Michelle McGarvey of Alexandra Hills has created a Redland business directory in order to share her network of local business connections.
Ms McGarvey said she moved to the Redlands five years ago and had developed a network of connections.
"It can take decades to settle in and discover the services and suppliers you can trust," she said.
"I was constantly being asked if I knew somebody who did something. In most cases if I can't assist with a great contact, I know somebody who can recommend somebody. That element of trust is just so important. Nothing beats a personal recommendation whether you are looking for a plumber or doctor," she said.
Michelle said she gained her connections through local involvement. This includes involvement in her children's school, as director and founder of Small Business VA, as a Justice of the Peace and volunteer with Bayside Women in Business and member of the Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce, Five Foot Rope, and the Australian Virtual Assistants association.
"In my work role, I help others find efficiencies, so it was logical to create an online resource where I could pool all these connections who I refer people to," she said.
She said the Redlands Business directory was a website where bayside residents could search, compare and connect with trusted businesses. All are screened by Ms McGarvey.
To visit or list your business, go to redlandsbusiness.com.au/.
