The Southern Alexandrina Business Association (SABA) completed a feasibility study into the introduction of the Cittaslow process for Goolwa. Cittaslow is a system of management for small towns with a population of less than 50,000. It builds on the environmental and local culture of a town. It focuses the decision-making process.
As a result of the study, the following recommendations were endorsed:
1. That SABA support the efforts of the Goolwa community and the Alexandrina Council to be recognised as a Cittaslow.
2. That SABA support assistance for local businesses to benefit from Goolwa gaining Cittaslow status by promoting workshops and information sessions regarding marketing opportunities, staff development and product diversity.
3. That SABA apply for grants to run programs for businesses in the food, accommodation and tourism industry to reach appropriate standards of service, marketing, quality of produce or other levels set by negotiation among those businesses affected.
4. That SABA support the development and consolidation of a farmers market with authenticity based on "truth in labelling".
5. That SABA encourage suitable businesses to adopt the philosophy of the slow food movement and provide support for the development of a Slow Food convivium on the Fleurieu Peninsula.
6. That SABA work cooperatively with Alexandrina Council to lift the profile of Cittaslow and its goals.
7. That SABA follow up youth concerns in Goolwa by instigating discussions with appropriate council, community and service groups.
SABA and the Goolwa Community is working with the Alexandrina Council to ensure that now that Goolwa has achieved Cittaslow status, it can benefit the town.
Cittaslow is sometimes refered to as "slow town" but it is really a town that takes time to plan, to care, to share, to experience those things that make a town a place "where quality of life is important".
Cittaslow offers businesses a chance to reassess their business practices and ensure that they are operating in an environmentally sustainable manner. It also gives businesses a marketing tool and an opportunity to promote and use unique local products and produce. Cittaslow shows that everyone - businesses, Council and residents - all play an important part in ensuring a vital vibrant future for the town.
For more details about what is involved in becoming a Cittaslow. Click here.