A farmstay business at Toms Creek near Port Macquarie is opening its doors to more visitors and educating the public about clean and green living after setting up a new venture to promote sustainability.
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Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said Nature Domes farmstay, which offers glamping-style accommodation in a natural environment, diversified when COVID-19 forced the business to temporarily shut its doors.
"Like many small businesses, Nature Domes owner Cardia Forsyth has faced some major challenges this year, including droughts and bushfires," Mr Tudehope said.
"Mrs Forsyth needed business advice and discussions with a NSW government Business Connect advisor inspired her to start GROW Sustainable Living.
"Now, she's introduced farm tours to educate visitors about livestock and animal husbandry, created themed events, set up the GROW website, runs micro-courses on topics such as beekeeping and land management and hired two additional staff."
"The NSW government continues to deliver targeted assistance to our business community to speed up the recovery process and help to get local economies back on track," Mrs Pavey said.
"Nature Domes is an example of an innovative and resilient business model and I congratulate them for their commitment and vision."
Business Connect helped Nature Domes conduct a full financial and viability analysis for two years, including research into tourism statistics for this region.
The business also received a $10,000 Bushfire Support grant from the NSW Government.
Ms Forsyth said the grant had helped at a difficult time and she was heartened by the early success of her new website, which reached more than 8,000 people in its first four weeks.
"I'm passionate about sustainable living and on the GROW website people can learn more about sustainability and soil management. There are so many small steps people can take in their backyards and courtyards," Mrs Forsyth said.
"Business Connect has given me renewed confidence and it's been life-changing."
Business Connect advice is free for businesses affected by COVID-19 or bushfires.
