Butcher’s Block to Council Chamber: Charleville's “Zoro”

Shaun 'Zoro' Radnedge, owner of Dunnes Meats and Mayor of Murweh Shire Council, shares his unique journey from apprentice butcher to small business owner and local government leader. This episode explores Zoro’s experience running a successful butcher shop in Charleville for over 25 years while also serving his community as Mayor. Zoro discusses the challenges of operating a small business in rural Queensland, including weathering droughts and floods, finding and retaining staff, and adapting to changing times. From extending business hours to prioritizing quality and customer service, Zoro offers valuable insights on business resilience, community engagement, and the importance of support for small businesses in regional areas. His experiences highlight the critical role of small businesses as the "beating heart of Australia" and the unexpected paths that can lead to both business success and public service.

Covered in this episode: 

• The origin story: Zoro’s journey from apprentice butcher to owning Dunnes Meats in Charleville. 
• The challenges and opportunities of buying and rebranding a small business in a rural town. 
• Strategies for differentiating a business in a competitive small-town market. 
• The importance of quality products and customer service in retaining customers. 
• Approaches to finding and retaining staff in a rural area, including "growing your own" through apprenticeships.
• Sean's transition into local politics.
• The importance of community support and engagement for small business success. 
• Insights on business resilience and adapting to changing circumstances. 
• The need for support and resources for small businesses in remote, rural, and regional  Queensland. 

Time-Stamped Key Moments

•00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest: Sean “Zoro” Radnidge.

•00:01 – Zoro’s journey: From apprentice butcher to owning Dunn Meats.

•00:02 – The challenge of acquiring a business after a decade away.

•00:03 – Small changes, big impact: Extending business hours to capture the after-work crowd.

•00:04 – Competing in a small-town market: What makes Dunn Meats stand out?

•00:06 – Finding and training staff in a rural setting.

•00:07 – Family business or succession planning? The future of Dunn Meats.

•00:09 – Entering politics: Why Zoro ran for mayor.

•00:12 – The crucial role of community support in business success.

•00:13 – Zoro’s advice for small business owners facing tough times.

•00:14 – The biggest challenges for small businesses in regional Queensland.

•00:15 – Zoro’s mantra: “Pleased to meet you with the meat to please you.”

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Small Business Big Stories is produced by Queensland Small Business Commissioner and The Podcast Boss.