Local business owners from Lakes Entrance, representing many different sectors including building and construction, retail and community and professional services, gathered last Wednesday night at the Albert and Co Convention Centre for Marketing Made Easy – a high-impact networking event hosted by LEADA BTE (Business, Tourism and Events), designed to equip businesses with practical marketing tools and strengthen community collaboration.
The event featured expert marketing presentations, interactive roundtable discussions, and the official launch of the new LEADA Marketing Accelerator Program (MAP), a business support initiative that will roll out in coming months.
The event was emceed by renowned marketing strategist Ailsa Page, who shared actionable offline marketing techniques. Digital marketing expert Loren Bartley followed with a keynote presentation on how artificial intelligence and automation can streamline digital marketing while maintaining authenticity.
Following the presentations, attendees engaged in roundtable discussions where they could ask questions and get tailored advice from a panel of industry and government leaders.
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Special guests included Federal MP Darren Chester, Prue McTaggart, East Gippsland Shire manager economic development, Scott Rosevear, shire visitor economy coordinator, David Power, shire business resilience and development officer – urban, Jeanette Seignior, shire visitor events officer, and Liza Gelt, principal Collaborative Consulting Co.
Each guest brought their own expertise to the discussions, offering advice and sharing available resources to help strengthen Lakes Entrance’s economy.
LEADA BTE chair Sharen Cameron spoke passionately about the importance of participation.
“We want every business in Lakes Entrance to know they have a voice,” she said.
“Being a member doesn’t mean you have to show up to every meeting — it means we can advocate for your needs and ensure you’re represented in broader discussions.”
The positive energy in the room was echoed by many attendees, who left feeling inspired and supported.
“I left Wednesday’s event inspired, powered up with a new AI toolkit, met likeminded people and won a book (The Year I Owned a Wineshop by Ailsa Page). I’m keen to learn more when I attend the future workshop on marketing. Thank you for hosting this great event,” Fi, from The Cure Renovations, said.
THE MARKETING ACCELERATOR PROGRAM (MAP)
LEADA’s new Marketing Accelerator Program (MAP) was officially launched at the event and includes:
– A local full-day (or two evenings) bootcamp to develop your business’s marketing strategy
– Access to curated online video resources from Loren and Ailsa
– Fortnightly check-ins over 90 days for support and accountability
– A follow-up session at the six-month mark to review progress
– Valued at over $1000 per business
– Free for LEADA BTE Members
– Non-Member Fee: $550
LEADA BTE will begin confirming MAP dates shortly, with the program expected to launch as early as August.
Businesses of all sizes and types are encouraged to become members of LEADA BTE.
“If you care about the future of Lakes Entrance and want
to have your business represented in regional planning, tourism
strategies, or marketing campaigns, now is the time to get involved,” Sharen said.
