Silverdale is undergoing a transformation under the dedicated leadership of Tasha Gummer, the General Manager of the Silverdale Business Association (SBA).

Having only taken up her role as general manager three months ago, Tasha and the team are in the process of setting up the systems to drive Silverdale's growth in the newly established Business Improvement District (BID).

Tasha worked for the SBA part-time, and when the role for a full-time general manager came up, she applied went through the typical recruitment process, and got the job. 

“I'm passionate about the community and loved being involved,” says Tasha.

The BID election took part in March and she described it as a political campaign, with active engagement with local businesses.

The BID's election coincided with her wedding in early March, adding a personal milestone to her professional journey.

One significant development is the SBA's new offices at 44 Silverdale Street, a change that reflects their commitment to the community. 

General Manager of the Silverdale Business Association, Tasha Gummer.

Tasha says she is super excited about what the SBA is doing for businesses since the BID was approved by the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board in July.

With the strong support of the local board, the BID initiative has gained momentum.

Their primary focus is security and crime prevention, particularly in the industrial and retail areas after hours. 

Their ambitious plans include installing CCTV cameras in key areas of Silverdale with live feeds to a security hub and the police.

They also aim to create a member resource package of discounted security options and establish an information portal on their website, dedicated to security and crime prevention.

The installation of CCTV cameras in the industrial area, for instance, is expected to bolster efforts in combating crime. 

A private WhatsApp group for businesses in the BID area will offer a confidential platform for discussing security matters.

Those businesses who want to be added to the WhatsApp group can email their name, business name and phone number to [email protected]

The SBA is keen to promote local businesses, so teamed up with Grab One, which is currently offering a wide range of specials under the banner 'Discover Silverdale.' 

The SBA fully supports the marketing campaign, and these exclusive deals will be available until the end of November. 

The positive feedback from local businesses is a testament to the impact the BID is making in the community.

Tasha emphasised the importance of educating everyone about the BID, highlighting that all businesses in the area pay a commercial rate, which is then offset in leases. 

The council bills property owners within the BID area, who then decide how to claim the funds from renters and leasers.

There is no extra cost to be a member of the SBA, making it an accessible resource for all local businesses.