Inspired talk in the News
Northern Outlook May 26, 2010
A Hurunui business networking group has been launched by a Waiau businesswoman who decided to “do the thing she could do” to help local businesses. Marina Shearer has 20 years experience in training and consultancy, and she said she wanted to contribute to the local business community by organising business people to “simply get together” for like- minded discussions as well as have invited guests come to speak. “For the last few years this has been happening unofficially over cups of coffee in various homes as new business owners pick the brains of locals who have gone before them.” Ms Shearer said. The businesswoman herself has gained Hurunui acumen. “Tracey Robinson of the online, award winning retail business Cosy Toes, based in Rotherham, has helped me tremendously in launching our new, mail order rhododendron business. Tracey was about two years ahead of me in everything and she was a fabulous help in launching my own mail-order business. There are a lot of enterprising people in the Hurunui and I thought it might be helpful to have a few more opportunities to share and learn from others.” With 10 years spent with the New Zealand Institute of Management in Christchurch, organising training and conferences, Ms Shearer was willing to pitch in to do her bit. She said after a first meeting with Carol Taplin from North Canterbury enterprises, there was significant interest to take the organisation of the Hurunui Business Networking Group to the next level. Viv Gray, owner of The Nuthouse, came on board to donate help with promotions. The first event was this month, with 22 Hurunui business people meeting at Ms Shearer’s cottage to listen to Indigo Marketing’s Deborah Roberts. “Next week Clarrie Hoyle from Combo Marketing will facilitate two free sessions on June 2 and 3 on websites.” On July 28 Trish Coleman, co-owner of the Nor’wester Cafe in Amberley will speak on “the Sustainability of You”
Photo “Reaching Out: Marina Shearer is bringing Hurunui business people together under a networking umbrella”