Western Sydney Business Access - January 2021 edition

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS

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January 2021 | Issue 117 | www.accessnews.com.au

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PARRAMATTA POWERHOUSE Three builders shortlisted to deliver project: 3

COVID TESTING SITES

330,000 residents in Western Sydney show up for testing: 4-5

NEW HOTEL AT PENRITH

Old Log Cabin set to get the Laundy revival: 8

ITALIAN STREET KITCHEN

Bringing the spirit of authentic Italian street food to Bella Vista: 10

FEDEX CONNECTS WESTERN SYDNEY

THE world’s largest express transportation company, FedEx Express, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the NSW Government that will connect the Western Sydney Aerotropolis to more than 220 countries SEE PAGE 2 around the world by supporting the design and development of a new freight and logistics hub.

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Fedex connects Western Sydney to the world HE world’s largest express transportation company, FedEx Express, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the NSW Government that will connect the Western Sydney Aerotropolis to more than 220 countries around the world by supporting the design and development of a new freight and logistics hub.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the MoU with FedEx Express will support increased trade and export of local products through the Western Sydney International (Nancy Bird Walton) Airport.

“The 24/7 freight and logistics hub will be a cutting-edge facility that allows fresh produce to be transported from local paddocks to international plates in under 36 hours and open up a global market for farmers and local businesses in Western Sydney,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“FedEx Express has agreed to play a key role in the development of a freight and logistics hub in the Western Sydney Aerotropolis. We will leverage their expertise to transform the way goods are brought from Western Sydney to the world.”

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the latest MoU helps ensure Western Sydney has a competitive advantage when it comes to freight and logistics.

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Latest technology “With the latest technology, this is an opportunity to position Western Sydney to capitalise on that advantage for our businesses,” Mr Ayres said.

“We have now signed MoUs with companies across aerospace, defence, manufacturing, agribusiness, education and logistics and are on track to create 200,000 jobs in the Western Parkland City.”

FedEx Express, Australasia vice president Peter Langley said FedEx Express is pleased to be able to work with the NSW Government to build a leading freight and logistics hub in Western Sydney.

“In today’s business environment, having a competitive edge is critical to success and with our FedEx and TNT services, we are offering customers the ability to

optimise their cross-border supply chains at high speeds and without compromise on reliability,” Mr Langley said.

“With the presence of this facility, we are creating more possibilities for local businesses to reach potential new markets across the world.”

Arrtist impression of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis.

WSBA enables readers to appreciate and engage with the physical, community, cultural and business environments of one of Australia's fastest growing regions, Greater Western Sydney.

CONTENTS

COVER: FedEx planes parked at an internationals airport. The world’s largest express transportation company is interested in being involved in planning for the Western Sydney Aerotropolis.

The freight and logistics hub, to be built on the doorstep of the Western Sydney International Airport, will be supported by automated technologies and include digital capabilities that are having a big impact in the way goods are moving around the world.

News COVID Penrith Dining Out Aerotropolis Family Business Films Auto Recruitment

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JANUARY 2021 Western Sydney Business Access (WSBA) ACCESS NEWS AUSTRALIA PTY LTD ABN 39 600 436 799 Publisher/editor: Michael Walls M: 0407 783 413. E: michael@wsba.com.au Associate Editor: Dallas Sherringham Journalists: Red Dwyer, Elizabeth Frias, Paul Haigh.

Account Managers: Julie Jackson: 0447 291 780; Graham Maughan: 0431 557 791 Contributors: David Pring, Adam Leto, Angela Haynes.

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General enquiries: info@wsba.com.au Phone: 02 4572 2336 Fax: 02 4572 2340 We pay respect to the Traditional Custodians and First Peoples of our region and acknowledge their continued connection to their country and culture.

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No part of this work may be reproduced or copied in any form without the written consent of the publisher. No person or organisation should in any way act on the information and content of Western Sydney Business Access or www. wsba.com.au without first seeking professional advice. The publisher, contributors and agents accept no responsibility for any actions that may arise from the contents of this newspaper or website www.wsba.com.au. The opinions and views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Advertisements are published in accordance with WSBA terms and conditions published in the media kit downloadable at www.wsba.com.au. Advertisers agree to indemnify the publisher and his agents for any actions that may arise as a result of published advertisements or contributions. Advertisers agree to abide by the terms of trade outlined by the publisher.

Final design unveiled for Regatta Park: 11

Greater Wester Western Sydney footprint footpri

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Powerhouse Parramatta builders shortlisted OWERHOUSE Parramatta is one step closer after the NSW Government has shortlisted three contractors to deliver a world-class museum in the geographical heart of Sydney.

Delivering more than 4,000 jobs during and after construction, this nationally important cultural infrastructure project will deliver Western Sydney its richly deserved first-ever major cultural institution, a project that will have generational impact on the lives of young people across the region.

The following applicants have been shortlisted to build the Powerhouse Parramatta: • Lendlease • Multiplex • Richard Crookes Constructions Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said after a strong response to the call for Expressions of Interest shortlisting delivery partners was a major milestone.

“We were very pleased at the number of outstanding builders wanting to deliver this project and it was hard to narrow the list to three,” Mr Harwin said.

“Projects of national significance like the Powerhouse Parramatta come along once in a lifetime and it’s so exciting for the people of Greater Sydney to be delivering this incredible cultural institution here in Parramatta.”

“At over 18,000 square metres of exhibition and public space to house the museum’s collection of over half a million objects, the Powerhouse Parramatta will without doubt become a Museum of international significance,” said Mr Harwin.

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The Powerhouse holds a unique collection of Australian, US and Soviet space technology, cutting-edge telescopes, and astronomical instrumentation and research.

Member for Parramatta and Minister for Skills, Geoff Lee said the project brings much needed employment to the region.

“Not only will the Museum deliver more than 4,000 jobs, but we are also targeting one apprentice for every four tradespersons during construction – critical investment in our young workforce during a very challenging time in Western Sydney,” Dr Lee said.

Powerhouse Parramatta’s 360-degree immersive screen space will set a new benchmark for immersive technology creating a highly flexible digital program and incredible learning experiences for young people.

“This summer I encourage the people of Parramatta and Western Sydney to come to Parramatta Square and learn more about the incredible benefits this world-class project will deliver to our communities in Greater Sydney”.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer attended Parramatta Square today to offer his support for the new Museum:

“Powerhouse Parramatta is going to be a game-changer for Western Sydney and it’s exciting to see this once-in-a-lifetime project a step closer to reality,” Cr Dwyer said.

For more information on the Powerhouse Parramatta community space opening times visit: https://maas.museum/event/parramatta-square

Pop-up park at Wentworthville

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POP-UP park on Dunmore Street in Wentworthville has been installed by Cumberland City Council this week as an innovative way to bring the natural world to an urban environment. The pop-up park will be trialled until February 2021 and enables Council to pilot new ideas for streets as shared spaces that support healthier, safer and more resilient communities. The aim was to deliver an

initiative that improves walkability along Dunmore Street and develop a space that can be enjoyed while mitigating the impacts of urban heat. The pop-up park supports the vision identified in Council’s Wentworthville Public Domain Plan 2020, to establish a new linear park that supports outdoor dining, shaded seating areas, lighting features and Water Sensitive Urban Design.

STIMULUS ADVICE FOR BUSINESS Get free phone advice to help your business understand the government support available as a result of COVID-19. Understand your ĔŌĵĪĵĆĵŌĵƏƶ êŔč ǒŔč ŞƕƏ ıŞư ƏŞ êŻŻŌƶǾ

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Covid

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West residents show up for testing COVID testing in Western Sydney.

Testing sites in Western Sydney Auburn (Douglas Hanly Moir)

Blacktown Hospital

No referral required Children 5+ only Community Health Centre, Norval Street, Auburn Phone: 1800 026 622 or 9111 3405 Mon to Fri: 8.30am – 5pm Sat: 9am – 2pm

 ELIZABETH FRIAS ORE than 330,000 residents in Western Sydney submitted themselves for COVID-19 testing since the start of the pandemic, with the number increasing again this week following the outbreak in the Northern Beaches few days out before Christmas.

The Western Sydney Local Health District has released the number of tests conducted as a new testing facility opened at Smithfield on Tuesday in addition to more than 20 existing sites to provide the public convenient access to testing as two positive cases were recorded involving local health care workers.

Anyone concerned about the outbreak can visit the new site at 63 Long Street, Smithfield open from Monday to Friday and over the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Testing is free for all ages and no booking or GP referral is required. Arabic and Persian interpreters are available on site.

Anyone arriving for testing is advised to always stay inside their vehicle. Health staff

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follow strict infection control protocols for the safety of themselves and others.

WSLHD acting chief executive Emma McCahon said: “We are actively monitoring cases across Sydney and are prepared to extend operating hours at our clinics to support more people to get tested if necessary.”

Aside from a Blacktown gym, new venues located in Western Sydney that has been visited by close contacts of those persons that tested positive to Coronavirus are the following: • Kings Park - Anytime Fitness Kings Park, 1/152 Sunnyholt Rd, Kings Park NSW 2148, Friday 18 December 9.30am-11.45am • Penrith - Penrith RSL Club, 8 Tindale Street, Penrith Sunday 13 December 1pm to 6pm • Stanhope Gardens -Coles Stanhope Village Shopping Centre, Stanhope Pkwy and Sentry Dr Stanhope Gardens Saturday 19 December 7am-3.30pm and Sunday 20 December 7am-2pm • Auburn – Rosnay Golf Club Bistro, 5 Weymouth Avenue, Sunday 20 December 11.15am to 12.15pm

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Auburn (Medlab Pathology) GP referral required on weekends only 48 Boorea Street, Auburn Phone: 8745 6500 Mon to Fri: 8am – 4pm Sat to Sun: 9am - 1pm

Bella Vista (Clinical Labs Pathology) GP referral required Level 1, 12 - 14 Lexington Drive, Bella Vista Phone: 8887 9999 Mon to Fri: 8am – 4pm Sat: 8am – 2pm

Blacktown 4Cyte Pathology GP referral required 4 Grafton Street, Blacktown (rear carpark) Phone: 0434 925 593 or 13 42 98 Mon to Sat: 9am – 5pm Sun: 10am – 4pm

No referral required No children under 1 18 Blacktown Road, Blacktown Phone: 9881 8000 Mon to Sun: 8am – 8pm

Blacktown Respiratory Clinic Appointments and walk-ins accepted 36 Kildare Road, Blacktown Phone: 8822 3000 Mon to Fri: 8am – 6pm Sat: 9am – 3pm Sun: 8am - 4pm

Blacktown Showground No referral required Children 5+ only Access via Richmond Road, Blacktown Mon to Fri: 8:30am – 4pm Sat: 8am – 1pm

Children’s Assessment Clinic - The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Please note, this clinic is for children and their accompanying parents/carers No referral required, online booking available Mon to Sun: 9am – 4pm Corner Hawkesbury Road and Hainsworth Street, Westmead Phone: 9845 0000 Mon to Sun: 8.30am – 4pm Continued on page 5

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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

Covid

News

Continued from page 4

Cherrybrook/ West Pennant Hills

Mount Druitt Hospital Car Park

No booking or referral required 55 Coonara Ave West Pennant Hills 2125

No referral required 75 Railway Street, Mount Druitt Phone: 9881 1555 Mon to Fri: 9am – 4pm

Carlingford

Merrylands Park

No referral required Murray Farm Reserve, 71 Murray Farm Road, Carlingford Phone: 8197 9627 Mon to Fri: 8am – 4pm

Castle Hill Respiratory Clinic No referral required Appointment required No children under 1 Online booking available 2/268 Old Northern Road, Castle Hill Phone: 9634 5000 Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm Sat: 8am – 12pm

Castle Hill Showground No referral required Castle Hill Showground car park. Enter off Showground Road at the traffic lights between intersections at Gilbert and Carrington Roads Mon to Fri: 8am – 4pm

Emerton Leisure Centre No referral required 35 Jersey Road, Emerton Mon to Sun: 9am – 4pm

Kellyville No referral required Baulkahm Hills Netball Courts, Wellgate Ave, North Kellyville Mon to Sun: 8am – 5pm

No referral required Corner Burnett Street and Merrylands Road, Merrylands Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm

Parramatta Community Health Centre Pop Up No referral required Jeffrey House, 162 Marsden Street, Parramatta Phone: 1300 066 055 Mon to Fri: 8am - 4pm

Quakers Hill (Medlab Pathology) No referral required 6 Melrose Avenue, Quakers Hill Phone: 8745 6500

Smithfield Long Street Park All ages are welcome No booking or referral required Arabic and Persian interpreters available 63 Long Street, Smithfield Mon to Fri: 7am – 3pm

Westmead Hospital No referral required Level 2, E Block, Corner Hawkesbury and Darcy Roads, Westmead Phone: 8890 5555 Mon to Sun: 8am – 8pm

HWA Studio AT THE ROYCE

Welcome the new wave of Indigenous businesses and that is expected to grow to more than 18,000 in the next five years.

“We know every dollar spent with an indigenous business goes a long way. he indigenous businesses sector is amongst the fastest growing in Australia According to Supply Nation, for every $1 of revenue, certified indigenous suppliers with a new wave of savvy young entregenerate $4.41 of social return. preneurs leading the way.

“Some great examples of There are now 16,000 indigthis can be seen in ASBFEO’s enous businesses in Australia Indigenous Success Stories ranging from tourism compaseries, profiling a number of nies and tradies to major mines inspiring indigenous businesses and farming corporations. that have embraced reciprocity And the wave of business as a reflection of culture in the ownership leads to a wave of way they do business. employment opportunities with “Kakadu Tinytots for inindigenous bosses 100 times stance, plants eco gardens in remore likely to hire indigenous mote communities so children employees.

Kate Carnell. can have access to fresh seasonal It not only means independence and a great opportunity for success in fruit and vegetables.

“Others are investing in the next gentoday’s global business world, but also gives eration of indigenous professionals such as the First Australians the chance to share Willyama Services, an IT business which their culture and traditions. offers vocational training to indigenous high I have been lucky enough to take part in school students who are interested in pursusome fascinating adventures with indigeing a career in technical support. nous tour companies and not only do you “In fact, indigenous businesses are 100 learn a lot about the bush and the oceans, times more likely to employ other indigbut you also have a lot of fun along the way. enous staff according to Supply Nation, Australian Small Business and Family which is why procuring from indigenous Enterprise Ombudsman Kate Carnell is businesses is an investment in both indigeencouraging Aussies to support indigenous employment and economic developnous businesses, as the nation celebrated ment more broadly.

NAIDOC Week 2020.

“While indigenous businesses provide “The indigenous business sector is one services across a range of industries, there of the fastest growing in Australia,” Ms are a number that have been hit hard by Carnell said. the COVID crisis, such as those businesses “Supply Nation data shows the number relying on the tourist trade. of indigenous businesses is growing by “It’s especially important that we sup12.5% each year. port these businesses as much as possible as Massive growth expected they work their way through this difficult “There are currently as many as 16,000 time.” indigenous-owned businesses in Australia

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Louise bids the Chamber good-bye After more than a decade she’s finding new ways to help people  DI BARTOK OUISE Zajac has spent the past 11 years mixing with the high-flyers of Parramatta business – now she is looking forward to mixing paints in Bunnings.

After more than a decade as Parramatta Chamber of Commerce’s office manager, Louise has decided to call it a day, albeit with a heavy heart.

“It was time to move on, to slow down, but I still want to work. As I like helping people, I think a job in Bunnings would be ideal – in the paint section, mixing colours for people,” Louise told the Times.

It may sound completely different from the job that has been such a big part of her life, but, then, there are similarities.

Being confident, organised and driven for a start.

Over the years, the former school-teacher learned so much from each of the seven presidents she has worked with.

“Each has taught me something different – how to stand up for myself in a (largely) man’s world, how to be organised, how to relax and laugh,” Louise said.

“Working in the chamber has made me more confident and given me a love of mixing with people, but now I think it is time for new blood and for me to relax a bit.”

The 59-year- old wants to spend more time with her husband, travelling, and is considering a move up the Coast, now that her children have left home.

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Popular office manager at Parramatta Chamber opf Commerce. Louise Zajac.

The chamber has become a powerful lobby group “But I may still want to work a bit and have put my name down at Bunnings. That way, I’ll still be around people, helping them,” she said.

Her other relaxation is “reading, reading, reading”, mostly murder mysteries with the odd romance thrown in.

Louise has certainly learned how to please people during her time at the Chamber.

“When you’re arranging seating at the WSABE (Western Sydney Awards for Business Excellence), you get to know where to

seat people, who gets on with each other,” Louise said.

With 300 members, the Chamber has a larger number of white-collar executives than small-time merchants who have little time to attend meetings.

But the Chamber has become a powerful lobby group for businesses of all sizes in Parramatta, while still working closely with Parramatta Council and the federal and state governments.

Louise started working for the Chamber while looking for a job that fitted in with her children.

“The good thing was being able to be out watching the kids play sport while doing Chamber work on my laptop,” she said.

While Louise is looking forward to slowing down after 40 years of working, she knows she will miss the many friends she has made at the Chamber.

But, if any want to paint their walls, they’ll know where to go to get the right advice – as Louise is bound to be as good a mixer of paints as she has been with people.

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Penrith

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New hotel planned for Penrith Old Log Cabin set to get the Laundy revival LANS have been lodged for a new hotel on the edge of the Nepean River at Penrith.

The site 20 Memorial Avenue, Penrith, has been utilised for hospitality for over 200 years, and was most recently operating as the Log Cabin Hotel, which burnt down in 2012.

Pub baron Arthur Laundy is now set to invest $35M redeveloping the venue. He will also acquire two more sites at Jordan Springs in Sydney’s west that will be used for major pub developments.

A consortium comprising Laundy Hotels, the Cottle family and local businessman Rob Wearn are behind the project.

The approved project will include a fine dining restaurant, function room space, beer garden, cocktail bar and an external deck to provide patrons with views of the Nepean River.

The approved plans come eight years after it was destroyed by fire. Revellers could be celebrating at the new venue as early as January or February

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2022, with building expected to start in 2021.

Owner Craig Laundy, of Laundy Hotels, said he has never bought a site with such a strong iconic history and anticipation for its revival.

The new design consists of a two-storey hotel featuring indoor and outdoor bars and dining areas overlooking the Nepean River and an expansive beer garden and children’s playground with fine dining and function areas upstairs.

The panel received 25 submissions during the consultation period, 24 objecting to some or all of the proposal.

Concerns raised would be managed and mitigated by conditions of consent and were “not of such significance” to warrant refusal of the application.

The panel disagreed with Penrith Council’s recommendation to reduce the closing time from 2am to midnight on Thursdays to Saturdays, agreeing to continue the existing hours of operation held over the site instead. As a condition of

Artist impression of the redeveloped Log Cabin.

consent, a courtesy bus must be available and on call whenever the premises is open for business.

The applicant must establish a community liaison committee to meet with neighbours at least monthly.

Thousands of trees to sprout around town ENRITH City Council has planned, invested in and adopted a tree planting program which will see 2,500 trees planted across the LGA as part of the Cooling the City Strategy.

Council is also set to plant a further 2,500 trees across the LGA, thanks to funding from the State Government.

Council will receive a grant of $1,000,040 through the Greening Our City program, funded by the NSW Government

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in association with Local Government NSW. Combined with Council’s already funded program, this will see the delivery of a total of 5,000 new trees along footpaths, in parks, sporting fields and road reserves.

This will enable the acceleration of Council’s Cooling the City strategy, adopted in 2015, and complement the many programs in place as part of the organisation’s long-term vision to deliver cooler, more liveable spaces for a growing community.

Increasing the tree canopy in local parks, streets and neighbourhoods will provide much-needed shade and shelter from heat, improve air and water quality, improve health and wellbeing and build our resilience to climate change.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM welcomed the funding news and said there is no better time than now to take the necessary steps to help protect current and future generations from urban heat.

“One afternoon in January 2020 our City sweltered through a record-breaking temperature of 48.9 degrees. On days like this it is vital for the community’s safety that residents have adequate shading and places to cool off,” she said.

To find out more about Council’s Cooling the City strategy visit www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ waste-environment/cooling-the-city.

CONNECTING A UNITED PASSION TO GROW THE LOCAL BLACKTOWN ECONOMY

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www.greaterbbc.org.au WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

Dining Out

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The Gelato Sandwich

Fungi Mozzarella Mushroom & Gorgonzola Pizza

Spirit of authentic Italian street food TALIAN Street Kitchen has brought the spirit of authentic Italian street food to the buzzing and growing community of Bella Vista, Norwest Esplanade.

ISK offers more than just food, it shares with you the atmosphere of the streets of Italy, where eating is a fun and transient affair during the day and into the evening.

It’s a place to gather with friends and family over simple, fresh dishes that burst with Italian history, flavour and culture.

The Isabella inspiration is symbolic of a young entrepreneurial Italian who’s travelled throughout Italy exploring different dishes, regional influences and styles to create a dynamic streets style menu.

Brought to you by the Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group, Italian Street Kitchen offers an experience of Italian street food culture that pays homage to a range of re-translated traditional dishes from various regions of Italy.

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Making Pasta with Proprietary Blend Flour

It is set inside an open, dynamic and modern venue that embodies the culture and ideals of present-day Italia. Expect fresh and delicate house-made pastas, with gluten free and vegan options, light and delicate wood fired pizzas and plates of pollo, carne and pesce, all cooked to perfection.

These mouth-watering dishes have their roots in tradition and the menu is inspired by various provinces of Italy, with contemporary twists on classics that are loaded with flavour.

On the pasta front, the slow braised osso buco ragu pasta with saffron pappardelle & bone marrow pangrattato embodies comforting qualities we know for sure Italian ancestors and their ancestors ate something similar.

Pair these dishes with classic Italian cocktails, regional wines or a selection of

beers from the lively and eclectic bar, for a fabulous night out.

Of course, pizza has been a staple since the 19th Century, and here we lean on tradition, with house-made pizza dough that is risen for 48hrs, then baked until it is light and crispy. A classic, with a twist is the Fungi, Mozzarella, oven roasted mushrooms and gorgonzola, or the Vegan Lover with tomato, vegan mozzarella, eggplant, mushroom, zucchini and capsicum. DELICIOSO! Food Manager Giulio Marchese said: “Our pasta is made in house daily from a blend of different flours imported from Northern Italy that is exclusively to ISK. We developed a unique blend in collaboration with Le 5 Stagionir to ensure the pizza and pasta experience is unique to the brand.”

Book at: www.italianstreetkitchen.com.com.au

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Final design unveiled for Regatta Park Transformation will result in an iconic space of international status

Artist impressions of the new Regatta Park.

EGATTA Park on the Nepean River is set to become the new focal point for nature, leisure and recreation in Western Sydney with the final design for a $24M upgrade showcasing a spectacular transformation.

The final design released is the result of years of careful planning, and consultation with the community and brings to life a shared vision for Regatta Park as a dynamic space that celebrates, activates, and enhances the Nepean River.

Funding to transform Regatta Park was announced as part of the Western Sydney City Deal, with $9M contributed from Penrith City Council and $15M from the Australian and NSW Governments through the Western Sydney City Deal’s Western Parkland City Liveability Program.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said the Regatta Park project showcases collaboration between all levels of government and the community to deliver a city-shaping project which will be enjoyed for generations to come.

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“Regatta Park is an important and muchloved part of the Nepean River precinct and it’s wonderful to see all levels of government and our community work together to create an iconic park for Penrith that we can all be proud of,” Cr McKeown said.

“The delivery of the new Regatta Park precinct and Council’s ongoing program of work to revitalise the Nepean River will further strengthen Penrith’s position as Western Sydney’s most liveable city.”

Visitors will come from all over Sydney Melissa McIntosh MP, Federal Member for Lindsay, said this significant investment will not only create a fantastic space for local families to enjoy, but also a unique area that will attract visitors from all over Western Sydney.

“Our community took an active role in designing an interactive play space which is fully fenced and includes play equipment for children of all ages which is a key feature of Regatta Park. This is a fantastic display

of community spirit and I look forward to seeing the project when it is underway,” said Ms McIntosh.

“Families will be able to access a pathway to the river, new playgrounds, outdoor dining and kiosk areas as well as sporting ovals.

These upgrades and enhancing our natural environment also mean families have access to healthy, active living in our community.”

Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said Regatta Park was already a destination for Penrith residents and the planned upgrade would make the most of the open space.

“Fresh air, recreation, and the great outdoors have never been more important to Sydneysiders,” Mr Ayres said.

“This massive investment will transform the experience of a visit to Regatta Park and make it a valued local asset for generations to come.”

The final design features two new playgrounds, an accessible pathway to the river foreshore, over-water viewing platforms, a kiosk with outdoor dining areas, junior

Sydney’s most job-ready apprentices hit the ground running  BELINDA HILL NDREW Tran, 17, is no stranger to working hard; while studying for his HSC this year he was working before and after school, and in the school holidays, at Woolworths and KFC to help his family with the bills.

He was also very interested in learning a trade, so when his school careers adviser told him about a special Western Sydney pre-apprenticeship bootcamp developed by training and apprentice hire group Productivity Force and its business partner Productivity Bootcamp, he was keen to get started.

On December 11, Andrew was among 18 pre-apprentices aged 16 to 22 to graduate from what is one of Australia’s most rigorous pre-apprenticeship training programs.

They were the first group to graduate from the Campbelltown training facility, which opened in late October.

Located at the Maryfields Estate in Campbelltown, it’s the third such facility in Sydney.

Bootcamps are also held in Penrith and Quakers Hill, with a fourth training centre opening in Nowra on the South Coast in 2021.

Since Productivity Force was established in 2015, 200 young people aged 15 to 30 who have graduated from Productivity Bootcamp have been employed across various trades.

The intensive, 8-week bootcamp is designed to replicate a building site environment. Participants work hands-on as a

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team – a vital skill on a building site – and they gain new, practical skills across a range of different trades including carpentry, cabinetry, plumbing, electrical, roof tiling, waterproofing, scaffolding, concreting, bricklaying, landscaping and formwork.

“We believe these are Sydney’s – if not Australia’s – most job-ready apprentices.

They are physically fit to work on a construction site, are instilled with work values needed to succeed in the industry, and they know what is expected of them once they gain their apprenticeship,” says Kieran Duff y, Executive Director of Productivity Force.

“Our mission is to train, equip and upskill young people through these thorough face-to-face, practical, challenging, fun and hands-on bootcamps.”

Steve Mitchell, Sydney Construction Manager with Rydalmere’s Stowe Australia, which has employed three Productivity Force apprentices and will soon be employing another four, calls the training “second to none”.

“The vetting they do is excellent, as are the values and focus on productivity that Productivity Force instils in their pre-apprentices,” he says.

“What also stands out is that they’re committed to the four-year apprenticeship.

They are committed to learning. The Bootcamp really prepares them; it puts these young people ahead of the pack. We employed our first Productivity Force graduate three years ago and his enthusiasm has not wavered in that time.”

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

cricket oval, functional carpark and green open space areas for a variety of activities.

A key feature of the new Regatta Park is a new inclusive play space which was designed by the community using an interactive online tool earlier this year. The play space is fully fenced and includes high-quality play equipment for kids of all ages.

An additional 400 trees are set to be planted throughout the precinct to increase Penrith’s green grid, provide natural shade as well as create a shaded link from Penrith’s City Centre to the Nepean River.

Further enhancement of Regatta Park is planned in the future with the adaptive reuse of the Old Police Cottage. Council is working to restore this heritage building and bring it to life with a café and restaurant that offers magnificent views of the Nepean River.

Construction of the project is due to start in June 2021, with the upgrade set to be complete in 2022.

Find out more at: penrith.city/regattapark or visit yoursaypenrith.com.au/regatta-park.

Bad guest behaviour banned

U Andrew Tran.

Kieran Duffy, Executive Director of Productivity Force.

For Andrew Tran, the bootcamp gave him the chance to try out various trades and learn essential skills. One of the best things about the experience, he says, was the “supportive environment”.

“The staff and other bootcamp participants are all so friendly and welcoming. It’s like being a part of a family,” says Andrew, who lives in Fairfield. “I like helping people, so working in a team and being part of the process that makes things happen was really rewarding.”

Today Andrew is looking forward to beginning his next chapter as a plumbing apprentice.

For host employers looking for jobready pre-apprentices, email letstalk@ productivityforce.com.au.

The next bootcamp begins in January 2021. For further information go to productivitybootcamp.com.au

NRULY house guests, deceptive hosts and letting agents behaving badly will from today be subject to strict new short-term rental accommodation laws that could see them banned from participating in the sector.

Minister for Better Regulation Kevin Anderson said the new industry Code of Conduct provides clear obligations for hosts and guests centred on minimum standards of good behaviour.

“If you are a house guest from hell behaving disgracefully in a holiday rental or a shady host trying to swindle an unsuspecting customer, under these changes you will face penalties, and could be banned from the industry for five years,” Mr Anderson said.

“These new laws are coming into effect at the perfect time as we now head into what is shaping up to be one of the biggest domestic tourism holiday seasons on record.”

Mr Anderson said a key feature of the new laws was the establishment of an exclusion register, which will introduce a ‘two strikes and you’re out’ policy.

All participants, including booking platforms, will be required to comply with the Code and with directions and requests from the Commissioner.

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Western Sydney Aerotropolis

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Artist impressions of the manufacturing hub.

First look at manufacturing facility HE first images depicting what the Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility (AMRF) will look like reveal a state-of-the-art building at the centre of the Western Sydney Aerotropolisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; growing innovation hub.

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the hub will include the AMRF, the CSIRO facility and other facilities designed to fuel innovation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We know the Western Parkland City has a bright future as Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home of science, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and the AMRF will be a crucial part of that,â&#x20AC;? Mr Ayres said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The facility will encourage researchers to work collaboratively by providing flexible spaces where business, industry and government can test great ideas and take them from a concept to a reality.â&#x20AC;?

A business case will be produced for an initial 13,000m2 AMRF which will be designed to ensure it can adapt over time and could include 3D printers, next generation computing, and interactive spaces purpose built for advanced manufacturing, aerospace and defence.

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The AMRF will also draw on experience from one of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading research facilities, the University of Sheffieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), which is a foundation partner at the Aerotropolis. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is already plenty of interest in the AMRF and the Western Parkland City Au-

thority (WPCA) is speaking to businesses looking to take part in the facility, including several large international companies as well as local Western Sydney manufacturers,â&#x20AC;? Mr Ayres said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We want this facility to create high-quality jobs and help to drive the

creation of 200,000 jobs across the Western Parkland City.â&#x20AC;?

The AMRF, and other innovation facilities, will be centrally located next to the Aerotropolisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Civic Centre and the Aerotropolis railway station on the Sydney Metro â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Western Sydney Airport line.

Council welcomes planning package

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HE Property Council of Australia has welcomed the finalisation of the NSW Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Western Sydney Aerotropolis Planning Package.

The package includes a final Western Sydney Aerotropolis Plan, a new Western Sydney Aerotropolis SEPP and the introduction of a Development Control Plan setting early guidelines for development standards across the area. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The announcement sets the stage for master planning efforts to begin on the initial five precincts of Western Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aerotropolis, which combined

will unlock 5,122 hectares of land to cater to opportunities created by the airport and the growth expected for Western Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy,â&#x20AC;? said Ross Grove, the Property Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Western Sydney Regional Director. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is an important step in delivering an additional 200,000 jobs to the Western Parkland City by 2036 and delivering on the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aspiration of creating a 30-minute city â&#x20AC;&#x201C; where jobs are in proximity to peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The package is a credit to the NSW Government and the leadership of the

Western Sydney Planning Partnership.

The Partnership has brought together some of the best brains in local government, planning and state government agencies to work on the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shared vision for its future. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We look forward to working with the Planning Partnership and our members toward the final outcomes for these precincts. Work to further refine a number of corridors will be essential to unlock even more opportunities to deliver employment generating activities on these sites in Western Sydney.â&#x20AC;?

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News N ews

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Family Business Welcome

With David Pring

Welcome to KPMG Family Business feature articles. If you would like to discuss these articles or how KPMG can help with your business please feel free to contact me on 9455 9996 or davidpring@kpmg.com.au

ON THE PATH TO RECOVERY KPMG responds to economic update  DR BRENDAN RYNNE  MICHAEL MAIAKELLIS HE Treasurer’s MYEFO statement today presents a rosier picture of Australia’s path to economic recovery than what was presented only 10 weeks ago when he announced the 2020-21 budget.

Even during this short period, we have witnessed the further containment of the coronavirus with very limited amounts of community spread, which has enabled the further lifting of restrictions and the broadening of economic activity across all industries, sectors and regions.

The improvement in the ‘supply side’ of the economy has been broadly matched by underlying demand, more so within the household consumption, but investment and government consumption have also positively contributed to the recovery.

We have seen this play out in the labour market, where employment has risen by 270,000 since mid-September, with total employment now only about 1 percent lower than what it was prior to the commencement of the pandemic.

Economic growth is now forecast to be 0.75 percent and 3.5 percent, revised from -1.5 percent and 4.75 percent, respectively for this financial year and the next. The pandemic-induced recession was driven fundamentally by a fall away in household consumption, and now this ‘bounce’ in economic activity is also being propelled by household consumption activity.

The unwinding of some pent-up consumer demand and a relaxation in the cautionary approach to spending adopted

by Australians during the bleakest part of the pandemic has seen about half of the decline in final household consumption expenditure that occurred in the June quarter of 2020 return in the September quarter.

This strengthening in the economy, and especially within the labour market, has enabled the Treasurer in his MYEFO Statement to revise down Australia’s budget deficit for 2020-21 by nearly $16 billion to (still an eye watering) $197.7B. About $11B of this decline reflects lower

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JobKeeper payments, while company tax and GST receipts are $7B higher.

The economic forecasts contained within MYEFO suggest that while public final demand is strong and household consumption looks to be returning, buoyed by high levels of consumer confidence – also driven largely by expectations that the successful vaccine discoveries will mean an end to this pandemic in the near future – investment activity and net exports will remain weak during the next two years.

Since the Budget the Government has also introduced several spending measures to provide further targeted health and economic support to the community, with

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

the largest item being the extension of the coronavirus supplement to income support benefits including JobSeeker (worth about $3.2B).

Australia’s current political and trade tensions with China are recognised in MYEFO as a downside risk to our economic recovery, but it also recognises these challenges impact a relatively small proportion of total exports.

At an aggregate level, trade with China remains very strong, with Australian exports to China increasing by $16.6B during 2019-2020, albeit the value of iron ore exports alone rose by $21.2 billion during this period.

The current strength in iron ore prices has seen the government change its assumption in MYEFO and push out to the end of the September quarter 2021 as the date when the price of iron ore will return to US$55 per tonne. This still appears to be a very conservative assumption, given it was around 2015 when the annual average price for iron ore was last around US$55 per tonne.

First published by Dr Brendan Rynne, Chief Economist, KPMG Australia and Michael Malakellis, Principal Director, KPMG Economics KPMG Australia on KPMG Newsroom, 17 December 2020.

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Family Business

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Beyond COVID-19

The rise of domestic travel and tourism in Australia

Reviving Australia’s passion for domestic travel.

 JANE COHEN  DAVID HARDY  MORGAN KELLY

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ncreased acceptance of flexible working and international travel restrictions unlocks a spike in domestic tourism.

Could COVID-19 unlock more of Australia’s passion for travel?

The tourism industry in Australia, which was already struggling as a result of the devastating summer bushfires, has been one of the sectors hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. In recent weeks we have had a steady stream of good news with announcements on the opening of domestic borders, the prospect of international travel bubbles, several promising vaccine trials nearing completion and the development of new rapid testing approaches that could remove or reduce quarantine requirements.

Some parts of the tourism industry such as travel agents and international aviation have been disproportionately impacted and will struggle to recover until the end of the pandemic. But for others, there are opportunities to pivot to drive additional demand for domestic travel and make the most of restless Australian would-be travellers.

The good news is that Australians have the desire, the time and the means to fill the gap left by international tourists and the expected reduction in business travellers.

Australians’ adventurous spirit could prove to be a lifeline for the industry, with the restrictions on international travel inspiring more Australians to explore their homeland, which could bolster the industry for years to come.

What we’ve learned Australians’ wanderlust will drive domestic tourism Australians are well known for their wanderlust; it’s part of our national identity. In fact, Australians’ thirst for travel has grown rapidly over the last decade. And most of these additional trips have been within Australia – with over 90 per cent of total trips by Australians remaining domestic.

Having spent most of 2020 at home, many Australians will be eager to escape their own four walls and taste some relative normality after a long and unusual year.

Adding to this, many of us have newfound

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freedoms in how we work as a result of COVID-19. This makes working from holiday destinations acceptable as well – creating a new category of working holiday.

These changes in consumer behaviour may provide welcome opportunities for tourism operators to capture a greater share of the Australian traveller’s wallet.

Local tourism could tread water in 2021 Australians have been saving hard through the pandemic – and holidays are likely to be at the top of the treat list. Lockdown restrictions have also meant people are also likely to have accrued significant leave balances, so many Australians have both the time and money for holidays. However, to sustain the industry we need Australians to spend more on domestic recreational travel than they have in prior years to offset the lost revenue from international inbound tourists and a likely reduction in business travel.

The good news is that theoretically, if Australians are prepared to spend their international travel budgets on home soil this year, there is a possibility that the domestic industry could hold steady. To tread water, the domestic tourism industry would need to convince Australians to spend ~70 per cent of what they spent overseas in 2019 on domestic trips instead. Not an easy task for the industry overall, but individual operators may succeed through bold and forward-thinking strategies that recognise and cater to the changed consumer.

The shape of domestic holidays could change Our research has uncovered several key trends relevant to the domestic tourism industry, all of which will continue to evolve in response to the global health crisis. We believe that recreational travellers will be driven by three key mindsets over the next 12-24 months: 1. Ticking off the backyard bucket list – There is a tendency among young Australians to travel overseas in their younger years and wait until they have a family or even until retirement before taking the time to really explore Australia. The pandemic may force this trend to be reversed.

2. Experimenting with the working holiday – The recent preva-

lence of flexible working brought about by the pandemic and made possible by technological developments is providing an opportunity to travel for more nights and not be constrained by annual leave or public holidays.

3. Romancing with the great Aussie road trip – Given that much of the growth in domestic travel will be shorter, more frequent and more affordable holidays, it is likely that many of these trips will be taken by road. The profile of road trippers in 2021 may include more young professionals, older families, cruise enthusiasts and backpackers who would otherwise be overseas.

The new business traveller The drastic reduction in business travel as a result of COVID-19 may not take long to resume but could take longer to recover.

The global remote working experiment now brings into question the need for some business trips. It is likely that shorter business trips could remain suppressed following the pandemic.

Employers are now facing an interesting dilemma which could create new reasons for business trips – how to create a culture that enables flexible working but also builds a strong sense of team. Employers need to effectively flip the office, whereby most work is done at home and most work-related socialisation is done at work. One possible solution could be to increase the frequency of conference-style events or team gatherings that more intensively build communities and trust.

Winners will adapt to follow the money Three subsectors which we believe are in a strong position to capitalise on the current environment are: 1. Affordable accommodation – Think caravan and camping, bed and breakfasts, holiday parks, short term rentals and home stays or swaps with friends or relatives.

Digital platforms connecting consumers to low-cost accommodation are also likely to grow, such as AirBnB, HomeAway and HomeExchange.

2. Rural and regional businesses – Tourism businesses and hotels in rural and regional destinations are tipped to be winners. The expected government stimulus to encourage people to visit regional and rural areas will help kick start their recovery. Anecdotally, many Australians talk about extensive travel in Australia in their grey nomad years – perhaps they will bring it forward.

3. Digitally savvy businesses – As was the case prior to the pandemic, great digitally enabled customer experiences are key to attracting and engaging young Australians and busy families. The use of digital booking tools, social media and influencers, and availability and access to technology at tourist locations will be critical to making the most of the expected domestic travel blitz.

Be prepared and responsive Domestic travel and tourism businesses will need to pivot quickly to capitalise on these.

• Divert marketing spend from international to domestic markets, encouraging would-be international travellers to tick off their Australian holiday bucket list.

• Create promotions, packages and experiences to attract and grow the working holiday crowd.

• Upweight marketing to younger Australians who have been forced to change their plans from backpacking overseas to staying local.

• Consider how to work with employers to provide facilities and services that purposefully bring teams together frequently through offsites or co-working days.

• Use digital services to improve the customer safety experience and adapt quickly if the health context in your area changes.

To read the full report, please go to KPMG.com.au First published by Jane Cohen, Partner KPMG Strategy, KPMG Australia; David Hardy, Partner, Restructuring Services, KPMG Australia and Morgan Kelly, Partner, Restructuring Services, KPMG Australia on KPMG.com.au

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

Business Profile - The Royce

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Hair studio opens at The Royce HATHER it’s a fresh cut, blow dry, colour or perm, there’s nothing quite like that fresh salon feeling.

For many, a trip to the hairdresser not only leaves you looking and feeling our best, but it’s also a social and relaxation ritual all-in-one.

The team at The Royce have recently announced the opening of HWA Studio at The Royce – Retirement Living and Aged Care.

This new addition to Penrith’s premier contemporary retirement community looks to become a go-to for a fabulous hair and beauty experience.

With combined industry experience of almost 30 years, Bec and Tammy have joined forces as the owners of HWA Studio at The Royce. A former educator for L’Oreal and fivetime Small Business Award finalist, Bec owns and operates Glenbrook’s popular HWA Salon.

Opening a new HWA venture in Penrith has been a long-time goal for Bec, whose clients often make the trip from Penrith to Glenbrook for her services. Tammy also brings a wealth of knowledge and talent, operating her local salon at Jordan Springs for over 20 years.

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Residents at The Royce and members of the public can expect a highly professional, innovative yet friendly and warm salon experience with every appointment at HWA Studio.

With an extensive selection of hair and beauty services on offer, HWA Studio can provide expertise in short hair cutting and colouring through to elegantly styled longer lengths and men’s cutting and camouflage colouring, too.

Bec and Tammy are passionate about expert hair colouring, and the salon utilises high quality, sustainable and luxurious product by Keune and Pure to pamper your locks without compromise.

Coming soon HWA Studio will be introducing a full range of beautician services to add to their suite of services.

Call 0492 941 551 to book an introductory consultation. Or, not take advantage of HWA Studio’s Opening Special—a luxurious package including a relaxing shampoo, hot towel treatment and blow-dry for just $30!

HWA Studio is at The Royce Retirement Living and Aged Care, 123 Mulgoa Road, Penrith, and is open to the public.

The Royce at Penrith.

Western Sydney’s most sought-after news-magazine www.accessnews.com.au li www.facebook.com/AccessNewsAustralia www.linkedin.com/company/access-news-australia WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

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Films

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Happiest Season – 3 Stars A ‘woke’ Christmas classic.

BBY (Kristen Stewart) hasn’t liked Christmas since her parents died one Christmas past. Yet, as her girlfriend Harper (Mackenzie Davis) loves the holiday, she tries to make it special – even going so far as to buy a ring and planning to propose over the holiday break.

When Harper invites Abby to her family Christmas, Abby sees her opportunity – she’ll ask Harper’s dad for his blessing and propose Christmas morning.

When she gets there, though, she is horrified to discover that Harper isn’t out to her parents, and they don’t know about Abby.

Abby has to navigate the waters of a domineering mother (Mary Steenburgen), a mayoral candidate father (Victor Garber), an overbearing sister (Mary Holland), and another cruel one (Alison Brie).

As Harper struggles with her family’s expectation, and Abby confides her fears and concerns in her best friend John (Dan Levy), they grow further apart. Will the approaching Christmas Day push them irrevocably apart, or bring them closer together?

Directed by Clea DuVall, Happiest Season is a bastion of cultural sensitivity in this day and age, adeptly navigating the waters of political correctness to bring a new lens to the generations old tradition of Christmas movies.

It’s also a pretty funny rom-com. Dan Levy in particular strikes a hilarious tone, crushing the comedic perspective of this film and in many ways making up for a lack of that acerbic wit from the rest of the cast.

That being said, the rest of the cast is uniformly good. Stewart brings an emotional sensitivity to the role that is commendable, belying her indie bona fides in this decidedly mainstream yuletide film. Aubrey Plaza also pops up in a much different role than we have seen her before, eschewing

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her sarcastic demeanour for a more serious, romantic tone.

The story is fairly standard Christmas fare; a mix of romantic highs and lows, and Christmas-related hijinks. All of the seasonal beats are hit – from the snow covered big American house, to the street of Christmas lights, gingerbread men and eggnog.

The interesting thing is they are all done fairly well too – Happiest Season echoes the classic Christmas tropes, while also layering a modern relationship and the associated struggles on top.

Issues arise, however, when interrogating the characters on display here, because

the fact is that with a cast this big, no one really gets too fleshed out.

As much as this is a subversion of the genre, the characters are fairly standard cookie-cutters. They also in some cases have little agency.

We’re asked to root for Abby and Harper’s relationship, but Abby is constantly downtrodden by Harper and her family, to the point that you want them to break up.

While DuVall does flip the script at the end, it’s a hollow win. We’ve spent so long with this couple and having Harper lie to and abuse Abby, and so little time

with them as a functioning one, with so little character work or backstory, that for it to succeed feels a little like we are being cheated.

In the end, this is a factor of the combined deeply thought out dramatic element and the heart-of-gold saccharinity of the story. We can’t have too complex an ending (it is a family Christmas movie after all), so instead we’re left with a hollow one.

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

Films

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Let Him Go – 4 Stars A chemistry-laden melting pot of drama, romance and loss.

EIRGE Blackledge (Kevin Costner) and his wife Margaret (Diane Lane) grieve the loss of their only son, whose tumble off a horse left his wife Lorna (Kayli Carter) a widow with a young boy.

She marries again, to a young man named Donnie Weboy (Will Brittain), who soon spirits her and the boy away from George and Margaret and their ranch in Montana, to live with his mother Blanche (Lesley Manville) in North Dakota.

Shocked at the sudden departure, and worried about Donnie’s nature, George and Margaret road trip to North Dakota, only to have their worst fears confirmed – Donnie and the rest of the Weboy family are abusive and feared, not just by Lorna but also by the town, and they set about trying to get their grandson back.

Let Him Go is hard to pigeonhole, because it does so many things well – a tense drama, a believable romance, a treatise on dealing with grief. Without a shadow of a doubt though, everyone can agree that Let Him Go is gripping cinema.

Director Thomas Bezucha isn’t known for his dramatic work, having previously directed Monte Carlo and The Family Stone, both decidedly different fare to what’s on offer here.

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But he doesn’t pull any punches with this movie, and his penchant for romance and melodrama blend well with the sinister and bleak tone of the movie’s more deranged elements.

There are definite tonal issues here, indeed some that will make you laugh (the hard switch from Montana countryside to the ‘evils’ of North Dakota being one where the film magic at work to create a visible difference overtakes any effective use of the sequence).

Bezucha never lets these get out of hand though, and despite the movie juggling so many tonal shifts, it never fails the balancing act.

One of the most impressive feats of Let Him Go is the chemistry of its two leads.

Costner and Lane are utterly believable as an aged couple who are deeply in tune with one another’s idiosyncrasies.

Lane’s Margaret Blackledge is a wild stallion, who will fight tooth and nail to get what she wants. Costner’s George Blackledge is a quiet, imposing, retired sheriff, who fully understands his wife’s strength and will, and supports her even in this crazy endeavour.

Together, they form a formidable team, and whether it’s the quiet looks between

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

them in a tense situation in the Weboy’s home, or the loving ones across a steak dinner as they reminisce on their life together, they bring a level of prestige and confidence to their performances that sucks you in.

That’s a good thing, because the dialogue in Let Him Go often borders on unbelievability and cliche. Too often can you predict what’s going to come out of the mouths of these characters; too often are you groaning at a line you’ve heard in a million movies before. For a film that is hard to pin down in terms of tone, plot and character development, it’s an immense shame that the dialogue just doesn’t stack up.

The supporting cast is an interesting choice too. Lesley Manville is great as the domineering matriarch, but her reveal is so over the top that you almost think the part was written for a bigger A-lister.

Jeffrey Donovan as another of the Weboy clan is tremendous, weird and wonderful (mimicking his impressive turns in a string of recent roles), but the rest of the Weboy clan barely make an impact – almost as if they spent all of their budget on Costner and Lane, and had to aim a bit lower for the rest.

It’s a mystifying film – a series of odd, strange choices. A mix of tones that doesn’t quite make sense. A cohort of actors of

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It’s a mystifying film – a series of odd, strange choices. A mix of tones that doesn’t quite make sense. A cohort of actors of distinctly varying calibre. A plot that shocks and surprises, and dialogue that distinctly doesn’t.” distinctly varying calibre. A plot that shocks and surprises, and dialogue that distinctly doesn’t.

Yet somehow it all works. It’s not a mustsee film, nor a widespread cultural phenomenon, but it is undeniably gripping cinema.

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

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Auto

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Eight-seat Hyundai Palisade family SUV goes after people-movers as well as Prado  HAITHAM RAZAGUI HE Hyundai Palisade large SUV has arrived in Australia in time for Christmas family road-trips, priced from $60,000 plus on-road costs, undercutting the Nissan Patrol by almost $16,000 to make it Australia’s most affordable new eight-seat SUV. For those not requiring serious off-road or towing capability, the Palisade’s Prado-like pricing is likely to tempt people out of Toyota’s junior LandCruiser, withHyundai saying it also provides an alternative to a people mover – such as a Kia Carnival or Honda Odyssey – for people who “prefer the style, flexibility and driving qualities of an SUV”.

In addition, the Palisade offers an eightseat SUV package that has until now been exclusive to bigger, thirstier, higher-priced vehicles such as the Nissan Patrol and LandCruiser 200 Series that occupy the upper-large SUV segment.

To achieve this, the Palisade matches the Kia Carnival in height (175cm) and width (197cm) – almost as wide as a Patrol – while its 498cm length makes it a centimetre shorter than the Prado.

It is substantially longer and wider than the Santa Fe seven-seat SUV with which it shares a showroom and segment, but can tow 200kg more than its smaller sibling, at 2200kg braked.

Like a Honda Odyssey, the top-spec Palisade variant can be specified with a bench-style second row for the full eightseat capacity or a pair of captain’s chairs providing a gangway for access to the thirdrow bench.

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Safety is catered for with six airbags The Palisade’s two specification levels – Palisade and Highlander – are offered with a choice of front-drive V6 petrol and all-wheeldrive four-cylinder turbo-diesel drivetrain options, both distributing drive through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine sends 217kW of power and 355Nm of torque to the front wheels, with official combined-cycle fuel consumption rated at 10.7 litres per 100 km.

Carrying a $4000 premium over the petrol, a 147kW/440Nm 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel powers all four wheels, with fuel consumption pegged at 7.3L/100km on the combined cycle.

Black leather upholstery, electric driver’s seat adjustment, tri-zone automatic climate control with ceiling vents and a 12-speaker Infinity premium audio system are all standard, as is a 10.25-inch touchscreen media system with native satellite navigation as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration plus the ability to simultaneously pair multiple Bluetooth devices.

There is also a 7.0-inch digital instrument panel, keyless entry and start, thirdrow intercom, ‘quiet mode’ audio isolation, an electric park brake with auto-hold, front and rear parking sensors, dusk-sensing headlights, self-dimming rearview mirror, reversing camera and tyre pressure monitoring for the 18-inch alloys with full-size alloy spare.

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Safety is catered for by six airbags including side curtains for all three rows plus a suite of active safety and driver assist technologies that include forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection that has several stages of operation between 10km/h and 160km/h.

Other standard-fit systems include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane-keep assist with lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, driver alertness monitor, high beam assist and an ultrasonic rear occupant alert that detects passengers and pets to prevent them being accidentally left in the car.

For an extra $11,000 the Highlander gets burgundy or beige Nappa premium leather with suede headlining, 12-way electric driver’s seat adjustment with memory, eight-way electric front passenger seat adjustment, heated and ventilated front and middle-row seats (heated only in eight-seat form), a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charger, hands-free powered tailgate, dual-panel tilt/slide sunroof, second-row window blinds and 20-inch alloys.

Additional safety tech on the Highlander comprises ‘safe exit assist’ which helps prevent opening doors onto oncoming cyclists, pedestrians and traffic, 360-degree cameras with blind spot view, rain-sensing wipers and a head-up display.

Eight-seat Palisade variants have five child seat anchorages with ISOFIX connection points in two second-row seats and one thirdrow seat, while seven-seaters have four child seat anchorages and three ISOFIX points.

There are also 16 cupholders and seven USB ports plus a plethora of in-cabin storage areas, a reclining third-row backrest, onetouch seat tilt/slide for easier third-row access.

Premium paint is $695, with 12-month/15,000km service intervals fixed at $399 for each of the first five maintenance visits on the petrol and $469 for the diesel.

Although the Palisade was revealed as a left-hook-only proposition two years ago, Hyundai has since developed the right-hand-drive model primarily for the Australian market as one of the brand’s first models to go through an evolution of its local dynamic tuning program.

Hyundai Motor Company Australia now gets involved early in the development of new models at its parent company’s Namyang research and development centre in South Korea, before the dynamics and ride comfort are assessed on local roads back in Australia.

As with other Hyundai models the Palisade comes with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, 12 months’ roadside assist and up to 10 years of sat-nav map updates if servicing is carried out at Hyundai dealerships.

2021 Hyundai Palisade pricing* Palisade (a) $60,000 Palisade CRDi (a) $64,000 Highlander (a) $71,000 Highlander CRDi (a) $75,000 *Excludes on-road costs WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

Auto

www.wsba.com.au

New F-Pace SVR scores a power bump and styling upgrade from Jaguar

 CALLUM HUNTER WO and a half months after detailing its refreshed F-Pace line-up, Jaguar Land Rover ( JLR) Australia has debuted its updated SUV flagship in the form of the facelifted F-Pace SVR; the most powerful Jaguar family hauler to date.

Armed with a retuned version of the familiar supercharged 5.0-litre V8, the SVR now pumps out 405kW of power (+1kW) and 700Nm of torque (+20Nm) resulting in a 4.0-second 0-100km/h time and a slightly higher top speed of 286km/h.

While performance is undoubtedly the primary objective of the SVR, JLR also claims to have improved the V8’s emissions and fuel economy, down to 275g of CO2 per kilometre and 12.2 litres per 100km on the combined cycle respectively.

Matching the retuned powerplant is an updated version of the existing eight-speed automatic transmission which now features the same torque converter as seen in the XE SV Project 8, with drive still being sent to all four wheels.

Stopping power has also been enhanced with the recalibrated braking system now supported by a new ‘integrated power booster’ resulting in a shorter pedal stroke and more feel.

To make the SVR as capable as possible in the bends as well as the straights, JLR engineers have fettled with the steering and added a new electronic power-assistance system designed to enhance steering response.

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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

Revised chassis bushes and a retuned adaptive damping system play their own part in improving the handling but their main role lies in upping the comfort stakes – a key element for a premium SUV. According to Jaguar Special Vehicle Operations managing director Michael van der Sande, the original F-Pace SVR went on to become the highest-selling Jaguar SV product due to its charming character.

“The new version builds on this success, by making numerous detailed improvements that combine to raise the bar in the high-performance SUV segment,” he said.

Visually, the new model follows the same trend as the rest of the updated F-Pace range in having a more aggressive bonnet and front fascia than the previous model with many of the changes – including bigger intakes and more vents – being 100 per cent functional.

The calibration of every single component While the bigger openings aid engine and brake cooling, the overall design is said to reduce aerodynamic lift by as much as 35 per cent and cut the drag coefficient from 0.37Cd to 0.36Cd. Also like in the standard variants, the SVR’s interior has been completely overhauled with an abundance of Alcantara and Windsor leather used for the upholstery and trim while the instrument cluster is an SVRtweaked version of the 12.3-inch all-digital unit as seen in the lesser grades.

Embossed SVR logos are smattered about the place while the standard steering wheel has been replaced by a new SVR split-rim unit adorned with zinc-alloy paddle shifters.

Infotainment duties are catered for by the same Pivi Pro system as seen in other variants, accessed via a new floating 11.4-inch curved HD touchscreen.

Adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, rear collision monitor, rear traffic monitor, traffic sign recognition and adaptive speed limiter are all included as standard.

F-Pace SVR chief programme engineer Paul Barritt said the improvements to the new SVR over the old one was the result of revisiting “the calibration of every single component”.

Despite the wealth of upgrades, the new SVR’s asking price has only risen marginally ($420) in comparison to its predecessor, now carrying a sticker price of $141,040 plus on-road costs with first deliveries expected to commence in April next year.

JLR Australia has sold 290 F-Paces so far this year ending November, accounting for a slim 1.9 per cent of the $70,000plus large SUV segment, a segment current being dominated by the Mercedes-Benz GLE wagon (2661/17.3%) and BMW X5 (2589/16.8%).

2021 Jaguar F-Pace pricing* S P250 (a) SE P250 (a) SE D300 (a) SE P400 (a) HSE P400 (a) SVR (a)

$74,990 $79,600 $94,940 $97,400 $109,150 $141,040

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Recruitment

www.wsba.com.au

How to equip others to succeed SUCCESS THROUGH PEOPLE SERIES In this series of articles, Greg Mitchell (Principal of HR Success) highlights their exclusive 8 Elements to Success through People© Model, designed to create and sustain engaging, productive workplaces that drive business success.  GREG MITCHELL n our final article last year (Happy New Year by the way!), we discussed the importance of creating a culture of accountability to improve individual and collective performance. This month, we’re focussed on Equipping Others.

It seems obvious once you pause to think about it: staff need to have the necessary knowledge, information, delegations, skills, experience and personal attributes to make their best possible contribution to your business.

I

“

We must open the doors of opportunity. But we must also equip our people to walk through those doors.”

– Lyndon B Johnson

The sad reality though, particularly in smaller businesses, is that we’re so focussed on “getting stuff done” that activity related to Equipping Others often takes a back seat.

We frequently hear comments along the lines of “we’re too busy to properly induct new team members”, or “it’s too expensive to train staff ”, or the old chestnut “what if I train people and they leave?” (to which of course the only sensible response is “What if you don’t train them and they stay?!”).

While Equipping Others involves more than training (it also involves, for example, information management and ensuring employees have the delegations they need to perform effectively), the data relating to the ROI of staff training should be sufficient on its own to encourage business owners and managers to reflect on how the business is currently performing in this important area.

A study by the Association for Talent Development (ATD), for example, revealed that companies offering comprehensive training programs have 218% higher income per employee, and 24% higher profits, than those companies without formalized training.

Other studies have consistently shown development opportunities to be one of the top factors in guiding employee decisions relating to staying with or moving on from their current employer.

To get some idea as to how your business is presently positioned in relation to Equipping Others, rate each of the following

items on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being “not at all”, and 5 being “to a great extent”.

To what extent....

• Are the attributes required to succeed in each role in the business clearly defined?

• Are there mechanisms in place to identify and address capability gaps?

• Do new staff have access to a structured induction program to “bring them up to speed” as quickly as possible?

• Are there mechanisms in place to consider whether staff have access to the information, equipment and other resources they need to perform effectively in their job?, and • Is there a clear link between development activities and the strategy/ plans of the business?

Total your responses to calculate your score out of a potential maximum of 25. The lower your score the more opportunities there are to improve your business!

Consider these Tips: • Define the skills, knowledge, experience and personal attributes required for successful performance in each role. Develop a simple matrix to assess the current capabilities of staff members against relevant requirements, then work with them to develop clear action plans to address any gaps.

• When reviewing business plans, make a point to ask yourself: what skills, knowledge, experience and personal attributes will we need to achieve these plans? To what extent do they currently reside

within the business? Do we need to further develop our current people and/or supplement our current capabilities by bringing in new staff and/or seeking external support?

• Think broadly when considering how to address capability gaps within your current team: consider, for example, the merits of on-the-job training, mentoring, involvement in special projects, attendance at seminars and workshops, online learning and/or encouraging staff to undertake tertiary studies.

• Develop and implement an appropriate, structured induction program for new staff.

• Implement a review process to ensure staff have access to the information, equipment and other resources they need to perform effectively in their roles, and that they have the delegation/authority to make decisions they need to make.

Greg Mitchell is managing partner at HR Success.

Curious as to how your business or team is performing in terms of the other 7 elements of the model? Check out our free, confidential diagnostic today – www.hrsuccess.com.au/diagnostic, or call us to discuss how we can help.

LOOKING FOR GREAT STAFF? PROFESSIONAL, COST-EFFECTIVE RECRUITMENT SUPPORT If you haven’t the time or expertise to recruit the right people for your business, you may be looking for an external partner to support your efforts.

HR Success offers a complete recruitment solution to help you attract and select the best person for your business – someone with the skills, knowledge, experience and attitude to help your business succeed. We’ll work on your behalf to: • Develop a professional position description • Draft and selectively place an appealing advertisement that attracts great candidates • Handle enquiries, screen and shortlist candidates for interview • Organise and directly support interviews (yes, we’ll be there alongside you, if that’s what you need!)

• Ensure that your preferred candidate “checks out” – reference checks, profiling, licenses, skills assessments etc • Advise candidates of the result of their application.

Our service is a fraction of the cost of most recruitment agencies (priced from $2,900+GST), and we’ll be with you every step of the way.

All packages until end November 2020 come with complimentary advertising on Jobs Western Sydney.

Mention WSBA to claim.

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Contact us today to discuss your needs. www.hrsuccess.com.au ph. 1300 783 211 support@hrsuccess.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS JANUARY 2021

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