Looking for practical ways to innovate and grow your small business? On 18 March from 9 am to 12 pm, we invite you to a free half-day forum at the Barns of Freeling.
This event brings together local entrepreneurs, industry insiders, and government representatives to showcase real-world examples of innovation in action. Whether you’re keen to explore innovative business practices or simply work smarter, you’ll gain ideas tailored to regional business needs.
Hear how local businesses have benefited from innovative tools and learn about support programs and other resources that can help you follow in their footsteps. We’ll also have expert guest speakers who’ll share best practices and emerging trends—full lineup to be announced soon. Secure your spot by registering today.
What you’ll learn
Small businesses in the Barossa, Gawler, Light, and Adelaide Plains regions often face tight resources and unique market pressures. By learning from real-life success stories and connecting with peers, you’ll walk away with actionable insights, fresh energy, and new professional relationships. This is your opportunity to discover how small steps in innovation can lead to big results for your bottom line.
Meet the panelists
Tim Gransbury
Director and Senior Occupational Therapist
Abilities Occupational Therapy
Tim is one of three Directors at Abilities OT, a practice specialising in providing Occupational Therapy services to rural and remote adults in South Australia. With extensive experience in community and inpatient care, he has a passion for complex home modifications and the use of technology to enable independence. Tim will share how his team has adopted digital tools and process improvements to enhance workflow, communication, and financial management, allowing them to improve efficiency and better support clients.
Juliet Tripodi
Sales and Distribution Manager
Rainbow Fresh
Juliet is a second-generation grower and primary producer, managing sales and distribution at Rainbow Fresh, a supplier of ready-to-eat leafy salads in the Adelaide Plains. With 25 years in the fresh food industry, she has helped transition the sector from seasonal farming to high-tech production. Juliet will discuss how resilience and diversification have helped Rainbow Fresh adapt and grow, with a focus on problem-solving, evolving consumer demands, and improving business operations to remain competitive.
Philippa Faulkner
Business Manager and Stakeholder Engagement Lead
EnviroCopper Ltd
Philippa has worked across multiple industries and now leads stakeholder engagement at EnviroCopper, which pioneers sustainable copper extraction from historical mine sites. She combines entrepreneurship with innovative mining solutions to drive environmental and commercial outcomes. Philippa will share how collaboration, technology, and an adaptive mindset have helped EnviroCopper overcome challenges, find new opportunities, and apply solutions that can benefit businesses across industries.
Teagan Carpenter
Founder and Creative Director
Vintage Chef Co.
Teagan founded Vintage Chef Co., a family-run business that provides meal preparation, catering, and café services across South Australia. Employing over 45 locals, she has led the business through rapid expansion while maintaining a focus on sustainability and quality. Teagan will share how innovation in packaging, distribution, and business growth strategies has helped her scale the business, navigate industry challenges, and ensure long-term success.
About the hosts
Regional Development Australia Barossa Gawler Light Adelaide Plains is a non-government and non-profit organisation part of a national network. We work with businesses and communities to sustainably grow our regional economy and create more liveable communities.
AusIndustry provides a connection between small and medium-sized businesses and government. For almost 30 years, AusIndustry has continued to be a valuable hub, nurturing partnerships and networks, providing information and connections to help navigate local, state, and commonwealth government support to get the best for each business. They work with businesses every day. They are connected to regions, communities, and industries and enable government engagement with businesses. Their business insights inform and improve policy and programs across government. They enable economic growth by enabling Australian businesses to be productive, innovative, and sustainable.
