A double-sided bonus

BUSINESSES can learn ways to support the community next week, while boosting their business at a presentation.
Yarra Ranges Council and Maroondah City Council will present The Business Case for Community Partnerships at Karralyka Centre, Mines Road, Ringwood from 5.30pm to 7.30pm on Thursday 2 September.
Its focus is building partnerships between business and the community – with mutual benefits.
Airbiz managing director Greg Fordham knows first hand the benefits of corporate social responsibility. Airbiz is an independent international specialist aviation consultant.
Mr Fordham and 25 staff from as far as Canada and New Zealand recently spruced up the barbecue area at Melba Support Services.
Melba in Mount Evelyn support more than 280 people with disabilities through accommodation, day services and individual carers.
“It’s letting businesses know it’s not all about money,” spokeswoman Judy Duff said.
“We also need support in a lot of other ways.”
The Airbiz team worked through torrential rain and mud to build bridges over a creek, clear pathways and mulch.
“We do this twice a year where we get our whole team together,” Mr Fordham said.
“Everyone’s always looking for team building. It takes people out of their normal activities.”
He said people’s different skills emerge throughout the task, with many exchanging roles to band together and to get the job done.
“They come here to do what they’ve committed to do and that attitude flows through into the office,” he said.
“We’ve done all sorts of team building exercises, but I can’t think of a better thing to do.”
Mr Fordham encouraged other organisations to call him on 9417 4733 or send an email to gfordham@airbiz.aero for more information.
Readers can RSVP to Jack Mulholland via jack.mulholland@maroondah.vic.gov.au or 9294 5750 or call Melba at Support Services on 9760 8217 to lend a hand.