By Help4bis
Australia is renowned for its bustling cities, but it’s the charm of its small towns that often captures the heart. Dayboro, a picturesque town in Queensland, is no exception.
With its local businesses offering a unique blend of products and services, Dayboro has been a hub of activity and culture. Yet, a concerning trend has emerged in recent years: the gradual disappearance of local businesses from towns like Dayboro.
We work together with the Dayboro Lions and North Pine Printing to keep the paper-based and online business directory up to date, and we see every year more businesses disappear than they enter… so why is that and how can we stop it?
It comes down to YOU. If you do not support local businesses or you are not attending events that are either organised or promoted by local businesses, all will eventually disappear.
If you do not go, it will go…. Then what? Netflix?

The Causes
Many reasons and causes contribute to the decline in local businesses. Here are some of the big ones.
Economic Shifts
The global economic landscape has undergone significant changes in the last few decades. The rise of e-commerce platforms and online shopping has posed challenges for local businesses. While buying online offers convenience, it often comes at the expense of small-town businesses. Without the vast marketing budgets of big corporations, these businesses struggle to compete in the digital realm.
HELP4BIS specialises in helping small businesses enter the digital realm, and we are local. But it is not about HELP4BIS. It is about the mom-and-pop businesses that need brick-and-mortar locations for them to operate. Not all businesses can work or thrive online. Some need foot traffic from the locals, so check your local business directory first before you shoot off to Bunnings. (which is not always cheaper)
Changing Demographics
Dayboro, like many other small towns, has seen shifts in its population. Younger generations, often in search of better educational and job opportunities, move to bigger cities. This migration affects the customer base for local businesses. Furthermore, as the town’s demographics change, so do its needs and preferences, making it challenging for businesses to adapt. With the increase in the option to work from home, we have seen some of the younger generation moving back. For how long time will tell.
There has been a little shift back to “outer” regions thanks to the CoVid (hoax). More families want the rural-type lifestyle to start their own veggie patches and have the freedom to move around for the next lockdown. However, this has not directly resulted in support for local businesses—many (including myself) like the convenience of online shopping or finding everything under one roof.
Infrastructure Challenges
Modern businesses rely heavily on robust infrastructure, be it digital or physical. In many small towns, the lack of such infrastructure can be a deterrent. Slow internet speeds or inadequate transport facilities can hinder business growth, making it tough for them to expand or even sustain. The road conditions, with their potholes every 100 meters or so and let us not get into the slow drivers on Dayboro Rd, are not helping too much.
The Impact of a disappearing act.
The biggest impact, without a doubt, is and will be the SPONSORSHIP OF YOUR LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS. Imagine no business willing or able to sponsor a local sports club. Will your sports club survive?
Can you entertain your kids and teach them footy, netball or tennis? Are you okay with them laying in front of the TV or doing computer stuff all day and on the weekends?
Local Economy
Local businesses are the backbone of small towns like Dayboro. They contribute significantly to the local economy by providing employment opportunities and circulating money within the community. As these businesses fade away, towns face economic challenges. The reduced business activity can lead to fewer job opportunities, affecting the livelihoods of many residents.
Take a look at Dayboro’s Business Directory. It’s a testament to the diverse range of businesses that once thrived in the town. From air conditioning services to real estate and community kindergartens, Dayboro has it all. The decline of such businesses not only affects the town’s economic fabric but also its identity.
Community Identity
Businesses in small towns often carry historical and cultural significance. They’re not just places of commerce but are intertwined with the town’s stories and traditions. Events like Dayboro Day or institutions like the Dayboro Lions Club have shaped the community’s identity. Their decline can lead to a loss of cultural landmarks, eroding the town’s unique character.
Reduced Local Choices
One of the joys of visiting or living in a small town is the availability of unique local products and services. Be it handcrafted goods, local delicacies, or personalised services, local businesses offer products that big chains often can’t. With the decline of these businesses, residents and visitors are left with fewer local choices, leading to a homogenised shopping experience.
The Revival Strategies
The challenges faced by small towns like Dayboro may seem daunting, but they aren’t insurmountable. With strategic planning and community involvement, it’s possible to breathe new life into the local business landscape.
Embracing Technology
In an age where digital presence is vital, local businesses must adapt. Creating online platforms, offering e-commerce solutions, and promoting through social media can help businesses reach a wider audience. Platforms like Dayboro’s Business Directory offer a starting point for businesses to establish their online presence.
Local Collaboration
There’s strength in numbers. By collaborating, local businesses can pool resources for marketing, organise community events, and offer bundled promotions. Institutions like the Dayboro Lions Club and events like Dayboro Day play a crucial role in fostering such collaboration.
Promotion and Marketing
Local platforms like Dayboro Grapevine and Dayboro Events can be instrumental in boosting visibility. Regular promotions, loyalty programs, and community engagement can help businesses stay at the forefront of their customers’ minds.
Conclusion
Dayboro, with its rich history and community spirit, deserves a thriving business landscape. While challenges persist, the solutions lie within the community. By supporting local businesses, embracing change, and working collaboratively, Dayboro can ensure its businesses don’t just survive but thrive. It’s not just about economic growth; it’s about preserving the soul of the town. Let’s come together and ensure Dayboro continues to shine as a beacon of community spirit and local enterprise.
Next we will introduce online classifieds and selling backyard produce, as well as landsharing.