In July 2024, Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast (RDALC) convened the first combined meeting of business associations in the region. With the Limestone Coast covering more than 21,000km and 69,000 residents across 10 main towns and one regional city, the opportunity for pace-based business development associations to come together is rare.

There are seven not for profit incorporated associations supporting local business and community development across the region. Each has a variation of the same purpose and membership structure, with volunteer committees. Overall, these associations seek to promote businesses, connect business owners and encourage spending in local communities.

Over time, each organisation has been through the cycle of growing membership and committee, with innovation, initiatives and outcomes. Most have also experienced the lack of volunteers, reduced membership or participation and a lack of strategic purpose.

RDALC saw an opportunity to bring representatives from each group together to share their knowledge, experience, highs and lows. The first event was a small dinner in Naracoorte, the most central point in the region. While there were only three organisations represented, all those who attended saw value and appreciated the opportunity.

In 2025, the event grew to include representatives from all seven business associations. The collaboration and connection was strong, with all participants drawing from the experience in the room and offering useful advice. Now an annual event, the Business Associations Dinner is another demonstration of Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast investing in people.

Image Source: RDA Limestone Coast (www.rdalc.org.au)