ADVANCE ~ December 2010

AustChamThailand

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

Big Ride for Thai Medical Aid In This Edition:

A New Study on Benefits of Services Trade Reform

business brief CEO Talk: “Investment Climate Update”

6

AustChamThailand Advance

embassy news Australian Embassy Helps ‘Clean Up’ Bangkok

12

community services Hands Together for Helping Hands

20

chamber events AustCham Executive Director on Thai-Oz Talk with Jaye Walton

27

December 2010

1

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

Driving you to excellence.

A unique private banking experience.

True wealth management is about more than just risk and reward. It’s about mastery; combining expert technical knowledge with skilful technique.

By understanding our clients’ individual needs, ANZ Private Bank is uniquely placed to offer personalised financial solutions backed by trusted advice, superior service, access and connectivity to some of the fastest growing regions in the world. One of only 11 AA rated banks1 in the world, ANZ Private Bank offers clients the invaluable comfort of banking with one of the worlds safest banks.

ANZ Private Bank is also well placed to serve the holistic personal wealth and business needs of our clients through collaboration with our corporate and commercial counterparts.

To arrange an introductory conversation, please contact Jens Mansson on: Tel: +65 6216 1146 or +65 6539 8000 or Email: privatebanksg@anz.com.

ANZ Private Bank is committed to enriching your world. We look forward to helping you drive for excellence.

AA long-term credit rating, Standard & Poors, as at September 2009.

1

Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (‘ANZ’) Hong Kong and Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (‘ANZ’) Singapore are branches of Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited ABN 11 005 357 522. Regulated by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and Securities and Futures Commission in Hong Kong and the Monetary Authority of Singapore in Singapore. Products and services listed are indicative only. Terms and Conditions, fees, charges and eligibility criteria apply. Nothing herein shall constitute a solicitation to buy or subscribe for any security, financial instrument or investment. This material does not take intoaccount your personal investment objective, financial situation, risk profile or needs..

Contents Business brief 6 CEO Talk: Investment

Climate Update 10 Australian Ambassador Welcomes a New Study on Benefits of Services Trade Reform

PATRON His Excellency James Wise Australian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Thailand PRESIDENT Andrew Durieux Coverage Portfolio: Regional Links

embassy news 12 Australian Embassy Helps ‘Clean Up’ Bangkok 13 Clean Up the World

member’s news 16 Doctors’ and Friends’ Big Ride for Thai Medical Aid

VICE-PRESIDENTS John Anderson Meinhardt Portfolio: Community Services

12

M.L. Laksasubha Kridakon Baan Laksasubha Resort Hua Hin Portfolio: Alumni and Sponsorship TREASURER Nigel McKinnon Boral Thailand Portfolio: Treasury DIRECTORS David Armstrong Post Publishing Portfolio: Talks and Issues Achara Boonyahansa Grant Thornton Portfolio: Marketing

16 COMMUNITY SERVICES 17 Voluntary English Teaching at Baan Khao Hauy Mahad School, on Saturday, 13 November 20 Hands Together for Helping Hands

australian alumni 22 Bringing Together Valuable Thai Resources Lent to Australia

Member’s News 24 Real Men Do It Outdoors!

chamber Events 26 Eastern Sea Board Sundowners at Royal Cliff on 12 November 2010

28 27 AustCham Executive Director on Thai-Oz Talk with Jaye Walton 28 Bangkok Sundowners on 3 November 2010 at Pullman King Power Bangkok

Amanda Canavan Energi Design Asia Portfolio: Major Events Jurairat Jammanee HASSELL Portfolio: Alumni and Sponsorship Leigh Scott-Kemmis DBM Portfolio: SME Belinda Skinner TopTalentAsia Portfolio: Communications

NEW MEMBERS 30 AustCham’s New Members and Changes of Member Companies

Ben Yong Baker & McKenzie Portfolio: Joint Foreign Chamber of Commerce Thailand, Board of Trade and Other Links

Members’ offers 32 Members’ Festive Season Offers 33 AustCham Members’ Offers

Saeed Zaki dwp Portfolio: Member Benefits

From the Chamber Office 34 Message from the ED

Ex Officio Maurine Lam Trade Commissioner, Austrade

v

From the Board

COORDINATORS Paul Whyte ESB Coordinator Email: esb@austchamthailand.com Paul Wilkinson AGS Four Winds International Moving ESB Coordinator Email: esb@austchamthailand.com 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

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

Festive Cheer?

B

y now you will be well into the annual “silly season” festivities.

They seem to start early here in the land of the smiles.

I still am not sure about the use of the Christmas decorations in a Buddhist country but it sure conjures some happy memories for our many AustCham Members and their families. It will hopefully also be good for the economy, given the events of the past few years.

Along the strange use of Christmas decorations are a number of curious events here in Thailand. It seems very odd to me that when a video showing judges discussing the outcome of an important case is leaked, the only follow up is discussion of how to punish the leaker – rather than any discussion of how to punish the judges. This is but one of many events involving the courts recently. It is also strange that groups of protesters are still gathering from time to time, despite the continued ban on political gatherings.

I am sure all Members agree it would be great if the various factions and groups could get on with managing the economy and country for the benefit of all Thais, foreign residents, investors and tourists.

Nearby, of course, we have ended the year on a positive note with Myanmar’s long detained prisoner Aung San Suu Kyi finally being released. Our neighbour still needs a lot of change, but watch out when they do.

Let’s take a quick look back at the year from an AustCham perspective and then see what’s in store for next year: We started with the Braai, with our South African and Kiwi colleagues. Then we went onto the Australia Day Ball. Soon after that, we got the Bangkok Sundowners started. We continued onto the AGM, ANZAC Day, and the craziness of two AFL Grand Finals. Along the way, we’ve held more Sundowners in Bangkok, Phuket, the Eastern Seaboard and Chiang Mai than ever before.

Our Members have benefitted from a series of breakfasts, lunches and Key Issues dinners. Our Thai-Australia effort Alumni has also been steadily growing:

the latest news is that the Thai Australian Alumni Association has now merged with AustCham Alumni to become the Australian Alumni.

We have also welcomed and new Ambassador; His Excellency Mr James Wise, and farewelled Mr Paul Grigson, who went back to Canberra – and to a promotion.

This year’s Handbook is on its way and, of course, our Advance magazine has been delivered every month. Judging by comments, it is better received than ever.

Next year we have in mind more speakers and big improvements in our events – starting with the improved Australia Day Business Awards in January. This will be a new-look business awards, complete with a party and dancing after the awards ceremony.

We have also started our new electronic membership card which, when linked with our Advance membership offers page and our new Members’ offers web page, will become an excellent marketing and sales tool for our Members’ business benefit. We already have three Members finalising meaningful offers for other members. What can you provide?

Don’t forget that sponsorships for next year are available now, with corporate and event opportunities to suit all budgets and concepts.

Drive carefully after all the social activities, and if I don’t see you before the festive season, have a great holiday.

Andrew Durieux President, AustCham Thailand www.austchamthailand.com

December 2010

5

Business brief

CEO Talk:

Investment Climate Update By: David R. Nardone

A

calmer political atmosphere has returned in late 2010. No party has a clear mandate to enact new legislation or to give us even some insight into next year’s election. The economy is also noticeably better, employment is strong, and the buoyant stock market makes us feel good. Yet, populist policies for energy and a host of areas are continuing while infrastructure spending is not at the levels needed to increase the industrial and logistics competitiveness of Thailand.

Still GDP growth was 10% for the first six months of 2010. Automotive production unit growth of 97%, reflecting a strong local and export market, as well as total export value growth of 34% in the first seven months of 2010, is impressive and encouraging. The baht is strengthening; however, this partly reflects increased capital goods investment as well as higher purchases and restocking of raw materials.

As it has been discussed for some time, there is a consolidation of industrial capacity to developing markets in recognition of growth, cost, and capacity considerations. With the suspension of developed country cash for auto clun-

6

December 2010

kers, expiration of government loans or subsidies for excess labor, excess manufacturing capacity in developed countries with lower demand, as well as an imbalance of export production from high cost countries with strong currencies, this consolidation trend will continue to accelerate.

In Thailand, the industrial clusters now well established, particularly in automotive, are very strong and experiencing high growth due to both local and broad export demand as well as due to this international capacity consolidation.

The opportunity available for industrial investment, by local and multinationals, is at an inflection point for establishing long-term manufacturing success in Thailand. At Hemaraj Eastern Seaboard Industrial Estate, Ford Motor Company was welcomed earlier in 2010 with another manufacturing plant in Thailand in line with these trends.

The Thailand automotive policy should be to encourage increased sales of a reasonably priced broad based automotive product line with the latest fea-

tures including turbo-charging, direct injection, multi six or seven speed automatic transmissions, fuel choices, energy savings, and environmental emission technologies. This is the direction of the developed world with higher fuel prices and stricter emission laws and even China is embracing this. In Thailand today, we have inferior automotive products locally due to very high prices and out of date policies. Consuming and producing mainstream leading edge automotive products will be more competitive long term than trying to be a niche market player. Though the Thai Eco car is having some initial success, the Thai Eco volumes will be a fraction of the production coming out of India over the next decade.

After lengthy deliberations, the list of 11 industries requiring EHIA (Environmental Health Impact Assessment) approvals has been enacted with the courts now releasing 74 of the 76 projects under scrutiny. The EHIA public scoping process has begun, which takes some four to six months, thus industry needs to remain vigilant in order to ensure that

AustChamThailand Advance

Business brief

Permit approvals are forthcoming and based on reasonable attainable international standards while protecting the health and welfare of the communities.

So some normalcy has returned with the known laws and procedures for industrial requirements for doing business finally coming together.

Investors also have an expectation that there is a basic personal protection, the timely enforcement of rules of law and civil conduct, and that they can rely on these laws rights and protection for their family, property, and business. These areas were compromised in May of 2010 and need to be protected going forward.

The government declaration of the 10 May action as civil unrest and terrorism, rightly or wrongly, left most business uninsured and unable to recover even actual physical damages to their properties let alone business interruption.

And now this insurance is difficult and expensive to obtain. A practical solution would be for the Bank of Thailand going forward to act as a Re-insurance window for terrorism and civil unrest. This should be at normal developed country commercial terms and rates and given it could be widespread in the subscription, should not even lose money for the government. Otherwise property protection is going to be unaffordable for the majority of individuals and business and this will create further uncertainty.

The labor market has been tight for a number of years and tends to squeeze the sunset industries and not multinationals who have leading pay and benefit packages. There is room for increases in minimum wages as a tradeoff for lower personal and corporate income taxes as contemplated by the government, but it will hurt the service industries. A more formal part time work structure for students and younger workers would improve the labor availability.

Increases in productivity can best be achieved through increased research technology and particularly capital investment.

Investment promotion, for companies receiving Board of Investment (BOI) promotion, focuses on new investments, products and process. Yet auto plants retooling and other companies looking to automate 8

December 2010

routinely spend billions of baht and do not receive any incentive at all to make this re-investment or to continue this investment in Thailand either. An Investment tax credit, as well as a Research and Development tax credit should be considered for all companies, irrespective, though BOI promoted companies do have a program for technology enhancement called STI. This will ensure that increases in productivity and real wage growth will

be available over the coming years for the mutual benefit of business and their employees.

The Thai economy is surprisingly strong reflecting the seeds of industry developed over the last decades.

There are impressive manufacturing investments ongoing as well as immediate opportunities in a number of industrial sectors. Actions to enhance policies, infrastructure, productivity, and competitiveness can ensure a long-term sustainable growth and prosperity for Thailand going forward.

David R. Nardone, President and CEO, Hemaraj Land and Development Plc. is a world-class industrial estate and infrastructure developer in Thailand.

Key clusters in Hemaraj’s industrial estates consist of automotive, electronics, petrochemical, steel, consumer products and export.

Hemaraj also designs and develops turnkey SME Factories for rent and sale ranging from 500 to 7,500 sq. metres in Rayong, Chonburi and Saraburi, available in both general industrial zone and duty free zone. Currently, Hemaraj has land of over 31,300 rai or 13,000 acres with over 417 customers from all over the world. Their total investment in our six industrial estates is worth more than USD 19 billion.

AustChamThailand Advance

Business brief

Australian Ambassador Welcomes a New Study on Benefits of Services Trade Reform

A

ustralia’s Ambassador to Thailand, James Wise, has welcomed a new study highlighting the benefits of global services trade reform. The study was released recently by Australia’s Minister for Trade, Dr Craig Emerson.

The study entitled, Quantifying the Benefits of Services Trade Liberalisation, was prepared by an Australian research body, the Centre for International Economics. It shows that global services trade reform can lead to an annual gain

of up to AUD 116 billion (Baht 3.3 trillion) per year over 2011-25 for developed countries and AUD 238 billion (Baht 6.9 trillion) for developing countries.

‘The study is a valuable contribution to our understanding of the importance of services trade liberalisation to economic growth’ Mr. Wise said.

‘Australia strongly supports services trade liberalisation and is actively promoting the successful conclusion

to the World Trade Organization Doha round of negotiations. We also welcome the Thai Parliament’s recent decision to commence further negotiations on services under the Thailand-Australia Free Trade Agreement (TAFTA)’.

Thailand is currently Australia’s ninth largest trading partner with total bilateral trade valued at just over AUD 19 billion (Baht 551 billion). Bilateral trade in services accounts for approximately AUD 3.3 billion (Baht 95.7).

Services Trade Reform: Measuring the gains Harnessing the Benefits of Trade in Services Reform Increased trade in services – through open markets and non-discriminatory treatment of service suppliers and investors – can lead to higher employment, higher incomes, and higher standards of living for all.

New research on global services trade reform finds that reform could lead to an annual gain of up to AUD 116 billion per year over 2011-25 for developed countries and AUD 238 billion for developing countries. Open markets promote innovation and entrepreneurship, generate lower costs and higher quality, increase the pace of technology diffusion, and attract more foreign investment.

Developing countries gain more from services liberalisation than developed countries. Concluding the Doha Round – including a significant package of reforms to services – will make a real difference to growth and development.

Growing importance of services trade

The service sectors also drive employment growth. They now account for over 70% of employment in OECD economies.

The service sectors are an important and growing part of the global economy contributing over AUD 40 trillion to global Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

In Australia, the services sector comprises 73% – or AUD 810 billion – of economic activity. In the European Union, the world’s largest services market and services exporter, the services sectors

Our research report fi ndings support the need for an ambitious outcome on services as part of the Doha Round.

There are substantial potential gains for both developing countries and developed countries. The research shows that developing countries benefi t more from services trade liberalisation – supporting the Doha Development Agenda.

New Economic Modelling

Harnessing the benefits of trade in services reform

10

Increased December 2010

comprises 80% of GDP. In the US, the corresponding fi gure is 84%. For developing countries (low and middle income countries), the services sector constitutes 53% of GDP.

trade in services – through open markets and non-discriminatory treatment of service suppliers and investors – can lead to higher

AustChamThailand Advance

The service sectors are an important and growing part of the global economy contributing over $A40 trillion to global Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The service sectors also drive employment growth.

They now account for over 70 per cent of employment in OECD economies.

In Australia, the services sector comprises 73 per cent – or $A810 billion – of economic activity. In the European Union, the world’s largest services market and services exporter, the services sectors comprises 80 per cent of GDP. In the US, the corresponding figure is 84 per cent. For developing countries (low and middle income countries), the services sector constitutes 53 per cent of GDP.

Our research report findings support the need for an ambitious outcome on services as part of the Doha Business brief Round. There are substantial potential gains for both developing countries and developed countries. The research shows that developing countries benefit more from services trade liberalisation – supporting the Doha Development Agenda.

Contribution of Services to GDP 80 70 60 Services value added (% GDP)

50 40 30 20 Remaining OECD*

Australia

10

MIddle income

Low income

2008

2006

2004

2002

2000

1998

1996

1994

1992

1990

1988

1986

1984

1980

0

1982

Contribution of Services to GDP

Note: for country groupings see World Bank website: www.worldbank.org Data source: World Bank World Development Indicators online database and CIE estimations.

Economic Impacts of Global Services Trade Liberalisation

2011-25 for developed countries and AUD 238 billion for developing countries.

• The time profile of real GDP growth shows developing countries are expected to see a 0.9% gain on average to real GDP over the long term – while developed countries on average experience a 0.2% gain to GDP.

(FDI), restrictions on the recognition of professional qualifications, residency or local presence obligations, and limitations on the types of activities that can be undertaken by foreigners.

While the benefits of trade liberalisation generally are well documented, there has been less research into the particular impact of services trade liberalisation. The Australian Government About This Research commissioned the Centre for International Economics (CIE) to conduct an The economic value of service sectors independent assessment of the potenis not well understood. There is great tial economic gains arising from global potential to improve understanding of Obstacles to increasing trade in services trade liberalisation.

A key Impacts the gains from liberalisation of service servicesof Global Services Trade Liberalisation Economic assumption of the economic modelling trade and this report makes an impor• In present value (year 2010),in thethis cumulative While liberalisathe benefits of trade liberalisation scenario was the overnight Every countrygenerally has inare place an extensive tantterms contribution regard.

GDP gains over 2011 to 2025 are worth well documented, has been less into the tion of barriers to the delivery of servicestherenetwork of research behind-the-border requiretrillion to report, developedthe countries, particular impact trade overseas and services-related invest-of services ments forliberalisation. the supply of services,around some$A1.7For this Australian Centre for and $A3.6 trillion to developing countries. ment on 1 January 2011. The On Australian that basis, of which can have the effect of inhibiting International Economics (CIE) created a Government commissioned the Centre for • This equates new to an annual gain of model around that can simulate the main findings were: International Economicsservices trade.an independent economic (CIE) to conduct $A116 billion the per year over 2011-25 for developed impacts of services trade and serassessment of the potential economic gains arising from countries and $A238 billion for developing countries.

• In present value termsglobal (year 2010), Barriers to services include those vicesrelated investment liberalisation. services trade liberalisation.

• Thethat time profile of real GDP growth shows debate about the the cumulative GDP gains over 2011 domestic regulatory requirements It aims to help inform A key assumption of the economic modelling scenario are expected to see a 0.9 per to 2025 are worth around AUD 1.7 trilhinder or prevent market entrydeveloping and countries importance of the service sectors and cent gain on average to real GDP over the long term was the overnight liberalisation of barriers to the delivery of lion to developed countries, and AUD price competition between foreign and trade policy settings. services overseas and services-related investment on — while developed countries on average 3.6 trillion to developing countries. domestic service providers. Services 1 January 2011. On that basis, the main findings were: experience a 0.2 per cent gain to GDP. • This equates to an annual gain of barriers can comprise such policies as The full report is available free-of charge around AUD 116 billion per year over restrictions on Foreign Direct Investment online at: http://www.dfat.gov.au/trade a Real GDP gains arising from service trade liberalisation 2.0 1.6 Developing

0.8 0.4

a

2025

2024

2023

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

0.0

2010

Real GDP gain arising from servie trade liberalisation2

% deviation from baseline

Developed 1.2

Aggregate GDP impacts for the developed and developing country groupings have been derived from individual country results, aggregated using GDP weights.

Services trade liberalisation involves removal of barriers to services trade via Mode 1 and Mode 3, that is, Barriers to the Delivery of Services Overseas and Services-Related Investment.

Data source: CIE-GCubed modelling simulation.

AustChamThailand Advance

Obstacles to increasing trade in services Every country has in place an extensive network of behind-the-border requirements for the supply

December 2010 domestic service providers. Services barriers can comprise such policies as restrictions on

11

Embassy News

Australian Embassy Helps ‘Clean Up’ Bangkok

T

o mark Clean Up the World in 2010, the Australian Embassy, Bangkok recently teamed up with the Environment Office, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and Sathorn district to organise a workshop for residents of Soi Suanplu community and Embassy staff on how to effectively recycle garbage. The workshop was held at Eamla-or Vocational College in Soi Suanplu.

Presided over by Ambassador to Thailand, James Wise, and Deputy Director of the BMA’s Environment Office, Ms Pannee Ratanalapo, the event highlighted the benefits of garbage recycling and provided information about how to recycle in ways that could add

12

December 2010

more value to something that might have earlier been regarded as ‘waste’.

The BMA currently collects over 9,000 tonnes of garbage per day. This accounts for one fourth of the total amount of garbage collected nationwide. Although approximately 40% of the garbage in Thailand can be recycled, only 9% is done so.

Vilai Varodomsatarn, head of the cleaning officers from Sathorn District told over 150 workshop participants that, “If you take a little more time to separate plastic bottles according to thickness, colour and transparency, you can sell them at higher prices. For some materials that are non-recyclable such as

certain types of cans and plastic bags, you can creatively turn them into housewares, such as baskets, boxes, chairs, and so on,” she said.

Some of the best examples of creative products made from garbage were showcased in a mini-exhibition at the workshop venue.

“Here in Thailand, all staff at the embassy, myself very much included, are proud to have the privilege to live and work in Bangkok. We are, therefore, pleased to be able to contribute to looking after our neighbourhood area including Soi Suanplu where we live, walk, shop and eat at its many restaurants and food stalls,” said Australian Ambassador.

AustChamThailand Advance

embassy news

I

n 1987, an Australian solo-yachtsman and builder Ian Kiernan AO had a simple idea to make a difference in his own backyard – Sydney Harbour.

Ian competed in the BOC Challenge solo yacht race and as he sailed around-theworld he was shocked by the pollution he continually encountered in areas such as the Sargasso Sea in the Caribbean.

Having waited years to see the Sargasso’s legendary long golden weeds, Ian’s anticipation turned to anger and disappointment when he found them polluted and tangled with rubbish.

Ian recalled. “I can’t overstate the disappointment I felt when I found this sea of magic and myth littered with rubbish from discarded thongs, plastic buckets and disposable nappies, to toothpaste tubes and plastic bags.”

Once back in Sydney, Ian enlisted the help of friends and held Clean Up Sydney Harbour Day (1989) which motivated 40,000 volunteers to remove rusted car bodies, plastics of all kinds, glass bottles and cigarette butts from the harbour.

Ian and his committee believed that if a city could be mobilised to take action, then so could the whole nation. Almost 300,000 volunteers turned out on the first Clean Up Australia Day in 1990 and that involvement has steadily increased over the years.

The next step for Ian was to take the concept of Clean Up Australia Day to

AustChamThailand Advance

the rest of the world. After gaining the support of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Clean Up the World was launched in 1993. The uptake of Clean Up the World globally (an estimated 35 million people in over 120 countries now participate each year) has demonstrated that this simple Australian idea has universal appeal and the health of the environment is of concern to people worldwide.

few of the possible options that members can choose from. Information about Clean Up the World can be found at:

In 2010, Clean Up the World is encouraging and supporting members to take action at a local level to help address climate change under the theme “Communities caring for nature”

What is the Australian Government doing in tackle the challenge of climate change?

Energy conservation education programs, planting trees, walk to work days and waste reduction projects are just a

websites:www.cleanuptheworld.org and http://activities.cleanuptheworld.org email: info@cleanuptheworld.org Facebook: Clean Up the World Official Twitter: CleanUpTheWorld Blog: cleanuptheworld YouTube: cleanuptheworld

Investing in Clean Energy The Australian Government is investing more than AUD 5 billion (approximately

December 2010

13

Embassy News

Baht 145 billion) in developing and commercialising clean energy technologies which will be crucial for Australia’s efforts to reduce its carbon pollution emissions.

Australia has set a Renewable Energy Target of 20 per cent by 2020. This means that by 2020, one-fifth of Australia’s electricity will come from renewable sources such as wind, solar and geothermal power.

The Government is also supporting Australia’s car manufacturing industry

through the Green Car Innovation Fund.

The AUD 1.3 billion (approximately Baht 37.7 billion) fund will provide assistance over ten years to Australian companies to enhance the research, development and commercialisation of Australian technologies that significantly reduce the carbon pollution emissions of passenger motor vehicles.

Supporting business to take action The Australian Government is helping Australian businesses take action to reduce their emissions. For example,

Corporate Sponsors 2010 GOLD SPONSORS

through the Clean Business Australia program the Government is helping to increase the energy efficiency of Australia’s buildings and the manufacturing process of our industries, while also helping businesses commercialise products and services that address climate change.

To help businesses pay for energy efficiency improvements that will save time and money the Government is establishing the Australian Carbon Trust. The trust will bring together public and private funding, innovative business approaches and technical knowledge to help business and community groups invest in energy efficiency and reduce emissions.

The Government also recognises the importance of training Australians so they are ready to join the new clean industries and take up the new green-collar jobs of the future. Skills for the Carbon Challenge will help develop and trial training resources and qualifications that teach green skills and sustainability principles across a number of industries.

Supporting households to take action

SILVER SPONSORS

Australian households are directly responsible for about a fifth of Australia’s carbon pollution. The Government is investing in helping Australians change the way they act to help reduce carbon pollution. For example, the Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme (REBS) offers eligible Australian households: • A AUD1,000 rebate for a solar hot water system; or • A AUD600 rebate for a heat pump system.

BRONZE SPONSORS

The Green Loans Program is also helping households to ‘go green’ by providing home sustainability assessments that will help thousands of Australians to improve the energy and water efficiency of their homes, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The National Strategy on Energy Efficiency will also help Australians choose energy efficient appliances, homes and buildings, and make residential and commercial buildings more energy efficient.

Sources: Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency (www.climatechange.gov.au)

14

December 2010

AustChamThailand Advance

member News

Big

Doctors’ and Friends’ for Thai Medical Aid

Ride

Friday, 19 November. Should you wish to donate to this cause, please email admin@austchamthailand.com or contact the office directly.

They started at Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin at approximately 10.30, then headed south through Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ban Krut, Chumpon, Ranong, Khao Lak and onto Surin Beach in Phuket. Their plans were set so that they would arrive on Saturday, 27 November at around 17.00.

O

n 21 November, a group of Australian Medical Professionals and their friends began on a 600km bike ride over seven days from Hua Hin to Phuket. Half of the raised funds will be donated to those in need, in Hua Hin. The doctors are very much aware of the plight of the local people and feel they can contribute to improving their quality of life. The other half will go to AustCham’s Community Services, which will be undertaking some exciting new projects in 2011.

So far they have raised over $US15,000 (around Baht 450,000) with the prospect of more to come. The majority has come from the Doctors of The Mater Hospital Sydney with the rest being donated by St Vincent’s Mater Healthcare Sydney.

The Bangkok Hospital Group will match what they raise. AustCham promoted the event at Phuket Sundowners on

Fifteen people signed up for the Big Ride: Drs Peter Dodds, David Bollinger, Roger Levy, as well as Mark Donnelley and David Goodie who are anesthetists. Dr Enzo Lazarro is an urologist, Dr. Christine Castle is an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Andrew Lawson is a pain specialist and medical ethicist from Great Britain. Cathy Quinlan and Maree Ignativicus are nurses, Antony Bennett is the Director of a medical device company. Darcie Corsie and Karen Lancaster are company directors and Gavin Nelson is a senior executive in American Express.

They are very keen to work with the Bangkok Hospital Group and specifically Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin to provide support and better outcomes for Thai people.

The Advance publication will be finalised before the final results of the venture are known. However, we will include an update and some more photos in the January edition of Advance. For now, we wish them a safe and successful journey and hope that those who are able to support their cause will come together.

They have partnered with The Bangkok Hospital Group and AustCham to assist them in the ride. Donated money will be channelled through these two groups to ensure it goes to those that really need it.

16

December 2010

AustChamThailand Advance

community services

Voluntary English Teaching at Baan Khao Hauy Mahad School, on Saturday, 13 November Members of the AustCham Community Services Sub Committee joined in the monthly day of teaching at Baan Khao Huay Mahad School in Rayong in the month of November. In a lesson on body parts, children learned to sing the song Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes with a more difficult second verse for the older students including elbows, ankles, feet and seat!

AustCham would like to thank all those who gave up their time to participate with the kids as well as Bangkok Hospital which kindly donated their van to transport everyone down and back. For further details about the English teaching program, please contact: varin@austchamthailand.com

AustChamThailand Advance

December 2010

17

community services

Hands Together for Helping Hands

By Belinda Skinner

I

n 1992 the late Khun Sutipong Ittipong sat on the Chamber Committee (as it was then called) and proposed that we set up our own Community Services sub-committee to give something back to the country in which we all lived so well. He readily offered to lead that sub-committee and set about establishing its strategy and undertaking its first project, the provision of concrete water storage tanks to some schools in Kanchanaburi.

Several small projects followed and then, in 1996, an English teaching programme was established that still runs to this day in which once a month Chamber volunteers give up a day of their weekends to undertake English classes at schools in Kanchanaburi, Chonburi and Rayong provinces.

In 1997 Khun Sutipong initiated the first of what would become signature AustCham community service projects, the construction of a library building at Sai Yoke Yai School in Kanchanaburi province.

20

December 2010

Khun Sutipong established the reputation of AustCham for its commitment to community services and projects aimed at bringing together expatriate and Thai members to give something back to people less fortunate.

In 2006 two enthusiastic volunteers, Tricia Balmer and Kevina Stewart, joined Khun Sutipong on the Community Services Sub-committee and together lead some very ambitious projects.

They approached every task whole heartedly, giving up much time to see the completion of these numerous and commendable causes. They paid very close attention to the projects and provided much more coordination effort than most could imagine. Projects included construction of a bakery and kindergarten as well as donation of school equipment, installation of water filtration systems and English teaching programs.

With a teaching background, Tricia and Kevina put their skills and knowledge into redesigning the English teaching program. They developed a curriculum simple enough to enable volunteers who

attended to teach to the students, yet challenging enough to make the lessons interesting for the children.

Anyone who has met Kevina or Tricia through Community Services will not have only sensed their genuine care for others, but recognised their impressive capacity to synchronise many operations to complete projects that will continue to provide happiness now, and for many years to come.

Sadly Kevina will be leaving Bangkok as of next year. We wish her, and her husband Phil, all the best at their new post.

As for Tricia, she has decided to step down from the Community Services Subcommittee together with her husband, Brian, who has also devotedly given his time, passion and enthusiasm to many of these projects.

We are extremely grateful to them and for their commitment and fervour, and AustCham is sincerely appreciative.

And thank you to all of you who have helped us accomplish these tasks.

AustChamThailand Advance

community services

AustChamThailand Advance

December 2010

21

australian alumni

Bringing Together Valuable Thai Resources Lent to Australia

By Josh Hyland

A

ustCham Alumni and Thai Australian Association recently joined forces to form Australian Alumni. This year the group has worked hard on its vision and direction which has been reciprocated by many interested in joining and supporting the new alumni group.

The Australian Alumni group aims to be the focal point of business, social and cultural networking for Thai-Australian alumni and to facilitate contact between alumni, AustCham members and TAA associates.

Co-operating with various educational institutions, including Australian universities, Australian Alumni has put on some impressive networking events, including one on the iPad with dtac and ISM technology experts and another on Project Management Certification by PMP. With the support of such hotels as Swissotel, Four Seasons and Siam@Siam, attendees have enjoyed first class venues with outstanding food for only Baht 200.

Sponsors, such as V Australia and Grand Monte, have also helped Australian Alumni, with organisers of the annual International Balloon Festival, Earth, Wind and Fire, to co-coordinate the group’s major end-of-year event. This month, Australia Alumni will be holding a hilltop barbeque at Nakhon Nayok during the International balloon festival. The festival includes a host of extreme sports and activities, including car drifting, rock climbing and fireworks.

In October, Australian Alumni adopted a new logo, combining important icons and colors from both Australia and Thailand.

Their facebook page has also taken off as an effective way to spread news, as well as sharing photos and contacts.

Another important upcoming initiative is online Alumni Membership Cards. By entering a username and password, Australian Alumni members will receive a membership card with their photograph and basic details. This card, which can be displayed on any mobile phone with internet access, will enable holders to claim offers given by members of both AustCham and TAA. Siam Ocean World has already offered Australian Alumni members a discount on entry fees when they show their cards.

Aside from this, an internship program for Thai students is currently being considered as well as new and exciting events for 2011.

Membership has grown to more than 250 this year. Much of this year’s success and progress is a result of the driving force behind the group. The Alumni sub-committee is comprised of

22

December 2010

a strong team; consisting of AustCham and TAA representatives, Australian university alumni directors and Thai-Australian alumni.

Here’s what some key people involved in Australian Alumni had to say on some key issues: M.L. Laksashubha Kridakon – AustCham Vice President and Director of Australian Alumni Having studied and spent much of my life in Australia, I have strong roots both there and in Thailand, as well as a passion for seeing relationships built between the two, for both business and cultural exchange. Having two children of my own studying at RMIT, Monash and Melbourne University, I am very keen to see opportunities created for them and all Thai Alumni. I have personally found that social interaction with other Thais who can relate also made many friends this way. I believe that so much good can achieved by nurturing the development of Thai students returning to Thailand as well as by utilising knowledge of Thai Alumni who have already established themselves professionally. I’m excited to see the strengthening their future will also strengthen AustCham in return, as they grow and develop into the driving force behind the Chamber and its goals to improve business relations between Australia and Thailand.

AustChamThailand Advance

australian alumni

Khun Charn Saralertsophon – TAA President Thai Alumni Association is comprised of people who have studied under Australian standards over a broad scope of fields. They possess not only the educational background but also the cultural understanding

AustChamThailand Advance

AustCham Alumni is an excellent channel for young current and future graduates to get involved. It is a door of many great opportunities – from networking, to community service projects, to job experience. Transitioning from university to the real world can be difficult, but the Alumni Group can assist you with just that and more.

For more details of Australian Alumni, contact: intira@austchamthialand.com and join us on facebook.

Australian Alumni BBQ Saturday, 4 December 2010 18.00 hours onwards

AustCham Thailand and Thai-Australian Alumni are delighted to invite you and your family to our traditional Aussie style BBQ which will be held during the "Thailand International Balloon and Elements Sports Festival 2010". Held in Nakhon Nayok the International Balloon Festival is four days of sport, excitement, fresh air and fun with highlights including the Balloon Night Glow, Car Drifting Show, Balloon Rides, Fireworks and live entertainment.

On the night of Saturday, 4 December from 6pm, come and join AustCham and friends for an Aussie BBQ under the stars. As with Sundowners and our gala events, there will be drinks throughout the evening. Food will include a sausage sizzle with heaps of snags, rolls, lamb on the spit and salads for the non-meat lovers.

For more details about activities at the International Balloon festival, go to: www.thailandballoonfestival.com

TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT AUSTCHAM OFFICE! Family Ticket : 2,500 Baht (for 2 adults and 2 children) Adult Ticket : 1,300 Baht Children Ticket : 500 Baht (3-12 years old), children under 3 years of age Free * Each ticket includes 5 drink coupons.

Optional: Special Package “Family ticket plus accommodation 4,000 baht” OR 1 Night Accommodation at 1,500 baht per room (Standard room include BF) Extra: Transportation at 1,000 Baht / person / trip

in the ru

Andrew Durieux – AustCham President AustCham supports Australian and Thai business in Thailand, and assists new Australian investors coming into the Thai environment. Many of our existing and new members are looking for employees that understand Australian culture, have good English skills and Australian qualifications. Australian Alumni is an excellent recourse for these companies. Australian Alumni is also an great starting point for all who join. Older Alumni who have been studying in Australia since the 1950’s, have a wealth of experience that recent graduates can benefit from. Having the Alumni group closely linked with AustCham becomes a natural working relationship that will benefit AustCham members as well as the Alumni.

Khun Ratcha Erpaiboon – Australian Alumni Member, student at University of Melbourne AustCham Alumni is an excellent channel for young current and future graduates to get involved. It is a door of many great opportunities – from networking to community service to job experience. Transitioning from university to the real world can be difficult, but the Alumni Group can assist you with just that and more.

Sponsored By:

o

Dr.Salinee Antarasena – 2009 winner of the Young Australian Alumni Award How has receiving this award changed your life or broadened your opportunities? Before the award, my life merely played simple rhythmic patterns, like a piano song without the black keys: Although it was so carefully composed so that each note flew smoothly onto the next, it sent out only a simple melody. After the award, my life has gone beyond the unending row of white keys, and even allowed me from time to time to play particular notes that emphasise my own rhythmic accents.

My research focus, for instance, first came about by my own curiosity – like many others, it existed in a purely scholarly world. Following the Young Alumni Awards, however, it developed more practical benefits which in the past year have not only challenged the scholarly settings but also highlighted its findings in health services for every person. Unlike the white keyboard with 36 black keys the number of extremely influential contacts I have made is greater than 36. The number of those I have come into contact with after the award, and I feel grateful to, is greater than 36, half of which go to people from Austcham and Australian Embassy Bangkok.

that would be highly valuable for any company. TAA is delighted to collaborate with AustCham to benefit both companies based in Thailand as well as Australian Alumni by setting up recruitment and business networking opportunities between them.

n

g

to

g

n

wi n to ng ni 4 Burner “Downunder” barbecue value at 20,000 baht from the Barbecue Store

TWo complimentary hot air balloon tickets valued at 200,000 baht from Earth, Wind and Please note this event is for AustCham, TAA, and Australian Alumni members only.

Fire Com ea lo

John Hancock – AustCham founder and past president, former Committee Member of Thai Australian Association, member of Executive Board of Australian Studies Center, member of the Board of the AustraliaThailand Institute, member of the Alumni Advisory Committee of the University of Adelaide Australian alumni are the greatest and most under-utilised resource of Australia in Thailand. There is a huge reserve of goodwill towards Australia amongst those alumni and a readiness to engage and assist in all aspects of Australian activity in and with Thailand. All that has to be done to unlock this resource this is to actively, meaningfully and on a broad front, reach out, recognise and engage those alumni.

For more information of sponsorship opportunities or bookings please contact Tel: +66 2 210 0216 or email: intira@austchamthailand.com

December 2010

23

member’s news

Real Men Do It Outdoors!

I

t’s actually the title of a fabulous Aussie barbecue cookbook, but we thought we’d catch your eye, as the perfect excuse to fire up the barbie is just around the corner! Whilst the typical Christmas scene is dusted heavily with snow, with people rugged-up around the fireplace, this is not the way Australia does it! In temperatures often in the range of mid 30 degree Celsius, Christmas is held outdoors, in thongs and singlets. Most Australians will agree that the best Christmas lunch

Prep: 5 minutes Cook: 80+minutes Serves: 4-5 1.8 kg chicken 1 can of beer 1 tablespoon oil Black pepper Spring onions, garlic

use of previously ignored herbs and spices, preference to include plenty of vegetables and fruit, and some truly creative ways of cooking meat such as roasting your chook with an open can of beer in the cavity, or smoking your ham instead of serving it straight from the packaging.

Fortunately for Aussies, Thailand shares a similar hot climate during Christmas (and the rest of the year actually), meaning that your typical Australian

Trading in Thailand since 1998, The Barbecue Store imports, wholesales and retails award winning premium barbecue grills and accessories, manufactured to the highest quality and safety standards. Products are sourced directly from the manufacturers.

Showrooms are located in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Samui, Hua Hin and Chiang Mai. There are Agents in other locations and the company will deliver to all parts of Thailand.

• • • •

Wash the chook inside and out and pat dry with a paper towel.

Rub the skin with oil and season with black pepper.

Open the beer can and consume half, insert the beer can into the chooks cavity.

Pre heat the BBQ to 200. Then using only the external burners on the barbeque at “medium” to create indirect heat, place the well balanced chook upright in the middle of the cooking surface and close the hood.

• Leave to cook as the beer boils to infuse flavour to the chook.

Tips: During preparation add spring onions and garlic to the beer can for flavour.

Don’t let your mates open the hood for a bit of a laugh, as heat will escape!

barbeque Christmas meal doesn’t have to be compromised. Meat and fresh seafood are of a fantastic quality and can be found at a reasonable price in Thai markets or supermarkets, whilst those imported necessities such as cranberry sauce and good quality cheeses are readily available in supermarkets across Thailand.

is a barbeque lunch accompanied by plenty of creative salads and icy cold beverages.

Barbeque cookery has evolved and can be as simple or sophisticated as you decide. From the early days of simple hamburgers, today’s recipes involve

24

December 2010

However as chicken is so popular in Thailand we thought you might enjoy an “easy to prepare” barbeque chicken recipe with an Aussie twist: Beer Can Chicken or “how to cook the chook” courtesy of The Barbecue Store Thailand. Beer Can Chicken is a spectacular sight to see. To open the hood of your BBQ and see a chicken standing up mounted on a beer can is something you don’t forget in a hurry!

The concept is actually very practical as the meat is kept moist. Must be cooked under a hooded or kettle barbecue.

The Barbecue Store is a past recipient of an AustCham Business Award and is the exclusive agent in Thailand for Barbecues Galore, Australia’s largest retailer and exporter of barbecues.

They can be contacted at: www. bbqthai.com

AustChamThailand Advance

Chamber Events

Eastern Sea Board Sundowners at Royal Cliff on 12 November 2010 AustCham held its November Eastern Seaboard event at the Royal Cliff Beach Resort for the first time. Thanks go to the resort for providing a superb location for networking as well as Cranes and Equipment for hosting the event.

Members had the opportunity to meet with Austrade and an Australian delegation from the Automotive Mission who were visiting. ESB Organiser, Paul Wilkinson also gave a cheque for 165,000 Baht to representatives from the Camillian Social Centre in Rayong at the event. The money was raised at the ESB Charity Golf Tournament in October, and will go towards making life better for children and families who are affected by HIV or AIDS.

2

1

3

5

4

6

7

8

From Left: 1) Ken Bright - Bosch Chassis Systems; Andy Hall - Cranes and Equiptment Asia. 2) Shreyash Shah - Royal Cliff Beach Resort; Elizabeth Dass Brown - Royal Cliff Beach Resort. 3) Rosanne Diamente - Women With a Mission; Khun Panga Vathanakul - Royal Cliff Beach Resort. 4) Thenisch Walter - Royal Cliff Beach Resort; Khun Joachim Grill - Royal Cliff Beach Resort. 5) Varadan Devanathan - Viseton; Morris Bromley - BCCT President; Karsten Thrane - Uti Worldwide. 6) Khun Wandee Piyachatsuwan - Dataconsult; Christopher Bruton - Dataconsult. 7) Holly Claeys - Royal Cliff Beach Resort; Ranjith Chandrasiri - Royal Cliff Beach Resort; Khun Rossukone Pavalee - Holiday Inn Pattaya. 8) Father Peter - Camillian Social Centre; Marco Palestrini - Cammilian Socail Centre; Paul Wilkinson - AGS Four Winds; Kevin Fisher - Cranes and Equipment Asia: John Anderson - AustCham Vice President, Meinhardt; Ranjith Chandrasiri - Royal Cliff Beach Resort.

26

December 2010

AustChamThailand Advance

Chamber Events

AustCham Executive Director on Thai-Oz Talk with Jaye Walton AustCham Executive Director Brett Gannaway, was recently a guest on Thai-Oz Talk with Jaye Walton. Brett gave the viewers a brief history of the Chamber In Thailand, its growth and the many benefits for Members. Brett spoke about the regular business functions held in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket and Chiang Mai. He also promoted the annual Business Awards to be held in January 2011. Thai-Oz Talk is seen every week in Bangkok on channel NBT (the old Channel 11) and in 176 countries around the world via the Thai Global Network.

AustChamThailand Advance

December 2010

27

Chamber Events

Bangkok Sundowners on 3 November 2010 at Pullman King Power Bangkok AustCham Thailand held its Sundowners event on Wednesday, 3 November 2010 at the Pullman King Power Bangkok. The business networking event, which is held on the first Wednesday of every month, was kindly sponsored by Hassell and Akara Mining. The event was also attended by handicapped children from the Foundation for the Welfare of the Crippled to raise funds for urgent construction work on their school. The Foundation has been supported by AustCham for many years now and took 300 children on an outing to Safari World following the event on 28 November.

5

1

26

3

4

From left: 1) Marshall Orton - Pullman; Peter Skinner - HASSELL; Khun Jurairat Jammanee - AustCham Director, HASSELL; Andrew Durieux - AustCham President, Coverage; Siroj Prasertphon - Akara Mining. 2) Lynda Calver - Infinity Financial Solutions; Philip Williams - Infinity Financial Solutions. 3) Valter Narminio - Somerset; Anthony Gallichio - Intelligent Risks. 4) Khun Jurairat Jammanee - AustCham Director, HASSELL; Peter Skinner - HASSELL; M.L. Laksasubha Kridakon - AustCham Vice President, Laksasubha Resort Hua Hin; Phill Hill - HASSELL. 5) Khun Namdi Druong - Australian Embassy; Nic Kay - Australian Embassy; Adam Warren - Australian Embassy. 6) Khun Niti Nerngchammong - Modernform Workplace; Khun Trata Techaboonpaisan - Modern Workplace; Khun Wipawee Lokphibal - Modern Workplace;

28

December 2010

AustChamThailand Advance

Chamber Events

5

6

7

8

10

9

11

Khun Terapat Prapapanich - Modern Workplace. 7) Khun Suthep Srisawaddisopon - Geodis Wilson; Khun Themjai Stithep - GoIndusty DoveBid; Khun Jean-Jacques Despert - Geodis Wilson. 8) Khun Nontakan Treekalnot - Novotel Hotels; Khun Pornsuang Likitganjanakul - Oakwood Residence; Khun Anin Gujral - Superior A.R.T. 9) Khun Khaliun Sukhbaatar - Raimon Land; Khun Withita Chanthamarit - Raimon Land; Khun Pornpan - Sombun - Binswanger. 10) Khun Wipanan Prasompluem - Allen & Overy; Khun Nonnabhat Paiboon - Allen & Overy; Lora Gavagan - Annabel’s Nursery International School; Chris Burkett - Allen & Overy. 11) Dr. Lavanchawee Brahmopala - TICON Logistics Park; Josh Hyland - AustCham Thailand; Khun Achara Boonyahansa - AustCham Director, Grant Thornton Services; David Armstrong - AustCham Director.

AustChamThailand Advance

December 2010

29

New members and Members’ changes Corporate Ordinary Members

Bangkok Base (Antares Administration Limited) 571 RSU Tower Level 10 Unit 4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 31, Sukhumvit Road Klongton Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2 662 3415 Fax: +66 2 662 3416 Email: info@bangkokbase.com Website: www.bangkokbase,com Principal: Mr. James Ryan Alternate: Mr. Alex Polgar Bangkok Base was founded in 2001 by Alexander Polgar, an operations consultant with over two decades of business experience in Southeast Asia. Drawing on his intimate experience of “how work gets done” in Thailand, Alex established the company as the Kingdom’s first one-stop provider of business support and serviced offices.

The Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, Bangkok (TCC Hotel Collection Co., Ltd.) 199 Soi Sainamthip, Sukhumvit Road, Klongton, Klongtoei, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 2 261 9000 Fax: +66 2 261 9530-4 Email: queenspark@imperialhotels.com Website: www.imperialhotels.com

Queen’s Park Hotel - Bangkok; The Imperial Tara Hotel - Bangkok; Imm Fusion Sukhumvit - Bangkok; The Imperial Golden Triangle Resort - Chiang Rai; The River House - Chiang Rai, The Imperial Mae Ping Hotel - Chiang Mai, The Imperial Chiangmai Resort Spa & Sports Club - Chiang Mai; Imm Eco Chiangmai, CH Hotel – Chiangmai; Eurasia Chiangmai Hotel, Imm Thaphae - Chiangmai; The Imperial Tara Mae Hong Son Hotel - Mae Hong Son; The Imperial Phukaew Hill Resort - Petchaboon; Grand Sole Hotel Pattaya; The Imperial Lake View Hotel & Golf Club ChaAm; - Petchaburi, Eurasia Cha-am Lagoon - Petchaburi, Imperial Hua Hin - Prachuap Kirikhan, The Imperial Samui Hotel and The Imperial Boat House Hotel on Samui Island; Adamas Resort & Spa Hotel Phuket, The Metropole Phuket and The Imperial Narathiwat Hotel - Narathiwat.

Corporate Affiliate Member

Strategic Migration PO Box 314, Potts Point NSW 1335 AUSTRALIA Tel: +61 2 9332 1154 Fax: +61 2 8569 2381 Email: ps@strategicmigration.com.au Website: www.strategicmigration.com.au

Principal: Mr. Philip Summerbell Alternate: Mr. Greg Reynolds Principal: Mr. Michal Zitek Alternate: Mr. Wantana Tanya The Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, Bangkok is the leading hotel for meetings and conventions. It is perfectly suited for both business and leisure travelers to Bangkok.

The impressive 37-storey hotel comprising two towers has more than 1,250 wellappointed guest rooms, a choice of seven restaurants, a spa and numerous recreation facilities and is centrally located on world-famous Sukhumvit Road near the BTS Skytrain, a luxurious shopping complex, Benjasiri Park and Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre.

The Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, Bangkok is registered under the name of the TCC Hotel Collection Co., Ltd, and is one of the Imperial Hotels Group which is managed

by TCC Hotels Management Co., Ltd. Which offers a total of 4,064 rooms across a range of hotel properties.

The 22 members of the Imperial Hotels Group in Thailand are: The Imperial 30

December 2010

Strategic Migration is the Sydney-based specialist migration law practice with a simple mission – to secure your Australian future. We have 20 years experience in assisting migrants to Australia secure a visa – and have never lost an application.

From private client to corporate service, Strategic Migration will tailor its service to your requirements. Our expertise is to deliver personalized strategic and predictable migration outcomes that simplify, manage and deliver client objectives on time and budget.

Individual Ordinary Member Mr. Finbarr O’Connor House #2 JSK Mansion 39/1 Sukhumvit 34 Klongton, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 89 009 7780 Email: finbarroconnor@me.com Global Regional Leader and Transformational Marketer who has a remarkable track-record in developing, driving and delivering above and below-the-line marketing strategies. He is hands-on with

twenty-four years business experience across multiple Asia-Pacific and Africa markets where he has engaged with complex distribution systems and demanding agency partners. International postings have included career assignments in Australia, Japan, Thailand and China.

This Executive is results oriented and motivated by new challenges. His key strengths include building and repositioning high involvement brands; delivering innovative launch campaigns; and managing and developing large multicultural teams to achieve high performance targets. He has also successfully restructured organisations and processes to match future business needs. Works collaboratively with key stakeholders, colleagues and commercial partners to deliver significant and sustained improvements to business outcomes is second nature.

Key Capabilities • A proven track record of developing strategic intent through insightful customer-centric diagnosis to support the building and repositioning of internatiional brands.

• Highly skilled at developing and executing the strategic architecture to ensure the successful implementation of marketing plans across multiple markets.

• Confident managing and developing large diverse teams across multiple markets to achieve high performance targets including restructuring people and where required introducing new systemic processes.

• Consensus builder accustomed to working collaboratively with key stakeholders, colleagues and commercial partners to deliver agreed objectives.

Carrer History: • Ford Motor Company - Asia Pacific and Pacific • Consumer Marketing Director - Asia Pacific and Africa • Mazda Motor Corporation (Japan) Deputy General Manager - Marketing • Ford Motor Company (Australia) National Manager - Ford Business Centre Change of Representative • Mr. Mark Tristram, General Manager is a new representative of ANCA Manufacturing (Thailand) Ltd. • Ms. Draswan Shoowong, Senior Vice President & Sub-segment Head, Global Corporates is a new representative of Standard Chartered Bank (Thai) PCL. • Mr. Barry Wellard, Operations Director is a new representative of Loscam Thailand Limited.

• Mr. Ross Mackay is a new representative of Fisher & Paykel Appliances (Thailand) Co., Ltd. • Mr. Sammy Carolus, Executive Assistant AustChamThailand Advance

New members and Members’ changes

Australian Chamber of Commerce Vacancy – Executive Director The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and is responsible for the day to day management and operations of the Chamber. The Executive Director guides the staff of the Chamber’s office and acts as a liaison between the Board, the Members, other business Chambers and the community at large.

The Executive Director represents AustCham at professional meetings, events, on committees, and in other capacities in partnership with the Board of Directors.

Operationally, the Executive Director may liaise with individual Board and committee members within their areas of specialty.

Manager - Sales and Marketing is a new representative of Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok.

• Ms. Myla A. Caceres, Director of Sales & Marketing is a new representative of Holiday Inn Silom Bangkok.

• Khun Jiemrat Somsaard, Senior Survey Manager is a new representative of AAM (Thailand) Co., Ltd. • Ms. Alex Willats, Resident Manager is a new representative of Dusit Thani Bangkok.

• Mr. Chartchai Panichewae, President is a new representative of ThaiSri Insurance Co., Ltd. • Mr. Theera Bunnag, Executive Vice President is a new representative of ThaiSri Insurance Co., Ltd. Change of Company Name • V Australia has changed company name to be Virgin Blue.

• Novotel Lotus Bangkok has changed company name to be Bangkok Hotel AustChamThailand Advance

Lotus Sukhumvit.

• Amari Hotels and Resorts has changed company name to be Amari Watergate Bangkok.

• Sindhu Maunselll Consultants has changed company name to be SMC Consulting Engineers.

Change of Company Address • Lights On Venture Co., Ltd. 382 Nice Office Building, 4th Floor Radchadapisek Rd., Sam Sen Nok Huay-Kwang, Bangkok 10310 Tel: +66 2 167 3151-4 Fax: +66 2 167 3155 • 3D Interiors Company Ltd. 73 Soi Naknivas 48, Naknivas Rd. Ladprao, Ladprao, Bangkok 10230 • Jus Laws and Consult Co., Ltd. 1104/157 Pattanakarn Road Suan Luang Sub-district Suan Luang District, Bangkok 10250 Tel: +66 2 187 2640-1 Fax: +66 2 187 2642

The successful applicant will exhibit the following attributes: • Awareness/understanding of the Thai Australian business and political and environment.

• Ability and/or experience in liaising with government and semi-government bodies.Ability to develop strong relationships between the Chamber and its Members and with other stakeholders, including the Australian Embassy, Austrade and the Chamber’s sponsors.

• Well developed organisational skills, including the ability to organise large functions.

• Highly developed interpersonal skills, including experience in public relations.

• Ability to develop strong relationships with Members and other stakeholders.

• Ability and/or experience in writing and editing of articles.

• Experience in working of budgetary and financial matters.

• This position will require someone who is professional at all times, as well as flexible and diplomatic.

• Highly organised with good project management skills.

• Ability to work within and lead teams.

• Hold a degree and/or experience in either business, management, commerce, non-profit organisations, sales, public relations, marketing, and/or special events planning, developing and managing member programs, working with leaders, and establishing strong community involvement at the leadership level.

Preference will be given to Australian nationals, or to Thai nationals having strong connections with Australia. Closing date for applications is Tuesday, 6 December 2010 addressed to: Andrew Durieux, Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce.

Email: president@austchamthailand.com

AustChamThailand December 2010

31

Members’ Festive Season Offers Centara Grand Friday December 31, 2010 High above the annual eagerly awaited New Year’s countdown at Central World, savour a five-course menu and enjoy the city’s finest fireworks display. Included in the price is a bottle of Mumm Cordon Rouge Champagne per couple. Our Red Sky Band and DJ will set the mood to usher in the New Year. Baht 9,955 per person.

Enjoy an evening of finest entertainment by the Mark Hodgkins Band followed by party music until 3.00 from our New Year’s DJ at Red Sky. With its 360 degree panoramic view, get a glance of all the city’s fireworks and the Central World countdown. This is a standing-dancing event, very limited seating available. Entrance Fee Baht 1,555 including a glass of Lombard Champagne.

Conrad Bangkok 20 December, 2010 until 09 January 2011: Set dinner for couple at Baht 4,888 including one glass of Prosecco and one drink at Diplomat or 87. Dim sum lunch at only Baht 888 and Baht 1,088. Festive set dinner is 19,800 per table of 10 persons (only Christmas Eve 24th Dec) 24 Dec 2010 - 3 Jan, 2011. Lunch: Sushi all you can eat at Baht 1,280, Teppan all you can eat at Baht 1,280. Dinner: Set Menu. Christmas Teppan matsuzaka with Sushi, Sashimi at Baht 4,350 with sake or wine at Baht 5,350 including one drink at Diplomat or 87 Plus.

Dusit Thani Bangkok For those celebrating the holidays with savory treats such as cakes and pastries from Dusit Gourmet, an entertaining Santarina will be around to spread the season’s joy from 1 – 31 December.

Our pastry chef is creating a Special Christmas and New Year Cake, plus three Dusit Gourmet Christmas Hampers for you to choose from.

Other treats include a Wine Package Set, a Chocolate Gift Set, and a Dusit Gourmet Party Set (imported product).

32

December 2010

Christmas High Tea set for 2 persons will be Baht 550 including delicious homemade cakes wonderful creations by Executive Pastry Chef Slawek Golaszewski from 19 – 26 December.

For more information and reservation, please contact our Holiday Desk at tel.

0 2200 9000 ext. 2166.

InterContinental 31 December 2010, New Year’s Eve Dinner Specials: Fireplace Grill: Private Dining, Baht 100,000 per package (group of 10 persons). Five-course New Year’s Eve Set Menu, Baht 5,500 per couple. Grossi Trattoria and Wine Bar offers Italian appetizers, mains, desserts and an outdoor wine and beer lounge. Espresso will feature a Gala Seafood Buffet at Baht 3,500 per person. *Early Birds special discounts apply. For more information or to make reservation, please call 02 656 0444 or visit: www.dining-experience.com

Le Méridien Le Méridien is delighted to offer the special promotion for Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce Members for this festive seasons as the following; Celebrate the festive seasons with your family this year end when you dine at Le Méridien Bangkok.

Present your member card and receive a festive discount of 20% on food only at Latest Recipe, Bamboo Chic, Tempo and Latitude13, valid from 15 November – 30 December 2010. 30% on lunch and dinner buffet on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day at Latest Recipe and Bamboo Chic (food only). Children between 3 - 12 years old receive 50% discount and below 3 years old dine for free.

This promotion cannot be combined with any other promotions. For reservations, please contact 02 232 8888 or email: fbadmin.bangkok@lemeridien. com

Millennium Hilton Bangkok Choose one of Millennium Hilton Bangkok’s rocking venues for your own private party. Flow, Yuan or Maya

restaurants each offers a complimentary festive welcome cocktail and 20% discount for all bookings of ten or more. The Lantern or Three Sixty is ready with special celebration menus for 25 guests or more. Our popular ballrooms are ideal for 50 persons or more. Sparkling themes available to make your event an unforgettable occasion. Book now, call 0 2442 2000, or email: bkkhihisal@hilton.com

Plaza Anthenee Enjoy an authentic and inspiring festive season celebrating in the sophisticated surroundings of Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Méridien Hotel. This Christmas and New Year, discover the pleasures of seasonal gourmet cuisine, fine wine and creative entertainment along with experience the fine dining cuisine at two of our restaurant, The Rain Tree Café, an all day dining international buffet or The Reflexions, the modern French fine dining.

For further information and reservations: 02 650 8800 ext. 4302 E-mail: fb.bangkok@lemeridien.com

Sheraton Grande Join SPT-SGS Membership for only Baht 5,900 before 23 December and receive a bonus of 1,000 rewards points as well as receiving 20% discount when booking for Christmas Lunch or Dinner. For full details please email to douglas.ozanne@luxurycollection.com

Swissotel Nai Lert Ma Maison Restaurant of Swissôtel Nai Lert Park, Bangkok embraces it all, delicious food, premium wines and an impressive view of the hotel’s lush gardens.

The Christmas Eve Set menu includes tarte de fois gras, apricots and passion fruit with lamb salad and caramelized brioche, turbot, saffron – honey artichokes and rock octopus with sauce rouille, pigeon, quail egg ravioli, creamed cabbage and chanterelle and more. Price is Baht 3,600 per person from 18.00 to 23.00. For reservations please call 02 253 0123.

The Australian Pub & BBQ If you are looking for a great venue for your office party, Christmas party or New Year party, then The Australian Pub & BBQ is the place to be. Enjoy your Christmas party in one of Thailand’s finest traditional Aussie pub. We are now taking bookings for Christmas parties – great packages available for all group sizes – contact us for further details at 02-651-0800 or gm@ theaustralianbangkok.com.

The Banyan Tree Splash into the festive season celebrations amongst glittering stars, and have a window seat to the glamorous fireworks around town, at Banyan Tree Bangkok. AustCham members celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at Banyan Tree Bangkok and receive the privilege of 20% discount (except Vertigo Restaurant). For more information and reservations, telephone 0-2679-1200. Please mention being an AustCham member upon making your reservation.

The Landmark We’re offering a special five-course gourmet menu featuring Caviar, Maine lobster, Foie gras, Wagyu beef tenderloin, and more at our rooftop restaurant for the countdown. The five-course menu is priced at Baht 6,500 per person and includes drinks. The three course menu is Baht 4,200 per person.

Alternatively, celebreate at RR&B and watch the midnight fireworks display.

The cover charge from 11pm - 1am is Baht 1,500, including two drinks. Call for more information and reservations at Tel. 0 2 254 0404 ext 7777

The Sukhothai Bangkok Christmas revelry is in full swing at The Sukhothai Bangkok, with a Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner at Colonnade for

AUSTCHAM Members’ offers Baht 3,800 per person or a five course Italian Gala Dinner at La Scala for Baht 3,500 per person on December 24, and a Christmas Buffet Lunch on December 25 for Baht 1,100 per person and Christmas Brunch on December 26 for Baht 2,500 per person at Colonnade.

Santa Claus will drop in with treats for the young ones. For reservations please call 66 (0) 2344 8888 or email promotions@sukhothai.com.

Vie Hotel AustCham Members will receive 15% discount on food when celebrating with family and friends at Vie Lounge followed by a special Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner at VIE Wine & Grill. The unforgettable evening begins with a selection of pass-around canapés and beverages complimented by a solo saxophone performance and carol singers to get you into the Christmas spirit. There’ll also be a visit from Santa to delight youngsters.

The Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet at VIE Wine & Grill is just Baht 1,750 baht nett per person and Baht 875 baht nett per child including welcome drink at VIE Lounge. Join us on Friday, 24 December 2010 from 19:00 hours onwards.

Westin Grande Embrace the festive spirit this year at the The Westin Grande Shop. Discover gourmet hampers, signature treats, and customised goodies and cakes, all homemade and beautifully wrapped to delight your loved ones. The Westin Christmas Shop is located on the 7th floor and is open from 1-25 December 2010.

For more information, please contact 02 207 8000 or email: fb.bangkok@ westin.com

Anantara For the starting price of Baht 7,000, receive a round-trip transfer, cocktail at the chic Eclipse Bar, sumptuous breakfast selections, signature massage at the award-winning Anantara Spa for two persons, unforgettably romantic Italian dinner by our talented master chef at our Full Moon restaurant, and a guaranteed upgrade to the next room category, from now until 26 December 2010. Please contact Anantara Bophut for more information and reservation at +66 7742 8300-9 or email: bophutsamui@anantara.com

Amari Orchid Pattaya Sivara Spa is offering a special two and a half hour package for only Baht 2,999. It includes a mint foot scrub, feeling fruity body scrub, aromatic oil massage and manicure or pedicure.

For more information, contact: sivaraspa@orchid.amari.com.

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: freeaustcham-memmap@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 and 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 AustChamThailand Advance

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.

Hua Hin Marriott Resort and Spa Italian Lunch Duet at Ciao offers you a large variety of pizzas and pastas.

Choose from our daily lunch menu accompanied with complimentary drinks for only Baht 299 from 12.00 - 15.00. For more information and reservation, please call (66) 32 511 881 ext. 1804.

Holiday Inn Holiday Inn Silom Bangkok is offering Austcham Members a special 25% discount on Food and Beverages.

Enjoy their sumptuous International Buffet at The Brasserie, Northern Indian Cuisine at Tandoor, an outstanding a la carte selection of Afternoon Tea at Orchid Lounge or Relax after a long hard day of work at Hari’s Bar with tasty snack and great music. For more information please call 02 238 4300 or email: reservations@holidayinnsilom.com

Manohra Dining Cruises Board a beautifully restored antique rice barge and enjoy a gold menu set of ten courses for Baht 1,990 per person or a Silver set menu of eight courses valued at Baht 1,250 per person. The boat departs at 19.30 each evening. For reservations, please call 02 476 0022 Ext. 1416, or email manohra@manohracruises.com.

Marriott Resort and Spa Book any luxurious spa treatment and extend your relaxation with a complimentary neck and shoulder massage for additional 30 minutes. Offer from now until the end of 2010. This promotion can be used between 10.00 and 14.00 hrs. For further information

or reservation, please call 02 476 0022 Ext. 1563, or email: ms_bmrs@ minornet.com

Millenium Hilton Thai residents can take advantage of Baht 3,000 for room and breakfast with complimentary upgrade to Executive Room or Baht 3,500 for room and breakfast with Complimentary upgrade to Executive Suite and Thai Massage for two persons. For information and reservation please call 02 442 2000.

Phachara Suites Strike when the deal is hot with our unbeatable exclusive deal starting at Baht 2,500.For more information or reservation please call +66 2 262 9888.

The Aetas Baht 2,750 is being offered to celebrate the opening of “The AETAS Bangkok”. This Superior Room offer comes with ABF and internet and will be upgraded to a Delux Room with a 20% discount on food and beverages at ‘Moments’ and ‘Pause’ if staying for three consecutive nights. For more information or to make a reservation, please call: +66 2 618 9000 or email: contact@aetashotels.com.

The Sukhothai Bangkok From now until 31 March 2011, The Sukhothai Bangkok introduces the “Business Package”. Rates start from Baht 11,500 for single and Baht 11,900 for double occupancy with a minimum of 2 consecutive nights booking in an Executive Deluxe Room including daily buffet breakfast at the Colonnade restaurant, in-room mini bar and complimentary one way airport transfer. For reservation, please email: reservations@sukhothai.com December 2010 December 2010

33 33

From the Chamber Office

Message from the ED

N

ovember was busy month, with Sundowners networking events taking place in Bangkok, on the Eastern Seaboard and in Phuket. Each was well attended, with people taking full advantage of the networking opportunities.

We had a pleasant addition to the Bangkok Sundowners, as we were joined by a number of children from the Foundation for the Welfare for the Crippled in Thailand. The kids had the opportunity to meet Members and display their skills in making handicrafts (which were available for sale).

Thanks to David Mills both for co-ordinating the Convoy for Kids outing and giving our Members a chance to meet with these wonderful kids. Further thanks must go to Akara Mining, Hassell and the Pullman King Power hotel for sponsoring the evening.

The Eastern Seaboard Sundowners was held at the Royal Cliff Beach Resort. Thanks to Cranes and Equipment Asia for being our corporate sponsor for the evening.

Phuket Sundowners was preceded by a seminar on Australian Tax planning for our Phuket members. The event was held at the brand new Westin Siray Bay Resort and Spa and was kindly sponsored by Caswell Associates and Bangkok Hospital.

By now you should have received the 2011 AustCham Corporate Sponsorship packages. As in the past, the packages include company exposure at all of our events, prepaid Sundowners tickets and tickets to our major events. I am very pleased to confirm that not only have the prices for these already value-for-money packages remained constant but also include membership fees for the 2011/12 membership year. The packages have been sent out since mid-November. However, if you are eager to confirm your sponsorship for 2011,

Calendar of Events WEDNESDAY, 1 DECEMBER Bangkok Sundowners

18.00 – 21.00 Venue: Ambassador’s Residence FRIDAY, 3 DECEMBER ESB Sundowners

18.00 – 21.00 Venue: TBA

at either Gold, Silver or Bronze level, please feel free to contact me directly.

If you haven’t noticed by now the Business Awards have been confirmed to be held on Saturday 29, January 2011 at the Swissotel Nai Lert Park Hotel. Strategically moved in order to celebrate Australian business success closer to Australia Day, this year the Awards not only will include the Awards ceremony but will feature a DJ and a band to help us celebrate. The event is open to all, please see the AustCham website for further details.

As we enter the festive season and people are travelling, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everybody a safe and happy trip over the holidays. I hope that you all enjoy the much deserved break and I look forward to seeing you all in the New Year.

SATURDAY, 4 DECEMBER Australian Alumni Barbeque in Conjunction With the International Balloon Festival

18.00 – 21.00 Venue: Khun Dan Prakarnchol Dam, Nakon Nayok WEDNESDAY, 8 DECEMBER Key Issues Dinner

Guest Speaker: H.E. James Wise, Australian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Thailand 18.00 – 20.00 Venue: Sheraton Grand Sukhumvit SATURDAY, 18 DECEMBER Voluntary English Teaching

Venue: Wat Phra Pathranporn, Sri Ra Cha MONDAY 27 – FRIDAY 31 DECEMBER

AustCham Office Closed for Christmas/New Year

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

Thank you to all November sponsors

34

December 2010

AustChamThailand Advance