Australia: Bell Bay Aluminium unites with West Tamar Council to support local businesses

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the Apple Island’s shores in March’20, many Tasmanian businesses received a financial blow, but a partnership is supporting five businesses in the West Tamar to move ahead towards the future.

The West Tamar Council and Rio Tinto's Bell Bay Aluminium smelter united to form a movement for the Recovery, Economic and Resilience Grants to assist businesses with a share of $50,000.

Patronizing an application and assessment process, five businesses secured $10,000 each across marine, food manufacturing, adventure tourism and education sectors.

The successful recipients include Pivot Maritime International, Launceston Kayak Tours, A Pinch of Tasmania, Learning Partners and the Commercial Dive Academy.

Shona Markham, General Manager, Bell Bay Aluminium said: “Being resilient and adaptive in the current economic environment had never been more important for businesses.”

"The smelter has had the privilege of operating throughout this pandemic and, we want to be able to support those smaller local businesses in our region impacted by COVID-19," she said.

"I am delighted our funding will support five very diverse businesses operating in the West Tamar to expand capacity or production, embrace technology, support training initiatives and introduce new product ranges."

Note to readers: AlCircle brings two-day event for aluminium industry players. We look forward to meeting you virtually at “Global Aluminium Expo 2020”on October 6-7, 2020. For registration, visit www.alcircleevents.com