The Local Buying Foundation aims to empower, support and connect people though networking and business development opportunities, to build sustainable local business communities. One of the ways that the LBF delivers on this objective is by providing funding for a number of ongoing business, economic and tourism development roles known collectively as the Bridging The Boundaries positions.
In South Australia, the Local Buying Foundation has provided funding for a stakeholder engagement role with Tactic (formerly GMUSG). Tactic, for almost 20 years, has been the premier connecting conduit between Upper Spencer Gulf suppliers, large proponents and major projects in the area. The SA Local Buying Foundation Advisory Committee recognised the influence and success that Tactic have linking stakeholders in the region, and unanimously supported LBF funding for a dedicated role to enable the expansion of the Tactic team to increase the advocacy and engagement they generate.
Tamara Thomas was appointed to this position in early 2022, providing a stable and reliable source for Tactic members and Industry alike. In her first year has achieved incredible results initiating, supporting and driving a range of opportunities and connections for local businesses.
Tamara’s role has benefitted the region’s economic growth and deepened relationships within the business community of Port Pirie, Port Augusta, Whyalla, Eyre Peninsula and Yorke Peninsula and has seen Tactic membership increase 160% for the last financial year and climbing. Tamara’s role also has invaluable connections with Government stakeholders and has helped secure a recent 2-year contract with Infrastructure SA’s Northern Water Project for community and industry stakeholder engagement.
The role has been scaled up due to high demand and workload. The Industry Engagement Officer (part time position) has now come on board full time and Tamara was promoted to Director, Industry & Stakeholder Relations as the role grew along with responsibilities and high demand of Tactics industry engagement activities in the Upper Spencer Gulf and Beyond.
Louise Foote, Tactic CEO commented, “‘the funding support from LBF has allowed Tactic to significantly expand the organisation. Supporting the growth of the internal resourcing has led to substantial increase in services for members and the ability to connect more local suppliers with major project opportunities.”
For more information about Tactic and the opportunities they provide for Upper Spencer Gulf businesses, visit https://tactic.org.au/
The LBF is proud to partner with a number of economic development organisations across NSW, QLD, SA and soon in WA to fund similar roles that create opportunities, and business support services to business within the regions that the Local Buying Foundation and BHP’s Local Buying Program operate.