Mitch’s Story.
“I have watched our clients fight back tears as they must make decisions on how to go forward in the wine grape industry with things looking so grim. I have spoken to clients after they have stood and watched their vines ripped out.”
How have the tough farming conditions been affecting your business this year?
“MGE Riverland is a locally owned small business that provides essential supplies to Businesses across the Riverland, Riverland West and Southern Mallee. We provide Cleaning Chemicals, Washroom Supplies, Workshop Supplies and are the local agent for the Spitwater Brand. The primary producer sector is essential to the survival of our business. We supply to a large range of vineyards, citrus properties, almond properties and farmers. An estimated percentage of this business would be between 70-80% of our yearly turnover.
The current conditions in our area have impacted our business in many ways. Our sales of bigger ticket items have dropped considerably (as expected), and our clients are looking to fix things to keep them going instead of replacing. Our clients are buying essential items only and stretching things out where they can.
What’s the flow-on effect when primary producers tighten their belts AND How does that impact your BUSINESS?
When our regions primary producers are doing it tough it creates a large ripple effect through our community. Our small businesses (especially retail) notice a sharp downturn in what was once a vibrant industry in our area. Small businesses are always the first people asked to give to our communities with sponsorship and donations and struggle to meet these needs. Our small businesses pump a huge amount of money into our local community and when things get tough they can not afford to do this.
I speak to several local business operators throughout our Riverland region, and they all have a similar story. This is a widespread issue across many forms of business such as retail, hospitality and service industries. Like many other businesses we have to watch where every cent is going including staffing costs and running costs.
I have been asked if there is a particular conversation I have had with a local primary producer that has struck a chord, and I would have to say there have been more than I wish to admit. I have watched our clients fight back tears as they must make decisions on how to go forward in the wine grape industry with things looking so grim. I have spoken to clients after they have stood and watched their vines ripped out. These are the same vines they have spent years nurturing and pouring their heart in to. I have spoken to dryland farmers as they have watched the wind and dust destroy their livelihood. There are so many……and it is taking its toll on all of us.
Our local community is a tough and resilient one and I have seen some inspiring ideas come out of the devastation. One that I have been watching closely is the “Fat Farmers” group. The local group gets together at the Mammoth Fitness Gym every Tuesday morning at 6am for some exercise and banter. I am strong believer in “healthy body = healthy mind” and I believe it is a great outlet for those who might just need a friendly face to chat to. While they may not be able to solve all their problems it is important to know you are not alone.
“It is also important to spread the “shop local” message more than ever!! Our region is full of amazing businesses that support our local community and sporting groups.”
What would you like the wider community to understand about how farming fortunes impact towns?
I think that it is important to highlight the impacts of primary producers on our local economy and the wellbeing of our community. The flow on effects is huge.
Looking to the months ahead… my fingers are crossed for some rain and for our nation to take up wine drinking. I am worried about our local community. We have had several long-standing businesses of the Riverland close over the last couple of years as things have got tougher. These have ranged from retail stores to machinery and hardware stores. The current economy does not discriminate in who it effects.
I urge our region to look in their backyard and see what a great place the Riverland and surrounding areas are. Next time you are at the local football, netball, soccer etc club look at the sponsors board and ask yourself if you could maybe use their services. Our community needs to showcase our region. Tell your friends of a great experience you have had at one of our local cafes or clubs. Tell everyone about our amazing houseboat holidays or the incredible accommodation facilities we have here. BE THE VOICE FOR YOUR REGION!!
Mitch Gibbs
Owner
MGE Riverland
