Local Export Training for Wide Bay Businesses

Local businesses are getting the opportunity to take their products and services to the world thanks to a series of workshop being offered by Trade Queensland.

Deputy Premier and Acting Minister for Trade Paul Lucas said Trade Queensland’s Getting Export Smart program would provide practical, hands-on training for Bundaberg and Wide Bay companies, with experienced industry and government export advisors facilitating the workshops.

“Exporting is a vital contributor to Queensland's economy, with merchandise exports last year worth more than $35.4 billion,” Mr Lucas said.

“Service exports from Queensland were worth a further $7.79 billion in 2006-07.

“The series of exporting workshops follows on from Trade Queensland’s recent Global Connect initiative which was attended by 35 Wide Bay business people in Bundaberg last month.

“The Bundaberg Getting Export Smart program begins with an assessment of export potential for your business and progresses through additional sessions on export plan preparation, partnerships, effective marketing overseas, pricing, freight, packaging and payment procedures as well as e-business options and online marketing strategies in subsequent workshops.

“The program will also link Wide Bay-based businesses to a dedicated client manager and the right agencies to assist you in becoming a successful exporter,” Mr Lucas said.

Mr Ian Bent from successful Bundaberg-based precision machining and aircraft engine production business, CAMit, said that the Getting Export Smart had been a very useful tool in preparing his business for exporting.

“CAMit has been through the program and would recommend Getting Export Smart as a worthwhile and valuable exercise for businesses interested in exporting. CAMit now has a better understanding of the export process and we are continuing preparations to take on new overseas markets,” Mr Bent said.

Mr Lucas said that Trade Queensland delivers services across Queensland and in 13 international locations.

“Taking Smart State goods and services to the world contributes to the growth of the State’s economy and creates jobs for local people.

“The benefits of exporting from your business can include balancing seasonal demand and market risk, increased sales and turnover, higher prices and improved economies of scale.

“I urge all Wide Bay businesses that are considering exporting now or in the future to get in touch with Trade Queensland and sign up for Getting Export Smart,” Mr Lucas said.

Local businesses wishing to make further inquiries about the Getting Export Smart program can contact your local Export Adviser based in Bundaberg on 4151 9708, or Trade Queensland on 3224 4035.

Minister’s office: John Smith 3237 1944, Jane Rowe 3237 1125, Nathan Moir 3235 4060

Bundaberg Getting Export Smart workshop program schedule