ISSUE 210 AUGUST 2012GEELONG | BALLARAT | WERRIBEE FOR BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS

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12. Peter Ellyard: future thinker

16. What does the future hold?

ISSUE 210 AUGUST 2012

4. Editor

5. Biz News

8. Comment

10. New Appointments

15. Business coaching

21. Regulation

24. Small Biz

26. Legal - Coulter Roache

27. Recruitment

28. Skills Week

32. Tax

33. Legal - Harwood Andrews

38. Tech Guy

40. Arts

42. Community

44. Wine

46. After Hours

50. What’s On

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Progressive business owners realise that while the market for their old products may decline, or even disappear, there will always be demand for new products and there will be new growth markets. The smart operators know that manufacturing is meant to support an economy, not the other way round.There is just no point in waiting around for the world to return to ‘normal’. The way people live is changing. The way they spend has already changed. In a relatively short period of time, we have fallen out of love with credit-fuelled spending and back in love with saving. What we are seeing however is not just a simple response to economic uncertainty. This is genuine generational shift. Much of what we have been used to will either change or disappear, as the world’s consumers – and there are still billions of them - demand smarter, greener, more cost-effective solutions to their

needs. The kids of today will not drive large cars tomorrow, they will learn and do business on the Cloud, they will be living energy-neutral lives and, if they learn from the mistakes of their parents, they will be much more careful in managing credit. They will care more about living than about having, and they will spend accordingly.In an increasingly globalised economy, they will travel more than any generation before them. They will probably lead simpler lives at home and laugh at the ‘more, more, more’ attitude of the 2000s.“Oh, Mum and Dad,” they will chortle, “you really didn’t think that was going to end badly?”This shift will bring new demands, new challenges and new opportunities for all businesses – not just those who make stuff to sell.The education sector has had to move fast to keep up with

the changing expectations of its students. It will have to continue to innovate, as students will have a mind-boggling choice of study options from around the world. If you don’t have what they want, you can bet someone else will.The health industry is channelling increasingly large chunks of its budgets into developing new ways of delivering services. The aged care sector will soon be inundated with educated, financially savvy baby boomers who will demand vastly improved services on terms set by them as clients, not by the system.The financial services industry will face a rationalisation, as more and more people turn to self-managed superannuation. Some of our biggest media institutions are already going through that process, and the lessons are loud and clear: meet the demands of the people or watch the people take their business elsewhere. No matter what sector, or which industry you operate in, business is too big to fail. No start-up is too small to succeed.

DAVINA MONTGOMERy

Innovate or dieThe writing has been on the wall for traditional manufacturing for years. The smart operators read the signs, closely followed the market shifts, and moved early to innovate and diversify. These operators weren’t thinking about what they had been doing, but what they will need to do to meet future needs.

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The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) will send a team of senior representatives from its Directorate for Public Governance and Territorial Development to the region between 27-29 August. “When the G21 model is considered worth studying by an international organisation of the standing of the OECD, it says that we are clearly seen as having a positive impact,” Cr Mitchell said. “It is particularly noteworthy when this region is one of only 10 case studies the OECD is undertaking, and the only one outside of Europe. “The study will assess urban-rural linkages and the role these partnerships can and should play in regional development. G21 is of particular interest because our region covers five municipalities spanning a diverse range of urban and rural settings and socio-economic backgrounds.

“The fact that five councils and a wide range of almost 200 businesses and other bodies have recognised the benefit of banding together to form G21 is in itself a noteworthy achievement,” Cr Mitchell said. “But more than that, G21 has the runs on the board in its cooperative approach to land-use and economic and social planning. “We are delighted to be able to host the delegation and look forward not only to assisting them, but to learning from them about their work. G21 strives to learn from the experience of others, so we see the OECD delegation as an opportunity for us, as much as a chance to assist them,” Cr Mitchell said. The delegation will meet with members of the G21 board and representatives of its various pillar groups. G21 is working with the state government and Regional Development Victoria who are hosting the OECD visit.

G21 welcomes OECD visitA visit later this year to the G21 region by an OECD delegation looking at rural and urban relationships highlights G21 – Geelong Region Alliance’s growing reputation, G21 chair Cr John Mitchell has stated.

VECCI Chief Economist Steven Wojtkiw commented, “Preliminary results from VECCI’s most recent quarterly business survey have so far been consistent with the ABS data indicating a rise in the unemployment rate.“The softness in employment trends across the eastern states confirms the need for decisive action from governments at all levels to do what they can to lower business costs and raise competitiveness,” Mr Wotjkiw said.“With hesitant consumer spending continuing into the second half of 2012, employers must be encouraged to invest in new jobs and much needed capital in order to boost productivity and competitiveness at home and abroad.“All arms of economic policy must be focused on

reducing unnecessary red tape, supporting industry led training, helping more businesses get into export markets and the delivery of key infrastructure projects.“Based on the results we have received so far from VECCI’s quarterly survey for the June 2012 quarter, we anticipate the final results will reflect what the ABS is telling us,” said Mr Wojtkiw.

Unemployment figures reflect Victorian experienceThe latest unemployment figures reflect what Victorian businesses are reporting, says the Victorian Employer’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI).

BIZ NEWS

6 | BUSINESS NEWS

Essentially, these changes extend the ways in which the ATO can seize company director’s personal assets to cover unpaid PAYG and Superannuation debts. In a statement released soon after the passing into law of the changes, the Insolvency Experts say these changes carry potential implications for entrepreneurship in Australia, and that there may be a flow through effect on the economy. “Corporate law in Australia has traditionally supported entrepreneurship and commercial risk taking, which are seen to be fundamental to wealth creation and a well-functioning market. The changes will make starting and running a business, particularly a small or medium

business, less attractive. “Any reduction in business investment or activity is bound to have a follow through effect on every aspect of the economy, including unemployment and GDP growth. With the Australian economy being traditionally strong in the SMB sector, the effect of these law changes could be significant.” Previous to the changes being made law, a director could be held personally liable for unpaid PAYG taxes. Under the new laws this remains, but liability is extended, exit strategies are removed, and stricter time limits are put into effect. The changes include: a director’s liability will be extended to

superannuation; placing a company into administration or liquidation will not, in some circumstances, protect a director’s personal assets; associates, including spouses, can be held liable; and many changes are retrospective. Insolvency experts speculate that these changes will mean that people will be less likely to take a risk investing or starting a business, business failure rates may increase, personal bankruptcy rates may soar as a result, and there could potentially be less

growth in the jobs market. “The timing of these changes must be questioned at a time when there is already so much financial uncertainty in running a business outside of the mining sector in this country. “Anyone who is a director of a company needs to make themselves aware of these new laws immediately. The retrospective nature of these changes means these laws will start impacting businesses from their next tax lodgment dates. There is no time to wait.”

Company directors at risk under new tax lawsAccording to insolvency specialist firm, Insolvency Experts, recent changes to tax law will have an immediate and significant impact on the level of personal liability company directors face if their business fails.

VECCI Chief Executive, Mark Stone, says the planning reforms, announced in detail by the government yesterday, simplify current arrangements and allow a broader range of activities to be considered in the planning process.

“For example, the proposed new Commercial 1 and 2 Zones provide more opportunities for office, retail and commercial activity by removing floor area restrictions for office and retail uses, which is particularly positive for small business.

“These changes recognise the ever-changing nature of business that requires flexibility around not only increased scale, but also the way in which available land and premises are used.

“Regional Victoria will also benefit from changes to rural

zones that are designed to minimise the requirement for planning permits for certain agricultural activities and remove the restrictions on complementary business uses in some zones.

“Regional tourism operators will welcome the removal of permit restrictions relating to tourism uses – for example, a hotel would no longer be required to be in conjunction with an agricultural use.

“The reforms show that the Victorian Government has listened to community feedback reinforcing the need to cut planning red tape and reduce unnecessary delays and costs in the planning system,” Mr Stone said.

“The proposed reforms strike a common-sense balance between encouraging growth and strengthening protection for our built environment.”

Zone consolidation lessens red tape for businessState Government plans to consolidate the existing multitude of residential and commercial zones into fewer categories is a positive step, according to the Victorian Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI).

BIZ NEWS

BUSINESS NEWS | 7

The negative sentiment that is impacting most on business and reflected in the low level of business confidence is that there is still a feeling that economic conditions in Australia over the next 12 months will remain poor. Nearly half (47%) of the businesses surveyed believe that Australia will face “bad times” economically over the next 12 months. This is unchanged from May and is the highest level since Sept

2011. As a consequence of the feeling that the economy will still be facing tough times over the next 12 months, businesses are feeling less inclined to invest in expansion. It is a bad sign for economic recovery in Australia that 51% of businesses think that the next 12 months will be a bad time to invest more in the business; this is around the highest negative sentiment seen over the last 18 months.

Business Confidence: low but steadyBusiness Confidence in Australia in June 2012 remained relatively steady on 105.4, down only marginally from 105.8 in May, which gives some hope that it is bottoming out but at a level that is only just positive. These are the latest findings from the Roy Morgan Research Business Confidence Survey conducted among a sample of 2,577 businesses across Australia in June 2012.

Andrew Hiebl, Chair of Business Events Victoria, says this year’s Regional Victoria Planners Guide is bigger and better than ever and is truly representative of the business events industry across Victoria’s ten regions.“The fact that we have had a 45 per cent increase in advertisers since the last edition reflects an increased confidence in our organisation and its direction.”Used in conjunction with the recently launched Business Events Victoria website www.businesseventsvictoria.com, the new planner will be a key tool for all conference organisers.“Within regional Victoria, we already know our product is competitive and of high quality, but getting that message out is vital,” says Mr Hiebl. “The new guide will not only be our voice to communicate this message, but also a key

tool for conference organisers that is easy to use and navigate.“The board of Business Events Victoria has spent much of the last 12 months focused on fundamental reform of the association and restructure of cooperative opportunities, therefore reducing the cost barriers of participation. “It is these changes that have made the guide more attractive to operators.“Listening to our target market and stakeholders is important and we have therefore adapted our tools to meet their needs. “This approach only enhances our position within the industry as the leading authority representing business events in regional Victoria.”Copies of the Regional Victoria Planners Guide 2012/13 are available at www.businesseventsvictoria.com

How to host a business bashBusiness Events Victoria, the peak business events body representing regional Victoria, has released the Regional Victoria Planners Guide 2012/13 - the ‘go-to’ publication for information about conferencing in regional Victoria.

BIZ NEWS

8 | BUSINESS NEWS

During the day the gentle tunes will set the scene for a relaxed time spent with family and friends. There is live music on Thursday, Friday and Sunday afternoons and upbeat music on a Friday and Saturday nights. We host some of the best DJs in Geelong on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Edge is a venue that can cater for every occasion, whilst at all times being professional above and beyond your expectations. Available for hire are two versatile function rooms, which can be screened off from the rest of the venue to make your occasion exclusive. Both rooms

are suitable for birthdays, corporate gatherings, engagement parties and cocktail parties. Smaller functions or sit down dinners are easily catered for, and can be arranged in any area in which we serve meals.Edge boasts a combination of fabulous service, gorgeous décor and an innovative bar dining enjoyable by all. The venue serves as a destination

for after work drinks, a meeting place for friends and family, and a restaurant with function facilities available. It also features a large outside decking and al fresco area. Edge is only a hop, skip and jump from central Geelong and is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner... and all those little meals in between.

Edge - the place to be!Based on Geelong’s spectacular waterfront, Edge is the place to be! This gorgeous north-facing venue gives patrons a world-class view of the beautiful Corio Bay. With a delicious breakfast menu, best served with daily papers and quality coffee, an outstanding lunch and dinner menu with daily specials, not to mention the terrific grazing plates with fresh produce and good quality fare, Edge is a great place to dine day or night.

ASIC warning on funeral insurance

The ASIC research found that frequent exposure to advertising of Funeral Insurance, particularly on daytime television, has “created a new norm of prepaying funerals that perhaps did not previously exist in the community”. With many consumers having little knowledge about the different Funeral Plan products and financial options available,

ASIC Commissioner, Peter Kell, said consumers need to better understand what they were paying for. Leading the way to educate consumers is local funeral company Tuckers Funeral & Bereavement Service. “You don’t need a financial commitment to have a Funeral Plan,” says Michele Van Liessum from Tuckers.

“We can provide all the free tools you need to create your own personal funeral plan, it’s your choice.” Tuckers provide free information about various funeral plans, as well as conducting several community talks throughout the year to educate people about funeral options and planning ahead.Australia Funeral Director Association (AFDA) Victorian Divisional Councillor and CEO of Tuckers Funeral & Bereavement Service, Mark Osborne, said, “The ASIC investigation confirms what the AFDA has been saying for some time in relation to the constant wave of Funeral Insurance ad’s on TV, particularly on daytime TV. For the most informative information regarding pre-planning a funeral consumers should contact their local AFDA affiliated funeral company for a no obligation appointment.”The report commissioned by ASIC outlined concerns for better product knowledge and indicated that, due to

a lack of awareness, some people were now struggling to pay their increased premiums for funeral insurance. “ASIC is specifically monitoring funeral insurance marketing to ensure consumers are not faced with misleading or deceptive practices. Where we come across illegal behaviour, ASIC will take action,” Mr Kell said.When asked about Funeral Insurance, Tuckers CEO, Mr Osborne said, “Our research has been unable to find a suitable Funeral Insurance product that we could offer to our community. In maintaining our commitment to customer service excellence, we have chosen not to put our name to this type of product at this time. What we do provide is a range of options, including the facility to pre-plan without any financial payment. The key message is that by talking to a funeral company, consumers will have a range of options fully explained, so they can make an informed choice.”

The Australia Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) have released a report finding that consumers are likely to settle with the first product they find when purchasing a Funeral Plan, to avoid being a burden on others.

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Slicing up a bigger national pie

Every five years or so, the Australian Bureau of Statistics gives us an illuminating snapshot of average incomes, taxes paid, and social benefits received by households in five income groups, from the bottom 20% to the top 20%. The figures for 2009–10 were released recently and shed light on changes in average household incomes, their distribution, and the redistributive impact of tax and benefit policies.The first point is that while the rich got richer, so did everyone else. After adjusting for inflation and household size, the smallest increase in average private income (that is, before taxes and benefits) compared with 2003–04 was 17%, and that was for the middle of the five income groups. For the top 20%, the increase was 27% and for the bottom 20% it was 39%. After taxes and benefits, the smallest increase for any quintile was 20%. As befits an era of national prosperity,

improvements in living standards were widespread.The second point is that Australia’s tax and benefit system is highly redistributive. The 20% of households at the bottom of the private income scale received just 2.4% of total private income, but took home 10.3% after taxes and benefits were factored in. Conversely, for the top 20%, their 46.5% of total private income was reduced by tax and benefit policies to a 35.1% share of final income.While the inequality of final incomes is much less than that of private incomes, some say it is still too unequal. Ultimately, this comes down to a value judgment, but in making that judgment everyone needs to acknowledge two matters: a) the extent to which tax and benefit policies already redistribute income, and b) the economic costs of working the redistribution machine even harder.The third and final point

concerns the change in distribution from 2003–04 to 2009–10. For all that is said about changes in tax and benefit policies during that period being too generous to the better off, the truth is that very little had changed.The share of final income going to the top 20% did go up slightly, but this was mainly because of an increase in their share of private income rather than the impact of favourable tax and benefit policies. The shares of the bottom three quintiles fell slightly, while the share of the fourth quintile was unchanged. The equalising impact of tax and benefit policies was slightly less in 2009–10 than six years earlier, but hardly enough to enrage those who want more redistribution or hearten those who want less.Now it’s up to the public to decide whether they want to make informed comments about incomes and their distribution or twist these facts to suit their arguments.Robert Carling is a Senior Fellow at The Centre for Independent Studies.

Don’t turn Chinese on foreign direct investmentOpposition leader Tony Abbott gave a speech in Beijing this week in which he discussed the federal Coalition’s attitude to Chinese direct investment in Australia. Like the government, the opposition leader made ritual statements about ‘welcoming foreign investment.’ Abbott upheld the existing framework for regulating foreign direct investment (FDI) and noted that the federal government already routinely scrutinises FDI by foreign state-owned enterprises (SOEs). However, he seemingly went further than the government in stating that ‘it would rarely be in Australia’s national interest to allow a foreign government or its agencies to control an

Australian business.’Taken at face value, this statement would seem to imply that a future coalition government would only ‘rarely’ approve FDI on the part of foreign SOEs or sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) (although SWFs for the most part engage only in portfolio rather than direct investment).This would be an extraordinarily restrictive policy stance by international standards. It would preclude most of the inward FDI from China, but also other substantially state-owned economies like Singapore and the Gulf states. It also sits uneasily with the Coalition’s aspiration for Australia to become the ‘food bowl of Asia,’ which would require more FDI, not less.It is important to recall that any foreign-owned business operating in Australia is subject to Australian law. Australia has a robust regulatory framework for business investment that applies to all firms regardless of ownership.It is ironic that the response of Australian politicians to concerns about foreign SOEs is to try and regulate FDI in much the same way that China regulates its economy, where politicians and bureaucrats are heavily involved in investment decisions.Australian politicians need to put greater trust in our internationally well-regarded domestic regulatory frameworks rather than becoming more like the Chinese in our disregard for the rule of law.

Dr Stephen Kirchner is a Research Fellow at The Centre for Independent Studies and a Senior Lecturer in Economics at the University of Technology Sydney Business School.

www.cis.org.au

How often do we hear that the rich are getting richer while the poor are getting poorer, or that the Howard government’s tax and benefits policies were too generous to the rich? These assertions are often made with little reference to the facts. So let’s look at the facts.

NEW APPOINTMENTS

REAL ESTATE

Joining the Whitford team is Ebony Howitt, who brings a fresh and bubbly approach to Property Management. Growing up along the Surf Coast, she has an in-depth knowledge of the Geelong Region and is known for having an infectious laugh with a top sense of humour to match.

The Oakdene Group welcomes Robyn Fitzpatrick to their team as General Manager/Marketing Manager. Robyn brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Oakdene, having worked in the hospitality and wine industry for 11 years, as well as being a Chartered Accountant.

Brax Window Treatments welcomes Alison Tulloch to their showroom sales team. Originally from Stawell, Alison recently completed her Diploma of Arts - Interior Decorating & Design at The Gordon. With a genuine passion for interior design, Alison is looking forward to assisting Brax clients.

Kerrie Maher, along with husband Grant, joins the National Home Timber and Hardware group as owner of Drysdale Home Timber and Hardware. After nine years of providing locally owned and operated hardware service to Drysdale, the new store brings National service and advice.

Jacqui Lyons has been appointed as the new Office Manager for Drysdale Home Timber and Hardware and Aim Fire Protection. A mother of three, Jacqui has previous administration and accounts experience with Fastway and the Geelong Advertiser.

10 | BUSINESS NEWS

(03) 5222 2666 | edgegeelong.com.au | enquiries@edgegeelong.com.au | 6–8 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong

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Bound by strong family values, Suzie Markovski’s passion for real estate stems from her late father, who was a builder. He encouraged her to invest in his projects, where her thirst for the industry led into gaining my real estate’s licence and becoming a Property Manager. Suzie joins the Whitford team.

NEW APPOINTMENTS

Tara Paatsch joined Coulter Roache’s Litigation Department after three years working in Regional Victoria. She has experience in a number of areas including litigation, wills and estates, family law and property law. Tara can assist in individual and corporate general and commercial litigation matters.

Allsure Insurance is delighted to have Rebecca Munafo join their award winning team. Rebecca has extensive knowledge of the insurance industry, with many years experience with one of Australia’s leading insurers. Rebecca thrives on helping people find the right insurance.

After a successful career in the financial planning industry, David Gray pursued his ambition to become a real estate agent and now joins Buxton Real Estate as a sales consultant. David brings with him his invaluable experience as a financial planner.

Allan Kline has worked in the Real Estate industry for some 17 years, including 10 years as a Property Manager with more than 300 properties under his watch and has spent the past 7 years as a Sales Consultant. Allan joined Maxwell Collins Real Estate early this year, bringing his valuable industry experience.

Claire Centra is a new member of Coulter Roache’s Litigation Department, providing legal advice to clients across a range of industries. She has extensive experience in commercial dispute resolution and prides herself on building a strong rapport with her clients.

BUSINESS NEWS | 11

INSURANCE

LEGAL

LEGAL MEDICAL

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

Chelsea Van Miltenberg is the newest member of staff at Body Recon Cosmetic Clinic. She has worked in Melbourne and Geelong as a theatre nurse and has volunteered as a scrub nurse in Ethiopia, operating in patients having cataract surgery.

It is an inconvenient truth that we are in the midst of a global economic and industrial revolution, and yes, we are living in interesting times… In such times, the focus of forecasters, and indeed of many purveyors of news, tends to shift to the negative, to where the next disaster may strike. But, is it all really as bad as we are being told?Peter Ellyard certainly doesn’t think so, and as Australia’s most prominent futurist who has been a Senior Advisor to the United Nations for 30

years and has advised the OECD for the past 20 years, he is well worth listening to. Speaking to him, Peter Ellyard seems to fizz and zing with ideas and new ways of thinking about the future. I suspect that had he been around when the first wheel was proudly shown off, he immediately would have suggested carving a second wheel, attaching them front and back to a stout bar, adding a seat and, while you’re at it, why not come up with some way of propelling the wheels forward by using circular foot motions to push the wheels? It is the conversational equivalent of adding bicarbonate of soda to vinegar.

Ellyard is the best-selling author of Ideas for the New Millennium, amongst other titles, and is currently working on a new book, due for release in the coming months. “It’s all about the big changes on the planet, what the prognosis is and how we can turn this into a wonderful journey, and how to keep it from being an awful journey. All these things about our financial interconnectedness means that if one rogue bank or country does something nasty then we’re

all threatened; if someone pollutes the atmosphere we’re all threatened through climate change, and so on. Out of that comes, amongst a whole host of other things, a global ethical situation. “I’ll give you an example of that. I work a lot with oil companies and coal companies, and I basically say to them that to burn a tonne of coal or a barrel of oil in the year 2030, and to release climate change gases to the atmosphere and cause collateral damage to the rest of the planet will be equivalent of smoking in a café in 2012. Of course, we don’t let people smoke in cafes because of the harm and damage it causes to

other people, while at the moment we’re saying that the sky is a lot bigger, so we can continue using that as a cess pool for a little bit longer – but time is running out!”The keys to changing human behaviour, Ellyard explains, lay in basic human nature.“People only change their behaviour for two twin pairs of reasons: one is the twin pair of fear and hope, and the other is the twin pair of love and hate. So, if I fear something or hate something, I will change; and if I love something and hope for something, I will change. Leadership is all about really getting the hope side of the equation up, although you can probably think of a lot of examples of how fear and hate are used to organise people, and certainly by unscrupulous politicians of one persuasion or another. Basically, it comes down to the emotional intelligence of people.“I had an experience last year that I want to share with you. At the Meredith Music Festival, in amongst three days of rock and roll, I gave a talk on the Sunday morning on the future. I just stood up on the stage and said, ‘Tribalism is first allegiance to tribe, nationalism is first allegiance to nation and planetism is first allegiance to planet. Put your hand up if you’re a Planetist.’ And eight thousand hands went up. These Gen Ys have already decided and they think it’s a piece of nonsense to worry about your country when the planet is being screwed.“There’s a lot of people that haven’t recognised this trend, that is in the hearts and minds of the Gen Ys, and of course, pretty soon they are the ones that are going to be running the world.”So, is Australia still the land of opportunity?“Absolutely. I keep hearing people say, ‘Am I going to lose my job?’ and I keep on reminding people that 70 per cent of the jobs people will have in 20 years’ time haven’t even been invented

yet. And they’re all pretty nice jobs – helping the planet to be a little more harmonious and a fairer place. My books and my writings are all about those jobs, and around the ways and wheres.“In 1996, I predicted that the Ford plant was going to close – and the good people of Geelong went berserk. You couldn’t talk about that, because it just might happen! I said, ‘Well, what do you think might happen if Ford closed?’ and they said, ‘We’d all lose our jobs’. Then I said, ‘But what if you had a Plan B, which enabled all the people who lost their jobs to go into a whole new industrial future that was really 21st Century?’”In 1996, Ellyard was part of a team that produced the Geelong 2010 report. Led by the then Vice-Chancellor of Deakin, John Hay, and in association with the then civic leading authority, the Geelong Regional Commission, the report produced a future vision for Geelong, however the report was largely put aside post-Local Council amalgamation.“In the Geelong 2010 report, I talked about developing Geelong as a centre for smart components; because cars are just a whole lot of smart parts – which are all getting smarter by the way – all hooked together. Another collection of smart parts all hooked together is a robot, and I said you could actually create a centre for robotics. “Now, let’s take that a bit further, and look at the mining

PROFILE

Peter Ellyard: future thinkerIn 1996, futurist Peter Ellyard predicted that the Ford plant in Geelong would close. This prediction wasn’t very well received at the time, and while it has not yet come true, that yet is starting to look a lot more likely. The message from Ellyard then, and now, is that change is inevitable, but with change comes new opportunities.

12 | BUSINESS NEWS

“I keep on reminding people that 70 per cent of the jobs people will have in 20 years’ time haven’t event been invented yet. And they’re all pretty nice jobs.”

PROFILE

industry. They never talk about this, but why is the mining industry so anxious to only have fly in / fly out and not build places for the workers to live? They say it’s because no one wants to live there, but the real reason is that in ten to fifteen years’ time, there will be all robots in this industry, there won’t be any people at all, or very few. So, who is going to make those robots? Well, they could make them in Geelong; because the skills sets you need to make a car are basically the same skills set

you need for a world centre of robotics. Now, that was in the report back in 1996 and it’s been totally ignored, but it’s just an illustration of lateral thinking and forward thinking and planning for the 21st century. “Then you start to say, ‘Let’s phase out the car industry now and get on with this’, and you’re whole mindset changes from one of disaster to one of anticipation. It’s an example of how mindsets can change if you just visualise something exciting.”

The message is a timely one – don’t wait until the old industries collapse entirely, start the transition to new industries at the same time as the old industries are in decline. The hope is that this will be the case. But what do we need to be doing now to shift from declining industries to developing ones?“I think you need to talk about it. My view is that if you went to a big car company like a Ford and said, ‘We would like to use the workers and the site that’s there for a new industrial future, can you

phase your industry out in five years?’ they would say yes. You would use that time to plan the next phase of the future. What you do is you give everyone a five-year warning, so everyone gets a chance to adjust. All the workers can be retrained for the future, the contracts can be signed with the mining industry and all those things happen so that you get a smooth transition from one industry to another.“Giving fair warning is a very important way of changing

the world. Talking again about cars, the Government has spent a fortune – a couple of billion dollars – basically bribing Toyota to produce Hybrid Camrys; and all they had to do was to say to Toyota, from 2015 on, all the governments of Australia, who buy 30 per cent of all the cars in the country, will only buy hybrid cars or cars that have a certain level of emissions or below, so you have three to five years to prepare for that. They would invest because they know the market’s going to shift. So, rather than the

taxpayers paying for the investment, you end up spending nothing, because you’re going to buy the cars anyway – you create a market pull rather than a government push.”This idea is something we are seeing in action right now, with the introduction of the Carbon Tax. Putting a price on carbon creates a market-led incentive to change business practices. Sure, plenty of people don’t like, but then plenty of people don’t like change either, that

doesn’t mean it is neither necessary, nor indeed inevitable.“The beautiful thing about the price on carbon is that it’s a market system, and it therefore encourages people to shift in a series of small stages, not waiting for big lumps of investment by government, which of course, has to paid for by tax payers,” Ellyard said.Something lost in much of the debate around the Carbon Tax is that the big emitters have been making moves to reduce their emissions for years, and in some cases decades – long before a price on carbon was even considered. As Ellyard said, ‘Of course they have, they’re not fools!’ The lower the emissions, the less emissions tax has to be paid. If an industrial business produces zero emissions, they won’t pay the tax – this is market pressure at its best!“Don’t forget, the people who own and run the big companies have children and grandchildren too, and they want them to live in a clean, energy-efficient world too. The idea that the people out there are the goodies and the people in the industries are the baddies, which is an old lefty view, is ridiculous. My definition of a worthwhile life

BUSINESS NEWS | 13

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“The beautiful thing about the price on carbon is that it’s a market system, and it therefore encourages people to shift in a series of small stages, not waiting for big lumps of investment by government, which of course, has to paid for by tax payers.”

is leaving rather more to your children and grandchildren and their generation than you got from your parents and their generation. Basically, we’re all interested in legacy, and we all want to feel good that we leave the planet a better place than when we found it, and that’s why people like Bill Gates give away their entire fortune in the last third of their life – that’s actually a pretty common phenomenon.”Ellyard is one of those interesting people who really do think globally, and he is very passionate about shifting towards true globalism (or planetism, as he terms it). This includes recognising that our rapidly increasing interconnectivity is hampered

by language barriers, and is a vocal proponent of the establishment of a global language, in the form of Esperanto. If you haven’t come across the term before, Esperanto was a language created in the late 19th century as an easy to learn, largely phonetic international language. It is the most widely spoken constructed international language, and is spoken in around 115 countries – although estimates of the number of Esperanto speakers very dramatically, ranging from 10,000 to 2,000,000. Earlier this year, Google Translate added Esperanto as its 64th language.“It just happens that in my personal life I’m a third-generation Esperantist, so it’s something that I know a lot about… A shared language should be one that belongs to everybody because it belongs to nobody, that’s what it’s all about,” Ellyard said.After showing me just how fluent he was in Esperanto (and let’s face it, as a

potential global language, it makes a lot more sense than English!), Ellyard espoused the importance of communication across the world – including a few examples of how translation gaffs have caused some serious international problems. It occurred to me that I was talking to someone who had an enormous amount of fun sitting around and imagining what the world is going to look like in the future?“I have great fun, and I get paid to do it! The point about it is having dreams and making them come true, you know…” And this was the point where he broke into song...This is not something that

happens often in an interview, but there it was, an Australian futurist singing Rodgers and Hammerstein’s ode to joy and hope from the musical South Pacific:

Happy talk, keep talkin’ happy talk, Talk about things you’d like to do. You got to have a dream, If you don’t have a dream, How you gonna have a dream come true?

Joy for life, or as Peter would have it in Esperanto, ‘joy por vivo’ – what a beautiful thing for someone who had spent a frankly depressing hour trawling the latest news reports!“You just look at songs, at the culture of songs, and there are hundreds of songs about that kind of thing. It’s deep in our psyche, in our hearts – we all want to be happy and have fulfilled lives,” Ellyard added in explanation. “When people ask me, ‘Are you an optimist?’ I say, ‘Well, who would ever hire a pessimistic futurist?’

PROFILE

14 | BUSINESS NEWS

Win a seat at a one-day power conference this AugustThe Geelong Chamber of Commerce fourth annual Survive & Thrive program will take the form of a one-day power business conference this year. The Chamber is giving Business News readers the chance to win a ticket to the all-day event. Each ticket is worth $242 (inc. GST) and includes Keynote speaker, fashion guru Alex Perry (as seen on the cover of last month’s Business News!); afternoon breakout sessions; and evening networking cocktail function. To enter, visit the competition page of our website www.biznewsmag.com.au and fill in your details.The conference forms part of the Geelong Small Business Festival and Victoria’s Small Business Festival. The festival includes events that provide inspiration, ideas and information to small business owners to help them succeed and prosper.Delegates will have the option of attending a number of workshops. Delegates can also book into the evening After 5 networking cocktail function separately.When 23 August 2012Where The Pier Cunningham Pier, 10 WesternBeach Foreshore Rd, Geelong

Contact Geelong Chamber of CommerceBookings www.geelongchamber.com.au/events/Phone 03 5222 2234

Program snapshot9.00 - 10.30amSession 1A – Brad Tonini, The Sales Strategist. Session 1B – Paul McCarthy. Australia’s Rockstar Marketer.10.30 - 11.00am Morning tea11.00am - 12.00pmBreakout sessions12.15 - 2.00pmBusiness LuncheonFrom Passion to Profit: Conference Luncheon featuring Alex Perry. 2.30 - 3.30pmBreakout sessionsSession 3A – Kylie Bartlett, also known as ‘The Web Celeb’, for her ability to create a publicity buzz.Session 3B – Glen Carlson.On how technology is allowing smaller ventures to out-service and manoeuvre the big corporates.3.30 - 4.00pm Afternoon tea4.00 - 5.00pmPower PanelPower Panel: Breakout session speakers. 5.30 - 7.30pmAfter 5 After PartyAfter Party: Cap off the day with the Chamber’s renowned After 5 cocktail party.

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DAVINA MONTGOMERY

COMPETITION

BUSINESS COACHING

BUSINESS NEWS | 15

Throughout history the most resilient teams (tribes, groups, communities) have been the winners in turbulent times. Charles Darwin explained why in one powerful sentence: It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent. It is the one that is the most adaptable to change.In the current business climate, just about every business leader is asking: ‘How do we build that resilience and adaptability into our company so we can handle whatever the unpredictable world throws at us?’ For an answer, let’s look at the case example of a mid-sized manufacturing company who supply mostly into the construction industry*. The challenge

Late last year, the company’s General Manager, George, summed up the company’s predicament: ‘Our margins are tight, the market has flat lined and more redundancies are inevitable. We’ve been in business for over 60 years. We either do something radical or we probably won’t be here in two years.’Fortunately, George approached the challenge in Darwin-like fashion and posed the question: Can

we innovate our way out of this? We believed that the answer was “Yes”, provided that George committed to getting everyone in the business involved, instead of the management-in-the-bunker approach that is so typical of many Australian manufacturers.Step 1. Unite the leaders

At a two-day offsite, the management team plus a mix of team leaders created a bold plan that described how the senior managers would focus on adapting the business towards different markets and products, while the team leaders would handle the day-to-day operational performance.The plan had no mission or vision, just practical messages on one page and set out under three headings:Why we have a future.What we will achieve in the next 3, 6 and 12 months.How we will do that using a set of core principles.Step 2. Gain the commitment of teams

Every team in the business did a six-hour workshop to create their own Why-What-How plan. In the last hour, the teams presented their plans to George, who made

sure they had hard deadlines and a commitment to be accountable for delivering. Step 3. Align as one team

The management team defined five ‘mission critical’ linkages in the business. These were the target for performance partnering agreements that addressed one team behaviours.For the first time, the Planning, Production and Logistics teams agreed how to get the business to flow better and how to handle the inevitable friction points.Step 4. Collaborate to breakthrough

The success of the whole initiative hinged on the ability of teams to jointly solve problems and to find new ways to reduce costs and boost revenue.Two tools helped to ensure this happened. The first, a Collaborative Problem Solving tool was mandated to be used for any cross-business problems (providing a common language and process), while the second called Ideas Circles, was targeted at generating and testing ideas and innovations (which traditionally had been a slow and management-driven process).Step 5. Debrief to learn and adapt

If there was one practice that characterised the business over the six months, it was intensive and relentless debriefing. These Action Debriefs opened up the lines of communication, got problems out in the open (to be tackled using the common tool) and accelerated the time from idea generation to testing and commercialisation.The Impact

George is the first to admit that the business is fundamentally different now in the way it responds to challenges. Importantly, the Collaborative Problem Solving approach uncovered significant cost savings from streamlining processes across the business

and getting rid of dumb processes. From Ideas Circles they have tested three new products, one of which has already more than paid for its development costs and looks to be a genuine winner. Arguably the biggest impact has been in joint ventures, which for the first time in three years have the production lines working at close to full capacity. When George stopped thinking about manufacturing and started to look more at customer needs and behaviours he (and the Sales Director) realised that by combining with two other companies they could co-create a blended solution that now has them selling jointly constructed modules into large-scale mining and infrastructure projects (which they had previously thought to be out of their reach).It is still early days, but if the tests of resilience are the ability to bounce back from upsets, and to adapt and innovate out of difficulties, then this story is classic Charles Darwin. In the face of possible extinction, George has built a stronger and more resilient business that thinks as one team and knows how to innovate their way out of difficulties and into opportunities (and is not waiting for handouts or a lucky break).For other Australian companies, it sends the message that it is possible to create an agile and intelligent organisation that can handle anything the unpredictable business world throws at it.* Details changed to protect confidentiality.

Graham WinterGraham Winter is the best-selling author of Think One Team and The Man Who Cured the Performance Review (Jossey Bass). He is Client Solutions Leader for Think One Team International and a former three-time chief psychologist for the Australian Olympic Team. this year. www.thinkoneteam.com or graham@thinkoneteam.com

Resilient Teams

It may be inevitable that the likes of Ford and Alcoa will shut down their manufacturing operations in Victoria, but the ground can shift very quickly in manufacturing, and regardless of the fate of Ford and Alcoa, this state’s manufacturing sector is a much bigger picture than those two companies alone. Supply chain companies have been diversifying and seeking out new markets in preparation for the big boys leaving town for some years now, and the sector will change, but it will go on.

If we do want to retain a strong manufacturing sector, and there can be no doubt that we do, then we need to take a broader view of where the future of our manufacturing industry lies.

Niche manufacturing is a growth sector of manufacturing globally - creating specific products for targeted buyers. Niche manufacturers have fewer, if any direct competitors.

Manufacturers have no control over macro-economic impacts like the GFC or the rise of the Australian dollar, but they can - and in Victoria they have - become innovative in their approach to reducing production costs and becoming more sustainable.

Businesses that could produce their own energy and recycle their own water would have little to fear from rising essential services bills – and they would have no carbon tax liability.

The sector as a whole is undergoing rapid change, and their will be some casualties. David Peart from the Geelong Manufacturing Council says the future of all manufacturing companies in Australia rests in the hands of Australian consumers.

“Every time that someone purchases a European car they are exporting jobs. By buying, for example, a Ford that’s made in Australia, consumers are supporting their local industry, supporting their neighbours, supporting their friends, supporting their families and supporting their community,” Mr Peart said.

“There is also a lack of understanding, or a poor factual basis, coming out in a lot of forums about the extent to which we support our industry. For automotive, for example, per capita support for the industry is $17 in Australia. In the USA, it’s $270 per capita, and it’s $330 in Sweden.

“On a world scale, we are one of 13 countries that can design and manufacture a car from start to finish, and out

of those 13 countries, we are by far the least supportive in terms of [subsidies]. So when we talk about the amount of co-investment in the automotive industry, it needs to be thought about in that context.”

As Mr Peart rightly points out, countries with advanced economies want to hold on to their automotive manufacturing sector – and countries with developing economies want to establish an automotive manufacturing sector – because the sector has a long supply chain, and a significant economic multiplier effects.”

‘Buy Australian Made’ is an emotive argument, and one that has an inherent logic. In an ideal world we would only ever buy locally owned and made goods. But as we saw with the ultimate failure of Dick Smith’s Australian-made food products to compete with imports, these arguments simply don’t work. People choose what to spend their money on based on a multitude of factors, and Australian made is just one of those, along with price, desirability and functionality.

Australian manufacturers need to meet the market; they need to make products that Australians want to buy.

Australians are buying more

new cars than ever before, with 2012 setting record sales figures. Topping the tables so far in 2012 is the Mazda3, closely followed by the Toyota HiLux and the Toyota Corolla.

Holden completes the top 5 most popular cars with the Cruze and the Commodore. Ford is so far not featured in the top 10 most popular new cars in Australia, with the Focus sitting at 13th, the Territory at 17th, the Ranger at 19th with the Falcon just squeezing into 20th position in front of the Toyota Kluger.

Few businesses can support such falls in sales, and without a big turnaround, it is hard to see the company, which has also seen crushing drops in sales across Europe, continue to manufacture Australian cars.

“Manufacturing has been shifting and transitioning since the day it started,” Mr Peart said. “So it’s not a matter of saying, ‘Let’s transition today, or tomorrow’, it’s been transitioning, and there have been large macro economic impacts that have led to transitioning. The transition of the textile sector in the 1970s was a big event, for example.

“The companies that are doing well are always changing to meet market demand and are continuing

COVER STORY

16 | BUSINESS NEWS

COVER STORY

to do that. Whether that’s with innovation, with sustainability, whether that’s reducing the carbon impact or changing to meet customer needs, [change] is really a given in manufacturing.“During July, the Geelong Manufacturing Council ran a clean technology conference. focused on the latest developments in the fast-growing clean tech industry.“We’re talking to the manufacturing and engineering sector about the best ways to pursue clean tech. We are pursuing clean technology, as you know, with a whole range of companies. And we’re also looking at opportunities in the oil and gas mining sectors, and we currently have a delegation go to Brisbane to discuss opportunities for Geelong companies in the oil and gas mining sectors. While they aren’t necessarily clean tech, they are sectors that we are actively looking to become involved in,” Mr Peart said.I asked Mr Peart if, as futurist Peter Ellyard had raised with me earlier that week, local companies and the local sector as a whole was looking at filling what is fast becoming a significant market for remote-operated machinery in the mining sector.“New equipment and machinery opportunities is the focus of some of the companies involved in the delegation that the GMC and the engineering network have been involved in.”David Sykes, CEO of Backwell IXL, heads up one of the oldest manufacturing companies in the country, boasting a 154-year history. For this company, change, even monumental change, is nothing they haven’t seen, and survived, before. He says what we are seeing with Alcoa and Ford is just part of the evolution of manufacturing in Australia.“Unfortunately, some people don’t realise that change is happening. You really do have to have your eyes wide open and understand what is happening, not just

in Geelong, and not just in Victoria or Australia, it’s global now,” Mr Sykes said.He said all manufacturing companies need to be competing on a global scale, and need to be keeping up with what is now a very rapid rate of change.“If we’re not changing visibly, if not in business systems, at a rate that is increasing then we’re not keeping up with the world and we’re actually going backwards.“Now, we are looking at timeframes of only twelve months to see significant change in the business, either in the systems, people, processes or market opportunities. The timeframes are very short now.”Mr Sykes describes Backwell IXL as ‘fortunate by design’,

and the business that built a reputation on producing products like cooking stoves in the 20th century has now diversified into three major segments. There is a resource-based foundry, an appliance area that produces the iconic IXL Tastic bathroom heaters, and there is an automotive components segment. Mr Sykes said the company’s product ranges have become increasingly niche products. The Backwell foundry has for many years made smelter casting for Alcoa. While Alcoa was the initial market for the foundry’s products, years of seeking out new markets and expanding the foundry has insulated itself against the potential loss of Alcoa orders. The company has also this year completed a contract to manufacture the framing work

for Australia’s first utility-scale solar farm near Geraldton in WA. “Where an average house might have eight photovoltaic cells, the project in Western Australia that was done with First Solar and Verve Energy, had 18,480 of these panels – and that’s a small utility size. That’s given us opportunities on a global basis to be working with companies overseas and supplying product for Australian requirements,” Mr Syke said.“Generally in manufacturing you have a lot of assets tied up in buildings and equipment, so you have to look at asset utilisation. Plus you have to look how you can utilise the skills of your employees, and you need to find products and markets that utilise your existing

assets. Your assets are more than just your plant and equipment or your building, they are your employees. In the case of the solar PV project, the majority of the assets that were used were the skills of our employees. We are utilising their skills and knowledge from the automotive industry into this other business. In fact, we had to lease a premises and buy new machinery and equipment – so we weren’t using any of our base assets – the important ones were our employees.”The opportunities are there for those who put themselves in a position to take them. But the Victorian manufacturing sector still has a number of challenges to overcome.Federal Member for Corio and Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Richard

Marles, said Victoria’s manufacturing sector is very much at the forefront of the effects of the high Australian dollar, with the dollar value being the principal phenomenon that is impacting on our manufacturing. “A lot of these companies have business models that, over a long period of time, have assumed that the Australian dollar will be at a much lower level than it is. But now we have a very high Australian dollar [between 30% and 40% higher than average] because of the resources boom. It doesn’t matter what business you’re in, a 40 per cent drop in competitiveness is going to hurt.“Alcoa is a company that is very much at the forefront of that experience, and for them it is compounded by the fact that at the same time that the dollar is high, the global price for aluminium through the London metals exchange is at an historically low point. So they face a double whammy, which is what has put them under particular pressure.”Mr Marles said the pressure on companies like Alcoa and Ford are examples of the nation’s patchwork economy that is itself a by-product of the strong resources sector. He said that if the proposed Minerals Resource Rent Tax were to be put in place, it would come with tax initiatives aimed at business, including a business tax write off for assets with a high value.“In time, what we do want to be trying to do is to reduce the company tax rate, which would positively affect all of business in Australia. We sought to do that under the MRRT, and we will keep trying to pursue a cut in the company tax rate. A lot of what the MRRT will fund is infrastructure, which would help as well.”In the case of Alcoa, the high value of the dollar and the low value of aluminium are just part of the picture. The other is that in July 2014, the 30-year agreement that

BUSINESS NEWS | 17

When the government makes loans or subsidies to business, what it does is to tax successful

private business in order to support unsuccessful private

business.

— Henry Hazlitt, Economist and Philosopher (1894 – 1993)

supplies the company with heavily subsidised electricity will come to an end. Alcoa’s smelters at Point Henry and Portland and the Point Henry rolling mill use an estimated one-third of the state’s total electricity. The deal that was struck in 1984 was made when electricity in Victoria was cheap and plentiful. Times have changed. For the company to continue operating in this state, the dollar value will need to drop considerably and the world price of aluminium will need to rise. If both of these things happen, a new deal will also need to be struck over power supply.The current power contract is held by a state-owned shelf company (the State Electricity Commission of Victoria) that purchases power from Loy Yang and sells it as a heavily subsidised rate to Alcoa. While the agreement has allowed Alcoa to continue its energy-intensive operations, the price of that power purchased by the SECV is significantly higher under the Carbon Tax, and while Alcoa would be eligible for compensation under the Carbon Tax legislation if it was directly buying the power, the SECV is not, leaving the state with a carbon tax bill estimated to run into the tens of millions of dollars. Negotiations are currently underway to have Alcoa buy its power directly from Loy Yang, however the state and the company are wrangling over how much of the extra compensation would be returned to state coffers.Energy supply and carbon emissions are the great elephants in the room in Victoria, and the future of our energy supply remains the subject of hot debate. The Baillieu Government wants to expand our coal mining operations, and continues to support coal as the major source of electricity for the decades to come. In a strictly business sense, there is a strong argument for

doing so. Victoria has some of the world’s largest deposits of brown coal, and our steady supply of cheap power has helped fuel the growth of manufacturing and industry across the state. But a government is not a business, it is a body charged with representing

the people who vote for it, and many voters take a dim view of plans to tie the state’s future to high emission brown coal electricity production. Clean coal technology is advancing, but it will need to do so very rapidly to win over an increasingly emissions-conscious electorate.Globally, coal fuels 41 per cent of the world’s electricity. Across Australia, 77 per cent of our total electricity generation is produced through coal (compared to 79% in China, 69% in India, 49% in the USA and 46% in Germany. Source: World Coal Association). In Victoria, the state remains deeply wedded to brown coal and our ageing power stations, and that cost advantage that fuelled the development of our manufacturing industry is looking increasingly shaky. “Ultimately, there are a

number of answers to [the energy] question,” Mr Marles said. “We’ve been doing quite a bit to try and encourage the development of renewable forms of energy. “Green Earth is a really good example of a company that is working on geothermal here in Geelong, and is looking to

exploit a geothermal resource in this part of western Victoria. “I think there are a number of initiatives funded under the carbon price to encourage companies to be more CO2 efficient, and by that I mean emitting less CO2 per unit of production,” he said.“What the carbon price does is put a price point in the economy that encourages companies to pursue lower-intensive production. That’s what we need to do, because we are moving into a world that is going to penalise carbon-intensive production.”But times of adversity have always been great drivers of innovation, and Victoria, with its strong research and development capabilities and its skilled and experienced manufacturing workforce, is perfectly placed to develop and manufacture the products and materials of the future.

Deakin University has established itself as a world-leading centre of excellence in fibre research and development, and has the southern hemisphere’s only facility to test the manufacturing of new carbon fibre products on a commercial scale. With this expertise, combined with the state’s automotive manufacturing and industry skills, Victoria is well placed to become a leader in carbon fibre manufacturing.That process has already started, with Geelong company, Carbon Revolution, set to pilot test manufacturing of its single piece carbon fibre wheels. Lightweight and very strong, the CR9 wheels are currently adorning the world’s fastest sports car, the Shelby Tuatara. The wheels have attracted considerable interest from European carmakers, and the company estimates that it will soon commence of the CR9 wheel at a new $40 million high-tech manufacturing facility in Geelong. The new facility will employ an estimated 200 workers, and the company expects to produce around 250,000 wheels per annum, with the potential to expand to 2 million units annually. Governments and industry bodies can and should be supporting our manufacturers. They can help to foster innovation through funded programs, they can bring in expertise such as the Geelong Manufacturing Council has been doing with the imminent visit of global innovation expert, Goran Roos, who has been advising the Prime Minister on manufacturing innovation in recent times. But at the end of the day, it is up to each individual company to create their own path to the future. Many have already begun that journey, there will be new companies starting that journey, and for some, the journey will end.

COVER STORY

18 | BUSINESS NEWS

For [Alcoa] to continue operating in this state,

the dollar value will need to drop considerably and the world price of aluminium

will need to rise.

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REGULATION

The latest VECCI-Commonwealth Bank Survey of Business Trends and Prospects revealed some interesting information on the size of the red tape burden facing Victorian businesses. Undertaken in June 2012, respondents were asked questions about the impact of regulatory compliance, trends in the compliance burden, and changes that would improve business competitiveness.In total, 81 per cent of survey respondents said complying with regulatory requirements had a major or moderate impact on their business. In terms of the time taken, 47

per cent said it took them one to five hours per week. Forty-seven per cent of respondents reported that the most onerous stage of compliance was the preparation of information, while 33 per cent said that understanding their obligations was most onerous. Submitting information and dealing with follow-up issues were each nominated by less than 5 per cent of respondents. The compliance burden has reportedly increased over the past two years, with 60 per cent reporting an increase in internal costs, 66 per cent reporting an increase in the

time taken, and 54 per cent reporting increased costs from seeking professional advice. This increase in the compliance burden has practical implications for business owners, who therefore have less time to devote to improving their business operations.When asked what the most important compliance area to improving competitiveness would be, reducing OHS and WorkCover compliance costs was most likely to be identified as having a major impact, followed by understanding business rights and obligations under consumer protection laws, improving state taxation processes and changes to the planning approvals process.Survey respondents also had suggestions on the best way to reduce the cost of compliance for their businesses, including reducing the quantity of existing regulations, better communication from regulators about how to comply with existing regulations, and better communication when new regulations are developed.Regulation is a key area where governments can influence the competitive environment for Victorian

businesses. Recent changes proposed by the State Government to consolidate the multitude of residential and commercial planning zones into fewer categories show how red tape can be simplified, encouraging long-term business investment.VECCI is currently seeking information from businesses to identify specific examples of red-tape for reform, including practical end-user suggestions for simplifying and/or reducing compliance costs. Examples can be submitted via the VECCI website at www.vecci.org.au. Tackling red tape is sure to be one of the many issues discussed by participants at the 2012 VECCI Regional Business Convention on Friday 19 October in Geelong, and at the preceding Geelong workshop on Wednesday 12 September.The workshop will bring together regional business leaders and community stakeholders to identify, discuss and explore issues facing Geelong and surrounding regions today – and tomorrow.Up to five delegates will be elected to represent the region at the Convention in Geelong and to present on the relevant issues, challenges and solutions facing the region.Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu and Opposition Leader Daniel Andrews will both be speaking at the Convention. For more information and to register for the Geelong workshop, visit www.vecci.org.au/rbc.

BUSINESS NEWS | 21

Dealing with red tapeRegulation reform is a priority for business and is consistently rated among the top priorities of VECCI members, clients and customers. While we all agree that regulation is necessary to support a safe and fair business environment, unnecessary, complex or poorly designed regulations, and their overzealous or inefficient implementation, constrains the ability of business to provide the best product or service at the lowest cost, and can stifle growth and innovation.

JAMES GULLIVECCI Regional Manager, Geelong & South West RegionVECCI offers a range of workplace relations services, from a telephone helpline to one-on-one consulting. For more information, visit vecci.org.au.

Australian Public Service Benevolent Society Ltd

Membership of APS Benefits automatically entitles you to a funeral benefit issued by APS Benefits. You should consider the Combined Product Disclosure Statement & Financial Services Guide (available from APS Benefits or our web site on www.apsbs.com.au) before making a decision to become a member of APS Benefits or buy any products offered by APS Benefits. Financial services provided by Australian Public Service Benevolent Society Ltd are provided under its AFSL No. 244115. APS Financial Planning Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 305923 of Futuro Financial Services Pty Ltd (‘Futuro’). Financial services provided by APS Financial Planning Pty Ltd are provided under Futuro’s AFSL No. 238478 APS Savings Disclaimer: This is not a bank product, it is an unlisted APS Note. No independent assessment has been made about the risk to investors losing any of their principal investment. Applications for APS Notes can only be made on the Investment Application Form which accompanies the prospectus issued by APS Savings Ltd. Please read the prospectus carefully before deciding whether to make an investment.

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The Australian Public Service Benevolent Society (APS Benefits) is a not for profit organisation that provides a wide range of financial services to all government department employees and contractors, their families and friends. Having been in existence for over 100 years, the APS Benefits family has earned the trust of over 27,000 members and clients now offering the following financial and personal services listed below: APS Tax & Accounting Alfred Mallia at APS Tax, Accounting and Business Services has over 25 years experience. Whether it is setting up a business, managing your superannuation fund or just obtaining quality service and lower fees, Alfred can help you. APS Financial PlanningTimothy Foster provides access to advice and information on the important financial decisions we all face, whether it be superannuation, investments, pre and post retirement planning, life insurance, gearing, disability and trauma insurance, managed funds or savings plans. APS Mortgage BrokingSam Athans treats every mortgage as if it were his own. He has access to 20 mortgage lenders and has over 40 years experience in banking. Let us do the leg work for you.APS Insurance (General Insurance Broking)Danielle Rowe heads up our insurance broking team and is a salaried employee of APS Benefits. With over 15 years experience in the industry, Danielle has access to products that include home and contents, motor vehicle, boat/caravan, landlord, public liability, income protection, life, disability & trauma insurance. The next time you receive your insurance renewal notice or want insurance for the first time, call Danielle on 1300 131 809.APS Personal Loans The APS Benefits personal loans team can assist members to obtain an unsecured loan, or they can apply online at www.apsbs.com.au. Either way, loans can be approved within 24 hours.APS Funeral Cover. Adult & Child Cover Available.APS Benefits Membership Coordinator Jesse Clarke can assist members to gain immediate funeral cover up to $15,000 for adults and $7,000 for dependent children (aged 2 to 15 next birthday). Do you have cover in the greatest time of need? Call us on 1300 131 809.APS SavingsAPS Savings Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of APS Benefits and offers a Fixed Term Investment product. Ask Sam Athans about the interest rate on offer and you will be pleasantly suprised. The term can be 6 months, 12 months or 24 months. Call us on 1300 131 809.APS Wills & EstatesPhil Lambourne from APS Wills & Estates has over 25 years experience as a lawyer. Phil can help you with wills, powers of attorney, probate and estate administration. Is your will up-to-date? Have you reviewed your will recently? It affects more than just you!Further to this, APS is owned by its members, so any profits are channelled back to members. Help spread the word by introducing new members and APS will send you, your nominated charity or your staff social club $50 for each new member you nominate. For more information call us on 1300 131 809 or visit www.apsbs.com.au.

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A certain amount of retail desperation is showing in that everything is on sale, and it is on sale all of the time. Is it the tail end of the global financial meltdown or is it a new phenomenon? The few glimpses we have of the green shoots of Ben Bernanke are an illusion. Without retail, we have little need for manufacturing. Without manufacturing we have little need for the Victorian economy – is this the beginning of the end and will Victoria follow the other basket case economies?We can recall Barry Jones’s prophetic 1982 book “Sleepers, wake!” and his

predictions that our workforce would move to supporting a service economy and now see that after three decades of veracity, it is needing to be rewritten. A service economy only works because somewhere in the mix there is a money-generating driver. Without a primary income source, then the system stops.There are rumblings that the massive mining and extraction industry is at its peak. China has eased its seemingly indefatigable appetite for Aussie iron ore, and India is not in a position to take its place. Oil is at, or more likely post its peak point

as well. Now we are in the rush to consume as much as possible before some other bugger gets more than us. There is no equity in the distribution and consumption of oil.And there is a third peak that is the cause of the retail mayhem. A recent article in New Scientist magazine presented the proposition that we are at peak stuff as well. On average, people have enough stuff. There are not the huge urges to go into debt for material things any more. There are still pockets of need, want and desire out there, so it is still possible to sell our material goods; but there are strong indicators that the undying drive to consume is actually dying.Who would have predicted this? Certainly retailers and manufacturers have been caught out.Part of the reasoning behind the concept of the “end of stuff” is that the two major drivers of barely controlled purchasing have been the real estate market and the biannual pilgrimage to buy a new car.The Melbourne based demographer, Bernard Salt, tells us that the younger generations are less inclined to buy a house. Real estate is hellishly expensive, and with an inconsistent job market rife with retrenchments and uncertainty, few young people are joining the ranks of the mortgage market. With the shift to inner city apartments, the material needs are smaller.Similarly, with cars, the purchase patterns have changed radically. Gone are the tankish Aussie V8’s and enter stage left, the stylish but tiny buzz boxes. For inner city people, the cost of car ownership is huge – hence the burgeoning use of public transport and a high proportion of people volunteering to not get a car licence at all.Younger people are not so materialistic, but have moved to the virtual world. They buy

the newest electronic and entertainment things because they are transportable and attached to the person. These devices are not as dependent on long and consistent employment.So are retail and manufacturing dead dinosaurs walking? Not at all! There has just been a shift in the market, and as Phillip Kotler stated in his lateral marketing study, the only flaw is to expect that the market will recover. The GFC was just the last in a sequence of activities that showed that the ‘traditional markets’ are declining. The market has gone through a change and will not go back to its old form – there will be no recovery. But long live the new market. Get use to it!There are wonderful retail opportunities; it is just that they don’t look at all like the old versions. The clue is that the retail outlets, and in turn the manufacturers, that have combined experience and learning with the pleasure of ownership, are quietly thriving. We can see the principle if we look at BMW, APPLE and Miele, in that ownership is instant membership into a club of like-minded customers. These products abound in a sense of belonging and meaning. In the words of Guy Kawasaki, a business’ first task is to make meaning with your customer. I am not convinced by his grammar, but I can understand what he is getting at; in fact it is the issue that will separate many businesses. If you look closely at these successful businesses, the meaningful relationship is a more important driver than the price. If you have a meaningful relationship with your customer and you offer deep product or service, then you don’t have to go on sale.

SMALL BIZ

The end of stuff....Well, at least beyond the peak anyway

Walk with me as we go through retail land. There is stuff to the left of us and stuff to the right as we go through the valley of stuff - floor to ceiling shelves of stuff. We go deep within the mid-year sale or end of financial year sale, or winter sale, or perhaps beginning of spring sale.

CLINT JENNINGS

24 | BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS | 25

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Developing a Marketing PlanTourism Geelong, Central Geelong Marketing, Bellarine Tourism & The Borough of Queenscliffe

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Speed Networking EventPeople@Work, Geelong Chamber of Commerce

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STARTING A BUSINESS & BUSINESS BASICSTopic Event Provider Date Time CostBuying & Selling a Business WHK Accounting 30th Aug 5.30pm-7.30pm FREE

GRANTS & ASSISTANCETopic Event Provider Date Time CostGovernment Grants Seminar Redstick Strategic Communications &

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BUSINESS DEVELOPMENTTopic Event Provider Date Time CostFinancial Literacy for Women WHK Accounting 15th Aug 9.30am-12.30am FREE

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Dad and Partner Pay will operate to extend the Paid Parental Leave Scheme, which commenced on 1 January 2011 and provided eligible primary carers with up to 18 weeks’ parental leave pay.Who is Eligible?

To be eligible, you will need to:Satisfy the Work Test – you must have worked continuously for at least 10 of the 13 months prior to your nominated start date for dad and partner pay, with a break of no more than 8 weeks between any two consecutive work days and have undertaken at least 330

hours of paid work during that period (an average of around one day of paid work per week);Satisfy the Income Test – your income must be $150,000 or less, based on your adjusted taxable income in the previous financial year;Be an Australian Resident;Be providing care (whether this be primary care or joint care) to a child born or adopted on or after 1 January 2013; andNot be working or on paid leave (unless it is employer-funded leave) during the period that you receive dad and partner pay.The Restrictions

Dad and partner pay will only be paid in respect of one child in a multiple birth or adoption. Similarly, you cannot claim dad and partner pay for two children at the same time even if those children were not born or adopted as part of the same

birth or adoption. Families will be able to receive a maximum of 20 weeks of payment under the Act and there is an 18-week cap for individuals.How to Claim

All payments will be paid through the Department of Human Services directly to the claimant. Accordingly, employers will not have to make Dad and Partner Pay payments. The amendments will come into effect from 1 January 2013 and claims can be lodged from 1 October 2012. Importantly, a specific start date for Dad and Partner Pay must be nominated in the application, even if you wish for the start date to coincide with the birth of the child. Obviously, in

most cases, your child’s date of birth will be relatively unknown; particularly, if there are complications. In this instance, the date can be changed if the Secretary is notified before the start date originally nominated.

LEGAL

Dad and Partner pay is in!Parliament has now passed amendments to the Paid Parental Leave Act 2010, which will allow eligible ‘Dads and Partners’, including adopting parents and parents in same-sex couples, to take two weeks of paid paternity leave at the rate of the national minimum wage, within the first 12 months of their child’s birth or adoption.

CLAIRE CENTRA

26 | BUSINESS NEWS

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“Families will be able to receive a maximum of 20 weeks payment under the Act and there is an 18-week cap for individuals.”

RECRUITMENT

A recent survey of 1,178 Australians conducted by Hays, found that almost a third of employees (29 per cent) expected their salary to rise by more than six per cent in their next review. A further 38 per cent expected an increase between three and six per cent, while the remaining third expect less than a three per cent rise.But employer expectations are not in alignment.

According to the 2012 Hays Salary Guide, 42 per cent of employers in Australia intend to increase salaries between three and six per cent when they next review. A further six per cent will increase above six per cent. 46 per cent intend to increase salaries less than three per cent, and the final six per cent will offer no increases.“These intentions are clearly at odds with candidate

expectations – particularly those of candidates in demand,” says Nick Deligiannis, Managing Director of Hays in Australia. “We’re seeing a widening gap between salary expectations in all of the pay ranges.“While many employers are still willing to increase salaries, they are doing so moderately and are instead focusing on non-financial rewards, such as flexible work practices. They are also quick to discuss potential career paths with their high achievers. In addition, some employers are improving benefits, such as bonuses based on individual and company performance, parking and salary sacrifice.“But employees and job seekers are clearly still focused on the money, and this will likely remain the case for some time.If you are approaching your next salary review, you can maximise your chances of getting an increase. Prepare a list of your recent achievements that exceed your objectives. If this is your first review, look back at your original job description. List the resulting benefits to the company. This gives you strong evidence to support the value you are providing to the business.

Also list any changed or increased work volumes or duties you’re now undertaking.Be realistic. State the salary you feel your performance and results are worth, and back it up with evidence from a Salary Guide to show it is in line with current market rates.Keep your salary review discussion professional. Stay calm and focused. Do not become emotional and do not talk of how much money you need – for example, as a result of rising bills or mortgage repayments. Keep your review purely professional.Have a fallback position. If your employer cannot afford to increase your salary, can you agree a date for another pay review in three or six months? What about additional annual leave, study or other benefits?Above all, use your accomplishments and the value you add to the organisation as the basis of your negotiation. In this way, you’ll clearly demonstrate your worth and will be in a stronger position to secure the maximum of the salary increase on offer.

BUSINESS NEWS | 27

How much is too much?There is nothing new in differences in opinion on a fair pay rate between employers and employees, it is a divide that has existed as long as there has been paid employment. But in these unsettled times, the divide, according to recruitment experts Hays, is widening.

Hays, the world’s leading recruiting experts in qualified, professional and skilled people.

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SKILLS WEEK 2012

28 | BUSINESS NEWS

Mentor – your workforce development and training solution

During uncertain economic times and changes to the way businesses operate, it is important to have workforce development strategies and plans in place to ensure they remain competitive.

Mentor’s courses and training are designed to meet industry needs today and in the future.

Investment in staff training is crucial to business growth and success. Through workforce development you can realise the benefits of investing in staff training through increased productivity and efficiency; staff retention and improved morale; developing expertise across your business and development of skills necessary to your future business needs.

Mentor HR is a National VET Recognised Registered Training Organisation which offers a range of nationally recognised training in

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www.mentorhr.com.au

Mentor – your workforce development and training solutionDuring uncertain economic times and changes to the way businesses operate, it is important to have workforce development strategies and plans in place to ensure they remain competitive. Mentor’s courses and training are designed to meet industry needs today and in the future. Investment in staff training is crucial to business growth and success. Through workforce development you can realise the benefits of investing in staff training through increased productivity and efficiency; staff retention and improved morale; developing expertise across your business and development of skills necessary to your future business needs.Mentor HR is a National VET Recognised Registered Training Organisation, which offers a range of nationally recognised training in the following areas:• Occupational health and safety • Business • Customer contact • Asset maintenance • Quality auditingWe also offer customised short courses based on your business needs. Students benefit from ongoing support and coaching from Mentor’s experienced training team, who provide direct support to students through individualised training, traineeships and group workshops. Mentor also provides • Occupational Health Screening • OHS and Quality Consulting • Auditing - Environmental Management SystemsFor further information, please contact us on 1300 218 933 or visit our website at www.mentorhr.com.au

With all the doom and gloom surrounding the economy and the future of some industries in Geelong, businesses of all sizes increasingly need to look at ways to become more competitive and innovative in order to survive. What better way to do that than to invest in your greatest asset – the skills of your employees?Skills Victoria sums it up perfectly: “In times of economic challenges, it’s vital to invest in the skills of your workplace.”Businesses need to keep a close eye on the bottom line and invest their resources wisely. Regardless of how many employees you have, spending money and time on upgrading staff skills can be an investment that helps to boost both profitability and competitiveness and gives your business an edge when it comes to innovation and customer satisfaction.“Increased competition

resulting from a globalised economy and advances in technology means businesses have to ensure they and their staff are continually keeping up with, and staying ahead of, the pack,” says VECCI Training and Consulting Manager, Belinda Tierney. “Staff who are engaged in training are exposed to new ideas and concepts and are more likely to look to introduce improvements and innovations in the workplace. They are also generally more motivated and engaged which leads to higher productivity in the workplace.”According to research conducted by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research, employees who receive formal training can be 230 per cent more productive than untrained colleagues working in the same role, and productivity begins to increase while the training is taking place. Other research shows that training

increases staff retention and, in some cases, has reduced staff turnover by 70 per cent, and in one case, led to a return on investment of 7,000 per cent (www.training.com.au).“Employers who are prepared to invest in the development of their staff and provide career opportunities are more likely to have happier, more productive and more loyal staff,” Ms Tierney says.“The cost of providing training to staff is far cheaper than losing staff, given the high costs involved in recruitment - particularly when you take into account the loss of productivity during the recruitment and staff induction phases. Research has shown a clear link between effective staff retention strategies and companies that perform well.“Smart businesses understand that investing in their people, by providing opportunities for training and

development that meet the business’ needs, is essential and will review their staff training needs and budget on an annual basis. Many businesses will rely on their own internal human resource or learning and development staff to develop learning and development strategies for the business, while those who do not have these skills will seek to get advice from external organisations such as VECCI.”The online portal, training.com.au, which was developed in conjunction with state and territory training authorities and the Australian National Training Authority, is a single point of access to a range of vocational education and training information, products and services, including comprehensive information on staff training for businesses, a return on investment calculator, tips on finding the right training provider for your company and advice

on working out what sort of training your employees may need. It points out that the benefits of training in one area can flow through to all levels of an organisation. “Over time, training will boost the bottom line and reduce costs by decreasing wasted time and materials, the maintenance costs of machinery and equipment, workplace accidents (leading to lower insurance premiums), recruitment costs through the internal promotion of skilled staff and absenteeism.”At Bartlett’s Environmental, a Geelong-based asset and waste management company with a reputation for its use of innovative technology and high levels of customer service, staff training is considered vital to the success of the business. All employees are offered the opportunity to participate in specified training and development

linked to their current and future employment within the company, with staff undertaking training from certificate to bachelor level at a variety of institutions, including Deakin and The Gordon. “Bartlett’s is a service based business that prides itself on continuous improvement and innovation,” says general manager John McCoy. “This is not only in regards to the type of services and equipment we provide, but also the capabilities of our team members. As our employees have constant interaction with our customers and other stake holders, it’s imperative they are well trained and knowledgeable in the task at hand and are able to handle unforeseen situations confidently and competently. Having employees with a high level of skills reflects directly upon the company as a whole. It’s important that

BUSINESS NEWS | 29

Corner Gheringhap & McKillop Streets, Geelong Contact us on 1800 436 723

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Being involved in National Skills Week offers a great opportunity to bring to the forefront the benefits of practical and vocational learning. Gforce Employment Solutions is one of Victoria’s leading providers of Apprentices and Trainees, currently employing and managing over 700 Apprentices and Trainees. Employing a Gforce Apprentice or Trainee takes the hassle out of employing staff. As the legal employer, Gforce is responsible for all recruitment and employment obligations such as: Specialised recruiting to find the

most suitable Apprentice or Trainee

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Operating for 30 years, Gforce has assisted over 3000 people into Apprenticeships and Traineeships. With offices in Geelong, Corio, Wyndham and Ballarat, Gforce’s dedicated team can visit your workplace to provide clear and concise information. Call us today for a confidential discussion.

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August 27 - September 2, 2012

our customers feel confident in our employees’ ability to complete the task at hand in a correct and competent manner and our customers’ confidence in us provides a competitive advantage. “Further training and development provides our employees with additional and diversified skill sets, allowing them to have a better understanding of the functions within our business as a whole and enabling them to undertake a greater breadth of tasks. This provides flexibility within the business and, as a consequence, we are not reliant upon any one, or a few, staff members.”According to training.com.au, providing industry specific training doesn’t necessarily limit the benefits of flexibility. Employees who receive such targeted training often achieve improvements in communication skills, professionalism,

conscientiousness and creativity and innovation. Providing opportunities for employees to up-skill can also be a way to introduce new ideas to your business that may provide it with that extra edge on competitors, or help to reduce operating costs. “Our employees have become self-empowered and have built their confidence to a level where they are comfortable in bringing suggestions to management to implement change,” John says. “This has resulted in greater staff contributions across the business and we have been able to achieve many efficiency gains and cost savings through employee input.”Training benefits employees as well and a variety of research has shown that happy staff are more productive and contribute more to profitability. John says that Bartlett’s has found

employees “gain a great sense of achievement and recognition in completing their training, which we have found in turn increases employee job satisfaction and individual output”.Because the skills of employees are so vital to business in so many ways, it’s important to get it right and make the most of your investment by choosing the right training and the right provider to work with your business. “Staff working within SMEs are often required to have a broader skill set than those working in larger organisations and their training needs can often be more specific,” points out VECCI’s Belinda Tierney. “Many SMEs still see training as a cost to the business and often attempt to provide training themselves in-house in order to minimise costs. However, this can be detrimental to

the business’ future growth and innovation. Most SME business owners don’t have the luxury of allowing staff to be away from the workplace for too long. They therefore prefer short workshops of one to two days’ duration, provided locally or via flexible delivery options such as online training, webinars or distance education. They seek practical training that is able to provide tangible benefits to the business and often don’t have enough staff to make customised training, which is delivered onsite, affordable. This can be overcome if the business is able to share the costs with other local businesses that may also have a need for similar training.”training.com.au suggests that an assessment of the skill and knowledge gaps in your business will help you to identify where training is required, considering where

30 | BUSINESS NEWS

Looking for inspiration, new challenges and competence? YES PLEASE!

Going back to the classroom may seem like a daunting task. Nervous on the first day in a new class room, meeting students and trainers for the first time and maybe having to brush up on your learning skills can be overwhelming. Encompass Community Services understands and we make sure your enthusiasm and drive is put to good use in developing your career path. We offer training in small class sizes, in a flexible and supportive environment. Our trainers want you to succeed and we’ll do whatever it takes to get you where you want to be.

At Encompass, you will meet people who share your passion, you will make new friends and be inspired.

If you are looking to expand your skills, upgrade your qualifications or change your career path, please contact us on (03) 5222 2819. Our friendly staff will help you find the right course and career for you.

Government funded places are available (eligibility criteria applies) or courses are available on a fee for service basis.

Looking for inspiration, new challenges and competence?

Encompass Training Services400 Pakington StreetGeelong VIC 3220Tel: (03) 5222 2819 rto@encompass-cs.org.au www.encompass-cs.org.au https://twitter.com/TrainingECS

SKILLS WEEK 2012

you want your business to go, what potential business areas can benefit from training, what you want to achieve from your investment in training and how much time, equipment, money and other resources you want or need to allocate to training. You should also examine how you require the training to be delivered, for example on or off site, whether the proposed training is in line with your business strategy and what sort of training other businesses in your industry are undertaking. Recognition of employees’ existing skills and experience may allow them to achieve a qualification without having to undertake the entire course and Government funding may also be available to help with the cost of training. Bartlett’s, for example, were able to participate in the Victorian Government initiative Skills for Growth, which enabled the business to better identify the

training needs of employees and find appropriate training providers, as well as source Federal Government incentive payments to subsidise the costs of training eligible employees.* With more than 50 training providers operating in Geelong alone and thousands around Australia to choose from, finding one who meets your business needs can be a challenge. “We look for training providers with a strong record of delivering quality outcomes for both students and employers, and courses that deliver practical knowledge and skills that can be transferred to the work place,” says Bartlett’s John McCoy. “As different students are able to progress through any specified training program at different rates, we are attracted to courses that don’t need to be completed within a set time frame, but rather

can be completed within a flexible period, suited to the individual’s ability and circumstances. “We also hold in high regard training providers that are able to provide flexibility in the hours and locations for the provision of training and assessment to help the student and employer balance training around work and other commitments. Our relationship with The Gordon has provided great benefits to our company. Their approach to working with us and understanding our business has delivered a very successful training program,” Mr McCoy said.“Businesses need to be clear about what they want to achieve from the training and shop around for a provider that best suits their training needs,” advises Belinda Tierney. “They should ask various providers to develop a proposal and provide a

quotation for the services requested and compare these to ensure they are getting the best value for their investment. Don’t be afraid to negotiate, but ensure there is a balance between cost and quality. Ask the provider to offer referees of organisations who have received similar services so that the quality of their training can be reviewed before making a commitment. When reviewing the costs of training, take into account the delivery mode and the reputation of the organisation. Providers who have longevity in the market are generally doing something right.”

Judy Baulch*As some Victorian funding arrangements have recently changed, The Higher Education and Skills Group (formerly Skills Victoria) at www.skills.vic.gov.au is good place to start looking for information. You can also contact VECCI Geelong on 5227 7990.

BUSINESS NEWS | 31

National Skills WeekHands and Minds - The DNA of skills and trades

August 27 - September 2, 2012

TAX

32 | BUSINESS NEWS

Reflecting on the broad spectrum of businesses I have worked with and people I have met in the community, some stand out – not because of particular skills or loud voices, but because they carry themselves a certain way. They do what they believe to be right, even when others criticise them; they

are willing to take risks to get a better outcome – because they have the confidence that they will succeed.Business confidence surveys suggest that we are experiencing a period of consolidation and caution in response to global economic conditions; in some quarters that has been entirely justified

in response to exchange rates affecting competitiveness, or the rise in e-retailing. For others though, it would seem that they are almost in a state of hibernation – bunkering down until...well, until something happens. If that resonates for you, what is that “something” for your business? Is it real, or just an excuse to be careful, to not take a risk?At the community level too, I find it interesting that within Geelong we are seeing some great ideas for the future, but I’m not sure it is the most confident city yet. Perhaps we have a collective fear of failure seated back in experiences of the past. But, if some people (or cities) have more confidence than others, how can we develop it? Confidence shouldn’t be confused with over-confidence, it needs to be accompanied by skills or competencies or it is just a shallow veneer. On a personal level, you can develop greater self-confidence by having a clear picture of your achievements and your strengths, and reminding yourself of these when you need to. Set yourself some goals, and work on developing any new skills that you might need to get there. Start walking tall, enjoy your successes.

In business, be clear about your strategic direction and how you need to build on your current strengths to move there. Set a plan that you can work to, and that you can measure. If necessary, take some risks; just be clear on how much you are prepared to invest to get a better outcome. As for Geelong, the same applies. We know this city has some great strengths and huge potential; it just needs a shot of confidence to get us really moving.

PHILLIPA BAKES

Confidence - the Magic IngredientIt’s been an interesting year for me in Geelong. I joined WHK from a large advisory firm in Melbourne and have been working with clients with all sorts of business and life issues. For SMEs, of course, these two are very closely linked.

Philippa BakesPhilippa Bakes advises businesses throughout Western Victoria. She facilitates their strategic planning process with a structured approach, and helps with start ups and business deals.

LEGAL

The case involved the Construction Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) and construction companies Thiess Pty Ltd and Wagstaff Piling Pty Ltd, and the Court found that the requirement to undergo testing was valid, despite there being no provision for such testing in the employer’s union collective agreement.Wagstaff’s employees were covered by a collective agreement, which

incorporated a drug and alcohol policy developed in 1993. That policy did not expressly provide for mandatory drug and alcohol testing. Instead, it relied on the co-operation of employees in identifying individuals who posed a risk to themselves or others on a work site.During the operation of the collective agreement, Wagstaff was engaged by Theiss to perform construction work as part of a motorway upgrade project. Wagstaff entered into a commercial agreement with

Theiss, which provided that Wagstaff would comply with a Theiss’ fitness for work policy, requiring all individuals working on the project to submit to drug and alcohol testing if randomly selected during a testing period. The testing program commenced in January 2010. After the testing program had been in operation for about 12 months, the CFMEU challenged Wagstaff’s ability to implement the program,

claiming that Wagstaff was in breach of its collective agreement because the 1993 policy did not expressly allow or require drug and alcohol testing. In defence of the implementation of the Theiss policy, Wagstaff contended that mandatory drug and alcohol testing represents a lawful and reasonable instruction to employees and reflects the occupational health safety and welfare obligations imposed upon it as an employer. These contentions were accepted by Fair Work Australia in late 2011, and the CFMEU

appealed the decision to the Federal Court. As part of its submissions to the Federal Court, the CFMEU argued that links between mandatory drug and alcohol testing and safety had not yet been conclusively established, and there was no evidence that mandatory drug and alcohol testing was an improvement on the co-operation based regime that went before it. Unsurprisingly, this argument was rejected by the Federal Court, which commented that:‘it seems clear enough that mandatory testing is a surer method of determining who is affected by alcohol, and therefore who is at risk (of injuring himself or others), than relying on self-identification or the inclination of one worker to inform on another.’The Federal Court agreed with Fair Work Australia’s decision, finding that the Wagstaff collective agreement could not be read as expressly or implicitly preventing drug and alcohol testing. The collective agreement had to be read in the relevant statutory context and was not intended to take precedence

over the requirements of the Occupational Health & Safety Act 2004.The Federal Court noted that under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004, every employer owes a duty of care to its employees to take reasonable care for their safety and went on to say that: ‘The [policy incorporated into the Wagstaff collective agreement] acknowledged the risks to safety posed by employees affected by drugs or alcohol at a building site. In those circumstances,

at least, an employer who took the precaution of first ascertaining whether drugs or alcohol have been imbibed as a step towards protecting the safety of employees at the workplace may be seen to be attending to its own obligations.’Had Wagstaff failed to meet its obligations to employees under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004, it would have been exposed to potential penalties in excess of $1 million.The case is evidence of the growing acceptance of mandatory drug and alcohol testing regimes as a means for improving occupational health and safety in high risk industries and workplaces in Australia. It also serves as a reminder that every employer should recognise the risks of drugs and alcohol in their workplace and have appropriate drug and alcohol policies implemented and reviewed on a regular basis to ensure compliance with occupational health and safety requirements.

BUSINESS NEWS | 33

Win for mandatory drug and alcohol testingThe most recent round in a union fight against random drug and alcohol testing has been resolved (again) in favour of employers, with the Full Federal Court upholding a previous Fair Work Australia decision, that an employer was entitled to implement a policy that required individuals working on a motorway widening project to submit to mandatory drug and alcohol testing.

Sonia McCabe, Lawyer

Jim Rutherford, Accredited Specialist in Workplace Relations Law

“The case... serves as a reminder that every employers should recognise the risks of drugs and alcohol in their workplace and have appropriate drug and alcohol policies implemented and reviewed in a regular basis to ensure compliance with occupational health and safety requirements.”

Manufacturers and suppliers of an extensive range of quality aluminium and timber window and door systems. Celebrating 10 Years as a Geelong owned and operated business, we are proud to be a part of the Geelong Business Community and a major employer in the Geelong area.

Our staff and our customers are so important to us and the key to the success of our business so far. We would like to thank our staff for their hard work and dedication to the business, and our customers for their loyalty and ongoing support - we look forward to serving you for many years to come.

5 Kelly Court, North Geelong, Vic 3215 | Phone: 5277 7200 | Website: www.southernstarwindows.com.au

Design, Innovation, Quality, Performance

Proud winners of the 2012 Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards ‘Business of the Year’ and ‘Manufacturing and Export’ Awards

34 | BUSINESS NEWS

Geelong Business Excellence AwardsProud Winners and Sponsors of The Geelong Business Excellence Awards

COMMERCIAL SERVICES AWARD Sponsored by the VECCI WINNER Allsure Insurance

FAMILY BUSINESS (SECOND GENERATION OR MORE) Sponsored by Harwood Andrews Lawyers WINNER Roderick Insurance Brokers

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (16 pLUS EMpLOYEES) Sponsored by Hardings Hardware WINNER Basford Brands

MANUFACTURING AND/OR EXpORT, BUILDING DEVELOpMENT AWARD Sponsored by City of Greater Geelong WINNER Southern Star Windows

HOSpITALITY & TOURISM AWARD Sponsored by Scotchmans Hill WINNER Winters Cafe

GOVERNMENT ENTERpRISE AWARD Sponsored by Powercor Australia WINNER Barwon Medical Imaging

EDUCATION & TRAINING AWARD Sponsored by Deakin University - Faculty of Business & Law WINNER Journey Management

TRADES AND SERVICES AWARD Sponsored by Geelong Chamber of Commerce WINNER Turfcare & Hire

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS AWARD Sponsored by Future Proofing Geelong.com WINNER La Madre Bakery

RETAIL AWARD Sponsored by RACV Business Insurance WINNER Mammoth Health

REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARD Sponsored by Bendigo Bank Geelong Region Community Bank Branches WINNER Golden Plain Farmers Market

HEALTH AND WELL- BEING AWARD Sponsored by Barwon Health WINNER Glastonbury Community Services

MICRO BUSINESS (1 TO 3 EMpLOYEES) AWARD Sponsored by the LBW Chartered Accountants WINNER Sarah Tayler Photography

WHK win “Large Business Award”Recently announced the winners of the Geelong Business Excellence Awards – Large Business Award, WHK was inducted into the Hall of Fame having previously won the Commercial Services Award for two years.

WHK is a unique business advisory and financial services firm, serving individuals and the Small and Medium Enterprise (“SME”) market.

Working with all industry sectors in the Geelong, Bellarine, Surf Coast and surrounding areas (“the Geelong region”), we operate from offices in Malop Street, Geelong, and The Terrace, Ocean Grove.

2012 marks the 50 year anniversary of the firm here in the Geelong region where we have grown to 88 staff. As a member of Crowe Horwath International, WHK is one of the top 10 global accounting affiliations. This affiliation ensures that locally we have access to world wide best practice when advising our clients.

WHK and Crowe Horwath are unique for two reasons:

1. We provide the broadest range of services of any firm in the Geelong region

Over the past 12 months the firm has invested in experienced staff with specialist skills, and our comprehensive suite of services now includes:

2. We are locally focussed and supported by a national and international network

As the fifth largest accounting firm in Australasia (source: BRW Top 100 Accounting Survey 2011) we are the largest provider of accounting services to the SME sector. We can provide high quality advice locally with the support of a stringent national quality assurance program, training, research and a corporate head office assisting with strategic direction.

In order to continue as a leading financial adviser in the region, WHK and Crowe Horwath remain committed to providing quality, expert, client focussed, innovative and proactive solutions for our clients.

We would like to congratulate all the other winners and finalists in the 2012 Business Excellence Awards and acknowledge their hard work and achievements.

• Accounting & Compliance

• Business Advisory • Valuations

• Tax Consulting • Audit & Assurance • Corporate Finance • Lending & Finance

• Risk & General Insurance

• Financial Planning • Superannuation

BUSINESS NEWS | 35

Geelong Business Excellence AwardsProud Winners and Sponsors of The Geelong Business Excellence Awards

SMALL BUSINESS AWARD Sponsored by Shell Refining (Australia) Pty Ltd WINNER Belmont Veterinary Centre

MEDIUM BUSINESS AWARD Sponsored by Lyons Construction WINNER Sweeny Todd Waste Disposal

LARGE BUSINESS AWARD Sponsored by Chris Mackey & Associates WINNER WHK Accounting Financial Services

BEST FIRST YEAR ENTRY AWARD Sponsored by The Gordon WINNER Adroit Insurance

JUDGES AWARD - NORTH OF THE BARWON RIVER Sponsored by Bunnings Warehouse - Corio WINNER Mad Cap Cafe

JUDGES AWARD- BELLARINE AND SOUTH OF THE BARWON RIVER Sponsored by Bunnings Warehouse - Waurn Ponds WINNER Portarlington Golf Club

GEELONG ADVERTISER BUSINESS OF THE YEAR WINNER Southern Star Windows

We have all your insurance needs covered!Roderick Insurance Brokers Pty Ltd (RIB) is an insurance brokerage providing professional advice on all general insurance matters for individuals and the Small to Medium Enterprise Market (SME) across all industry sectors. We have a dynamic and professional team of 30 employees servicing clients in Geelong, Werribee and the surrounding areas giving our clients advice they can rely on to protect their business.

As an Insurance Broker we act on behalf of our clients and not the Insurance Company. Our role is to source insurance products suited to our client’s individual needs and act as a liaison between the insurance company and our client to negotiate competitive premiums, appropriate insurance cover and provide assistance with handling claims.

RIB is a family business owned and operated by Keith Roderick, his wife Louise and two children Marnie & Wes. In 2012, RIB celebrates 26 years in business servicing a large client base from our offices in Geelong and Werribee with recurrent successful performance we continue to develop as a successful business.

Insurance products we provide advice to clients on include:

As members of Steadfast (a large network of more than 270 insurance brokerages) we have access to a large pool of skills, knowledge, products and services. Steadfast insurance policies provide our clients with superior policy wordings to better protect their business interests.

As winners of the Geelong Business Excellence Award – Family Business we are proud of the recognition of our team and the achievements of our business. We remain committed to our community, committed to the service levels we provide our clients, committed to our industry and committed to working hard for our clients.

If you wish to discuss the insurance options available for your business, call RIB to make an appointment.

• Business• Trade• Construction• Commercial Motor Vehicle• Public and Products Liability• Farm

• Transit• Club Insurance• Strata• Professional Indemnity • Management Liability• Personal Insurances

Geelong 116 Yarra Street Geelong VIC 3220 p: 03 5226 5999

Werribee 2A Wedge Street Werribee VIC 3030 p: 03 9974 9000

www.roderick.com.auAFS Licence No: 246613

FAMILY BUSINESS 2012 WINNER

Glastonbury Community Services is a trusted community service organisation, delivering care and support to vulnerable children, young people and families.

Glastonbury prides itself on being a successful and efficient business to ensure all of our resources are focused on those most in need in the Barwon Region.

Through the Geelong Business Excellence Awards Glastonbury was given the opportunity to showcase the services provided to vulnerable children, young people and families.

Glastonbury offers four service areas throughout our community, these include:

Early Years Program- Creates a positive and developmentally appropriate learning environment for young children aged between 0-6 years old. It also focuses on parent engagement and attachment.

Family Services- Assists families during hard times to create positive solutions and improve their wellbeing while helping families stay together where ever possible.

Community Services- Works with individuals in a family context, as well as groups with specific concerns and needs. The aim is to develop strategies to manage these problems impacting on their day to day life.

Out of Home Care Program- Provides short and long term care for children and young people who cannot live safely at home with their families. Children and young people are matched with volunteer foster carers and reside with foster families and in residential settings.

Glastonbury recruits and trains volunteer foster carers while providing them with around the clock support.

Glastonbury is built on three core values:• Care • Innovation • Collaboration

Glastonbury Community Services would like to acknowledge all the Geelong Business Excellence Awards entrants for their hard work and dedication.

Congratulations to all the winners for 2012 and thank you to the Health and Well-being category sponsor- Barwon Health, the judging panel and The Communicators without which this fantastic process would not be possible.

3

Primary Logo - with Platform Statement

The Glastonbury Community Services Primary Logo consists of a tree (incorporating the ‘Y’ of the Glastonbury Type Face), the leaves the Platform Statement - “Support Nurture Grow” and a logotype. This logo is to be used where ever possible, to ensure that Glastonbury Community Services’ values are reflected through its Platform Statement. Where there is limited space available or where simplicity and size of graphics needs consideration, the secondary logo may be used.

This logo may be used for marketing and merchandise applications. A reverse version of the logo is available.

Spot Colour PrintingThe Glastonbury Community Services Logo colours are:Blue PMS 298COrange PMS 138CThe logotype reverses White.

CMYK Four Colour Process PrintingWhen printing in four colour process use the following CMYK breakdowns:Blue - C 69, M 7, Y0, K 0Orange - C 0, M 42, Y 100, K 1Note - In news print the logo may reproduce in Greyscale.

3

Primary Logo - with Platform Statement

The Glastonbury Community Services Primary Logo consists of a tree (incorporating the ‘Y’ of the Glastonbury Type Face), the leaves the Platform Statement - “Support Nurture Grow” and a logotype. This logo is to be used where ever possible, to ensure that Glastonbury Community Services’ values are reflected through its Platform Statement. Where there is limited space available or where simplicity and size of graphics needs consideration, the secondary logo may be used.

This logo may be used for marketing and merchandise applications. A reverse version of the logo is available.

Spot Colour PrintingThe Glastonbury Community Services Logo colours are:Blue PMS 298COrange PMS 138CThe logotype reverses White.

CMYK Four Colour Process PrintingWhen printing in four colour process use the following CMYK breakdowns:Blue - C 69, M 7, Y0, K 0Orange - C 0, M 42, Y 100, K 1Note - In news print the logo may reproduce in Greyscale.

“Helping children, young people and families to

Support, Nurture and Grow”

For further information on the services and programs offered by Glastonbury Community Services, please visit our website: www.glastonbury.org.au Phone: (03) 5222 6911 Address: 222 Malop Street Geelong

Winner Health and Well-being Award 2012 (Sponsor: Barwon Health)

36 | BUSINESS NEWS

Geelong Business Excellence Awards

MadCap Café is a not for profit Social Enterprise situated within Westfield Shopping Centre.

We are honoured to have won the North of the Barwon Judges Award in this year’s Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards and recognition from the judges that our social goals play such an important role within the Geelong Business Community.

We entered the Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards to celebrate our social goals to as many members of the Geelong Business community as possible. To win the Judges Award has created an opportunity for exposure regarding our work and will help us to establish understanding and ongoing support from the business community and the general public to continue to provide employment, education & training opportunities for people experiencing mental ill health.

Though we have a social (rather than profit based) mission; MadCap Café is a business and we compete with many other businesses for the public’s food & beverage dollar. MadCap Café is set up to provide customers with top quality food and beverages at competitive prices, delivered in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

MadCap Café aims to reduce the stigma attached to mental illness through our prominent Westfield location, conveying a very clear message that mental illness is common in our community. We provide opportunities for those experiencing a mental illness to actively participate in the community.

MadCap Café is owned by Pathways Rehabilitation & Support Services Ltd, a Geelong not for profit organisation that supports more than 700 individuals in the Barwon region & also provides innovative programs in regions of Queensland.

The MadCap business model focuses on job training & recovery, we understand that recovery from a mental illness is rarely straightforward and will often include setbacks and delays. We provide supported opportunities to learn and master the social and job skills that promote self-confidence and competence that lead to the jobs our trainees want.

The Geelong Community is very loyal & the most parochial in the country - our customers are aware of our social goals and support the model because of these goals – as proven by feedback received in a recent survey (source MadCap Survey Monkey Customer

Survey, April 2012):

“I am proud to be able to have such a Cafe in Geelong, providing excellent service, great coffee and employment opportunities for people experiencing mental ill health. The staff have always been helpful and I would happily recommend Madcap to anyone who enjoys good coffee and tasty food. Keep up the good work.”

We are proud & passionate of the work we are doing and the outcomes we have achieved in the first 12 months of operation. We have created a video that shares the story of one of our trainees “Tim”; his journey exemplifies the MadCap model and inspires us to continue to create such opportunities.

Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzwUgSwwRfg

We would love to see you at the Café and would value your support towards the continued achievement of our goal to provide employment opportunities for those disadvantaged members of our community. Every dollar spent at MadCap Cafe is an investment in a more inclusive community.

Our point of difference is that we are a not-for-profit business with social goals

Visit us @ Westfield Shopping Centre (on the Yarra St Bridge)www.pathways.org.auwww.madcapcafe.org

E: madcapcafe@pathways.org.au

@ MadCapCafeGeel

Like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/madcapcafe & receive a FREE small coffee

Adrian Buckley, MadCap Cafe Operations Mgr; Louise Upham, MadCap Cafe Manager, Paula Allan, MadCap Cafe Marketing & Promotions Co-ordinator.

Your Health | Your Service | Your Choice

Winner – Government Enterprise Award 2012Barwon Medical Imaging’s commitment to being Australia’s leading regional medical imaging provider was acknowledged at the recent Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards.

With a focus on your health, Barwon Health and BMI strive for excellence in service delivery, technology and personnel. We are proud to be able to support the services of Geelong Hospital whilst also providing community patients equitable access to high quality imaging.

The Barwon region community can be rightly proud of their public hospital imaging service. BMI have the best equipment available, great people who are highly skilled and provides the full range of imaging services.

You can choose your imaging provider

WHY CHOOSE BMI?Bulk billing – for Medicare reimbursable imaging

Your choice – we carry out imaging on any provider’s request form

World class – the most advanced imaging equipment including PET/CT and MRI

Four sites – Geelong Hospital, McKellar Centre, Geelong Private Hospital and Torquay

Bookings / enquiries T 03 5226 7559 F 03 5226 7042 www.barwonmedicalimaging.com.au

Left to right: Jeff Umbers, Sandra

Lowther, Narelle Lawless, Assoc. Professor Andrew

Whan (Director BMI)

BUSINESS NEWS | 37

Geelong Business Excellence Awards

TECH GUY

38 | BUSINESS NEWS

The really good stuff never comes cheap and, as all Photoshoppers know, Adobe applications are simply the best for anything visual. The game is changing and Adobe wants you to have access to all the goodies without breaking the bank.

How exactly? The Cloud of course! Don’t fork out thousands for a software version that’s good for a year or so. Go to Adobe Creative Cloud and always have the latest version of everything and pay a small amount per month, easy peasy.

The new subscription-based offering, Adobe Creative Cloud, will provide users with the ability to download and install every Adobe CS6 application and integrates Adobe Touch Apps into everyday work, whilst introducing cloud-based sync and store capabilities.

According to Australia’s Adobe MD, Paul Robson, ‘Creative Cloud means you can create anywhere, anytime, starting with an iPhone or iPad photo that can be sent to the Cloud, picked up at home on your notebook for tweaking and sent on to friends or colleagues - all in the Creative Cloud. It’s all drag and drop access from any device to any device.’

The Creative Cloud subscription also gives you access to Adobe Muse, the new easy-to-use Web authoring app that requires no HTML skills, just fill in the templates and the Cloud does the rest, including hosting and all that fiddly stuff for a small fee.

Adobe CS6 includes updated versions of all your favourites, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Dreamweaver, Flash, Audition and Acrobat, amongst others.

How much you ask? For current licence holders of Adobe CS3, 4, 5 and 5.5, the Creative Cloud monthly subscription is $37.99, and for newbies $62.99. Now that’s a whole lot better than shelling out big bucks for a hard version.

For small design and Web houses, Adobe is working on a Creative Cloud, ‘by the seat’ subscription, which will be published late September. www.adobe.com/go/creativecloud

Accessories, iPhone has them. Not many devices can boast the same rich and dazzling array of add-ons than the iPhone and iPad, from keyboards to docks, arcade cabinets and battery packs. How about a mobile mixer? The iRig MIX from IK Multimedia, is a mini DJ tool, designed to work with iGadgets and auditioning here for your consideration, so turn on the iRig MIX, plug in and rock out.

The Tech GuyEvery month, our Tech Guy, Jon Mamonski, brings us the wildest, most mind-blowing gadgets he can find...

Photoshop that

For the DJ in you

Music should be accompanied by a light show, and if the light show comes in the form of a 91cm tall self-contained iPod/Phone dock, then all the better. iHome’s iP76 LED Colour Changing Speaker Tower is a product you can actually purchase for $US199. The dock is loaded with colour changing LEDs that pulse, fade and blink in time with your tunes and you can even connect other media sources via Bluetooth. You should be dancing…aha..aha.

Tower of power

TECH GUY

BUSINESS NEWS | 39

Now, ladies who aren’t into screwdriver type tools can switch across to reading Ruby while I talk to the boys. Ever wished you too could make use of the awesome powers that lie within Dr. Who’s Sonic Screwdriver? Well, it’s still not exactly a reality in the way of the space-bred handyman’s gadget seen on the TV show, but ThinkGeek and The Wand Company have you covered if an IR-strutting replica universal remote sounds good enough. This BBC-licensed Mark VII remote handles up to 39 commands that are all controlled using 13 different motion gestures. Of course, if controlling the likes of TV and AV devices in an extra-terrestrial fashion just isn’t your thing, there’s always ThinkGeek’s Sonic Screwdriver flashlight. There’s no word on price just yet, but the Mark VII remote is set to go sale for $US99 at ThinkGeek’s website on August 31st.

Ladies and gentlemen, please take your seats… Want to see your life flash past before you? As a Facebook user visit intel.com/musical and log on to your account. Me The Musical’s opening scenes show a mythical stork making a special delivery on your date of birth. Throughout the visual experience, you are represented by a simple avatar and accompanied by other avatars adorned with images of your Facebook friends. The group moves together down a path, which represents the passage of time. Me The Musical features iconic moments including the moon landing, creation of the World Wide Web, rise of email and of course, introduction of Facebook itself. In keeping with Intel’s role as a “sponsor of tomorrow,” it ends with a symbolic step into the future. Turn on - enjoy.

The battle lines are drawn and HTC amongst others have come out fighting to take down the Goliath iPhone. Right now, iOS phones and tablets are outselling Android by a factor of 2 to 1, but that is about to change.

Whilst iOS is a closed operating system, Android is open, and the latest iteration of Android, Ice Cream Sandwich, is a significant improvement, with Jelly Bean on the way.

Leading the charge is the HTC One XL, which has a stylish look and feel, and it’s thin at around 8.9mm.

Driven by Android’s OS v4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and powered by 1.5 GHz Nvidia Tegra 3 Quad-Core processor and an Adreno 225 GPU under the hood, the HTC ONE XL ensures you get the fastest performance that smartphones are currently capable of.

It features a Super IPS LCD2 capacitive touch screen display that’s a whopping 12 centimetres.

The resolution is 720x1280pixels with 16M colour depth, multi-touch features and Corning Gorilla Glass protection, and at a very light 129 grams, it won’t drag you down.

The 8MP rear camera has Hi-Def 1080p video recording and a secondary 1.3 MP

front camera with 720p with auto focus, geo-tagging, face and smile detection and LED flash on the back.

It has 16GB internal memory and 1GB RAM and no card slot. Instead, HTC provides Dropbox cloud storage of up to 25GB, which is where all memory is headed… The Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n WLAN gives you fast connectivity and Bluetooth V4.0 with A2DP is great for file transfers. It also has a micro USB 2.0, NFC, GPRS, HSDPA and HSUPA.

When our telcos get around to it, the new world fast data transfer standard, LTE is in this phone with EDGE Class as well, so you are relatively future proofed. Other features include MP3 player, stereo FM radio with RDS, Beats Audio, video capturing features, accelerometer, compass, predictive text input and YouTube, Facebook and Google Talk to name a few.

The Android experience is much broader and richer than the iPhone and the majority of analysts rate the new Ice Cream Sandwich as the more powerful OS. Go into your favourite phone store and try it for yourself.

For more information on the HTC One V through Optus, visit https://www.optus.com.au/shop/mobilephone/htc/onev

iPhone versus Android

Me the Musical

At last, a Sonic Screw Driver

The Geelong season of Arthur Miller’s masterpiece presents the only opportunity for Victorian theatre audiences to see Belvoir’s new production. The show opened in Sydney in June - where it has sold out and received rave reviews - and will head south for a limited season at GPAC.Willy Loman is feeling his age. He and his wife Linda are struggling to make their mortgage repayments. The company he works for is branching out in new directions and it looks like he’s about to be left behind. When his university dropout son, Biff, moves back home after years of drifting, old tensions rise to the surface.Arguably the greatest play of the Twentieth Century, Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman is about a man’s need to hold on to his dreams, even when they have been proven false and destructive.

One of Australia’s most loved award-winning stars of stage and screen, Colin Friels, tackles the role of a lifetime in Simon Stone’s powerful new production of this timeless masterpiece from Belvoir - one of Australia’s most innovative and acclaimed theatre companies.Friels recently wowed Melbourne audiences in MTC’s Red. The AFI and Logie award winner is also well known to Australian television and film audiences for his roles in television series as diverse as Play School and Water Rats, through to films such as Monkey Grip and Malcolm.Genevieve Lemon won a Helpmann award for her performance in the Sydney and Melbourne seasons of the stage show Billy Elliot - a role from which she has also just returned from performing on London’s West End.

Belvoir’s Death of a Salesman also features Patrick Brammall, Steve Le Marquand, Hamish Michael, Pip Miller and Luke Mullins.Death of a Salesman comes to Geelong for five performances, including a special Sunday matinee in The Playhouse from August 23-26. Tickets are now on sale. Contact GPAC Box Office on 5225 1200 or visit www.gpac.org.au

“Friels, at the top of his form here...is extraordinarily powerful.” - The Australian

“Casting Colin Friels as Willy has paid off handsomely...It is a fierce and lucid performance across the range: Willy’s bemusement, confusion and rage are all sounded truthfully.” - Sydney Morning Herald

ARTS

A masterclass in Australian theatreRenowned Australian actors, Colin Friels and Genevieve Lemon, star in a new production of Death of a Salesman coming exclusively to GPAC in August, part of the Alcoa Theatre Season in partnership with Deakin University.

40 | BUSINESS NEWS

GPAC’s Shaken + Stirred program resumes in August with MOTH, a highly charged, rapid fire, funny and moving new production from Melbourne’s acclaimed Arena Theatre CompanyWritten by Declan Greene, MOTH is an insightful portrayal of teenage mental illness, friendship and loss. It features a cast of two talented young actors, Thomas Conroy (2010 Green Room Award winner, Best Male Performer) and Emily Goddard (2011 Green Room Award nominee, Best Female Performer).Sebastian (Conroy) is a terminally unpopular 15 year-old suburban kid, with an overactive imagination and an obsession with anime and death. His only friend, Claryssa (Goddard), is an emo Wiccan art-freak barely one rung higher than Sebastian on the social ladder.What starts as just another night drinking down at the cricket nets soon gives way to an ecstatic vision that leaves Sebastian unconscious, their friendship left in ruin. The next morning, he wakes up with a mysterious moth in a jar by his bed, and a calling to save the souls of all humankind. And so begins the Passion of Sebastian...This thrilling new work is aimed at audiences 15 years and over and contains strong language.

MOTH has received rave reviews:“This is exquisite theatre: in my view one of the most accomplished new plays of the past few years...” - Alison Croggon, Theatrenotes“This is theatre at its finest, a potent blend of Greene’s cunningly wrought script, hallucinogenic imagery and consummate acting that will have you close to tears towards the end.” - Kate Herbert, Herald Sun“This is why theatre still matters...superbly performed and keenly directed.” - John Bailey, The Sunday Age.Presented by Arena Theatre Company and Regional Arts Victoria, MOTH comes to GPAC’s Drama Theatre for two performances only, 1pm and 7pm on Wednesday 22 August. Tickets are just $25 each and available at GPAC Box Office on 5225 1200 or www.gpac.org.au

MOTH explores dark places of teenage minds“Sometimes there’s no scarier place to be than inside your own mind...”

ARTS

BUSINESS NEWS | 41

Simon Callow: Charles Dickens and the Great Theatre of the WorldWendouree Centre for Performing Arts

25 AugustDelivering the keynote address at this year’s Melbourne Writer’s Festival is the eminent British actor, write and director, Simon Callow. Callow is well known for his appearances in major feature films such as Four Weddings and a Funeral, Shakespeare in Love, Phantom of the Opera and Amadeus.Simon is also the author of thirteen novels. Callow’s latest biography, Charles Dickens and the Great Theatre of the World, discusses the importance of theatre to the life and work of one of the greatest storytellers in the English language. Indeed, the life and work of Dickens is a theme Callow continually returns to as both author and actor, and in the bicentenary of Dickens’ brith, this ongoing engagement informs the sparkling biographical analysis of his latest novel in this Keynote Address, to be delivered in both Melbourne and Ballarat. Callow will explore Dickens’ life and times with readings from his enduring novels. What better way to participate in the festival than in the company of one of theatre’s greats sharing his love for one of literature’s giants? Tickets available at the Box Office or online at www.wcpa.com.au www.wcpa.com.au

Little LandscapesMetropolis Gallery4 – 18 AugustThis exhibition throws the landscape genre into open territory, crossing the open plains and expressive realism of Meredith Thomas, Leigh Chiller and Sisca Verwoert; traversing more graphic sensations of the natural and man-made world in works by Jenny Laidlaw and

Debbie Mourtzios and looking sideways to the surreal new worlds of Michael Gromm and Michele Burder. Little Landscapes is a big exhibition of little paintings aimed at those looking for original but affordable, smaller paintings. Open 9 - 5.30 Weekdays, 10 - 4pm Saturday. View works online at www.metropolisgallery.com.au

Joyful Harmony - yorokobi chouwa

Art Gallery of Ballarat, Mars Gallery

11 August – 09 September

This exhibition explores aspects of Japanese daily life in a series of painted photographs in a technique invented by the artist, drawing on her love of Japanese wood block prints, Ukiyo-e, but using contemporary materials.Gypsy Pennefeather has long been fascinated by Japanese art and culture and has modelled her work on masters of Japanese art - Hiroshige, Hokusai, Utamaro, Kuniyoshi, Sharaku. Her early copying of their work has been the basis of her photography, painting and drawing. It is evidenced by a love of line, colour, diagonals, of people doing everyday things and in the details of their tools of trade, clothing and collections of objects.The works in this exhibition were produced after the artist visited Japan for the first time in 2007. In them she aims to show the amazing and harmonious culture of Japan in modern times.The photographs, which are basis for the works, have been enhanced, deconstructed, then printed onto heavy watercolour paper. The artist then draws lines with a waterproof ink pen and finally applies watercolour paint.The results are vibrant, evocative and joyfully vivid works.The titles were selected with considerable assistance from Hiroko Tokunaga of Japan to ensure the correct interpretation of each image and of each word.

For more information visit www.artgalleryofballarat.com.au

The Vue arts competitionVue Apartments are proud to present The Spirit of Geelong Public Art Competition. The winner will enjoy a cash prize and have their artwork displayed on two huge, prominent banners on the façade of the Vue Luxury Apartments. Artists from Geelong and surrounding areas are invited to submit an artwork that captures their personal view of the community and/or environment that is Geelong. This is a unique opportunity for the people of Geelong to express how they feel about their city and how the city is

reflected through their eyes. Vue Luxury Apartments, currently under construction on the Waterfront end of Bellarine Street, are offering a blank canvas and as such a chance to create an iconic public art piece that can be enjoyed by the whole community, bring the community together and highlight the enormous variety of talent within Geelong. Public art plays an important role in our society and will become an increasingly important feature of life across the region.For more information, visit www.vueapartments.com.au

Jenny Laidlaw ‘Keeping The Island’. Pen & ink, pencil and found objects.

Towards reaching this goal, BacLinks, a division of Karingal, works with both business and community groups to create and facilitate projects and events aimed at providing assistance and opportunities for our most disadvantaged community members and the agencies that support them.Recently, in partnership with MatchWorks, up to 20 young men who are facing significant barriers to

obtaining employment were invited to participate in the 6-day, multi-faceted ‘WorkIT’ program designed to help improve their employment prospects and raise their self-esteem, confidence and self-awareness.MatchWorks, as a Job Services Australia and Disability Employment Services provider, can assist people with literacy and numeracy programs, work experience, help with

résumés, trade equipment and training.“At MatchWorks we assist many people that are experiencing significant challenges in their lives, and sometimes it’s not as simple as whether they have a job or not,” MatchWorks Acting General Manager Mark McCoy said.To address the multiple barriers these young men are facing, the ‘WorkIT’ program incorporated career advice from Centrelink, as well as tips provided by Carli Saw, NCR and David Potter from Ford on how to best prepare and present for an interview. Health and life advice were presented by Headspace and Craig Blunt from Victoria Police with education, traineeship and apprenticeship possibilities outlined by The Gordon and Gforce Employment Solutions. Looking after yourself was an important aspect of the program with nutritional information presented by Anne Tolley of Weight Works, outdoor activities with KABLE, Karingal’s adventure based program, and martial arts defence training provided by Bren Ryan, You can Too Weight Loss and Fitness.Each participant was given styling advice and the option of a haircut by The Gordon Hairdressing Department and each received a brand new shirt and tie to wear at their next interview.Some thoughts from the participants included, “the program was great” and that “the activities and information given were good”. It was clear that the program helped them to feel more confident about themselves and their chances of employment. “I didn’t realise there were all sorts of things that I had done in the past that would be worthwhile adding to my CV to make me much more employable,” one participant commented.Immediately following the program, four of the young men went on to immediately gain employment, which

was an exciting and positive outcome.While the ‘WorkIT’ program focussed on providing opportunities directly to individual community members, the manpower provided by employee volunteers from the Alcoa Point Henry Smelter to deliver labour support to the innovative food distribution charity SecondBite, illustrates how businesses can assist the agencies that support our most disadvantaged community members.For the second time in less than a month, ten employee volunteers turned out to sort surplus fresh food and produce collected from primary producers, wholesalers, distributors, markets, supermarkets and independent retailers.“Our employees value the time spent with SecondBite, because it allows them to give back to the community and increase Geelong’s sustainability at the same time,” Alcoa Point Henry Smelter Human Resource Business Partner, David Monahan said.Ben Hill, SecondBite’s Geelong Coordinator, appreciated this level of support, adding, “Alcoa’s employees embraced the day with enthusiasm and gusto.”By lending a helping hand employee volunteering helps community agencies better service their clients and frees up the usual volunteer base to carry out other important work, such as essential maintenance and other duties that are often difficult to find the time to do.Contact BacLinks on 5249 8989 or visit the BacLinks website www.baclinks.org.au to find out how your business can contribute to your community in a meaningful way.

COMMUNITY

Access for allInclusive access to services, resources and support promises to strengthen our local community from within by providing all its constituents with opportunities to access health services, educational facilities, gain employment, and ultimately realise financial independence. In this way the community can grow, businesses can flourish and individuals can reach their potential.

42 | BUSINESS NEWS

COMMUNITY

Last year alone, the Foundation worked with our local partners to:Perform 282,714 cataract operations and other eye treatments;Train 10,757 clinical and support staff; andDeliver $3.38 million worth of equipment for use in developing countries.Of course, none of this would be possible without the generosity of thousands of Australians. The photo of Reggie (a traditional owner of Uluru), who had his sight restored in 2010, shows the real difference you can make. By having cataract surgery, Reggie can now pass on important knowledge and skills to his grandchildren and other in his community – helping preserve culture.We have come a long way over the past 20 years and The Fred Hollows Foundation is now one of Australia’s leading international development organisations, working in more than 19 countries around the world.It is a testament to the wonderful friends and

supporters that help us keep Fred’s dream alive.Yours sincerely,Brian DoolanCEOThe Fred Hollows Foundation

White Balloon Day registrations open Last year, hundreds of organisations and individuals in Australia joined together to celebrate White Balloon Day in a show of support to survivors of child sexual assault. The White Balloon Day events raised thousands of dollars to allow Bravehearts to continue its work to protect Aussie kids.On September 7, it will all happen again, and you can help make White Balloon Day 2012 even bigger by registering your event with Bravehearts. Being involved in White Balloon day is simple, fun and best of all you are guaranteed to make a difference in the

lives of Aussie kids. You can host a White Balloon Day event at your home, workplace, school or community centre – feel free to get creative!Here are just some of the ways that you can get involved:Order a counter box on consignment and sell White Balloon Day merchandise at your workplace.Wear White Friday. Encourage your friends, family and co-workers to wear white.Fly a white balloon. Fly a white balloon from your letterbox on 7th September.Host a white morning or afternoon tea. Invite your family, friends and/or co-workers and collect gold coin donations.Host a White Balloon Day event. Hold a family fun day, breakfast or dinner, community walk, sausage sizzle or concert. Get your local church, Lions Club, Rotary and/or community group involved and invite your local politician or community leader to speak.Educate your children about personal safety. Purchase our Ditto’s Keep Safe Adventure DVD and play it for your children to teach them about personal safety. Refer to www.bravehearts.org.au for parenting tips and other resources.Once you register, we will send you an exclusive White Balloon Day Kit, which includes official White Balloon Day posters and brochures, a small donation box, an event guide and more.Together we can make Australia the safest place in the world to raise a child.

Funding boost for HeartwatchBarwon Heartwatch, a technology that offers the elderly the ability to have their pacemakers evaluated from home, has been announced as the West Coast Victoria recipient for a $1,500

Westpac Small Business Grant innovation, becoming the first to receive a financial boost as a result of the bank’s inaugural Small Business Grant program, aimed at recognising outstanding achievement. Barwon Heartwatch is one of three small businesses in the West Coast Victoria area to receive a $1,500 grant. Each grant recipient was selected based on being a leader in one of the following categoriesInnovators – businesses that have developed a new product or service used innovation to improve business processes or adapted to a changing market place.Successful Female Business Owner – female business owners who have demonstrated success in one or all areas of their business (sales/marketing/turnover/innovation etc.).Business Perseverance – businesses that have succeeded with strong perseverance through challenging times.A total of $94,500 will be granted by Westpac to 63 small businesses across 21 regions in Australia as part of the program. Small businesses across the country registered for the grants during Westpac’s National Business Month in May this year. Darren Edginton, Westpac Regional General Manager said, “Westpac is excited to be able to support small local businesses through this grants scheme. Barwon Heartwatch deserved this grant for Innovation because they are a fantastic organisation looking out for the local residents of Barwon,” said Mr Edginton.Dr Daryl Ridley Co-Founder Barwon Heartwatch said, “We are so excited to receive this grant, it’s wonderful to be recognised as a business that strives so hard to innovate. The money will help us to continue to build the business in the Barwon region.”

BUSINESS NEWS | 43

20 visionary yearsThis year, The Fred Hollows Foundation celebrates 20 years of restoring sight, and during this time, we have never lost sight of Fred’s dream to eradicate avoidable blindness and improve indigenous health.

I’ve recently returned from judging at the Cairns Wine Show. Cairns Wine Show? I hear you ask, but there’s no wine industry in Cairns? I know, but there is a show, and a very good one, organised by a Master Of Wine to showcase Australian wine for the ever-growing hospitality industry in Far Northern Queensland. Entries were up this year and the quality of wines was also. It’s far too hot in FNQ to grow grapes; the rain in summer and high humidity causes far too many disease problems and fruit at harvest would have deteriorated beyond recognition. So, Cairns may not be known for producing wine grapes, but there is a plenty of great tropical fruits that grow in this perfect tropical climate and it is for that reason there is a fruit wine section at the Cairns Show.

Cairns isn’t the only show with a fruit wine section, the Victorian Wine Show also judges fruit wines. Long thought of as the poor cousins of grape based wine, fruit wines popularity has grown considerably in this country. While not taken seriously in the beginning, with the cultural influences constantly changing in Australia there might be a market for something a little different.Plum wine has been made in China and Japan for centuries. In India, Africa and Asia, wine is often made with bananas. Pineapples are used in Hawaii and some parts of Japan also. In fact, most berries and fruits have the ability to make wine. We have been using fermented fruit for as long as we’ve been eating it. Some species of primates

have even discovered the intoxicating effects of eating fermented fruits and do so regularly. Unlike the fermentations associated with grapes, often sucrose is added during fermentation to sweeten or increase potential alcohol. Basically however, the principles are the same and similar methods are employed during most of the processing steps. The main variance is often the resulting product. Due to the general backyard amateur nature of fruit wine production, fruit wines are generally at the sweet to very sweet end of the spectrum.They can also taste just a bit strange, more like the off fruit they were derived from. There can be some crackers too. I’ve tasted wines made with strawberries and kiwi fruit that were excellent and well

worth the purchase price.Wine makers do often dabble in a bit of (other than grape) fruit winemaking with some success. I’ve had wine-based Limoncello and a sparkling strawberry wine at cellar doors recently that were delicious. When applying the meticulous winemaking skills to other fruits, anything is possible.I don’t think you will ever be able to fetch the high prices of grape wine, nor do I think there is a Pineapple Grange around the corner, but there is a place in the market for something a little different and fruit wine might just fill that space. It could be a good natural alternative for the sweeter palates of the younger crowd too.

WINE

Fruitful endeavourWhen you think about Australian wine regions, Cairns certainly does not spring to mind. But the great tropical city hosts an impressive wine show, where it is not only traditional wines were on show, but also fruit wines.

44 | BUSINESS NEWS

ADRIAN MARCHIAROAdrian presents wine tasting evenings at Lamby’s Restaurant + Bar.

“I’ve had wine-based Limoncello and a sparkling strawberry wine at cellar doors recently that were delicious.”

Looking for an express lunch at an affordable price?

Then the Black Sheep Restaurant is the place for you.

Our new express lunch menu will tick all the boxes when it comes to price, variety and quality

- Black Sheep Restaurant will meet your expectations every time.

Call in and try our new delicious express lunch menu, you won’t be disappointed.

A: National Wool Museum — Cnr Moorabool & Brougham Sts, Geelong. P: 03 5223 2536 F: 03 5223 2316 E: manager@blacksheeprestaurant.com.au W: blacksheeprestaurant.com.au

AFTER HOURS

46 | BUSINESS NEWS

All That JazzIt was a night of New York glamour when supporters of St Laurence community services gathered or the Blue and White Ball in Geelong.

The swinging event was a chance for guests to put away their 2012 cares and revel in the spirit of the Roaring 20s, as well as helping to raise much-needed funds to secure affordable housing for the city.

With entertainment including a special preview of Singing in the Rain, the musical talents of Hot Club Swing, a fabulous photobooth to capture the fun of it all, and a Q&A session with Cats great, Cameron Ling, it was a night to remember.

AFTER HOURS

BUSINESS NEWS | 47

Following The FloodThe gripping drama on stage was offset by an up-beat, light-hearted mood off-stage at the GPAC Alcoa Theatre Season in partnership with Deakin University presentation of The Flood.

Following their riveting performances, the wonderful actresses, Caroline Lee, Shirley Cattunar and Maude Davey joined guests in the Green Room for both the

refreshing conversation and the refreshments.

The Flood, a gripping new Australian mystery-thriller set in a dilapidated outback homestead, and written by Patrick White Playwright Award winner Jackie Smith, has enthralled audiences around the country. The Geelong performance of the fast-paced, darkly funny drama was sponsored by The Mercure.

Photos: Ferne Millen Photography

AFTER HOURS

48 | BUSINESS NEWS

Photos: Elisah Lindsay elphotography.com.au

Good wine, good food, good lifeIt was an evening of enjoying the finer things in life at the Geelong Wine & Food Society’s July meeting.

Held at the stunningly renovated Customs House restaurant

and bar, the Society members enjoyed a sumptuous menu of dishes, accompanied, of course, by the fruits of the labour of local vintners.

www.elphotography.com.au

elisha lindsayelisha@elphotography.com.au

0439 353 958

AFTER HOURS

BUSINESS NEWS | 49

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ThroughouT AugusT

step right up, step right up!Lose your head in this fun filled romp through a collection of carnival tricks, games and illusions. See yourself as never before in the hall of mirrors, watch your bodiless head floating in a fruit bowl, witness the Ghost of Pepper magically appear … and disappear! Where: National Wool Museum, Geelong. Details: www.nwm.vic.gov.au1ron Quick: seeking NirvanaIn the Aspara drawings he builds on the images of the courtly dancers who adorn the temple walls of Angkor Wat to depict figures who dance for themselves in a sensuous-whirling-meditation, merging from darkness to light or from light to darkness amid the Thai Katoey culture of transgender lady-men.Where: Art Gallery of Ballarat. Details: www.artgalleryofballarat.com.auMelrose Art PotteryA comprehensive survey of the highly collectible Melrose pottery produced by the Hoffman Brick, Tile and Pottery Company during the Depression of the 1930s as a means, initially, of ensuring the viability of this Melbourne firm. Where: Geelong Gallery. Details: www.geelonggallery.org.auJustine Cooper: havidolThis satirical work is part of a project by Justine Cooper investigating the intersections between culture, science and medicine by using the form of a marketing campaign to examine tactics used by the drug companies to sell prescription medications.Where: Art Gallery of Ballarat. Details: artgalleryofballaratsentinals and showboats – milestones in print collectingJointly celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Gallery’s first acquisitive print prize and the 30th anniversary of the establishment of its key support group, the Geelong

Gallery Grasshoppers.Where: Geelong Gallery. Details: www.geelonggallery.org.auskater – portraits by Nikki TooleSince July 2009, Nikki Toole has been making photographic portraits of skateboarders around the world.Where: Geelong Gallery. Details: www.geelonggallery.org.au2012 scarf Festival: The JourneyDisplaying all the scarves created for the Festival, featuring a range of awards for the best scarves.Where: National Wool Museum, Geelong. Details: www.nwm.vic.gov.au

04 AugusT – 09 sePT

Marlene and Deanne gilsonMarlene and Deanne Gilson are descendants of the Wathaurung (Wadawurrung) people and Traditional Owners. The Mother and Daughter exhibition is a celebration of their culture and explores Aboriginal myths and the visual documentation of the artefact.Where: Art Gallery of Ballarat. Details: artgalleryofballarat

10 – 12 AugusT

geelong Book FairThe annual book fair has thousands of second-hand

books for sale and local authors in attendance over the weekend, with all proceeds going to Rotary-approved projects.Where: Geelong West Town Hall. Details: www.geelongwestrotary.org.au

11 AugusT

Cops and robbers - Writing CrimeEver wanted to write a crime novel or short story? In this interactive workshop you’ll learn to the ins and outs of real life police drama, as well as how to walk, talk and investigate like an Aussie detective. Where: Ballarat Mechanics Institute. Details: www.ballaratwriters.comTrio Anima Mundi - Mother russiaFiery, richly romantic and hailed as a masterpiece, F-sharp minor Piano Trio by Armenian composer Arno Babajanian is matched in imagination and deep feeling by the Piano Trio of Paul Juon who, like Babajanian, was educated in Moscow.Where: Art Gallery of Ballarat. www.artgalleryofballarat.com.au

11 AugusT & 08 sePT

Central geelong Farmers MarketStroll amongst the stalls and sample some of the regions finest fresh produce and

unique gourmet treats. Where: Little Malop Street Central, Geelong. Details: www.geelongaustralia.com.auIramoo MarketFood, plants, swap table, hand made wares, with indoor and outdoor stalls.Where: Iramoo Community Centre, Wyndham Vale. Details: www.experiencewyndham.com.au

11 AugusT - 09 sePT

gypsy Pennefeather: Joyful harmony - yorokobi chouwaThis exhibition explores aspects of Japanese daily life in a series of painted photographs in a technique invented by the artist, drawing on her love of Japanese wood block prints, Ukiyo-e, but using contemporary materials.Where: Art Gallery of Ballarat. Details: artgalleryofballarat.com.au

11 AugusT – 16 sePT

Ancestral Power and the AestheticThis remarkable exhibition puts on show for the first time the bark paintings collected by Donald Thomson in the 1930s and early 1940s - some of the oldest and rarest examples of these works in existence.Where: Art Gallery of Ballarat. Details: www.artgalleryofballarat.com.au

12 AugusT

Vietnam Veterans Day March and Memorial serviceVeterans march with band from Osborne House to Vietnam Memorial. Where: Osborne House, Geelong. Details: www.geelongaustralia.com.auDiscovery Walk - Plants of Myth & LegendBring a friend and enjoy a late winter walk with your guide, discover the plants with religious and cultural significance from around the world growing in our own Botanic Gardens.Where: Geelong Botanic Gardens. Details: www.friendsgbg.org.au

WhAT’s oN

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16 AugusT – 30 sePT

LocalAn exhibition of Wyndham’s professional artists.Where: Wyndham Art Gallery. Details: www.wyncc.com.au

18 AugusT

Vintage-A-Fair Vintage and Designer saleVintage-A-Fair raises money for local charities- the RSPCA, CAFS, Uniting Care through a sale of vintage and designer clothing and related items.Where: Brown Hill Hall, Ballarat. Details: www.ballarat.vic.gov.auDown to earthPerformed at the wonderfully atmospheric historic farm at Werribee Park, this fun interactive play takes you back to farm life in 1866 but look out for the evil creature Black Anny haunting the farm.Where: Werribee Park. Details: www.essenceproductions.com.au

19 AugusT

open Day at The gordonWith hundreds of courses on offer – discover how you can make your dream career a reality at The Gordon’s Open Day. Out of town? Catch the free shuttle bus between The Gordon and Deakin campuses so you can explore all your options for quality education and training in the Geelong region on the one day!Where: The Gordon, Geelong. Details: www.thegordon.edu.au/opendayQueenscliff harbour Farmers MarketThis Market is for those that like their veg, flowers, honey, teas, organic cheese, breads, eggs, jams, preserves, tomatoes, olive oils, lamb, vanilla, popcorn, salami, nuts & more fresh!Where: Under the Observation Tower, Queenscliff.ode to MaryInternational operatic soprano Wendy Grose performs prayers and well-loved songs to Mary, chosen from the music of Gounod, Schubert, Dvorak, Verdi, Brahms, di

Lasso, Durante, Stradello and others. Len Vorster, internationally-acclaimed pianist, accompanist and recording artist, is the associate artist for this concert.Where: Basilica of St Mary of the Angels, Geelong. Details: www.musicatthebasilica.org.au

23 – 25 AugusT

Death of a salesmanOne of Australia’s most loved award-winning stars of stage and screen, Colin Friels tackles the role of a lifetime in Simon Stone’s powerful new interpretation on this timeless masterpiece from Belvoir, one of Australia’s most innovative and acclaimed theatre companies.Where: GPAC. Details: www.gpac.org.au

24 AugusT

Fighting for Men’s health - No stone unturnedThe Main event is the IBF Middleweight World Title Elimator in aid of the promotion of men’s health and to stress the importance of mates looking out for mates. 10% of ticket sales will go to beyondblue and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.Where: The Geelong Arena. Details: www.fight4menshealth.com.au

25 AugusT

sIMoN CALLoW: Charles Dickens and the great Theatre of the WorldIn the bicentenary of Charles Dickens’ birth, the Melbourne Writers Festival is proud to present acclaimed British actor, writer and director, Simon Callow.Where: Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts. Details: www.wcpa.com.auroy orbison and the Legends of rockLive show including an open dance floor, dinner and a show. Where: Italian Sports Club of Werribee. Details: www.iscw.com.auTai Chi in Werribee PlazaCome along and enjoy the

relaxing and invigorating exercise of tai chi in the open air. No cost and open to all ages.Where: Werribee Plaza. Details: www.celestialtaichi.com

31 AugusT

Artefact MarketGeelong’s Art & Design Collective - selling high quality local handmade wares including art, clothing, homewares, jewellery, flowers, candles, accessories, porcelain, ceramics, sculpture, garden art, gourmet food, glassware and many more treasures.Where: All Saints Hall, Newtown, Geelong. Details: www.geelongaustralia.com.ausports star Night The Rotary Club of Laverton Point Cook’s annual Sports Star Night and Charity Auction, featuring Carlton great Anthony Koutoufides, comedian Russell Gilbert and Olympic Shooter Russell Mark. Proceeds to Les Twentyman’s and local Rotary projects.Where: The Brook, Point Cook. Details: www.sportsstar.rotarylpc.org.au

01 sePTeMBer

Breathing hope - Dylan Foster Asthma Awareness WalkA walk from Steampacket Gardens to Eastern Beach Reserve and back, followed by a BBQ. All proceeds raised from the event will go towards The Asthma Foundation of Victoria to the Dylan Foster Asthma Fund.Where: Steampacket Gardens, Geelong Waterfront. Details: www.geelongaustralia.com.auop shop Formal, Fashion show and silent AuctionFundraising event for Community Veracity - a not for profit organisation providing work experience and qualification opportunities for disadvantaged young people. Include a fashion show and silent auction. Where: The Mercure, Geelong. Details: www.geelongaustralia.com.au

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songs of PraiseMusic at the Basilica Inc presents the Geelong Community Orchestra and Festival Choir conducted by Allister Cox, with soloists Lee Abrahmsen (Soprano) and Daryl Barclay (Tenor). Where: Basilica of St Mary of the Angels, Geelong. Details: www.musicatthebasilica.org.au

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seraphim Trio - Postcards from PragueSeraphim Trio’s second 2012 concert is inspired by Czechoslovakia. In this enchanting Czech-inspired program, with Dvorak’s beloved Dumky Trio and a recent work by Andrew Ford.Where: Art Gallery of Ballarat. Details: www.artgalleryofballarat.com.au

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steps to ChangeSteps to Change is a run/walk from Drysdale to Geelong Waterfront to raise money for the Hosanna Children’s Home in Myanmar. These funds will go towards meeting the basic needs of these children.Where: Drysdale. Details: www.geelongaustralia.com.au

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Taste, Wine & Food expoThe fifth annual Taste, Ballarat Wine & Food Expo follows on from the renowned Ballarat Wine Show and includes displays of many award winning wineries further complimented by a wonderful selection of gourmet foods & delicacies available from across Central Victoria and further a field. Where: Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts. www.tasteballarat.com.ausustainable house DayThe Australia-wide Sustainable House Day is an exciting and very popular ‘open house’ day for sustainable homes and edible gardens. Where: various locationsDetails: www.sustainablehouseday.com

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We are Geelong’s leading experts in recruiting qualified, professional and skilled people.We operate across the private and public sectors, dealing in permanent positions, contract roles and temporary assignments.

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