The Leader - March 2011

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The Leader H U N T E R

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Hunter TAFE can help your business become more competitive, increase productivity, enhance workforce skills and ultimately improve your bottom line.

Ring 4923 7175 today to find out more about a range of services designed specifically for businesses and employers or visit www.hunter.tafensw.edu.au

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| CONTENTS From the President The importance of being educated.... | 3 New Directors and CEO...................... | 4 Feature Education and Training ....................| 5-11 Business News.............................. | 12-21

CALLING ALL SPONSORS AND EXHIBITORS

New Members.................................... | 22 Networking......................................... | 23

Thursday 19th May 2011 9am to 4pm Newcastle Jockey Club

Reaching the region’s business leaders

The largest event of its kind in the region and growing!

Welcome to the March issue of Hunter Business Chamber member magazine. Members of the Chamber are invited to tell fellow members and the wider business community about their activities through The Leader with editorial submissions welcomed for 11 issues each year.

The Leader is now available in real view on line at www.hunterbusinesschamber.com.au with advertisers enjoying links from their ads to their own website.

• Providing young people with direct access to career advice, career information and employment opportunities. e • Bringing together community, business, trades, training providers, universities, group training ttra ra organisations and career support services. org o rg • 4,000 Students from government, private schools 4, 4 and a nd community in Years 10, 11 and 12.

• 125 12 2 Exhibitors including local, interstate and nationally based organisations. na atio io

| CONTACTS

EXHIBITOR XHIIB & MAJOR SPONSOR INFORMATION

• SShowcase ho ow your organisation and promote employment opportunities to over 4,000 local mplo o students ud den nt and parents.

HUNTER BUSINESS CHAMBER 99 Selwyn Street, Mayfield East 2304 Phone 02 4969 9600 info@hunterbusinesschamber.com.au www.hunterbusinesschamber.com.au

• Be Benefit ne efi from an extensive advertising and public d pu ub relations campaign.

PUBLISHED BY The Special Publications Department Newcastle Newspapers Pty Ltd

• Ad Address dre es skill shortages in your industry and career development of d ssupport upp pp The young people in Newcastle and ung g peo pe Newcastle Lake Macquarie. e Mac M cq Lake Macquarie

Exhibitor & Sponsorship enquiries contact

Career Links 4956 8468

mail@careerlinks.nsw.edu.au

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| march 2011

major

ADVERTISING Fergus Black Custom Publishing Phone 4979 5261 or 0459 800 979 fblack@newcastle.fairfax.com.au DESIGN Kirrily Dures and Nandina Vines Adart Department Newcastle Newspapers adart@newcastle.fairfax.com.au A8897858-8Mar

Career & Training • Be associated with a ea soc cia Expo is an event community event. mmunity ty e designed to help and support our youth and • Sponsorship ponsorsh shi our future workforce. It is opportunities ortu nitie es facilitated and coordinated available! ab e!

by Career Links, a local Newcastle and Lake Macquarie based Community Organisation.

EDITORIAL Meg Purser and Kellie O’Sullivan Purser Corporate Communication Phone 4962 4577 pp@purser.com.au

DISCLAIMER The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers. All contents are protected by copyright and cannot be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers.

from the president THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EDUCATED Brett Derwin, President THERE ARE ABOUT 100,000 people in our region studying at tertiary educational institutions and most are employed by business and industry.

This edition of The Leader provides a snapshot of some of the education and training offered, of research and of opportunities created within those institutions. It reflects also on how this benefits business and therefore ultimately our region and country.

Substantial training and education are indispensible assets for business enterprises. Ensuring that employees have this kind of background enables businesses to prepare for any challenging circumstances. It also allows businesses to assess and predict the future demands of labour, so that they can respond in an appropriate manner.

This preparation may take place in a number of ways.

Whilst some businesses seek to broaden the skills of all their staff, others may focus on enhancing the abilities of their older workers. In collaborating with strategic partners who offer skilled labour businesses can potentially create more attractive employment conditions. These strategic partners include TAFE, Universities, Schools, group training companies and labour hire specialists, many of which are part of the Hunter Business Chamber.

The University of Newcastle is one of the Hunter region’s leading tertiary

education institutions. With campuses in Newcastle, the Central Coast and Port Macquarie, the University is wellknown for its contemporary approach to teaching and learning. Additionally, as a member of the Innovative Research Universities Network, the University is ranked 9th in Australia for research.

Research partnerships have been established with leading international institutions in order to work on projects in vital areas of energy, environment, health, science and engineering. In collaborating with the industry and the community, the University of Newcastle purports to deliver local answers to global questions. As a result of this leadership in both education and research, the University is ranked in the top 4 per cent of Universities worldwide, in the prestigious Shanghai Jiao Tong Academic ranking of World Universities.

The Hunter TAFE Institute benefits industry in the region by offering apprenticeship and traineeships. These workforce development consultancy services assist workers in improving their skills and adapting to technological development. This enhances workplace productivity and helps businesses instigate and sustain change. The Woolworths Corporation is an example of a business that has thrived in a Hunter TAFE workforce partnership.

Woolworths trains its apprentices by utilising a customised HunterTAFE MeatTrades program.

Vale Col Rogers THE CHAMBER WAS saddened to learn of the passing of Col Rogers in February.

Mr Rogers, well known for his leadership of NIB for many years was also an advocate for Hunter business and was an elected Director of the Chamber from 1994 to 2004. He was an active member of the board and participated in a range of committees.

march 2011 | 3

New Directors and CEO appointed THREE OF THE region’s well known business leaders have accepted positions as appointed Directors of the Chamber.

on student accommodation and asset management

They are Professor Stephen Crump, Pro ViceChancellor (External Relations), of the University of Newcastle, Jonathan Vandervoort Chief Executive Officer Hunter Valley Coal Chain Logistics Team and Anita Hugo Communications Leader Tomago Aluminium.

Chamber to the Calvary Mater Newcastle Hospital

prior to her appointment at the Property Council.

Director Richard Anicich has been appointed by the Community Advisory Board.

New Chamber Board members, Jason Pauling and Bob Hawes have accepted additional roles.

Jason has been nominated by the Board to represent

Chamber President, Brett Derwin, has also announced that well-known business leader, Kristen Keegan, has been appointed as Chamber CEO.

the Chamber on the Board of Hunter Tourism. He

Ms Keegan was the Regional Director Hunter of the NSW Property Council. She is the first woman to be appointed the most senior Chamber role.

tourism board.

Mr Derwin said Ms Keegan’s knowledge of the Hunter, her previous advocacy of key issues and her strong reputation in business made her eminently qualified for the CEO position.

Ms Keegan grew up in the Upper Hunter, completed a bachelor of law/administration and a graduate diploma in industrial relations at the University of Newcastle and worked at the university for 15 years

replaces fellow Chamber Director Colin Scott who stood down at the end of the current term of the Jason is also the Chamber representative on the Hunter Water Consultative Committe.

Bob Hawes has been appointed Chair of the Chamber’s Awards and Honours Committee. The Committee is responsible for the organisation of the Chamber’s own awards each year as well as nominations of members to other civil and business awards including the NSW Business Chamber annual awards.

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WHY AREN’T PEOPLE LISTENING?

By Samantha Black

As we whip around our day-to-day activities, it is little wonder that we don’t have the concentration to sit and listen to a training event without our minds wandering.

As someone who loves learning, I often found myself questioning how interesting studying, going to a seminar, or reading a book could be. Why couldn’t learning be a fun experience?

As a result I have developed a passion for interactive design which landed Design Reaction at the Desktop Create Awards in 2010 as a shortlisted entry with only nine other businesses in Australia.

Reward > certificate, icon next to name, best 10 honour role, achievement list. One of the biggest drivers for interaction is recognition - reward them so they have a sense of satisfaction for what they have achieved and crave more opportunities to learn.

This is an ideal for business coaches, trainers, and educators, and is a fresh way to teach people through social media networks why they should join your program.

Imagine someone playing a game embedded with tasks that related to your training material, what if they could have fun while engaging in your message and learn by doing!

Engage > interaction, humour, small rewards on the way. Make it fun and competitive - give your viewers a reason to want to get to the next stage.

Inform > information, progress, competition. Teach during each task of the game and measure their progress so that they can see how far they have come.

Samantha Black, Design Reaction shortlisted for Desktop Create Awards 2010

STUDY MAKES BUSINESS SENSE Owner of design and feng shui business Funk and Feng, Shane Delonix believes that ongoing study has given him the edge in running his business for the benefit of clients.

Many educational institutions offer flexible study options and short courses that allow business people to expand their skills and knowledge, and also manage their time effectively.

Shane has studied courses including design, management, administration and fine arts, while continuing to work as a graphic designer for more than 20 years.

‘The study has allowed me to explore ideas, learn about new mediums and changing technologies as well as meet interesting people,’ he said.

march 2011 | 5

| FEATURE – education & training

E-BUSINESS TOOLS FOR BUSINESS To compete successfully in business, firms should maximise their online presence, integrate online and offline marketing efforts and communicate effectively to a growing online audience.

To assist firms gain a better understanding of this developing area of business, GradSchool has launched an e-Business Marketing professional development course in partnership with the highly regarded e-Business Marketing Consultant, John Edwards.

The course will be delivered completely online which will cater for the study needs of busy professionals.

John has designed the six week online course to introduce participants to the concept of e-business marketing and develop the knowledge, skills and

capabilities required for 21st century marketers.

‘GradSchool’s online approach is learner centred and participants can easily engage and interact with each other and myself via the Blackboard online learning platform,’ John said.

John’s experience includes senior Sales and Marketing Executive roles working in a number of different industries including the FMCG, Financial Services, Advertising and Education industries.

His specialties include customer relationship and experience marketing practices, as well as sales engagement through social networking and digital channels. Currently John is an e-Business Marketing lecturer at Macquarie University and has also lectured across Asia.

FLEXIBLE ONLINE LEARNING GradSchool has over ten years experience in the industry of online postgraduate study. Therefore, you can be confident that we will match you with the best study option relevant to you immediate professional needs, and one that will allow the juggle between career, study and family to remain balanced.

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To find out more go to www.GradSchool.com.au

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| march 2011

DESIGNED FOR LIFE

FEATURE – education & training |

GARRETT OPENS WETLAND EDUCATIONAL FACILITY Minister for Education, Peter Garrett and Member for Newcastle, Sharon Grierson, officially opened the new educational facility at Hunter Wetlands recently.

“The Wetlands” received almost $2.3 million under the Government’s Local Schools Working Together program, and has been developed in partnership with Lee Shearer and Associates.

Hunter Wetlands CEO, Ken Conway, said the facility will provide fantastic opportunities for the community as a place for outstanding education and training facilities.

‘We are excited to partner such an outstanding community leader in the new venture and to be afforded the opportunity to deliver a unique range of team building activities including canoe challenges, orienteering, swamp walking and segway tours in the city’s most unique environment.’

Mr Garrett officially opening “The Wetlands”

NEVER TOO OLD TO LEARN As part of the Commonwealth’s strategy to retain people in the workforce, the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations is providing the opportunity for mature aged workers to access subsidised quality training.

The Experience+ Training allows employers to apply Hunter Business for a grant toward the cost Chamber’s Senior of approved training for a Business Development mature aged worker. The Manager, Sherynne Smith course must be Certificate III (or above) level and delivered in Australia by a Registered Training Organisation.

The Chamber’s Senior Business Development Manager, Sherynne Smith, who is currently studying a Certificate IV Frontline Management at Hunter TAFE talks about how the experience has enhanced her career and her day to day work.

Aside from the addition of a qualification to

my name, the opportunity to learn has been of tremendous personal and professional value.

The opportunity to study through this initiative at Hunter TAFE has provided me with additional tools and skills that I can employ in my current role while providing the Chamber with a cost effective way of training its staff.

The funding has allowed the Chamber and I to choose a course that was relevant to my past work and study experience and relevant to the skills that I would require into the future. Hunter TAFE was able to provide the right mix of practical and flexible course options.

This is a tremendous way for business to invest in their people by giving mature workers the opportunity to stay motivated to learn and stay interested in their careers. Through the Faculty of Business and Computing at Hunter TAFE, Hunter business people choose to study flexible and industry appropriate courses that can recognise prior learning and include new traineeships in management and business with incentives of up to $4000. There is also a range of vocational training with funding arrangements.

march 2011 | 7

| FEATURE – education & training

People pursue education for employment The Hunter is well positioned to meet demands in skilled employment writes Institute Director, Phil Cox, TAFE NSW Hunter Institute.

People who train at Hunter TAFE and those who employ them expect great things and those of us who provide the education and training enjoy every challenge they pose.

Last year more than 64,000 people enrolled in more than 600 on the job, on-line and flexible programs or at one of the 15 campuses of Hunter TAFE. This year we are gearing for similar record numbers. Demand for education and vocational training is high.

In the past four years demand for Hunter TAFE training has grown by 16.9% against TAFE NSW growth levels of 12% over the same period. We take much pride in this result, in our ability to understand and meet demand and also pride in the way we work as part of a region that continues to diversify and grow.

During this time the Hunter remained relatively insulated from the GFC because of the growth of the resources sector. This was reflected when more than 150 new apprentices began training in Automotive Mechanical Technology for earthmoving plant and heavy vehicles. Likewise demand for training in electrical, electronics and the emerging field of renewal energy is extremely high.

However, at times of economic uncertainty people and employers look to strengthen their employment opportunities by up-skilling. In 2009 and 2010 Hunter

TAFE noted increased levels of people training in business and computing, the arts and media skills.

Training in the service sector is increasing with record numbers enrolled in commercial cookery and for the first time students will study at TAFE’s new Hunter Valley Hotel Academy facility at Kurri Kurri. Sport and fitness, child care and aged care are among some of Hunter TAFE’s most popular program offerings.

Hunter TAFE’s strength in delivering quality training for people looking to re-enter the workforce, youth at risk and marginalised groups remains one of our greatest and most rewarding services. Hunter TAFE provides specialised education and training to assist people reach their own goals and potential.

The industry experiences of our 2,500 expert teaching and support staff ensures the currency and relevance of our training and provides valuable links to industry. Our strategic partnerships with business and industry have enabled us to deliver programs that also include sustainability and Green Skills which is one of the most exciting elements of our training growth.

Our role as the region’s largest provider of vocational education and training is to ensure that we understand what this region’s business and wider community need and we are well positioned to do that.

Intensive Residential Course 5-9 June 2011 – Hunter Valley The University of Newcastle is proud to present Law at Work – an intensive residential course that addresses employment rights and obligations. This practical and user-focused course is lead by distinguished practitioners and guest speakers and covers the employment lifecycle from appointment to termination.

Managers at all levels who want a deeper understanding of the law of employment should attend. No previous legal knowledge is required.

Registrations close: Friday, 15 April 2011 For more information visit: www.newcastle.edu.au/residential-courses Upcoming courses: Negotiation and Advocacy – August 2011 Managing Change in Australian Organisations – October/November 2011

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LAW AT WORK

FEATURE – education & training |

LEARNING BEYOND LECTURES The University of Newcastle Industry Scholarship Scheme (UNISS) is providing students with financial assistance while they study and gain workplace experience.

UNISS is a partnership among the University of Newcastle, the student and an industry sponsor.

UNISS scholars are supported financially and given opportunities to make significant contributions to the workplace, while experiencing the culture and ethics of a professional role.

In 2011 there are over 135 scholars in the program, supported by a diverse range of industry sponsors. A scholarship can be established in any area of study.

UNISS Manager Angela Samuels said industry sponsorship meant students were professionally nurtured and given the opportunity to shine in their chosen fields.

‘For many, the scholarships give their studies a true focus.

‘The work placements let them experience what the industry is like day-to-day, so they can hone their subject choices and shape their careers very early on,’ she said.

BEST NEW PRODUCT OF THE YEAR Business Chamber member, Glenise Anderson, has designed a program that was a finalist in the “Best New Product of the Year” category in the 2010 international Stevie Awards for Women in Business.

Glenise, a Performance Coach, Trainer and NLP Practitioner, started Self Confident Women after coaching many women who often had issues around self-confidence.

‘For my program to be an international finalist with other products from countries including Israel & the US was pretty overwhelming and thrilling,’ she said.

Glenise is now focusing on building her business in the Hunter and has eight workshops scheduled for next term at Singleton’s Community College. Topics Glenise Anderson

include Self Confidence, Happiness & Success and Managing Negative Self Talk.

march 2011 | 9

| FEATURE – education & training

TIPS FOR INCREASING RETURN Helping your team to quickly implement what they absorb from training makes good business sense. Wiser Change, a collaboration between Bev Frowen of C-Change Initiatives, and Abby Clifton of Leadagility, recommends five tips to make the most of team training programs: 1. Address mindsets at the planning phase Before planning any training, consult, educate and engage your people through processes such as employee engagement surveys and retention figures translating absenteeism/turnover to actual costs.

2. Address mindsets during training Activities such as group conversation and roleplaying, which can highlight strengths and weaknesses, can drive a participant’s selfawareness and create realisation of their need for change.

3. Change from the top down Frequent, clear and open communication with managers and team leaders at every level is strategic to embedding new skills and processes.

4. Reinforce new skills and processes Use strategies such as follow-up ‘reflect and learn’ sessions at team meetings where the team can reflect on the wins and falls since their education; have star performers share stories that reinforce behaviours that are making a difference or delivering benefits.

5. Monitor and measure your investment Metrics from retention and culture surveys, together with performance review systems, can help you assess training benefits.

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FEATURE – education & training |

PARTNERSHIP BENEFITS APPRENTICES THE HUNTER WILL continue to have more wellrounded apprentices in the engineering industry after a renewed partnership between the region’s premier training company and the local arm of a global engineering company.

Hunter-V-Tec, Registered Training Organisation (RTO) of Hunter Valley Training Company and Alstom recently signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Hunter-V-Tec manager operations, Doug Ivins, says the new deal means his team will expand its services beyond the provision of tailored workplace apprentice and training programs at Alstom’s Telarah workshop. Mr Ivins says these moves will benefit both companies as well as the region.

WESLEY MISSION’S TRAINING ARM Wesley Mission has created a training arm to assist job seekers, or people looking for career progression.

The Wesley Vocational Institute (WVI) helps to develop, design and deliver customised training for job seekers, those looking for career progression, or employers wanting to grow their business by investing in their staff.

WVI training programs are designed to meet the requirements of clients, while adhering to the specifications of Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF) and Vocational Education & Training Accreditation Board (VETAB).

Programs are developed in close consultation

‘We will strengthen the operations of our two Hunter based businesses and create more local, highly skilled people as the skills shortage again becomes an issue in Australia.

with clients capitalising on the team’s extensive

‘We will now be doing Alstom’s local Workcover courses and we are looking at rotating apprentices from other parts of Alstom’s operations as well as the provision of other internal training programs,’ he said.

an extensive range of courses available. Training

Two Alstom apprentices, Mic Wilson and Jeremy Adams, were named HVTC school-based trainee of the year in 2009 and 2010 respectively. A number of Alstom apprentices have also won TAFE awards for excellence in machining.

knowledge of learning and development outcomes and experience in training delivery.

WVI is a Registered Training Organisation and has options are flexible, including full-time, part-time, in a formal classroom environment or whilst undertaking paid employment.

Photograph generously provided

by AJM Photography

march 2011 | 11

business news

HELPING YOU GET ‘THE EDGE’ Throughout 2011, 10X Newcastle is hosting a series of interactive workshops designed to motivate and educate entrepreneurs and managers to fulfil their business goals.

“The Edge – Gaining the Unfair Advantage and Increased Profits” includes workshops about increasing sales, profit, cashflow and business value even when other businesses are doing it tough. Many of these strategies can be implemented immediately after attending the workshop.

10X Newcastle, in conjunction with VBD Chartered Accountants has delivered “The Edge” to over 500 local businesses in the last three years, and have received great feedback from participants.

Workshops are scheduled for Mon 17th March and Tues 22nd March. To keep updated about all upcoming events, check out the 10X website.

AWARD FOR AUSTRALIAN TAI CHI IN ITS TENTH year of operation the Australian Tai Chi Institute has won the local business industry award for ‘Outstanding Health and Fitness’ and was selected as a finalist in Australia’s elite ‘Champion of Champion’ business awards.

Located in Broadmeadow, Australian Tai Chi Institute offers structured tuition focussing on postural alignment, weight transference, balance and the overall well-being of participants.

Director and Master Trainer Cheryl Lee Player said the programs cater to all age groups.

Cheryl also travels throughout Australia providing training to nurses, physiotherapists, health and aged care workers on a regular basis. The Institute works with groups including Diabetes Australia, Hunter New England Health, Kidney Health NSW and the University of Newcastle.

As NSW Government regional representative for Seniors Week and Seniors Card partner, the community involvement of the Australian Tai Chi lnstitute reaches from Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley to Gosford and Darling Harbour, Sydney.

Cheryl Player wins Outstanding Health and Fitness Award

12 | march 2011

BUSINESS news |

Providing career paths for students An innovative program designed to provide study and career paths for Hunter students has been given further support with Federal Minister for Defence Materiel, The Hon Jason Clare MP, announcing the second Phase of the $2.9 million ME Program.

The RDA Hunter ME Program was launched in 2009 and successfully brought together four high schools and four local organisations to encourage students to choose subjects that would enable them to pursue future study and career paths in advanced manufacturing.

The Minister announced the details of the program at a special launch at BAE Systems with representatives of Callaghan College, Newcastle High, West Wallsend High, St Pauls as well as industry partners BAE Systems, Forgacs, Ampcontrol and Varley Engineering.

RDA Hunter CEO, Todd Williams said that the expanded program would aim to encourage students into studying high school maths, science and IT. These subjects would enable them to access further study and employment in jobs such as fields such as resource management, electronics, ship building, sustainability, aerospace engineering, infrastructure management, IT and communications.

RDA Hunter CEO, Todd Williams, Callaghan College student, Jasmin Gordon, Federal Minister for Defence Material, The Hon. Jason Clare MP, Chairman ME Program and General Manager Aviation Solutions, John Quaife AM ‘Up to 800 local students are expected to participate in Phase II of the RDA Hunter ME Program through excursions, industry visits, and classroom activities.

Of those about 100 students will take part in work experience activities,’ Mr Williams said.

LOCAL LADIES MAKE THE LIST What do Jodi McKay MP, Margaret McNaughton AM and photographer Melissa Histon have in common? They are part of the Leading Ladies International Top 20 List of 2010, and are proudly from the Hunter.

The Leading Ladies International list highlights women who are believed to have positively impacted the world on a local, national and global scale.

Founder, Heidi Pollard, said the women were chosen because they are creative, courageous, caring and charismatic women who deeply impact the lives of others, make a difference in society, have a great attitude to life and show leadership by living their legacy every day.

Other women in the top 20 include Oprah Winfrey, Quentin Bryce AC, Jane Goodall, Elizabeth Gilbert and Bindi Irwin. The full list can be viewed on the Leading Ladies International website.

Jodi McKay MP and Oprah Winfrey, Margaret McNaughton AM and Melissa Histon

march 2011 | 13

| business news

WOMEN IN BUSINESS PROGRAM The Women in Business Mentoring Program, an initiative of NSW Department of Industry & Investment, supports a group of women each year into a five month guidance program delivered by Hunter Business Centre.

Now in its 16th year, the Program is currently enrolling female business owners who have been operating for approximately one to three years. Enrolments are also open to male or female mentors who have at least five years’ recent experience as successful small business owners/operators.

The Program matches participants with experienced business professionals as mentors and includes workshops, forums and networking opportunities to assist women in developing confidence, building business relationships and managing business growth.

THE SPORTING WIGGLES COME TO TOWN Imagine The Wiggles holding an activity and sport party – then you have the concept of a sport program called Jungle Sports.

Jungle Sports is designed to encourage children, aged between 18 months and seven years to become involved in sports.

The program helps children develop ball skills, build confidence, enhance social skills and have loads of fun. But it’s not just the kids who get to enjoy the fun - parental participation is required in programs for children up to five years of age.

Jungle Sports manager Shaun Fitzgibbon said the quality of the program was recently acknowledged by the Sydney Swans, who recently announced a partnership.

‘We will be working overtime in 2011 to also secure support from teams including the Jets and the Knights to be part of our quality, niche sports programs for families within our community.’

The Jungle Sports program started in the Hunter two years ago and is available at The Forum, Charlestown Square, Merewether, Warners Bay, Maitland, Central Coast and Sydney.

Michael and Riley Bridges enjoying their Jungle Sports time

KNOW HOW CUSTOMERS SEARCH Only 17% of SME’s in Australia have a digital strategy for their business.

Following two seminars hosted by the Newcastle Yellow Pages® team in November, Newcastle Online Product Development Executive, Louise Carey, said many local businesses recognise the opportunities of online marketing, but can take their online presence further than simply maintaining a website.

14 | march 2011

Louise said businesses should question how their potential customers will find their website in the first place.

Research shows 49,800 searches a week are made for businesses in the Newcastle area on yellowpages.com.au, and the popularity of the mobile directory and Yellow Pages iPhone app is increasing.

Yellow Pages® NSW Marketing Manager Megan Roach said the traditional print directory is still an important strategic move. According to research there are 297,000 searches a week in the Newcastle Yellow Pages® Book. Advertising in the Yellow Pages print directory is closing soon.

business news |

Keep pace with change To help businesses keep pace with developments, the University of Newcastle Faculty of Business and Law is offering intensive residential courses on employment relations and human relations topics.

by leading academics in the field, and courses were delivered in a user-friendly way that included a tailored learning environment, online support and networking opportunities.

First delivered in 2009, the program of intensive courses uses problem-based learning approaches and practical insights from guest speakers

Previous guest speakers have include QANTAS Executive Manager of Industrial Relations, Sue Bussell and Industrial Relations Commission NSW Deputy President, Rod Harrison.

Completion of an Employment Relations and Human Resources Management Intensive Course can gain students credit towards relevant Masters Programs offered by the University to further their professional development.

Head of Newcastle Business School, Associate Professor Alison Dean, said participants were taught

The first of the 2011 programs will run from 27 to 31 March and will focus on Workplace Relations and Employee Engagement. Other courses will focus on law at work, for managers and Human Relations professionals, negotiation and advocacy and managing change in Australian organisations.

New Face in Sheetmetal Adamstown is home to a new sheetmetal business with a family feel.

Opened in December 2010, Lake Macquarie Sheetmetal Pty Ltd offers sheetmetal manufacturing and fabrication, and specialises in air-conditioning duct work. Owner Glenn Hartley has worked to develop a family environment in the business, which has already been commissioned to provide six months of work for the Defence Army Base.

NEW CORPORATE IDENTITY In business, change is inevitable. After 10 years, the Lake Macquarie Business Centre has decided to strengthen its profile by adopting a new corporate identity.

Centre Manager, Brett Gleeson, said changing to the Business Growth Centre more accurately reflects the vision of the centre.

‘We are regularly contacted by people who know what they want to do, however the issue for them is

being able to achieve their goals.

‘The Centre’s role is to be the link between what people want to achieve and their success. There are 12,000 businesses in Lake Macquarie, so there are plenty of people needing assistance,’ he said.

The Centre is located at Oakdale Road, Gateshead and provides support services as well as business advice and mentoring.

march 2011 | 15

| business news

RESUSCITATION NOW EASIER St John Ambulance Australia (NSW) has introduced minor changes to resuscitation guidelines that are designed to help people remember how to perform in an emergency situation.

Professor Peter Warfe, recommends performing 30 chest compressions and two breaths.

The most important aspect is to ensure that an ambulance is called as quickly as possible then start resuscitation by performing chest compressions.

‘St John examined the evidence for performing compressions only and not performing breaths, but concluded to continue to recommend performing the combination of chest compressions and breaths,’ he said.

Director of Training for St John Ambulance Australia,

To learn first aid contact St John or visit their website.

Is it who you know, or what you know?

This age-old question will be the debate topic at the upcoming Hudson Business Breakfast on 1 April for Samaritans.

Well known police officer, Tony Tamplin, will keep key Novocastrian businesspeople in-line throughout the debate, which will see the brainy bunch battle it out with the networking gurus.

The breakfast will be held on Friday 1 April at Newcastle City Hall from 7am. Tickets cost $55pp by visiting www.samaritans.org.au Debate Moderator, Tony Tamplin

NEWCASTLE OFFICE OPENS Priority Management has re-established a Newcastle based office, with Novocastrian Kelly Ingham as Account Manager.

For more than 20 years, Priority Management has provided best practice training in business skills to corporations, government agencies and individuals around the globe.

Priority Management NSW team, including Chairman & Founder - Dan Stamp (middle front), Newcastle & Hunter Valley Account Manager - Kelly Ingham (3rd from left in back row)

16 | march 2011

Priority Management specialises in the area of Workload Management and has helped more than two million people to work more effectively, increase productivity, reduce stress and improve work/life balance.

business news |

EXCELLENCE IN HUMAN RESOURCES Anglican Care’s Human Resources Team has been named finalist in the 2010 HR Leader Compass Awards.

These prestigious Australia-wide Awards acknowledge excellence in Human Resources. Anglican Care was nominated in the category of Employer of the Decade, which recognises organisations which have shown consistently excellent people strategies over the last 10 years.

Anglican Care’s HR Team – Brydee Curran, Michelle Gibb, Catherine Mordaunt, Jodie O’Hearn and Katrina Blackham

Show Tackles Skills Shortage The region’s capacity to tackle skills shortage will be a highlight of the 2011 NAB Newcastle Regional Show.

The Skills On Show initiative created by Newcastle based advertising and marketing agency Thurnham Teece, will be a large interactive display during the Show on 18 to 20 March. Sponsored by Hunter Valley Training Company, Skills On Show was designed to encourage young people and their parents to recognise the interesting, rewarding career opportunities available in manufacturing.

Leading Hunter manufacturers including Varley, Downer EDI, BAE Systems, Forgacs, Cowan Manufacturing, Who Presentation & Printing and supporters including Hunter Valley Training Company, Hi-Vis Signs & Safety, Hunter TAFE and University of Newcastle will come together in one place to showcase the trades and skills which are needed for future growth. Show patrons will even have the opportunity to try a trade.

Roger Geary, President of Newcastle Show Association, believes Skills On Show is crucial to combating the increasing skills shortage within our region.

The NSW Government has identified Skills On Show as a key tool in combating the increasing skills shortage and Regional Development Australia Hunter is supporting this initiative. Minister for the Hunter, Jodi McKay, officially announced this support during the Skills On Show in February.

NUSPORT RECOGNISES LONGSTANDING STAFF MEMBERS Holding on to quality staff is certainly a challenge for many businesses but NUsport recently recognised 28 people who had worked at its award winning facilities for more than five years.

NUsport CEO, Chris Hicks, said that the group represented a cross-section of people who worked at The Forum’s University and Harbourside centres.

‘These people have greatly contributed to the organisation’s success as the region’s largest health and sport facility,’ he said.

Ten were honoured with 10 years of service while 18 were recognised for five years.

march 2011 | 17

| business news

THINKING FUNCTIONS? THINK PANTHERS Located in the Newcastle CBD, Newcastle Panthers has the ability to meet any corporate or social event requirement.

The club has catered for small meetings and parties, through to trade shows, product launches and large scale gala dinners.

Panthers has function rooms, services and facilities which can cater for up to 1500 delegates and offers five-star service to any function.

Panthers also offers state of the art audio visual technology, AV technicians and undercover guest car parking.

NEW IMAGE TO PHONE BOOK ADVERTISING Local Directories™ brings a refreshing new image to phone book advertising. Compact and complete, the directories combine traditional, timetested features with exciting innovations.

Local Directories™ is delivered free to every household, business and government agency within the Maitland and Port Stephens coverage area. The first Newcastle and Lake Macquarie book will be delivered in August.

They’re easier to handle, include both A–Z residential listings and classified sections as well as up-to-date street directories and easy to use government and community information sections. Local Directories™ supports its successful printed directories with exciting and innovative online directories.

YOUR DRIVE CAN HELP US WITH A VISION FOR LIFE

Local Directories is a privately owned, wholly independent Australian business and has no association with Telstra Corporation Limited, Sensis Pty Ltd, White Pages® or Yellow Pages®.

Support our charity golf day and raise funds Companion is hosting a charity golf day with proceeds being donated to Variety’s Vision for Life: leading technology, ‘telemedicine’, that puts the very best clinicians and specialist doctors in the same room as a sick or injured child, without the need to travel.

Tee off and support Variety’s Vision for Life We are seeking prize and hole sponsorships. We have a range of sponsorship packages available as well as individual registrations, which will contribute to life-saving equipment that will benefit children of the Hunter region for years to come.

Friday 13 May, tee off from 12 noon, Shortland Waters Golf Club Post-game dinner function with special guest speakers.

Get into the swing for a great cause. Contact Teagan Cronin on 0400 681 310 or tcronin@companion.com.au to secure your sponsorship.

Companion Credit Union – A Division of Community CPS Australia Ltd ABN 15 087 651 143

18 | march 2011

people moves PSI GROUP ANNOUNCES NEW CEO PSI Group has announced the appointment of Wayne Lowe as CEO. With more than 23 years experience, Mr Lowe was most recently the Chief Operating Officer, Superannuation & Investments for ING Australia (now OnePath). He was also co-founder and Managing Director of the WRAP Account business of the Oasis Asset Management Group (recently 100% acquired by OnePath).

PSI Chairman Graham Poole, said that Wayne’s track record would ensure PSI’s delivery of personal service and long lasting partnerships would be reinforced.

OAMPS NEW BRANCH MANAGER OAMPS Insurance Brokers is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Mark Bramley to the role of Branch Manager in Newcastle.

Formerly Executive Manager, Member Services with Companion Credit Union, Mark joins OAMPS with almost 20 years of experience in the financial services industry.

Keith McIvor, OAMPS CEO, said Mark’s experience is an asset to the team.

‘Mark has outstanding strategic sales and leadership experience which greatly complements the existing Newcastle team.’

Previous Branch Manager, Russell Boucher, is now the Principal Broker in the OAMPS Newcastle office.

CEO Wayne Lowe

HVRF APPOINTS ECONOMIST Dr Johannes Pauser has joined HVRF as a new research fellow. He will contribute to the Foundation’s economic indicators and well-being research as well as updating the regional Input-Output Model.

Dr Pauser has a Master’s degree in Economics and extensive experience and knowledge in the areas of statistics, public economics and risk management.

Dr Pauser said that he was looking forward to delivering research results important for the development of the region, helping to improve the lives of people who live here.

Dr Johannes Pauser

march 2011 | 19

PEOPLE MOVES |

LAWLER PARTNERS APPOINT NEW MANAGER Lawler Partners have appointed Chris Isles as a Manager in their Newcastle Business Advisory Services team. Chris has over nine years’ experience working in both metropolitan and regional practice and will be focussing on taxation, valuations advice and structuring for growth and profit improvement.

Lawler Partners Director, Andrew Beattie, said that Chris will strengthen the existing team with his significant experience and knowledge in the firm’s core sectors of pharmacy, manufacturing and mining services, and entertainment and gaming.

ten big ideas THE REVITALISATION OF the CBD of Newcastle heads the list but planning for long term sustainability, innovative transport options and skills training are keys to the region’s future. These are the 10 Big Ideas and therefore the goals which the Chamber, will pursue over the next 12 months.

1. Revitalise Newcastle CBD. 2. Invest $250 million back into the Hunter.

3. Complete the F3 to M2 link road.

4. Build transport interchanges.

5. Plan for a post coal economy.

6. Encourage regional growth by relocating State Government departments to the Hunter.

7. Establish a Hunter Transport Authority 8. Increase skills training for Upper Hunter industries.

9. Increase the energy capacity of the Hunter.

10. Quarantine a transport corridor for the west Lake Macquarie rail line (Fassifern to Hexham).

Chris Isles

3/$11,1* )25 <285 &+,/'¡6 )8785(" All current and prospective families, friends and grandparents are invited to visit our picturesque campus on :HGQHVGD\ 0DUFK . Find out for yourself how our highly qualified teaching staff are able to provide a specialist learning environment that optimises our studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; learning potential.

Find out more: Sponsorship of issue

Advertising

Inserts

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20 | march 2011

Front page and Full page ad on page 5.

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4:45pm Campu on Competitive full30colour advertisements publication. rmation Sessithroughout 5: pm Info ) 183, ed ed ne (if s Contact Neale Bidner 4979 5322 or 0417 408 ur To 6:00pm Library ie College email nbidner@newcastle.fairfax.com.au At the Macquar

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at the chamber The Hunterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Business Awards

CERTIFICATES OF ORIGIN A Certificate of Origin verifies the place of growth, production or manufacture of goods and contains certification by an empowered authority.

The certificates are used for customs clearance at the destination country. Certificates of Origin can also be requested by the overseas buyer or the business receiving your goods. In some instances the company receiving the goods will require a Certificate of Origin before authorising their bank to issue a letter of credit and thus payment.

In accordance with some free trade agreements, Certificates of Origin are required as part of the application for preferential tariffs. For example, Australian exports must be registered under the Thailand-Australia Free Trade Agreement (TAFTA) and accompanied by a TAFTA Certificate of Origin in order to qualify for the preferential rates.

For information: info@hunterbusinesschamber.com.au

Hunter Business Chamber will soon open entries for the 2011 Hunter Business Awards.

or phone: 4969 9600

The categories in 2011 are: > Hunter Water Savers > Excellence in Safety > Environmental sustainability > Customer service > Young Achiever of the Year > Business Achievement > Small Business Excellence > Contribution to the Region > Hunter Business Chamber Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Award > Business Person of the Year Nominations will open in April with all Chamber members receiving a nomination pack by mail.

The 2011 Hunter Business Awards will be announced at the gala black tie dinner which is proudly sponsored by Gradschool.com on Friday 5 August at Wests New Lambton.

march 2011 | 21

new members TRADING NAME

PRIMARY INDUSTRY

PHONE

Adecco

Administrative and Support Services

02 4920 4500

AGL Hunter Gas Projects

Electricity, Gas, Water and Waste Services

02 9921 2617

Australian Tai Chi Institute

Arts and Recreation Services

02 4963 7421

Cabins In The Clouds

Accommodation and Food Services

02 4938 8271

Catholic Diocese of Maitland - Newcastle

Other Services

02 4979 1167

Draytons Family Wines

Accommodation and Food Services

02 4998 7513

Dungog District Chamber of Commerce

Administrative and Support Services

02 4992 1774

Enhance Business Solutions

Administrative and Support Services

0413 159 293

Hetronic Australia

Other Services

02 4966 1281

Industrial Galvanizers (Newcastle)

Manufacturing

02 4967 9000

Inspire Achieve

Administrative and Support Services

02 4946 6479

Lee Shearer & Associates

Administrative and Support Services

02 4962 3377

Limelight Creative Media

Arts and Recreation Services

02 4969 1931

Local Directories

Information Media and Telecommunications

1300 360 867

McClintock Lawyers

Professional, Scientific and Technical Services

02 4992 1003

Muse Marketing

Administrative and Support Services

0405 644 314

NuCoal Resources NL

Mining

02 4974 5700

Ocean Services (Newcastle) Pty Ltd

Transport, Postal and Warehousing

02 4962 4226

Paterson Gallery

Other Services

02 4938 5632

Pulse Climbing

Other Services

02 4023 4743

Purnell Trophies & Giftware

Other Services

02 4961 2666

Reece Realty (Newcastle) Pty Ltd

Accommodation and Food Services

02 4950 2025

Regional Business Development Solutions

Construction

02 4001 0180

Self Confident Women

Administrative and Support Services

0418 482 450

SG Consulting

Administrative and Support Services

0402 302 537

Solahart Newcastle

Manufacturing

02 4951 3333

UGM Australia

Mining

02 4939 5555

Vanguard Accountants & Financial Planners

Financial and Insurance Services

02 4943 9082

Westrac Pty Ltd

Construction

02 9840 4600

22 | march 2011

networking Business Development Forum

Photographs generously provided by Andrew Monger from AJM Photography

Debera Mackenzie and Simon Drinkwater 

Held on 9 February 2011 at Newcastle Jockey Club, supported by NSW Industry and Investment

▼ Sieglinde Lendering, Craig Whitton and Bronika Carter



Neil Hall, Scott Faraday-Bensley and Darren Parmenter

My Business is Your Business 15 February, hosted by Ronald McDonald House – Hunter and partnered by Mills Eaton

Narelle Redman, Phil Lyons, Viv Allanson, Jennie Lyons and Natalie Smith ▼

▼ Ross Bingham, Kellie Mills and Brett Derwin



Rohan Bingham, Ted Lewis and Leonie Borrow

Jim Zehnder and Jen Denzin

march 2011 | 23