A success story rising out of the Lismore floods.

LaVida Bar & Restaurant - A Business Connect Client

Karen and Kevin from LaVida Bar & Restaurant were referred to Gary Wheatstone from The Department of Industry Business Connect program by Lismore Council. They had been unsuccessful with their application for a Flood Recovery Grant. Additionally, they had suffered a significant downturn in trade owing to six weeks of roadworks impacting customer’s ability to park close by and gain easy access to their establishment. They were working through staffing issues and a new project to launch a live music venue .

Greg Lyon & the Hop Operation on Opening night at LaVida Bar & Restaruant

Gary Wheatstone, NORTEC Business Connect advisor, firstly addressed profitability by looking at detailed costings of COGS, wastage, kitchen efficiencies and expenses culminating in price reviews for the menu.    Staff training was also discussed with delegation of responsibilities, training schedule and Code of Conduct.   The Music Venue was opened 1st June to a packed house with great feedback and revues from patrons.    An Operations Manual and continuing improvements to online presence is still in progress.

A new LaVida website has been built with the ability to book specific tables in the venue. Improvements continue to be made.

"Hi Gary, thanks for your support over the past 6 months. It’s been insightful, to say the least.  We have benefitted from your knowledge and support and will put everything you have taught us into practice as we move forward.  Thanks also for supporting us with the first Cellar Session. Hope to see you again! Karen & Kevin - Owners LaVida Bar & Restaurant Lismore.   https://www.lavidalismore.com.au/"

Business Connect is a dedicated and personalised NSW Government program that provides trusted advice to help you start or grow your small business.​