Ben Gower is CEO of Wattle Range Council, based in Millicent, South Australia, and including coastal towns, historic Penola and the popular Coonawarra wine district.

Our region is one of diverse primary production, from rock-lobster and crayfish to sheep and cattle. The cray industry was severely impacted by COVID-19 because 90% of their catch is exported to China, which shut down early. They received government relief and are now looking at forming a co-operative to become more resilient by working together, not competing against each other.

We also have some of Australia’s best fullblood Wagyu beef herds, including one fed a 50:50 mix of chocolate and grain to achieve the perfect marble. With demand from their high-end markets well down, we can walk into our local supermarket and buy award-winning Wagyu beef for $16/serve!

The other major effect has been on tourism, wineries, and main street food and beverage operators. But people have rallied to support each other. One pub was offering bottle shop deliveries and when I asked about takeaway food, they said they didn’t want to steal business from other local takeaway shops. The silver lining has been the way everyone has responded to share the love around, though that’s not unusual in country towns.

Council has continued to operate 95% of services. Our library pioneered a click-and-collect borrowing service that spread across the state; we’ve deferred fines and interest on late rate payments until the end of the year; and we were among the first SA councils to formally meet online, livestreaming proceedings.

During any crisis, it’s important to not panic. As community leaders, the mayor and I provided simple, clear, consistent messages that instilled local confidence and meant people complied with restrictions. You don’t have to be bold and outspoken; calmness is the key.

Ben Gower
Chief Executive Officer
Wattle Range Council