ADVANCE ~ May

A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE AUSTRALIAN-THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE AUSTRALIA THAILAND BUSINESS COUNCIL www.austchamthailand.com May 2010

ANZAC Day Perspectives from Younger Eyes Business Awards 2009 embassy news Natural Ville & LeNotre receiving Erased Exhibition Redraws the the Best Services Company Award Definition of Drawing

6

8

Austcham Regional Forum Australian Business Creates a Regional Voice

12

ATBC sEction Seventh Annual Thai Festival and Sunshine Friends Concert

16

Your Carrier to Australia Core loc specialist

Contents

AustCham Thailand

Business Award 2009 06 Natural Ville & LeNotre

COMMUNITY SERVICES 24 Voluntary English Teaching at Baan Khao Din School

EMBASSY NEWS 08 Erased Exhibition Redraws the Definition of Drawing

chamber Events 25 Public Speaking Workshop 25 Joint Chamber Briefing: How to motivate Your Staff 25 Creating Lasting Health Webinar 25 Webinar: Tools to Succeed Though the Next Crisis 26 Phuket Seminar: Sustainable Development 26 Climate Crisis Luncheon 27 Phuket Sundowners at Paresa Phuket Resort on 19 March 2010 28 Eastern Sea Board Sundowners at Pullman Pattaya on Friday, 2 April

10 Austcham Regional forum 10 AustCham Regional Forum Delivers on its Promise 12 Australian Business Creates a Regional Voice

18 20 21

ANZAC DAY SUPPLEMENT From “With the Big Guns” ANZAC Day 2010 ANZAC Perspectives From Youthful Eyes

VICE-PRESIDENTS John Anderson Meinhardt M.L. Laksasubha Kridakon Baan Laksasubha Resort Hua Hin TREASURER Nigel McKinnon Boral Thailand Portfolio: Treasury

Achara Boonyahansa Grant Thornton Amanda Canavan Energi Design Asia Jurairat Jammanee HASSELL

20

PRESIDENT Andrew Durieux Coverage Portfolio: Key Links

DIRECTORS David Armstrong Post Publishing

ATBC PRESIDENT’S COLUMN 14 The Relationship with AustCham in Challenging Times 16 Thai Festival at Marysville

PATRON His Excellency Paul Grigson Australian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Thailand

30 30 Alumni Night with the University of Queensland on 26 March 2010 31 AustCham’s First Blood Run 32 Bangkok Sundowners at the Shangri-La Hotel on Wednesday, 7 April 2010 New Members 34 New Members and Changes Members’ offers 36 AustCham Members’ Offers

From the Chamber Office 38 Message from the ED

Cover Photo: Military decorations awarded to Barry Peterson

Leigh Scott-Kemmis DBM Belinda Skinner TopTalentAsia Ben Yong Baker & McKenzie Saeed Zaki dwp Ex Officio Maurine Lam Trade Commissioner, Austrade COORDINATORS Paul Whyte ESB Coordinator Email: esb@austchamthailand.com Paul Wilkinson AGS Four Winds International Moving ESB Coordinator Email: esb@austchamthailand.com

v

From the Board

Steve Brajak Raimon Land Phuket Coordinator Email: phuket@austchamthailand.com Harry Usher Lady Pie Phuket Coordinator Email: phuket@austchamthailand.com Executive Director Brett Gannaway Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce 20th Floor, Thai CC Tower 889 South Sathorn Road Bangkok 10120 Tel.: +66 2 210 0216 Fax: +66 2 675 6696 execdirector@austchamthailand.com www.austchamthailand.com

Stay Safe and Keep Making Money!

H

appy New Year! Again! I love the way the Thais can celebrate so many events throughout the year – it’s good to be reminded of the reasons we love Thailand every now and then. I trust those of you who had a break enjoyed the water fights and travelled back safely.

Some of you may have been reading the papers over the break period, and seen my comments in the Bangkok Post regarding the protests and Thai political situation. I believe that AustCham is in line with other chambers of commerce here in Thailand – we support the rights of citizens to peacefully protest, and we also recognise the need/duty for the government to maintain law and order for all (protesters, government employees and bystanders alike). We are also united in the need for the Thai government to become fully functional in regard to making much needed regulatory changes to improve the Thai economy, which has been hit repeatedly over 6 years (starting with the Tsunami) by both internal and external shocks.

Whatever solution is arrived at, what we do not want is an election with a questionable outcome; this will only result in one side or the other protesting on the streets again.

Editorial Committee Belinda Skinner, David Armstrong, Robert Taylor, Josh Hyland, Gregers Moller, Gary Woollacott Marketing & Production Scand-Media Corp. Ltd 4/41-42 Moo 3, Thanyakarn Village Ramintra Soi 14, Bangkok Tel.: +66 2 943-7166/8 Fax: +66 2 943-7169 scandmedia@scandmedia.com Advertising Finn Balslev Email: finn@scandmedia.com Contributions to Advance magazine are welcome. Please submit content to josh@austchamthailand.com by the first day of the month for publication in the following month’s magazine.

Opinions expressed in Advance do not necessarily reflect the views of the Chamber.

AustChamThailand Advance

A number of our members have had significant business interruption due to the protests. It would be very helpful if members could inform me about their losses and incidents so that these can be addressed when we meet with various government parties.

It is extremely worrying that there have been a number of violent incidents over the last few weeks, resulting in loss of life and serious injury. AustCham sends their condolences to those affected on both sides of the argument and is hopeful that the dispute can be settled without further incidents.

In particular it would be very troubling if opposed groups of civilian protesters were to start confronting each other.

To date AustCham have needed to postpone only one event, and you can rest assured that we review all events continually to ensure safety of our members and staff at all times.

Unfortunately, we have started to notice signs of a decreasing interest in Thailand

from Australia and it is fair to assume that the same is occurring from within other countries. A trade delegation that was due to arrive in early May and, amongst other meetings, attend our Sundowners in Bangkok to meet various members, have postponed their visit due directly to the political events.

In order to keep members better updated, we are going to start operating a forum and will have a section on our website where we can inform AustCham members on various issues raised at meetings with the JFCCT and government departments/ministers whenever these occur.

We hope to have these available on the website shortly, so please visit this when you get a chance. The forum will operate under the SME section on our web site and via e-mail.

I would also like to remind all members about our Members Offers section of our website, and also in the magazine. We are providing free marketing opportunities for members to present offers to other members. This is another key reason to belong to the chamber, so please take this opportunity as soon as you can! In this current environment, every chance to get your message out should be taken – especially when it’s part of the service!

More multi-chamber events coming soon – more chances for you to network with new friends and business partners. Keep making money and stay safe and out of any protests.

Andrew Durieux President, AustCham Thailand www.austchamthailand.com May 2010

5

AustCham Thailand Business Award 2009

Natural Ville & LeNotre NATURAL VILLE M A N A G E D B Y

A C C O R

Congratulations to Natural Ville & LeNotre on receiving the Best Services Company Award.

CLEAR COMMUNICATION

Natural Ville & LeNotre is a leading hospitality and catering services company in Thailand.

With a clear objective to capitalise on simple common sense applications, the team of majority Thai staff feel confident and comfortable in dealing with both guests and peers. Simple websites with actual pictures enable current and prospective clients to better understand the extent of the company’s professional services and varied range of skills.

FORMULA FOR SUCCESS The combination of the well established brands of Accor, Natural Ville & LeNotre have set new standards in the world of hospitality and catering. Natural Ville known for its simple yet elegant apartments and LeNotre for its exclusive catering and confectionary, both tied up with strong internal and relationship marketing strategies is its formula for success.

The professional yet friendly team of staff display a remarkable sense of humour that flows from the manager down to all staff. Their success comes only through ‘word of mouth’ from all their customers. Internal marketing is evident in the 0.02% staff turnover in the last five years of operations. Strange and remarkable but true, the relationship marketing of the company is done on the golf course.

Natural Ville & LeNotre is visible in most corporate and diplomatic societies for its innovation and creativity in the catering and hospitality industry. With the core values of Accor displayed in all public areas of the property it certainly does give the guests and staff a sense of pride.

tion and occupancy. Natural Ville & LeNotre commenced operating in 2003. Today LeNotre is the leader in exclusive catering services in Bangkok. Future plans include maintaining present market position and broadening the client base throughout the diplomatic and corporate societies.

around the globe.

Natural Ville & LeNotre maintains an extensive program of staff training, food tasting reviews and project workshops to maintain a cutting edge approach to design and architecture in its food presentation.

CURRENT MARKET POSITION & FUTURE PLANS Natural Ville & LeNotre have managed to lead the market in growth even through the economic down-turn and still maintain an excellent quality of service, presenta-

Ongoing Thai and English language training in both oral and written skills supports clearer communication within the multicultural team of professionals.

Client feedback provides a valuable communication tool. The company listens to clients and then shares those comments with all staff. Response to guest’s feedback is immediate.

WINNING CONCEPT A passion to exceed client expectations at all times.

• Commitment to design and taste excellence in food preparation.

• Desire to be “simply the best” at everything the company does.

• Culture to have fun while working with peers and guests.

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES The company offers renowned levels of international standards and service that makes every customer return.

LeNotre maintains a depth of experience and specialist knowledge which allows for their excellent teams of chefs to create unique products for each and every function.

Through Accor, Natural Ville & LeNotre have many global Green Team (Sustainable Development) initiatives that allows the best knowledge to be brought from

6

May 2010

AustChamThailand Advance

embassy news

Erased Exhibition Redraws the Definition of Drawing

T

he Australian Embassy Bangkok proudly presents Erased: Contemporary Australian drawing, an exhibition of works by six internationally renowned Australian artists engaged in transforming the definition of drawing.

The tour of Erased is presented by the Asialink Centre of the University of Melbourne in partnership with the Art Gallery of New South Wales and profiles the diversity and strength of current contemporary Australian drawing practices.

Curated by Natasha Bullock, Curator, Contemporary Art, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Erased features works by artists from Australian urban and indigenous backgrounds: Christian Capurro, Simryn Gill, Jonathan Jones, Tom Nicholson, Raquel Ormella and Vernon Ah Kee. The artists explore social issues ranging from environmental awareness, industrial relations and nationalism, to more subtle statements about imagemaking in contemporary culture.

The aim of Erased is to expand our are bringing to the medium.

VENUES : • PSG Art Gallery of the Faculty of

understanding of drawing, which is based not only on mark-making, but also emphasises the importance of erasure or removal – an inherent albeit silent part of the creative process of drawing.

Each selected artist in Erased has established an ongoing practice from

8

May 2010

which they make work that creates a space for political considerations, stemming from a sense of transformation or loss.

While it is easy to think of drawing as a conventional and perhaps conservative art form, Erased celebrates the freshness and vibrancy that Australian artists

Painting, Sculpture and Graphic Arts, Silpakorn University, from 5-28 June 2010, opens Monday-Sunday from 10:00 am - 7:00 pm, and is closed on public holidays. Tel: 02-221-0820, 02-225-8991 Opening ceremony on Friday, 4 June 2010 at 6.30pm.

• Art Gallery of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Chiang Mai University, Huay Kaew Road, Chiang Mai, from 9 to 29 July 2010, opens Monday-Friday from 8:30 am-4:30pm, and is closed on weekend public holidays. Tel: 053-944-805, 053-211-724 Opening ceremony on Thursday, 8 July 2010 at 6:00 pm.

• The Khon Kaen University Art and Culture Museum, 7-30 August 2010, opens daily from 10:00 am - 7:00 pm, Tel: 043-332-035. Opening ceremony on Friday, 6 August 2010 at 5:00 pm.

AustChamThailand Advance

Austcham Regional forum

AustCham Regional Forum Delivers on its Promise

Chairman Clement Chan Managing Partner, BDO Limited Deputy Chairman Andrew Steadson Executive Director, Asia Corporate and Institutional ANZ Banking Group Ltd Treasurer Tom Corkhill Director, KCS Ltd Directors Alan Johnson Chief Executive, Intertrust Hong Kong Matthew Barnard Partner, Allens Arthur Robinson Julianne Doe Partner, Hammonds Phil Ingram Senior Trade Commissioner, Australian Trade Commission Hong Kong Derek Lai National Leader, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu

A

ustCham Hong Kong and Macau hosted the 3rd AustCham Regional Forum in March this year building on the pioneering work of AustCham Singapore in 2006 followed the next year by AustCham Thailand.

This year’s theme was Tigers, Elephants and Dragons … Australia’s Business Future highlighting the fact that Australian business is now more than ever directed to the Asia region.

The Forum programme delivered on its intended promise of highlighting the breadth and depth of Australian expertise and presence across the Region. Delegates attended three key sessions with impressive, high-calibre line-up of speakers and panellists. The main focus of the Forum was to prove the extraordinary reach of Australians in business across the Asia region. Each of the three key topic areas were positioned under the umbrella of Lessons from the Front Line and they included an in-depth look at the potential for Australia in Services trade; a leadership session on the issues of Governance and Risk as well as an important session of the Future of Business is Green.

10

May 2010

MC Kumi Taguchi introduced the first speaker of the day … Richard Gibbs, Head of Economics at Macquarie Securities in Australia who spoke to Australia being an important player in this Asian century. He continued: “We should see Australia’s location is now regarded as a virtue in regards to the Asian century and we should see Australia as an important link for the emerging economies of Asia”.

Andrew Macintosh General Manager HK Banking, National Australia Bank Ltd.

The first day turned into an evening outdoors overlooking Hong Kong’s luminous harbour at night with a significantly valuable networking session at Duetto.

Sandy Edge Principal, Woods Bagot

Guests were welcomed to this two-day event from Australia and regional Australian Chambers of Commerce including both Members and Speakers from China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan and Vietnam.

The Australian Trade Commission (Austrade) was the Principle Platinum Sponsor; CPA Australia was also a Platinum sponsor and sessions were supported by Blake Dawson, the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, Mallesons Stephen Jaques, BDO, Flight Centre with the support of Australia Network.

Melanie Nutbeam Director, ipac financial planning HK Ltd Grahame White General Manager, Leighton Asia Ltd Gordon Fuller Area Vice President, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts

Paul Scroggie Director, Workplace Consultancy, Knight Frank Chief Executive Deborah Biber ceo@austcham.com.hk Secretariat 4/F Lucky Building 39 Wellington Street Central, Hong Kong Tel: (852) 2522 5054 Fax: (852) 2877 0860 Email: austcham@austcham.com.hk Website: www.austcham.com.hk

AustChamThailand Advance

Enjoy a Healthy Life‌..With our Surgery Packages Sports, work injuries, arthritis, or weakening of the tissues with age can cause wear and inflammation, resulting in pain and diminished knee function. Arthroscopy refers to a procedure in which a joint (arthro-) is viewed (-scopy) using a small camera.

It allows an orthopedic surgeon to diagnose and treat knee disorders by providing a clear view of the inside of the knee.

Arthroscopy Knee General approximate cost

Total Knee Replacement (excludes prosthesis) General approximate cost

From now - 30th April 2010 For more information please contact Customer Service Center 1st Floor, Classic Wing Building

Remark : All the packages are under hospital's terms & condition the above cost is for 1 knee joint

Austcham Regional forum

Australian Business Creates a Regional Voice

M

eeting on the back of the 3rd AustCham Regional Forum (www.austchamforum.com) held in Hong Kong, 11 Australian Chambers of Commerce and Business Councils (the AustCham’s) from around the Asia region signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) promoting greater regional partnership and the blueprint for regional chamber-cooperation on Friday, 5 March 2010.

With memberships of over 3,500 Australian businesses across the region, the AustChams represent significant Australian business interests in their respective countries.

Recognising the growth in bilateral and multi lateral co-operation and in Australian trade and investment across the region, the MOU provides a platform for enabling Australian business to have a regional voice both locally and in Australia.

The Chambers signing the MOU included AustCham Beijing, AustCham Hong Kong and Macau, Indonesia Australian Business Council, Australian and New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Japan, AustCham Korea, Malaysia Australia Business Council, AustCham Singapore, AustCham Shanghai, Australia and New Zealand Chamber of Commerce Taipei, Australian –Thai Chamber of Commerce, Thailand and AusCham Vietnam (the AustChams).

Acting CEO Peter Yuile of the Australian Trade Commission (Austrade), a key partner of all Australian Chambers across the region, witnessed the signing and welcomed this commitment from the AustCham’s to work collaboratively and leverage opportunities for Australian business, which accounts for over 70 per cent of Australia’s merchandise exports, throughout the region.

“This initiative will bring together the resources of the AustCham networks to win business for Australia … Asia-wide.

It is a particularly important step given

12

May 2010

intensifying intra-regional trade and opportunities emerging across multiple Asian markets” Yulie said.

John Dick, former President of AustCham

Singapore and a Founder of AusCham Vietnam, who spearheaded the MOU on behalf of the AustCham’s, said: “The 25 Australian Chambers in over 15 countries across Asia from India to the

“This was my second Regional Forum and my first as ED of AustCham Thailand. It was a pleasure to meet my counterparts from around the various AustCham’s and I am delighted to see that through the signing of the MOU, we are all working together to promote Australian business within the region and beyond.”

– Brett Gannaway

AustChamThailand Advance

Austcham Regional forum

“I’ve been fortunate to participate in all three forums. The collected wisdom of leading Australian business minds helps me to plan for my company’s future.”

– Gary Woollacott

AustCham Hong Kong Background

Leigh Howard, John Dick, Nick Cocks and Gary Woollacott

The Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong and Macau represents the largest Australian business community outside of Australia and is the second largest international chamber of commerce in Hong Kong. Over the past 22 years AustCham has grown to over 1,100 members and now represents more than 750 companies.

Philippines and from Japan to ASEAN and all points in between including China, Korea and Indo China, form a vast platform of local knowledge and experience to support Australian business and Australians in business in this Asian Century.”

AustCham maintains a full schedule of professional development and information based events throughout the year, as well as a number of signature events including its participation in the Australia-China Business Awards, a programme it founded over 18 years ago.

Other Asian based AustChams intend to sign the MOU in the months ahead and several initiatives are being discussed to provide communication vehicles for further intra-regional business development and understanding.

“The AustCham network now extends to 20 cities in Asia and 10,000 or more member companies, and is expanding everyday.

I cannot underestimate how powerful this network is as a tool for individual member companies and Australia as a whole.

The MOU signed also shows the intentions of all the AustChams to provide more benefits to members and expand their advocacy efforts on behalf of members back into Australia.”

– Andrew Durieux

Attending the AustCham Regional Forum in Hong Kong and to sign the AustCham Regional MOU on Friday 5 March 2010 were leading members of AustCham’s from around the region: (back row left to right) James Rein – AustCham Fujian; Andrew Vickers – AusCham Vietnam; Nick Cocks – AustCham Singapore; Stephen White – AustCham Shanghai; Leigh Howard – Malaysia Australia Business Council; Pilar Perez-McKay – Korea; Alfred Leong – AustCham South China; (front row left to right) Andrew Durieux – AustCham Thailand; Roger Wolfe – AustCham Beijing; John Dick holding the signed MOU with Peter Yuile, CEO of Austrade; Clement Chan – AustCham Hong Kong & Macau and Katherine Nozaki – Australia and New Zealand Chamber, Japan.

AustChamThailand Advance

May 2010

13

ATBC PRESIDENT’S COLUMN

The Relationship with AustCham in Challenging Times

T

hese past two years have been challenging for the trade and investment relationship between Thailand and Australia given the ongoing political issues in Thailand, overlaid in the past year by the global financial crisis. However it is pleasing to note that notwithstanding bilateral trade between our two countries continues to flourish and the people to people links, especially through tourism, remain strong.

To that end we have no hesitation in recommending AustCham Thailand to them as our robust and enthusiastic partner in Thailand.

The news packed monthly Advance magazine is a further example of our mutual co-operation.

The ATBC will use its best endeavors to encourage new investment and trade with Thailand in the year ahead; the opening late last year of the Board of Investment office in Sydney will no doubt facilitate this objective.

We will continue to inform members through targeted events such as our CEO Briefings, seminars and meetings with visiting Thai government ministers as things settle down in Thailand.

I am pleased to be able to report in this month’s Advance on the success of the ATBC supported event – the 7th Annual

14

May 2010

NATIONAL PRESIDENT Robert Taylor AusThai Connections president@aust-thai.org.au IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT John Connor Karjura Pty Ltd VICE PRESIDENT Chair of the Victorian Chapter Graham Sherry Baker & McKenzie vic@aust-thai.org.au NATIONAL TREASURER Douglas Blunt Centrelease Australia Pty Ltd

There is no doubt that TAFTA has played its part in this outcome and we trust that the relationship between the Australia Thailand Business Council and AustCham, has also helped.

Indeed the working relationship between ATBC and AustCham is very important to our ability to meet the needs of our Australian members. Equally it is important for potential ATBC members who are looking for credible, reliable and timely information on doing business in Thailand and connecting with other Australian businesses already operating in Thailand.

ATBC – Australian Section

EXECUTIVE MEMBERS Clare Florence Glen Robinson AFG Venture Group Gavin Thomas Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd

Thai Culture and Food Festival in Melbourne and the special ThaiFest@Marysville and Sunshine Friends Concert for Marysville held to support the bushfire devastated Marysville and District.

The new financial year 2010/11 will see the ATBC celebrating its 30th Anniversary. We hope to be able to celebrate this milestone with events that will reinforce the importance of our trade and business relationship with Thailand, albeit in a more sobering financial environment than we have seen in the recent past.

SECRETARIAT Colin Mackenzie Australia Thailand Business Council PO Box 6005 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Tel: +61 2 6273 2311 Fax:+61 2 6273 3196 colin.mackenzie@acci.asn.au www.aust-thai.org.au ATBC – Thai Section Chairperson Khun Barbara Buranasilpin

Our National Executive Committee is listed in Advance and I encourage you to contact us should you require information or assistance from Australia.

Kind regards,

Robert Taylor National President - Australia Thailand Business Council

AustChamThailand Advance

NO PASSENGERS, JUST GUESTS.

FLY INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY NON - STOP TO AUSTRALIA

International airline of

For more information please contact your preferred V Australia travel agent.

SapientNitro VAU 639/ECO

Gourmet food • World-renowned service • Mood lighting • Award-winning entertainment

ATBC Section

Thai Festival at Marysville

M

arysville and the Triangle District were devastated by the Black Saturday bush fires on 7 February 2009. 34 townsfolk lost their lives that day and with only 14 of 400 buildings remaining after the fires, Marysville Township was virtually destroyed.

One year on and the area is beginning to rebuild; over 30 buildings are at foundation stage or beyond. Marysville Central – in the old Motor Museum opened for business on 5 December 2009 (coincidentally the birthday of His Majesty the King of Thailand). The bush is also turning green again thanks to natures amazing resilience.

Last year in the immediate aftermath of the fires, the Thai Culture and Food Festival arranged to support Daylesford and district area, which was hit by a major fire on 23 February 2009.

The local CFA including a tanker and volunteers came to the festival – funds were raised for CFA that day and many tourism vouchers were handed out to patrons during the festival.

In 2010 the Thai Festival supported Marysville and district with the ThaiFest@Marysville event and the proceeds from the Sunshine Friends Concert for Marysville in Federation Square on the evening of Sunday, 21 March 2010.

It was the Thai community’s way of helping another community – much as the generosity of Victorians helped Thailand after the ravages of the 2004 Tsunami.

Bringing the Festival to Marysville not only provided a taste of Thai culture for the locals and a great day out but very importantly it encouraged visitors back to Marysville and district to help revitalise local business.

The Festival committee provided the infrastructure free of charge to local businesses so that they could sell their products; all net proceeds from ThaiFest@Marysville will be donated to the local bushfire recovery Committee towards the funding of the newly re-opened Tourism Information Centre.

Around 2,000 visitors attended the festival at Marysville – in a town that has a current population of less than 200. They saw performances from Sbun-Nga; heard The Melbourne Jazz Ensemble playing compositions of His Majesty the King of Thailand, numerous Thai cultural performances, the Buddhist ceremony and tree planting, tasted the delights of Thai food, drank Singha Beer in the beer garden, and purchased local products. seventh Annual Thai Culture & Food Festival The expanded Festival was another resounding success with a record crowd in excess of 60,000 people!

A traditional Buddhist Monks Ceremony kicked off the day of festivities drawing visitors to the main stage at 10am. Robert Taylor, National President of the Australia Thailand Business Council and co-founding member of the Thai Culture & Food Festival invited The Lord Mayor Robert Doyle, the Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Royal Thai Embassy- Minister Ploenpit Meemeskul, and The Honorary Thai Consul General in Victoria Dr. Simon Wallace to cut the ribbon declaring the Festival celebrations to begin.

16

May 2010

AustChamThailand Advance

ATBC Section

International Dance Group, Sbun-Nga from Chiang Mai in Thailand, again entertained visitors throughout the day with colourful and innovative performances based on traditional Thai dance. The ever popular Miss Thai Festival beauty contest didn’t fail to once again impress the gathered followers with the entrants parading in traditional Thai costumes and answering questions in the hope of being crowned the Festival’s ‘Miss Thai Festival ’ 2010!

Adding to the colour of the festivities was the annual traditional and very noisy Thai drum parade welcoming visitors to the Festival.

The Thai kick boxing tournament again proved to be a real crowd pleaser with people packing the Main Square to watch the tournament rounds during the afternoon, culminating in the trophy presentation at the end of the day.

Product information and travel stalls provided visitors with a colourful display of Thai products from silks to trinkets and cosmetics; the Thai Tourism Authority and Thai Airways were on hand to give traveller’s advice. Thai massage proved extremely popular soothing the muscles from head to toe!

The River Terrace was a sea of people sampling delicious Thai dishes from the many restaurant stalls; cooking demonstrations gave food lovers an insight into the art of Thai cooking. The Festival again had two Singha Beer gardens, and expanded to the Birrarung Marr parklands. The main Singha Beer Garden was ‘abuzz’ all day providing live entertainment from local artists of jazz/blues to rock, with the finale of the Tiffany Show, the crowd was left wanting more!

The Festival, once again provided a day to showcase Thailand’s culture, wonderful food and beautiful country to the wider community of Melbourne. The Thai Culture & Food Festival is proud to have been part of Cultural Diversity Week and help in bringing communities together in celebration of the many different and rich cultures in Victoria.

Each person who bought an official Thai Festival “Sunshine Friends Concert for Marysville” souvenir program was entered in a lucky draw competition to win an electric guitar from the Long Way to the Top stage show along with other rock n’ roll memorabilia and books.

The Committee was pleased to announce at the conclusion of the event that as a result of the Festival activities, The Thai Culture and Food Festival, with the support of Tourism Victoria, was able to provide an initial monetary contribution towards the funding of the Marysville and District Tourism Centre; which a delighted Christine Adams from Marysville Mystic Mountain Tourism said would help fund the centre for the next six months or more.

More information on the Festival including photos can be found at www.thaifestvic.com

Sunshine Friends Concert for Marysville at Federation Square The weekend Festival concluded with a spectacular FREE musical event in Federation Square on the evening of Sunday 21 March.

Sunshine Friends Concert for Marysville featured some of Australia’s best loved rock’n’roll legends - Doug Parkinson, Normie Rowe, Kevin Borich, Issi Dye together with the all girl group ‘Tiara’.

For over two and a half hours the stars performed a number of their classic hits and at the conclusion, joined with representatives from the Marysville community and the Organising Committee of the Festival to sing the first live performance of the Sunshine Friends Australian anthem, co written some 30 years ago by the iconic Billy Thorpe and one of his Aztec band members Tony Barber. See http:/tiny.cc/SunshineFriends

AustChamThailand Advance

The Australia Thailand Business Council was pleased to be a Supporter of this annual event in Melbourne’s multicultural and festival calendar.

Through its association with the Festival, the ATBC is able to reinforce the importance of understanding culture when considering investment or trade with Thailand.

The Festival attracts sponsorship from Singha Beer, City of Melbourne, Thai Airways, Lebara Mobile, Australia Thailand Institute, Victoria Multicultural Commission, Tangola, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thai Trade Centre and other local businesses.

This year the Festival expanded into an event that spanned the weekend, in Marysville from 5pm Friday 19 March through to 6pm Saturday 20 March; and from 10am till 10pm on Sunday 21 March at Federation Square and Birrarung Marr, Melbourne.

May 2010

17

ANZAC DAY SUPPLEMENT

From “With the Big Guns”

By Josh Hyland, AustCham Intern

G

rowing up in a world where war is only experienced though movies and stories from family members, it is difficult for my generation to comprehend what war really is, let alone what it might be like for a solider, their family or even a civilian far from the brutal violence, living in a world turned on its head by the thing we call ‘war’. As I was younger, war was something talked about with serious faces by adults whose knowledge was much greater than mine. As I have grown up, I have contemplated war, and tried to understand it; concluding only that much of it is incomprehensible.

I have been working with AustCham for a relatively short time and had been anticipating attending ANZAC Day at the Hellfrire Pass for the first time.

Seeing hundreds of Australians coming together there was truly remarkable.

Some making extreme efforts to be there, every one had their own reasons for coming to pay respect to the ANZACs. Standing on the steps with a spectacular view of the ceremony, I silently thought about my ancestors who had been a part of World War Two. Although the images that I created in my head could not have been anywhere near accurate, the feelings of sadness, shock, respect and pride that came from them I believe are so important.

By reflecting on the lives of heroes of the past, we show our respect and step forward more confidently to live our own lives and fight our own battles.

For this year’s ANZAC feature I am pleased to share the way that ANZAC has been passed on to me. Several years ago when moving some accumulated stored goods, my Grandmother and author Lynette F. Oates came across a small brown suitcase belonging to her aunt. Inside she found hundreds of letters, three journals and photographs all sent by her uncle to his family during his post as a solider at Gallipoli. She

18

May 2010

used these to write a book called ‘With the Big Guns’ of which I was given a copy.

The story of my Great, Great Uncle Ernest sparked my interest in the ANZAC traditions: here was a direct link to that renowned battle. This book

has helped me share the feelings and sentiments that so many other Australians feel. I acknowledge the sacrifices of those who fought for our way of life, and listen with interest to their stories of adventure and loss, and seek to gain understanding from their experiences.

The hardship of ancestors can give following generations of Australians the opportunity to reflect on their own lives and actions; the horrors of war somehow has a way of awakening us to things that truly matter.

Ernest Holmes comes across as a man driven by excitement, fitting superbly into the strict disciplines of the army.

He sought training prior to the war, and eagerly signed up on one of the first days after war was declared. Setting off from Melbourne, he was on one of the first army boats to leave Australian shores. From Melbourne he sailed to Western Australia and then up to Colombo and through the Red Sea to Egypt. He remained here until the plan

AustChamThailand Advance

ANZAC DAY SUPPLEMENT

to attack at Gallipoli was announced.

Reading his notes from Gallipoli, I am amazed at how resilient humans can be when the occasion calls for it. He talked of air raids and death as though they were a part of ordinary life. The noise of gunfire became so familiar to him that he could identify whether French, Australian or battleships were firing by matching the sound to the weapon they were using.

On what seems to be ‘a typical day at war’, Ernest reflects on the preceding night, when battle events got a little too close for comfort. I still wonder how his pen seems to have missed out all the exclamation marks and expletives: “30th Nov Tuesday Very cold but sunny day. Snow still about everywhere.

Observing today at E.F. A big battleship came up this afternoon and shelled Turkish camp. It was a great sight to watch her firing her 13 inch guns. Last night I was nearly blown to pieces by a big broomstick bomb bursting at my head while I was asleep. It pierced the legs of both Lt. Sexton and Gunner Malberg and I had to dash about for stretchers for them both. It was cold work I can tell you. The tin my head was resting on was blown from under me.”

Despite the long time he has already been at Gallipoli, he later shows (this is only one of many instances) his continued excitement as a solider: “Sometimes if the Turks are expected to advance, you are ordered to sleep in your clothes and have the gun laid and loaded to fire at a moment’s notice. We have had several night calls and rather enjoy them.”

It seems so surreal to me that a culmination of factors such as politics, societal values and fear could create an environment where groups of people live to fight and kill each other.

Though Ernest shared many things in common with his brother Howard, the topic of war was an issue that they reacted to in violently different ways.

Howard Holmes had not witnessed the effects of war as closely as Ernest; the war was declared over as Howard Holmes reached the battlefront. Nonetheless, he detested war so much;

AustChamThailand Advance

decrying mans inhumanity to man. He intended to marry prior to the breakout of war, but retracted his engagement after returning home. He said he said could not be responsible for bringing a child into a world where people could behave in such a manner and remained single until the day he died. Unable to see myself wholly in either of my relative’s positions, I can only pray that the world will never confront me with such harsh challenge.

Ernest fought through the Gallipoli campaign. His section of the front line was responsible for misleading enemy forces whilst Australian troops retreated. I would like to share with you the last page of my Grandmother’s book. It is a transcript from the last page of the journal of my Great, Great Uncle Ernest Randal Holmes, Sixth Battery, Second Field Artillery Brigade, First Australian Division:

A typewritten page was also contained in the small suitcase, undoubtedly typed by Ernest’s father. On it is written the poem Gallipoli, by Dale Collins, and his quizzical final comment. The vivid imagery of the poem no doubt ministered fearfully to his father’s stricken heart.

Mars beat upon his shield, and brooding Death Spread his dark wings o’er somber land and sea; His voice was in the shrapnel song, his breath Clouded the skies of dawn : GALLIPOLI Waited to see his feast. And then, these came With lithe young bodies and with souls alight, Eager and gallant; from their bayonets’ flame Dead fled – a shadow of the vanquished Night!

Death was no more for GLORY stood clear And those that fell she lifted to her breast Stooping in benediction sweet & proud To give them solace and to give them Rest They did not die but with new wonder shone So that a light went leaping round the world, And all the people thrilled to look upon The youngest nation’s standard thus unfurled.

Only their dust it is which lies asleep.

Their souls march on and is our heritage; So how shall we forget; we shall not weep, For it shall be our right to read the page Which they have written in our story; then Strength shall be ours to build what was begun, Shaping a nation worthy of these men, Whose splendid symbol was the rising sun.

After which his father has written: Killed in action. 30 October 1916.

“I have no regrets” Ernest! Rest in peace.

May 2010

19

ANZAC DAY SUPPLEMENT

ANZAC Day 2010 Kanchanaburi

20

May 2010

AustChamThailand Advance

ANZAC DAY SUPPLEMENT

ANZAC Perspectives From Youthful Eyes Lenna is 12 years old and is the daughter of the AustCham president Andrew. She attends KIS international school and is in grade six. She has been in Thailand for eight years.Lenna attended her first ANZAC day ceremony in 2010 and thought is was “awesome”.

The following are her words to describe the experience...

I hated waking up at 3am, but after a while I was no longer tired. Then we left the River Kwai hotel at 4am, and me and Granma rushed to get the front seats of the bus. It was very hard to see anything out the window because it was dark.

Soon after that we arrived at the Hellfire Pass and there was a big queue to walk down to the memorial. There were a lot of steps to walk down and it was still very dark.

When we arrived at the memorial we stood there until there was light showing from the sun. Once there was a bit of light at around 5:30 the dawn service began. Standing there was tiring so I blew out my bamboo candle and sat down on it.

We got back on the bus at 6:45 and went back to the hotel.

Once again we got to sit at the front. On our way back saw the Australian Ambassadors car in front of us all the way to the hotel. Once we arrived at the hotel Elvis our host told us to have breakfast and pack our bags and get on the bus at 8:30 to go back to Kanchanaburi cemetary.

Once we arrived at the cemetary we sat in a shady corner of the tent, and the service started off with the scottish pipe band again, followed by them was four Australian army men that stood around the war memorial and were not allowed to move even if it was a very very hot day. We heard speeches by the Ambassadors, the minister and two soldiers who fought in the war. There were a lot of reiths put out and my dad put one from AustCham Thailand. Once the speeches were over the band marched out followed by the very sweaty Australian Army men.

Once they left we went to the back of the tent and I had a sausage. A lady handed us a few cold towels that were just what we needed at that time.

After the dawn service ended then the scottish bagpipes started playing and that was exciting because I have never heard bagpipes playing before. At this time we could hear lots of birds awakening.

We were here in rememberance of the soldiers who died at the war. The Hellfire Pass railway line is the actual place where the soldiers were forced to build and where some of them died.

There was a lot of light and we no longer needed our candles to walk up the steps. Once we arrived at the top we had some refreshments and the best part about that was there was ANZAC cookies – but they dont cook them as good as Granma does!

At Hellfire Pass it was sad, but it was also peaceful. The rest of the trip was “awesome” and hopefully I will be coming next year.

AustChamThailand Advance

By Lenna Durieux

May 2010

21

ANZAC DAY SUPPLEMENT

Anchilee will be turning 11 in July and is also in grade six at NIST International School. She attended the Dawn Service with her father Leigh Scott-Kemmis who is on AustCham’s Board of Directors and has written her thoughts about ANZAC Day...

To me Anzac day is all about thanking those people and thinking about how wonderful they had been to really help us all and I think without them we wouldn’t exist, I wouldn’t be here telling you what I think about this, It was a great opportunity for us to be able to go there and thank them… To be honest if I got to chose if I wanted to go to Kanchanburi there I think the answer will be yes!

2010 Anzac day What liked the most was when we got to the dawn service I like the weather and where we were at and when we were there I was surprised and I never knew the railway existed I learnt a lot facts, it’s like school there but more of a culture school I felt great because I knew that the people only did it to save and help our countries they might had die for us but they still did it for our country, I felt proud of those people who are willing to risk their lives just to save and help us…

ANZAC day 2010 Hello my name is Liam, (kiwi boy – 10 years old) and I have lived in Bangkok for two years. [Liam is the son of one of our ANZWG members].

This year was my first experience to attend the Dawn service in Hellfire Pass and I also went to the Kanchanaburi war cemetery, where I was part of the ANZAC Wreath-Laying Ceremony, on behalf of the NZ society.

Whilst driving up to Kanchanaburi, I was asking heaps of questions in the car. What is ANZAC day and the anniversary of Gallipoli? Sadness came to my mind, as we all talked about the past, thinking about all the soldiers that sacrificed their lives for their country.

Getting up at 3.30 a.m on ANZAC Day wasn’t soooooo bad. I think some adults found it harder than the kids!! I was excited.

When we arrived at Hellfire Pass, it was very dark on the path as we walked along the side of the hill. The ground was very uneven towards the cutting, it made me feel like I was reliving the footsteps of those poor POWs as they were ordered to work for so many hours a day like slaves. We were given Bamboo candleholders to help us find our way down the path. You could see hundreds of flickering candlelight’s and hear the stones crunching beneath our feet.

22

May 2010

This brief description might be rough but I still want to thank the people every day and we don’t have to thank them on Anzac day but we can also thank them any day…

By Anchilee Scott-kemmis (Ann)

As we waited for dawn, which felt forever, you could hear birds singing and the weather was cool and misty amongst the surrounding forest. I did wonder if the birds were singing back then in 1943 when the POWs were working on the railway. I hope for them, they were.

The ceremony had different special people taking turns saying prayers and speaking, but I especially liked the trumpet and the Pipe band.

At the Cemetery, it was very hot and sticky!! This made me very antsy pantsy because my shorts were sticking to me.

I can’t believe how the soldiers stood so still like statues for the whole ceremony, they had sweat pouring down their faces and legs! I imagined that it must have been how it was for the prisoners working in the hot and terrible conditions.

The ceremony was similar to the Dawn service, but seeing the headstones surrounding us made me realize how real it was, and how many people lost their lives.

Then it was finally my turn to join the Wreath-laying Ceremony and to honour and remember those that died in the War. I still don’t understand why we have wars.

By Liam Coutts

AustChamThailand Advance

ANZAC DAY SUPPLEMENT

Contact Craig Somerville by telephone on 081 692 8281 or email: craig@jvkmovers.com www.jvkmovers.com

AustChamThailand Advance

May 2010

23

community services

Voluntary English Teaching at Baan Khao Din School On Saturday, 6 March, AustCham Volunteers headed down to Chonburi to teach English to students at Baan Khao Din School. Students can be seen participating in classroom activities and praying before lunch in the pictures below. AustCham thanks all volunteers for assisting with this community services project once again. If anyone is interested in coming along to teach next time, please contact varin@austchamthailand.com for more information.

24

May 2010

AustChamThailand Advance

Chamber Events

Public Speaking Workshop Tuesday, 11 March was the date for one of Bjorn Turmann’s all day public speaking workshops. The event saw a mixture of Thai and foreign, experienced and inexperienced presenters come along and enhance their natural style of speaking. AustCham would like to thank Bjorn for another great workshop.

Creating Lasting Health Webinar

Joint Chamber Briefing: How to motivate Your Staff

Following a SME survey conducted by AustCham, they identified that “how to motivate staff” was a popular topic. On Thursday, 18 March AustCham joined with the British and New Zealand Chambers on this occasion at a new event location; the Bangkok Bank Headquaters on Silom Road. Dao Duangvipha Makkitti from Resource Link Thailand, Sukhavichai Dhanasundara from Brainforce and TV Anchor Dr Valerie McKenzie from Thana Burin Asia Pacific each gave a unique angle on the topic before a lively panel discussion with attendees. Thanks must go to the participating chambers, speakers and the Bangkok Bank for working together to make an enjoyable event.

Webinar: Tools to Succeed Though the Next Crisis

Guests attending a breakfast webinar

by Jeff Nieuwenhuizen, were in for a special treat. On Tuesday, 30 March the Chivas Som team brought along one of their chefs, and with him; organic muesli, raw vegetable salad wraps and a morning energiser drink.

Jeff’s presentation gave an overview of ways we can improve our overall health to prevent or reduce problems that affect us in our later years of life.

Online participants asked a range of questions including those about spiruilna, dencorub, red wine and caffeine. Thanks go to Jeff and his team for the talk as well as attendees and online participants for making a fun and interesting breakfast.

AustChamThailand Advance

Jean Francois gave a very interactive presentation to assist professionals with improving their personal leadership styles. The breakfast briefing was held at the AustCham office on Tuesday, 23 March and broadcast to other participants via the internet. For members who are interested in joining our next webinar online, please note the details in your next AustCham webinar email.

May 2010

25

Chamber Events

Climate Crisis Luncheon

Phuket Seminar: Sustainable Development Prior to the Phuket Sundowners event on Friday, 19 March, AustCham held a Sustainiable Development Seminar and Networking Reception to assist those in property and construction industries. Thanks to AustCham Vice President, John Anderson, who gave a presentation about the benefits of keeping “green� when building and managing properties.

26

May 2010

People sat in attentive silence as Stuart Scott painted a clear picture of what he calls an urgent challenge to humanity.

More commonly known as the Climate Crisis, many stayed to ask serious questions about population control, government influence and the possible outcomes for our planet. Thanks to Stuart for this compelling talk on Wednesday, 24 March.

AustChamThailand Advance

Chamber Events

Phuket Sundowners at Paresa Phuket Resort on 19 March 2010 Phuket Sundowners was held at the lavish Paresa Phuket resort in March for the first time in 2010. Thanks must go to them for their provision of food and the location. AustCham would also like to give thanks to V Australia and World Construction Engineering who co-hosted the Sundowners event.

AustChamThailand Advance

May 2010

27

Chamber Events

Eastern Sea Board Sundowners at Pullman Pattaya on Friday, 2 April AustCham’s Eastern Seaboard Sundowners was held by the sea at Pullman Pattaya Asiawan Resort, who sponsored food for the evening as well as a spectacular venue. Capital Television Group co-sponsored the event and can be seen filming in the photographs below.

AustCham would like to thank both event sponsors for their support.

1

2

3

4

5

From left: 1) Philippe Delaloye - Pullman Pattaya Aisawan; Raine Grady - Capital Telivision Group Co, Ltd.; Andrew Durieux - AustCham President, Coverage Ltd. 2) Craig McCoy - Thai Houghton 1993 Co, Ltd.; Ken Bright - Bosch Chassis Systems. 3) Hamish McDougal; Scott Buckner; Janjira Kongton - Move with Karn. 4) Geoffrey Taylor - Chinatex; M.L Laksasubha Kridakon, AustCham Vice President Baan Laksasubha Resort Hua Hin; Steve Barjak - Raimon Land; David Armstrong - AustCham Director, Post Publishing; Saeed Zaki - AustCham Director, dwp. 5) Julien Caure - Pullman Pattaya Aisawan; Sylvain Royer - Pullman Pattaya Aisawan; Khun Pimporn Subintramas - Fraser Hospitality.

28

May 2010

AustChamThailand Advance

Chamber Events

Alumni Night with the University of Queensland on 26 March 2010 The theme of Climate Crisis presented itself for a second time in one week in a presentation by Professor Andrew Griffiths. Following this, those attending proceeded to enjoy an extraordinary dinner and of course networking opportunity. AustCham would like to say a special thanks to the University of Queensland for hosting the event and all that worked to make the night such a success.

30

May 2010

AustChamThailand Advance

Chamber Events

AustCham’s First Blood Run

By Josh Hyland

T

he renewable life scource of blood is used to treat any cause of blood loss caused by any number of reasons such as childbirth, surgery, cancer, serious accidents and many more. Currently in Thailand, demand exceeds supply and the blood bank is always happy to have people take a few moments out of their day to contribute some of their own blood to help others who don’t have enough.

AustCham’s two year old Alumni group was invited to lead the first AustCham Blood Run following their first Alumni night for 2010. On Saturday, 27 March, Alumni members and organisers went to donate blood at the Thai Red Cross near the Saladang/ Silom station. Two of Thailand’s celebrities Willie and Jelly McIntosh also came to donate blood and support our new Community Service project also. AustCham would like to thank those who

came along as well as BNH hospital who donated lunchboxes to all those that attended.

As part of the AustCham blood donation, we would also like to raise awareness of the Central Blood Register which was first created by the Australian, New Zealand and British Embassies. The centre was set up to help people who have a rare type of blood called Rhesus Negative Blood, in emergency situations. Whilst less that 15% of Europeans have Rh- blood, only 0.3% of Thais are carriers.

It is therefore important that foreigners living in Thailand are aware of the centre and those who possess this rare blood type to register their details on the website.

You can view the website for more information by clicking on the logo shown (left) which is displayed on AustCham’s website or by visiting www.centralbloodregister.com.

AustCham is planning to organise blood donation days on a regular basis and would be delighted at your participation. AustCham will send news to interested persons each time before going. To join our mailing list, please send a preferred email address along with your name to admin@austchamthailand.com.

The steps involved in donation are very simple: 1. Show up (this is always the hardest step).

2. Fill in a basic questionnaire and perform a basic blood test to make sure it is safe for your body to donate.

3. Lie back while the nurses take care of you and extract 500ml of blood over the course of around ten minutes (after the initial sting it really doesn’t hurt).

4. Have a snack to sustain your body 5. All done! You can feel all the better how you’ve spent your day.

AustChamThailand Advance

May 2010

31

Chamber Events

Bangkok Sundowners at the Shangri-La Hotel on Wednesday, 7 April 2010 April’s Bangkok Sundowners event was held at the Shangri-La hotel, where attendees enjoyed fine cuisine and live piano at the Angelini Restaurant and Bar. AustCham would like to thank Shangri-La as well as MBMG who hosted this fantastic networking event.

1

2

3

4

1) Heinrich Seul - Cream Group; Peir Lind - Pops Communications; John Casey - ANZCHAM Philippines. 2) Paul Gambles - MBMG Group; Andrew Duireux AustCham President, Coverage; Khun Bhada Dinhaphalin - Shangri-La Hotel; Brett Gannaway - AustCham. 3) Ian Webb - PeopleSearch Asia; Carolyn O’Neill - Modern Family Portraiture; Bruce Wunderlich - Business Management; Richard Jackson - Business Class. 4) Amelia Henty - Australian Embassy; Jim Middleton - Australia Network; Nicola Berkovic - The Australian; Mark Kenny - News Ltd. 5) Josh Hyland - AustCham; Rayner Simon - Oakwood Residence Thonglor Bangkok; Bonnie Thomack - ARV Offshore; Dennis W.Thomack - ARV Offshore. 6) Chris Thatcher - BCCT, Sutlet Group; Khun Achara Boonyahansa - AustCham

32

May 2010

AustChamThailand Advance

5

6

7

9

8

10

Director, Grant Thornton. 7) Khun Rungnapha Kaewduangsri - Santa Fe; Renita Bromley - GoIndustry DoveBid. 8) Khun Pimporn Subintramas - Fraser Hospitality; Wouter Banning - Fraser Hospitality. 9) Khun Tuangporn Sunetar - Crown Worldwide; Debbie Steel - Crown Worldwide; Khun Jurariat Jammanee - AustCham Director, HASSELL; Maurico D.Bromley - GoIndustry - DoveBid; Jennifer Saville - Australian Embassy. 10) Peter J. Meacock - LT Project Management; Thalia Andrews - LT Project Management; Leigh Scott - Kemmis - AustCham Director, DBM.

AustChamThailand Advance

May 2010

33

New Members and Members’ Changes

Corporate Ordinary Members A&S Thai Works Co., Ltd. (ASTW) 98/7 Theparak Rd., Bangsaothong Samutprakarn 10540 Tel: +66 2 313 1540 Fax: +66 2 313 1550 Email: astw@!ksc.th.com Website: www.fishmealmachine.com /

www.renderingmachine.com

Principal: Mr. Sverre Golten Alternate: Mr. Terry McKenna A&S Thai Works Co., Ltd. design, manufacture, install and service specializedmachinery and plants for the “rendering” industry, - meat and bone meal and tallow from by-products from abattoirs, - and fishmeal plants for fisheries and the seafood industry.

The company has two workshops in Samutprakarn specially designed for manufacture of heavy machinery.

Major markets are Australian and New Zealand for “rendering” plants, and Asia, Pacific and Middle East for fishmeal plants.

High priority is to develop plants and equipment to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint.

Four Points by Sheraton Bangkok Sukhumvit 15 Pre-Opening Office: 75/36-37 Ocean Tower 2, 21st Floor Sukhumvit 19, Sukhumvit Road Klongtoey-Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2 646 7781 Fax: +66 2 646 7778 Website: www.fourpoints.com/

bangkoksukhumvit15

Principal: Ms. Janet McNab Alternate: Ms. Janine Louise Watton Welcome to the Four Points by Sheraton Bangkok, Sukhumvit 15. Enjoy our convenient location in the popular and trendy Sukhumvit area, and while here,

34

May 2010

head out for some great shopping and nightlife. The business areas of Silom and Sathorn roads are close by and Asok Bangkok sky train station is within five miniutes walking distance. Come and get to know us, and we’ll help you make the most of your time in one of Asia’s most exciting cities.

Four Points has what you’re looking for.

Each of our 268 guest rooms or suites have high speed internet, the super comfortable Four Points by Sheraton Four Comfort bed, free bottled water, plus there’s free WI-FI in the lobby.

Treat yourself with our restaurant, bar and lounge or spend some quality time in our lobby family area. Work up a sweat in the gym then cool down with a few laps in our refreshing outdoor pool.

Our rooftop offers a chance to loosen up with a treatment in our massage hut, or let the kids have fun in their dedicated children’s play zone. You deserve it. Our Business Center will make it easy for you to finish your work and get back to the fun stuff in no time.

Mainstay Property Solutions Ltd. 116-118 Soi Ramkhanhaeng 60/4 Ramkhamhaeng Road Huamark, Bangkapi, Bangkok 10240 Tel: +66 2 735 6823-5 Fax: +66 2 735 6826 Email: jbottomley@mps-fs.com Website: www.mps-fs.com

thinking organisation; seeking to bring tailored, innovative and customer focused approaches to the provision of property and facility services throughout South East Asia.

Together with our sister companies IAQ www.iaq-technologies.com and Multistack Thailand www. multistackthailand.com MPS can offer a wide and varied range of cost effective solutions, seeking common-sense approaches to add value to our range of services throughout our day to day operations.

MPS always remains mindful of our environmental impact so utilises wherever possible suppliers who are like minded ensuring that any equipment and consumables utilised in our operations have no harmful effects in the environment.

Phachara Suites 22 Sukhumvit Soi 6, Klongtoey Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2 262 9999 Fax: +66 2 262 9800 Email: sales@phacharasuites.com Website: www.phacharasuites.com

Principal: Ms. Majinder Kaur Alternate: Ms. Suwanna Keeratibunchorn

Principal: Mr. Jim Bottomley Alternate: Khun Butsarin Chai

Phachara Suites, a gold standard serviced residence is located in vibrant Sukhumvit. Phachara Suites will provide seamless comfort and convenience to executives or holidaymakers whether on extended stay, short term or daily stay.

MPS directors and senior management have a combined wealth of knowledge and experience in the provision of property and facilities solutions totalling over 175 years working in Europe, Australia and Asia, including Thailand.

Thoughtful services and amenities including a swimming pool, gym, spa, cafe, outdoor terrace, business centre services, meeting facilities and an internet corner will ensure that daily needs of guests are fully met.

Many of the current management team have held senior positions within leading services organisations such as PCS, ISS, Compass Services, G4S and Spotless Services. Based upon this MPS has been created as a forward

Located from the 4th floor right up to the 17th floor, the 194 units of apartments range from studios to Bedroom Premiers and equipped with modern comforts such as spacious apartments, full kitchens, dedicated

AustChamThailand Advance

New Members and Members’ Changes

work and lounge areas, walk-in closets and the comforts of home with technology used to full advantage.

Located on Soi 6 between Sukhumvit Soi 4 and 8, Phachara Suites is accessible via Rama 4 as well as Sukhumvit Road. Moving around is a breeze with Nana Skytrain within a minute walking distance. With shopping, grocery markets, F&B, nightlife, Convention centres and hospitals in close proximity, Phachara Suites will be the discerning choice for executives, holidaymakers and even relocating executives on extended stays.

Principal: Khun Nita Law Alternate: Ms. Diane Blackmon Thai Property Guide.Com Co., Ltd. (CPM) is a well-established Bangkok Real Estate Agency active in Thailand since 1987.

We have been dedicated to serving the Expatriate Community for the best Bangkok property over 23 years. One of our working policies is to serve our, as the “Expatriate-housing department” would do to their own people.

Individual Ordinary Member

Thai PropertyGuide.com Co., Ltd. 9/52 Pattanavej Soi 12 Sukhumvit 71 Road, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2 382 1641 Fax: +66 2 715 3652 Email: consult@thaipropertyguide.com Website: www.thaipropertyguide.com

Mr. Robert Hagan 430/27 Soi Aruno Thai Pattaya, Chonburi 20216 Tel: +66 38 377 564 Email: roberthagan4215@hotmail.com Change of Company Address ISM Technology Recruitment Ltd.

has changed the building name as the following: 25th Floor, Unit B, PASO Tower 88 Silom Road, Suriyawongse, Bangrak Tel: +66 2 634 3800 Fax: +66 2 634 3799 Change of Representative Mr. Cramer Ball, Regional General Manager Asia Pacific South and Australasia is a new representative of Etihad Airways.

Mr. Joshua Lee, Director of Sales & Marketing is a new representative of Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit.

Mr. Siripong Silpakul, Managing Partner is a new representative of Baker & McKenzie.

Mr. Christoph Knichel, General Manager is a new representative of Pathumwan Princess Hotel.

Mr. David Pollock, Executive Recruitment Manager is a new representative of PRTR Recruitment and Outsourcing (Eastern Seaboard) Co., Ltd.

Corporate Sponsors 2010 GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

AustChamThailand Advance

May 2010

35

Members’ offers

AETAS Opening Promotions on May 16 at “The AETAS bangkok” a stylish and exclusive new hotel in central location offering Baht 2,750 per night (including ABF and internet) for Superior Room and upgradable to Deluxe room when staying at least three consecutive nights and please be offered 20% discount on Food and Beverage at MOMENTS restaurant and PAUSE lobby bar.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call +66 2 618 9000 or email: contact@ aetashotels.com Above offers valid from May 16 until August 31, 2010

Amari Orchid Pattaya From now until the 31 May, enjoy the ‘Sun Lovers’ Package including an unforgettable 2-hour massage by professional therapists, a honey body scrub and wrap.

Priced at Baht 2,499 single and Baht 4,499 double; take time out for yourself, you deserve it!

Call for details and reservations on 038 418 418

AusWa Thai AustCham members can get their profiles including company logo, link to their website and an extract of their company details registered at Longdo Map Thailand for FREE! To receive full details of this offer, please email freeaustchammem-map@austhai.biz.

Baan Laksasubha Baan Laksasubha at Hua Hin is delighted to offer readers two nights stay in the Garden Veranda for only Baht 7,000. Set in plush landscaped gardens, spacious guestrooms are ideal for a romantic getaway or weekend retreat with the family.

Enjoy dining at our Costanera Beach Restaurant & Tapas Bar which overlooks a private beach and serves a variety of culinary delights. To book this offer, kindly email rsvn@baanlaksasubha.com or contact us on 032 514 525-31 and quote ACOO1.

Coverage SARS, Tsunami, Bird Flu, Coup, Swine Flu, Riots - what’s the next X for Thailand? What’s next for your business? Are you prepared? Coverage knows and understands all parts of your business and can help provide a plan, training and exercise for you and your staff in English and Thai. Andrew is offering a 20% discount for all AustCham members. Call 02 261 8485.

Emirates Fly Emirates and enjoy 10% discount on all fares as an esteemed member of the Australian Chamber of commerce. Be privy to a choice of over 100 destinations worldwide and enjoy our award-winning service. We also offer our First and Business Class customers a complimentary personal airport transfer in a chauffeur-driven car at selected airports. This offer is valid for bookings made by 30 November 2010 when you quote the promotional code: THEMBZY * Mile restrictions apply

Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa The exclusive “Escape Romance” package from Hua Hin

Marriott Resort & Spa is specially designed to satisfy couples searching for romantic weekend getaways or a divine honeymoon destination. We have a range of special rates on our Deluxe Garden or Sea View rooms available. Included is a room service delicious breakfast plus a bottle of premium Moet Chandon to give your break an added sparkle! Garden View rates from Baht 6,900 and Deluxe Sea View rates from Baht 7,800 per night. For special room rates call at +66 2 477 0755 or email at reservemarriott@minornet.com

Novotel on Siam Square Thais and expats can take advantage with our exclusive “Local Advantage Package”, available until 15 December.

Enjoy, free Hi-Speed WiFi Internet connection in all rooms, free entry to Concept CM2, and free use of Fitness Centre. Baht 3,150 is inclusive of breakfast whilst Baht 2,700 is not. Bookings can be made at 02 209 8888.

Novotel Suvarnabhumi From now until 31 May, Chef Murray Paterson is making classic Italian dishes for the Italian Flavour Buffet Dinner: Availiable from 18:30 until 20:00 everyday. The price is Baht 850 per person. For more information or to make a reservation, please call 02 131 1111 ext. 1750 or email: Coordinator_FB@novotelsuvarnabhumi.com

Samitivej We keep our medical expenses down while keeping our high quality standard up. For a vast range of Plastic Surgery, Women’s Health and Wellness Check Up services, please contact us at info@samitivej.co.th.

Siam Ocean World Siam Ocan World will take you and your family into the mythical underwater realm of fabulous creatures from celebrated Thai fables, folklore and literature. See an electrifying drama on stage as Sudsakorn, the boy-hero defeats ‘NilMangkorn’, the Black-Sapphire Dragon-Horse.

Watch the Amazin g Underwater Creatures performance in a Giant tank – a uniquely Thai cultural experience. Until 16 May you will receive a discount of Baht 100 on your entry fee when you visit before noon.

Sukhothai Sukhothai offers you a 90 minute massage using a range of Thai herbs, Thai white mud and virgin coconut oil to stimulate energy and relieve tension.

The package is priced at Baht 3,900 for one person and Baht 7,000 for two people. For information or reservations email to: promotions@sukhothai.com

Westin Grande Sukhumvit The Sensory Meeting Package includes complimentary refreshments, a gourmet buffet lunch the sensory meeting room ‘Taste’ from 8:00am until 5:00pm and much more.

The package is valued at Baht 1,300 for a full day and Baht 1,100 for half a day per person. For further information, please contact 02 207 8000

Please note, all details are subject to change, please contact respective businesses directly for latest details.

36

May 2010

AustChamThailand Advance

The 8th Volvo Truck & Bus Thailand Convoy for Kids Charity Golf Day at Laem Chabang Golf and Country Club on Friday 4th June 2010.

Registration at 1030H - Shotgun start at 1230H. Proudly supported by

Fee for the day, 15,000 Baht for a team of 4 players or 3750 Baht per player.

Price includes green fee, buggy & evening meal.

Scoring format 4 ball scramble - modified preoria.

How to get there?

For a map and instructions visit the course site at www.laemchabanggolf.com Alternatively visit the Convoy for Kids web site at www.convoyforkids.com We thank Volvo Truck and Bus Thailand for their continued support for this fun event which raises funds to help handicapped children in Thailand.

We do hope you can join us !

Yes, the prize on offer for a hole in one is a brand new Chevrolet AVEO. Thanks to Chevrolet Sales (Thailand) Co., Ltd. for their generous sponsorship.

Be in the running for this prize by joining our golf day.

Help us by being an event sponsor See benefits below Gold 50,000 Baht

Silver 25,000 Baht

Hole sponsor 12,000 Baht

Tournament fees for 2 players.

Hole naming rights and your Tournament fees for 4 players. company banners at hole.

Company logo on event polo shirt. Company logo on event golf cap.

Hole naming rights and your Company brochure in hand out Display stand at registration desk company banners at hole. bag. and restaurant.

Company brochure in hand out Company logo on Convoy web Hole naming rights and your bag. site. company banners at hole.

Company logo on stage bannner.

Company brochure in hand out lls, Company logo on Convoy web bag. olf ba g , s p site. k sto Company logo on stage bannner. , drin s d n Company logo on Convoy web sta . r food o f rizes site. e aw p r lcom d e y w k om om also ids.c & luc e k r l r ids.c a a o k f c s r i y r o n o f o h v y s Tec nvo .con Spon www fo@co ags & n b i e f t l y i o d s g l eb goo emai Charity Golf day 2010 See w

From the Chamber Office

Message from the ED

W

elcome back and I trust that you all enjoyed the time off during the Songkran/Easter break. As we enter the new Thai year, the Chamber is as busy as ever planning and organising many activities and events for the remainder of the year.

Calendar of Events MONDAY, 3 MAY

The AustCham Office will be closed in lieu of Labor Day WEDNESDAY, 5 MAY

The first golf day on the 2010 calendar is the 8th annual Convoy for Kids Charity Golf Day. This year it will be held on Friday, 4 June 2010 at the Laem Chabang Golf and Country Club. The day’s events will begin with a shot gun start at 12.30pm (registration opening from 10.30am) and as always promises to be a great day of golf with proceeds going to a very worthy charity. For registration and further details please visit the CFK website www.convoyforkids.com.

The Chamber is doing its usual hard work to prepare a selection of events that will provide you with interesting business updates as well as good networking opportunities. AustCham also conducts a number of Sundowners in various locations within Thailand. If you would like to extend your networks and meet new contacts from the Eastern Seaboard, Phuket or Chiang Mai please see details below along with the following important dates: • Luncheon, with Steve Douglas, Co-founder and Managing Director of Australian Taxation Services (ATS): Australian Budget Review 2010 – Monday, 17 May 2010; • Luncheon, with Jean-Francois Cousin on “Tools and Tips to Succeed as a Leader Through the… Next Crisis”, Wednesday 27 May 2010; • Chiang Mai Sundowners – the first of two scheduled Sundowners in Chiang Mai will be held at U-Chiang Mai on Friday, 21 May 2009. Why not plan a weekend in Chiang Mai and kick it off with Chiang Mai Sundowners;

The AustCham Office will be closed in lieu of Coronation Day Wednesday, 12 May Bangkok Sundowners

18:00 – 21:00 Venue: Pathumwan Princess Hotel • Phuket Sundowners – the second of three scheduled Sundowners in Phuket will be held at on Friday, 30 July 2010.The July event will be preceded by a short seminar and business matching session within the marine and boating industries. If you have the opportunity to join Sundowners or are interested in participating in the seminar/business matching before hand, please do not hesitate to contact me directly; • AustCham Thailand Business Awards 2009 – gala black tie dinner on Friday 27 August 2010. Time to apply for one of the prestigious awards or nominate a company you know. The simplified, easy to fill in application forms can be downloaded from our website.

As always I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Brett Gannaway Executive Director, AustCham Thailand www.austchamthailand.com

Thank you to all April sponsors

38

May 2010

MONDAY, 17 MAY Luncheon Meeting

2010 Budget Review 12.00 – 14.00 Venue: The Westin Grand Guest Speaker: Stuart Douglas Wednesday, 19 May Thai Australian Alumni Event

18:00 – 21:00 Venue: TBA Friday, 21 May

Chiang Mai Sundowners 18:00 – 21:00 Venue: U Chiang Mai Saturday, 22 May

Voluntary English Teaching 8:00 departure – 15:00 return Venue: Baan Khao Huay Mahad School TUESDAY, 25 MAY Luncheon Meeting

Tools and Tips to Succeed as a Leader Through… The Next Crisis 12.00 – 14.00 Venue: The Grand Hyatt Guest Speaker: Jean-Francois Cousin, 1-2 WIN Co., Ltd. FRIDAY, 28 MAY

The AustCham Office will be closed in lieu of Visakha Bucha Day

AustChamThailand Advance

Everybody’s Talking About...

Come and find out why Shrewsbury International School, Bangkok, provides outstanding educational opportunities in a unique riverside setting for children age 3 to 18.

Your child’s learning journey begins here.

Book your school visit now by calling Bonnie Sauder on 02 675 1888 ext 1110 or email bonnie.s@shrewsbury.ac.th w w w . s h r e w s b u r y. a c . t h