Ex Telstra boss in Byron for business tour
Media release | 12 April 2018
David Thodey, ex Telstra CEO and Chair of the NSW Government backed Jobs for NSW was in Byron today to meet with two of the region’s most innovative businesses.
Mr Thodey said visual effects company Cumulus VFX was set to create 40 new jobs over the next four years while Cape Byron Distillery was set to create an additional 13 jobs running a successful gin distillery and eco-tourism business in the rainforest.
“Both Cumulus and Cape Byron Distillery have benefited from financial support from Jobs for NSW and it’s fantastic to see the results first hand,” he said.
“Cumulus has secured a Regional Growth Loan of $300,000 to help them expand into their new premises and target visual effects work through FrameStore US, who work with major film companies, including Marvel and Warner Bros.
“Cumulus aims to create up to 40 jobs over the next four years, and there are also longer term hopes for the region to create regional NSW’s first fully-fledged film studio.
“This is great progress for a company that started life in a residential garage, unable to meet the high-security requirements of the big international film studios without significant capital investment.”
Mr Thodey said Jobs for NSW had also supported Cape Byron Distillery with $30,000 grant to enable investment in its cellar door fit-out and website, with plans to create up to 13 new jobs.
“Cape Byron Distillery is a great family business thinking outside the box by building a distillery and strong following for its product – Brookie’s Gin – while running an eco-tourism business.
“The company has just extended its eco-tourism distillery tours to three days a week, plans further growth targeting the Byron conference market, will soon launch a new macadamia nut based spirit, and will also expand into whisky production.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW and Small Business John Barilaro said Jobs for NSW has grants and interest free loans for high potential startups and small businesses.
“I’m delighted David Thodey and the Jobs for NSW team are getting the message out to regional NSW that we are putting our money where our mouth is to ensure we continue to help businesses create more jobs,” Mr Barilaro said.
To find out more about Jobs for NSW support for business visit https://www.jobsfornsw.com.au/
