October is Small Business Month! And to celebrate, we’re highlighting some of the great small businesses we have throughout the New England and North Coast. See all the stories here.
Today for Small Business Month, we’re celebrating three organisations making a difference through creativity and connection: an Armidale shop bringing together unique creations from independent makers, a Coffs Harbour disability support provider focused on individual needs and genuine relationships, and a volunteer-run Forster gallery offering exhibitions, workshops and opportunities for everyone to explore their creativity.
Forster Gallery
A creative community where everyone is welcome
Forster, NSW
Art is about more than what hangs on a wall. At Forster Gallery, it’s also about bringing people together, sharing skills and ideas, and giving creativity room to grow.
Established in 1983, the not-for-profit gallery is run entirely by passionate volunteers who help create a welcoming space for artists and visitors alike.
The gallery presents nine exhibitions each year, including the popular Forster Art Prize, which attracts entries from artists across Australia. Visitors can explore a changing range of visual art, with works available to purchase as a special reminder of Forster.
There are plenty of opportunities to get involved beyond viewing exhibitions, too. Classes, workshops, open studio days, guest tutors and skill-sharing sessions give people the chance to learn new techniques, develop their creativity and connect with others who share their interests.
With its newly renovated space, accessible facilities and free entry, Forster Gallery welcomes everyone from dedicated art enthusiasts to curious visitors simply looking for something inspiring to do.
The gallery also relies on its volunteer community to keep things running, and welcomes people who would like to contribute their time and enthusiasm.
Whether you’re discovering local talent, looking for an original artwork or keen to try something creative yourself, Forster Gallery offers a friendly place to begin.
Complete Support & Co
Disability support built on genuine connection
Coffs Harbour, NSW
For Complete Support & Co, quality disability support starts with understanding the person – their goals, preferences and what matters most to them.
Founded by local support worker Renae Corfe, the Coffs Harbour organisation grew from a genuine passion for helping people and a desire to create a more inclusive, supportive community.
Renae leads a dedicated team providing personalised disability support tailored to each participant’s individual needs and aspirations. The focus is on more than assistance with everyday tasks: it’s about building trust, encouraging independence and helping people pursue meaningful experiences and goals.
As a locally owned and operated organisation, Complete Support & Co takes a relationship-focused approach, working with participants and, where appropriate, their families and support networks to provide support that respects individual choices and circumstances.
The team believes everyone deserves to feel heard, valued and empowered, with support that recognises each person as an individual rather than a number.
For Renae and her team, it’s the personal connections and the opportunity to make a positive difference in people’s lives that sit at the heart of the business.
The Clique Curation
A collective of creativity, crafted with community in mind
Armidale, NSW
Looking for a gift with a little more personality? The Clique Curation in Armidale brings together talented makers and their handcrafted creations under one roof, making it easy to discover something special while supporting small businesses.
The shop was created to give regional creators a place to showcase their work, with shelves filled with handmade products, unique finds and one-of-a-kind pieces. While local and regional makers are at the heart of the collection, a carefully selected range of creators from further afield adds even more variety.
Behind the scenes, Cheryl Andrews keeps everything running smoothly, supporting both the makers and the customers who come through the door. She carefully curates the range to offer an interesting mix of products and a shopping experience that feels personal rather than ordinary.
The welcoming team encourages visitors to take their time browsing, explore the different creations and discover the stories behind the people who make them.
Whether you’re searching for a thoughtful present, a special piece for your home or simply enjoy finding something you haven’t seen before, The Clique Curation offers a chance to shop differently – with every purchase helping support the makers behind the products.
It’s a celebration of creativity, collaboration and community, all gathered in one little Armidale shop.
Throughout October, we’ll run stories highlighting the great local businesses we have right here in our communities. This is a free service – the businesses highlighted have not paid for this story.
Want to highlight your business? Just fill in this form – places are limited.
Please share this story to help support New England businesses! See all our Small Business Month profiles here.