With over 1200 people already working on the West Gate Tunnel Project and more workers starting every day, crews are on the hunt for great food, drink, goods and entertainment in the west.
To cater for the growing workforce across the project, which is expected to peak at 6000 people, a new initiative has been launched that allows businesses to advertise directly to workers.
The Workforce Trader Directory initiative encourages the people working on the West Gate Tunnel Project to shop local, supporting businesses along the project corridor from Docklands to Laverton.
A list detailing local business and services will be put up in all site sheds and offices, and an electronic version will be available for workers on their intranet so business details are right at their fingertips. West Gate Tunnel Project Business Engagement Manager, Meg Walker, says all businesses – both big and small – are invited to register as soon as possible to make the most of this free service.
‘It’s a win-win for workers and local businesses. Some of our staff will be new to the west and need to find a new gym that suits their work schedule or they may need to buy a gift for family or friends.’ Meg said.
For those already familiar with the local area, the directory will offer fresh ideas and direct access to quality businesses – something Meg knows the workforce will appreciate.
‘We want to give our workers even more reason to get out and about, socialise with their work mates and friends, and experience everything the west has to offer.’
‘It’s also a small way of the West Gate Tunnel Project saying thank you to the local community. There’s so many fantastic goods and services on offer in the west and we want to give local businesses a leg up where we can.’
Meg has a deep interest in the initiative – she has lived in the west for over 25 years and wants to help her neighbourhood thrive during construction.
Experience has shown workers are keen for locally sourced products and services, and Meg has seen similar programs bring huge benefits to local communities on other major projects across Australia.
‘I cannot wait to share the success stories of local businesses over the next five years as we build the West Gate Tunnel Project.’
Some businesses are already benefitting from the massive influx of customers, including Kindred Café, Harris Street Yarraville, which has become a favourite haunt of workers based across the road at the project’s huge northern portal and ‘tunnelling hub’ sites in Footscray.
Kindred Café is now opening earlier to accommodate hungry workers searching for excellent coffee and breakfast.
Meg and her team are meeting with businesses and trader associations along the 17-kilometre West Gate Tunnel Project corridor to brief them about the new tunnel, understand their needs and offer advice on getting involved with the project.
‘The great part of the directory is that it will evolve with the project, and we want to make sure everyone has a chance to benefit,’ Meg says.
‘As the project progresses, more and more businesses will open in the area and can be added to the directory at any time.’
Interested businesses can email traders@wgtp.com.au
