to improve the website through optimization approaches, and in adding content of interest to members. A good deal of effort has gone into obtaining benefits for members (see the buyers guide section), especially in relation to the provision of goods of value to B&Bs (e.g. beds, bedding, supplies etc).
What do Regional reps do?
Because B&Bs are usually small operations and are generally dispersed widely across the state, it is important to establish self-help sub groups across the regions to ensure the success of these small businesses. Without someone to coordinate this it is unlikely to happen. It is hoped that each Regional Rep will try to establish ways for B&B operators to keep in contact with each other to share ideas, approaches and information.
This year the state division of BBFAA has made some money available to help make this happen, and it is not too late to seek funding support for your ideas. Now the hectic season has gone, it is a good time to look and plan collaborative opportunities.
The plan doesn’t have to be too grand! It may be a simple get together at a café for coffee and cake, a famil visit to one or two properties, or a visit to familiarize members with local attractions. Talk to Peter Manuel, (committee member), if you need some assistance. More remote areas may consider Skype linkages or conference calls, or a mini-bus tour.
The Regional Representative is also the link between the State Committee and the regions. Some representatives are sending Peter regular reports relating to their region, their activities and their needs. These help form an agenda for state level discussions, and can influence how the association operates.
The Regional representative is also a useful person in championing the association to others who are potential members, and in referring people to support networks (such as the WEA course on running a B&B).
