OUTthere Cobham March 2015 by Edge In-flight Magazines

+RegionalBusinessReview

March 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 08

Rocking the Cradle Journeying from the mountain to the coast on a Tassie food trail

FIFO Miners & Oil & Gas employees only earning $110 — $300K.

Slash your tax — why pay more? Last few months with certainty to buy Property in your SMSF. “Super funds should be banned from borrowing”... ....ABC’s Michael Yanda 7th Dec 2014. ABC’s Editor 7.30 Report, Alan Kohler & Robert Gottliebsen co-founders Eureka Report, the two most respected names in financial reporting & Bruce Brammall from the Eureka Report agree on these three points.

1.The Murray Report to the government recommended a Banning of Super Funds to borrow. Dec 2014 2.It is unlikely that any changes would be retrospective, however rather be grandfathered, meaning if you have purchased your property prior to government legislation, then you retain your property within your SMSF with tax benefits.

3.Future arrangements of borrowing in a SMSF could be Banned altogether if the government adopts the Murray Report recommendations. For full report subscribe to: Eureka Report online, Australia’s highest standard financial editing & reporting. If the government does nothing then you have lost nothing only gained a property. If they adopt the Murray Recommendations then you have lost a massive opportunity to Save Tens of thousands in Tax. Few structures are as Tax effective as SMSF combined with Property. Do not ignore these statements. It takes eight weeks to set up your new SMSF.

Lost $ benefits of not proceeding, for a property worth $350K in your new SMSF? Lost Lost Lost Lost

Tax Deductions, $36K pa, times ten years holding property. potential Capital Growth, very hard to quantify, perhaps 5% for 10 yrs. income, that would assist pay off your property, 5% gross rental income. Tax Benefit in you pocket, based on income, $160K

$360K. $220K. $180K. $70K.

Save $3,000 to $15,000 ongoing each year by Taxation Planning or do nothing & keep paying below. Taxable Income 160K 200K 240K

Tax Payable 47,147 61,947 79,947

Medicare 2,400 3,000 3,600

Total 49,547 64,947 83,547

10 years Tax Payable 495,470 649,470 835,470

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Planner

MAR

Our top pick of events coming up around the country...

Melbourne: Australian Formula One Grand Prix

OF NT NTH E EVE MO TH

MARCH 12–15 High octane and raring to go, South Melbourne’s Albert Park circuit is a favourite among formula one drivers and spectators alike. The first Grand Prix of the 20-race championship, Albert Park’s 16-turn circuit separates the speed-demons from the pack and provides a gauge for the season to come. Enjoy all the on-track action as the world’s fastest open-wheel racing cars navigate Albert Park’s unique circuit of public roads and car park. While off-track, you can immerse yourself in Melbourne’s buzzing atmosphere and enjoy the range of live entertainment. grandprix.com.au

MAR

MARCH 14–15

Mandurah Crab Fest, Mandurah

A showcase of Mandurah’s arts and cultural precincts, the Crab Fest coincides with the Action Sports Games – a display of adrenaline pumping freestyle motocross, skateboarding, BMX riding, and the International Waterski and Wakeboard Federation World Cup, which attracts athletes from around the world. mandurahcrabfest.tv

look

ahead

APRIL 15–26 Rip Curl Pro, Bells Beach, Torquay The world’s best battle it out on Bells’ booming swells. ripcurl.com.au

MARCH 25–29

Australian Longboard Surfing Open, Kingscliff

The Australian Longboard Surfing Open promises a competitive display from the sport’s elite. Keep an eye out for last year’s winners Taylor Jensen and Jen Smith as they carve up the legendary breakers off Northern NSW’s Tweed Coast, or just relish in the locale’s laid-back family-friendly vibe. australianlongboardopen.com

APRIL 11–17 Chasing the Sun Golf Festival, Kalgoorlie to Ceduna Join the expedition through the world’s longest golf course. nullarborlinks.com

MAR

MARCH 28

Nitro Circus Live, Hobart

After a global tour featuring their death-defying stunts, Nitro Circus Live is returning to Australia for an eight-city regional t our. The fourth stop on the tour, Hobart’s Blundstone Arena will host the likes of X-Games superstar Travis Pastrana as he heads a team of daredevils in an unparalleled display of aerial acrobatics. nitrocircus.com

else

where

MARCH 23–29 World Figure Skating Championships, Shanghai For a graceful display of spins, jumps and death spirals. isu.org/en/home

MARCH 29

ICC Cricket World Cup Final, Melbourne

Australia and New Zealand are the joint hosts of 2015’s Cricket World Cup. Played at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground and the end result of a total of 49 one-day matches between 14 different nations, the final promises to bowl you over. icc-cricket.com/cricketworld-cup

MARCH 6–8 Davis Cup World Group First Round, various Of the 16-nation World Group, who will progress to the semis? daviscup.com/en/home.aspx

entertainment

Entertainment The latest and greatest things to hear, see and read

listen TROY CASSAR-DALY: FREEDOM RIDE TOUR Troy’s latest album and tour is a nod to the ‘freedom ride’ of 1965 when a handful of Sydney Uni arts students, including the now legendary activist Charles Perkins, set out on a tour of New South Wales to highlight the problems with Indigenous health, education and housing. Friend and fellow musician Paul Kelly collaborated on the title track. “Paul and I wrote this small version of what must have been a huge adventure for the freedom riders; going from town to town, learning the truth about how Indigenous life in this country could be brought into line with mainstream Australia. Charlie changed views and perceptions with his passion and, to me, was an important part of our progression as a people and as a nation,” Troy explains. The rest of the album is a musical journey through Australian life that Troy is touring nationally throughout regional Australia from now until he winds up in Tweed Heads in November. For more information visit troycassardaley.com.au

watch AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON Action | Adventure | Fantasy | Sci-Fi

staff pick

Earth’s mightiest heroes join forces once again to take on the villainous machine known as Ultron. The star-studded cast of the first ‘Avengers’ film returns, featuring the likes of Scarlett Johansson, Robert Downey Jr., and Chris Hemsworth – not to mention Marvel newcomer James Spader (Boston Legal and The Blacklist) who takes on the role of the nefarious Ultron. Directed by Joss Whedon, Avengers: Age of Ultron delves deeper into the Marvel universe with the introduction of characters Wanda and Pietro Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen and Aaron Taylor-Johnson). In cinemas April 23.

read SHED Simon Griffiths Penguin Book, $39.99 Is a shed ever just a shed or is it something more? Simon Griffiths examines the humble retreat through photography as he tells the unique histories and bonds shared with their owners across Australia. You’ll never look at your own backyard storage closet the same way again.

AUSTRALIA’S BEST UNKNOWN STORIES Jim Haynes, Allen & Unwin, $32.99 If you think you know all there is to know about Australian folklore, think again. Jim Haynes puts his own hilarious spin on the country’s most popular stories, sets the record straight on a few popular myths and uncovers some tales you may have never heard of before in Australia’s Best Unknown Stories.

BEFORE I GO Colleen Oakley, Allen & Unwin, $29.99 At 27 years old, Daisy’s life is about to be cut short. She could despair or she could try to secure her husband’s future by ... finding a good replacement? Before I Go is a funny and original love story that will keep you thinking and guessing ‘til the end.

what to pack

what to pack Our top faves for the month

staff pick

The North Face RDT V-Neck Tee, RRP: $59.95, paddypallin.com.au

Toshiba Satellite L10W, RRP: $699, mytoshiba.com. au/products/computers/ satellitel10w/pskvua-001001 4

what to pack

King of Shaves Prostyle Precision Trimmer, RRP: $24.95, shave.com.au

De Lorenzo Absorb Dry Shampoo, RRP: $19.90, delorenzo.com.au

Fusion three piece set, RRP: $749, zoomlite.com.au

River Tube Float, RRP: $49.99, colemanaustralia.com.au Zoomlite Jackson Casual Duffle Olive, RRP: $79.95, zoomlite.com.au

closeup

Ride, Sally, ride Aussie surfer Sally Fitzgibbons has the mentality to conquer the world, and the talent to match. This self-proclaimed sports junky with a healthy competitive streak chats with Riley Palmer about living out her dream.

GERROA IS OFTEN DESCRIBED as a sleepy holiday town – a place where you can wade in aquamarine waters as you slowly amble along an extensive coastline. It seems somewhat at odds that this ‘sleepy’ town be home to an athlete who has proven herself to be anything but. Ambitious, hard-working and dedicated, the unstoppable Sally Fitzgibbons grew up surfing these picturesque, and at times turbulent coastlines. “My dad and three older brothers all taught me to surf from the age of six,” says Sally. “We spent most of our time down by the beach as kids, so it was natural to take up surfing and copy my brothers.” Eighteen years on and this born-and-bred water baby is now up there with the most elite, confronting triple overhead waves and tube barrelling her way through some of the world’s most highly regarded breakers. Nonetheless, describing the feeling of belonging as she runs into the familiar waters along Gerroa’s coast as ‘coming home to an old friend’, these beaches – Bombo beach, Surf beach, Jones’, Mystics - remain her favourite. Sally’s dedication to surfing really began in 2009, the same year she first qualified for the ASP World Championship Tour. Up until that point, she’d been faced with the unusual dilemma of excelling at too many sports – having variously represented both the state and nation in athletics, touch football, soccer and cross-country running. “I loved all the sports I played for different reasons, and it was hard to let go of any,” she admits. “Surfing began to blossom for me at the time when I had to decide to focus all my efforts on just one sport, so I took the surfing pathway.” Unfaltering and without looking back in wonder, this tough decision gives an indication of Sally’s immense mental strength, something that has been absolutely integral to her success. She says: “Having that clear vision to the elite level gave me the confidence to put everything into my dream of becoming the world champion.” 7

closeup

strap boards to the roof and navigate to a destination you aren’t familiar with, all while you’re extremely exhausted. These are the tough parts, but you learn to enjoy them.” Asked what is the best thing about being on the World Tour, and Sally is much more forthcoming; “It’s what I love doing and am so passionate about. I really enjoy being in the competitive arena for most of the year, testing myself against the world’s best surfers and waves.” That said, Sally can’t deny that the Aussie summer always beckons, tantalising her with its beach culture and relaxed festive vibes. Speaking about the recent Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, she says; “It’s an awesome event that embraces the Aussie summer surf culture.” She pauses briefly and adds; “... and I love competing in front of a home crowd.” But when all’s said and done, it’s sleepy little Gerroa that welcomes Sally home with open arms – its crystalline waters embracing her with familiar ease, just like an old friend.

“It still gives me goose bumps thinking about my first win.” In 2011 Sally won the final of the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach – her first ever number one finish in an ASP World Tour event - after defeating Hawaiian superstar Carissa Moore (who went on to be declared that year’s ASP Women’s World Champion). “It still gives me goose bumps thinking back on my first win at Bells Beach,” she recalls with fondness. “I’d had so many runner-up placings leading into the event, and I knew I just had to keep giving it everything for that elusive win. It was an unbelievable feeling when the final siren went and they called out my name as the champion.” For all that we idealise our elite sportspeople, it’s somewhat humbling to realise that the feeling of elation at having succeeded at something you fought for, is universal. “I will never forget being chaired up the famous Bells Beach stairs as the champ. I was so happy and exhausted.” As spectators only ever witnessing a sporting event in isolation from everything that leads up to it, we tend to unwittingly assume that professional athletes all lead charmed lives. However, if we actually look at the bigger picture – what it means to be on tour between the months of March and December – charmed may well be somewhat a naive description. Despite missing her family and friends, constantly travelling and readjusting to jetlag, and being confronted by the media at some of her most vulnerable moments, Sally revels in the fact that she’s doing what she loves, and has reframed the ‘bad’ bits as simply being part of the adventure. “There are parts that are tiring and tedious, but I wouldn’t say there are too many bad things,” she explains. “For example, having a 30-hour flight and then having to 9

kitchenconfidential

THE MEAT OF THE WIN!

Courtesy of SBS DVD and Madman Entertainment we’re giving away five Ask The Butcher DVDs valued at $29.95. To enter, answer in 25 words or less: What is your favourite cut of meat, and why? Email: inflight@ edgecustom.com.au

It’s hard to deny that we have a penchant for the sizeable here in Australia. We are home to The Big Banana, The Big Rocking Horse and The Big Merino. We consider it a great feat to consume a metre-long pizza or a one-kilogram burrito. So when butcher Anthony Puharich goes against not only his commercial interests, but the cultural mindset of ‘big is better’, you have to wonder if he’s a little bit crazy. “For such a long time in this country, the steaks have needed to be bigger than the size of the plate,” says Anthony. “Meat is all about quality, not quantity.” Co-owner of Vic’s Premium Quality Meat and Victor Churchill, Anthony may just be crazy like a fox, but his clients seem to agree. He’s a fifth-generation butcher, yet Anthony’s life very nearly went in a vastly different direction. “I had no intention of following in my father’s footsteps whatsoever,” says Anthony. “My father emigrated to this country in the late ’60s early ’70s and – typical migrant story – didn’t know the language, just had the shirt on his back type stuff. He wanted to create a

better future for his family. So he actually wanted me to go to university and get a white-collar job, because he knew how hard butchery was.” Anthony conceded and graduated from Queensland’s Bond University with a degree in finance and economics. However, roughly 10 months into a career as a merchant banker, he had an epiphany of sorts. “Something inside me said ‘this is not for me’,” he explains. A courageous validation of his own life’s path offset by the fear of disappointing his parents, Anthony approached his dad, and told him he wanted to become a butcher. “He wasn’t disappointed, he was very surprised and shocked, but I could see a small glint in his eye – he was quite flattered that, having gone to university and all that stuff, I’d come back and still wanted to be a butcher.” Setting up shop in inner city Sydney in 1996, this father and son duo quickly became reputable in the meat market. Just three years after opening, Vic’s Premium Quality Meat expanded and diversified from a retail shop into a wholesaler. Today they are

“For such a long time in this country, the steaks have needed to be bigger than the size of the plate.”

kitchenconfidential

MATTER Australia’s largest wholesaler of premium meats. Anthony maintains that the success he and his father have enjoyed stems from the varying skill-sets each of them brings to the business. “My father is this incredible master-butcher,” Anthony explains, “and I didn’t really know much about meat – but I had a lot of complementary skills.” Whatever the secret to Vic’s Meat’s success, the quality and consistency of its produce is what continues to set it apart. “We invest an incredible amount of time and money going out there and forging strong relationships with primary producers, farmers and growers,” says Anthony. “So, over the years, we’ve developed this phenomenal range of quality meat.” Of course, the down-to-earth manner in which the Puharichs conduct themselves doesn’t hurt their brand either. Having fostered strong and enduring relationships with some of Australia’s most celebrated chefs, Anthony concedes it’s still a bit hard to believe. “It’s incredibly surreal to think that all of these extremely well-regarded, well-respected chefs rely on

Ask the Butcher: Anthony shares his handy tips and tricks Beware the naked flame – use plenty of fuel (wood or charcoal), and allow it to burn down to charcoal (smoke or naked flame chars the food and creates an acrid flavour). To avoid flare ups, trim the meat of excess fat. A hot grill – the hotter the grill the less likely it is that the meat will stick. Always oil the meat and not the grill plate. Don’t turn the meat until it comes away easily from the grill. Ideally raise or lower the grill to control heat, alternatively pile the coals at one end. Grill marks are flavour – caramelisation is the result of the meat sugars burning (like making caramel) and creates flavour. This is known as the Maillard reaction. Charred (burnt) meat is a completely different thing and has a horrid carbon flavour.

Riley Palmer speaks to Anthony Puharich, the butcher who is pioneering a push for smaller portions of higher quality cuts.

our business to supply their meat.” And supplying to the likes of Matt Moran, Neil Perry, Peter Gilmore and Shannon Bennett, Anthony isn’t exaggerating the standing of his clientele. Never inert, Anthony and his father bought into butchery history in 2009, becoming the fourth owners of the acclaimed Churchill’s butcher shop. Rebranded as Victor Churchill’s, the butchery takes the Puharichs back to their retail roots.Complete with a Himalayan rock salt brick wall, a cooking school, ready-made meals and small goods, and floor staff with expert knowledge, Victor Churchill lives up to its description as the ‘Bulgari of butcheries’. While you will walk away from one of the store’s cooking classes having learned some traditional Croatian methods of butchering, ageing or preparing meat, Anthony says it’s more about teaching the importance of quality over quantity. “Meat isn’t just for the privileged or the wealthy. You can buy really good meat at a good price ... and you’re better off just eating quality meat twice a week, than eating [average grade] five times a week.”

To turn or not to turn – don’t use anything that will puncture the meat and let precious juices escape. It’s debatable, but turning your steak twice on each side (turning 90°) will give more flavour and attractive criss-cross grill marks. Knowing it’s cooked – always pick the steak up and pinch it between two fingers to feel it. Different steaks may feel different according to the grain (bavette versus sirloin). Rest – for half the time you have cooked it. This allows the blood and juices to flow back through the entire steak … if you cut a steak and blood runs out it is under-rested (that blood should have seeped back through the meat creating a juicy steak.) Cleaning – after you have finished cooking, While most of us have use a wire brush or a closet penchant for half a lemon, and rub chocolate, Anthony’s it on the grills. guilty pleasure is Cheetos

FAST FACT

Cheese and Bacon Balls.

LAMB CUTLETS Serves four

Tips  Best cooked on the BBQ  Suggested ultimate doneness is medium rare

Ingredients • 16 x 85g lamb cutlets (ask your butcher to French them) • Rosemary • Garlic • Olive oil

Method 1. Marinate the lamb cutlets in rosemary, garlic and olive oil. 2. Place in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. 3. Remove lamb from the fridge 10 minutes before cooking, to bring to room temperature. 4. Heat your BBQ or griddle to hot. 5. Sprinkle the lamb with salt and pepper. 6. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side. They should be golden and caramelised on the outside and still a little pink inside. 7. Rest for a few minutes before serving.

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cultureclub

CULTURE CLUB GOT A THING FOR THEATRE? LOVE LIVE MUSIC? ENJOY GREAT GALLERIES? READ ON FOR WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS MONTH...

staff pick

Ed Sheeran touring from March 20

CMC ROCKS QLD

MAD MARCH,

Australia’s biggest international country and roots festival outgrew its birthplace in the Snowy Mountains years ago and is now too big for the Hunter Valley too, so it’s hitching the van and moving north to Queensland. Tickets, line-up and details at cmcrocks.com

Adelaide Festival, Adelaide Fringe Festival, Future Music Festival, Womad and the Clipsal 500 V8 Supercars

ADELAIDE:

MARCH 13–15

DIRTY DANCING, PRINCESS THEATRE MELBOURNE

MARCH 4–29

Positively squeaky clean dancing by today’s standards, but still a lot of fun and crammed with chances to hum along to some muchloved cheesy tunes. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com.au

A fairly mellow place for most of the year, Adelaide explodes in March. Rather than spreading the festive love throughout the year, they pack it all into one mammoth month of music, dance, comedy, theatre and grunt. This year’s Clipsal 500 sees Cold Chisel reunite for a one-off gig that should have both the Ford and Holden lovers agreeing on something for once. More info at southaustralia.com/events

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cultureclub

SINEAD O’CONNOR, SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

MARCH 19 Adelaide lured her out here for Womad, and lucky for Sydney she decided to linger for her second-ever performance in the city. Titled I’m Not Bossy, I’m the Boss, it seems the show promises to bring the usual sass we expect from Sinead. Tickets can be booked at sydneyoperahouse.com

CAMPFIRE FESTIVAL, HOPE ESTATE WINERY, HUNTER VALLEY

MARCH 13–15 Created to fill the void left by the departing CMC Rocks festival, this three-day affair brings Aussie music giants John Butler Trio, Kasey Chambers, Mental as Anything and Lee Kernaghan to the heart of New South Wales wine country. Apart from the fab music, there’ll be lots of food and wine available, as well as craft beers from the on-site microbrewery. Plus, festival-goers can book a berth in the brandnew five-star camping facility right there at the winery so they won’t have to venture far at the end of the night. Tickets, line-up and details at campfirefestival.com.au

UNTIL MAY 10 THE LION KING, REGENT THEATRE MELBOURNE More than 75 million people worldwide have already been wowed by this incredible feat of musical theatre. Now Melbourne has a chance to Hakuna Matata along with the Australian company’s version. Take your cubs – they’ll love it. Tickets on sale now from disney.com.au/lionkingthemusical

HANDA OPERA ON SYDNEY HARBOUR,

MARCH 27–APRIL 26 If there’s one thing Sydney is most famous for, it must surely be the Opera House. This production plucks the opera out of the house and pops it on an enormous floating stage right on the harbour, thus combining sparkling lights, champagne and fine dining with the spectacle of Verdi’s Aida. And you can still see the magnificent Opera House in the background. Details and tickets at opera.org.au

culturespace

Exhibitionists  ArtExpress, a showcase of the best art works produced by NSW’s year 12 students in 2014. At the Art Gallery of NSW and regional galleries around NSW until April 19.  James Turrell: A Retrospective is showing at the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, until June 8. It explores the life’s work of the celebrated American artist who creates art with light. “This exhibition will give all Australians the opportunity to experience contemporary art at its absolute best,” says gallery director Ron Radford AM. “When you walk into each of these lifechanging, immersive works, you are forced to question what you are actually seeing. The great strength and power of light and colour will be experienced by each visitor and is often pushed to its extreme in the work of James Turrell.”

This image: Part of the series shown at ArtExpress, Time Between Time 2013, photo media, © the artist Natasha Capstick. Below: Emily Screaming #1 2008 / Epson Digigraphie print on aluminium / 80 x 80cm / Courtesy: David Lynch / © The artist

Please note that due to the nature of the artwork, only a few people will be viewing the pieces at a time and this exhibition has extremely limited capacity. Advance reservations are strongly advised. For information and tickets visit nga.gov.au

Above: Within without 2010, Skyspace: lighting installation, concrete and basalt stupa, water, earth, landscaping,National Gallery of Australia, Canberra © James Turrell. Photograph: John Gollings.

ON TOUR

KYLIE MINOGUE FROM MARCH 14

Tickets and tour dates at frontiertouring.com

ED SHEERAN FROM MARCH 20

ROD STEWART FROM MARCH 21

 David Lynch: Between Two Worlds, showing at the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane, March 14–June 7. The grandmaster of bizarre film and television has also been quietly dabbling as a visual artist for the past 50 years.  Rob Brown Evolution: A Disrespective showing at the Northern Territory’s Museum and Art Gallery until March 29. Announcing the exhibition, MAGNT director Pierre Arpin says, “There’s the various character-based themes. His homage to the losers and misfits fighting evolution’s survival of the fittest, the profane, the rock stars and, of course, the ever-present superheroes.” The collection spans 20 years of a rebellious and thought-provoking career.  Alex Prager at the National Gallery of Victoria until April 19. Alex was inspired by the genius of William Eggleston to pick up a camera herself back in 1999. This exhibition shows photographs from the Polyester series, 2007, to her most recent body of work, Face in the Crowd, 2013.

Coober Pedy A truly unique South Australian Discovery Coober Pedy is the opal capital of the world, with an amazing lunar landscape, an underground lifestyle and fascinating natural history. 2015 marks 100 years since Coober Pedy was established and it’s the perfect time to explore the region and discover the stories and artefacts from the past century. • Marvel at the interpretive fossil display, presented courtesy of the South Australian Museum.

The Town

• Join an underground mine tour, learn about tracing opal and try ‘noodling’ for opal yourself.

• Take in a breathtaking sunset at The Breakaways, washed down with champagne.

Ancient Fossils

• Visit the Moon Plain, rich with fossil deposits and the location of many Hollywood blockbuster movies. • Learn about the Dog Fence which, at 5,300kms, is longer than the Great Wall of China.

Mine Tours

• See the Painted Desert – a magical place with stunning changing colours.

• Explore the surrounding stations and outback towns on a 4WD tour.

Opal - Australia’s Gemstone

• Shop for an opal, Australia’s national gemstone, in the place where it’s been dug from the ground. • Discover night time star constellations through Aboriginal Dreamtime stories.

Winged Wildlife

• Sleep underground, where the outside world disappears. • Experience close encounters with desert fauna and the beautiful outback flora. • Unwind in the silence of the outback.

Sturt’s Desert Pea

• Play a round of golf on a grassless golf course. • Be introduced to a rich multicultural community with more than 40 nationalities represented.

Sleep Underground

1800 637 076

or visit www.cooberpedy.net for more detailed information

You’ll be amazed at where we can take you and what we can show you

The Dog Fence

food&wine

Adelaide McLaren Vale

Kingscote Kangaroo Island

Haines

Drive Time SA

Combine great culinary adventures with glorious drives in southern Australia and get the best of both worlds in one fabulous trip, writes Faye James.

THEY SAY South Australia is a secret waiting to be revealed. While that may be the case, there is certainly no mystery about the many renowned wine-producing areas that abound in this state. Visitors keen to savour the flavours of the region will find a drop to suit all palates, along with a feast of local produce prepared by acclaimed chefs. Beyond the plate, the state’s diverse natural landscapes and native wildlife are added attractions, with pristine coastlines contrasting with rugged mountain terrain and stark outback beauty. I went on a journey from the Fleurieu Peninsula to Kangaroo Island, and discovered why road-trips are such a rite of passage in and amongst this region’s vast abundance. 18

Day

one

Adelaide to McLaren Vale

It’s a scorching day in Adelaide. The sun burns the tarmac and as I step off the plane, I can smell hot rubber almost sizzle off the runway. I’m wondering if it’s a good day to drive to McLaren Vale but when I spot my co-pilot happily chucking her luggage into the boot of the latest Audi Quattro – I’m sensing we have a good day ahead. We throw on some tunes and get revving. It’s a modest 45-minute drive south to McLaren Vale and with the air conditioner and music blasting at full pelt, time just melts away as we cruise through the sunbaked valleys snaking their way through

verdant wine country. Our first stop is lunch at Ekhidna, a small yet popular winery and restaurant that features a creative menu and an innovative selection of handcrafted beers and wines. I feast on rolled duck breast and braised cabbage served with duck fat chips and blueberry bitter leaf salad, a truly excellent dish that is perfectly paired with Ekhidna’s sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir. Bellies full, my co-pilot flicks me the hairy eyeball as I sheepishly take the passenger seat after downing another sneaky glass of Pinot. We tour along the ‘McMurtrie Mile’ and stop off at Red Poles, a combination of art gallery, restaurant and B&B. Situated in the middle of a vineyard, Red Poles hosts a different

Feasting at Ekhidna

The Retreat Chapel Hill

exhibition every six weeks and is an ideal location for an idle afternoon with its fine mix of food, wine and art. Next, we head to the The Salopian Inn, which opened its doors in 1851. In 2009, McLaren Vale Beer Company made the old Salopian Inn its home, returning the hostelry to its original purpose – to provide parched travellers and hard working locals with the finest refreshments. Its mantra is literally, ‘be silly, be honest, be kind’. Beer drinkers, don’t miss out. That said, there’s also 170 different types of gin on offer. A short drive down the road, we find Hugh Hamilton, a fifth-generation winemaker with a cellar door that is widely regarded by

locals as having the most spectacular views in McLaren Vale and the perfect place to take the obligatory selfie to make your mates suitably jealous. Talking of perfect places, a detour to Port Willunga for a swim is a must on a sweltering day such as this. McLaren Vale may not necessarily be famous for its nearby beaches, but the crystal-clear ocean and powdery white

sand here really hit the spot for two hot and sticky travellers. Just a 20-minute drive from Port Willunga, we make our final stop for the day at The Retreat at Chapel Hill where we decide to lay our hat for the night. Nestled in the vineyards of the historic Chapel Hill Winery, this charming venue is the perfect location to experience the essence of McLaren Vale.

Providing parched travellers with the finest brews, McLaren Vale Beer Company’s mantra is, ‘be silly, be honest, be kind’ 19

food&wine

For guests who fancy eating in, there’s a fully equipped kitchen where you can cook up a storm and then relax afterwards in one of the spacious lounge areas. You can even take a cooking masterclass with Chapel Hill’s Executive Chef, which is what we decide to do after a quick freshen up and a couple of glasses of their fine bubbly. Then it’s our turn to play with the pots and pans – I cook up a chargrilled chorizo and parmesan salad, while the rest of the group try more complex dishes such as seared kangaroo and veal tartare.

Day

two

McLaren Vale to Kangaroo Island

Up bright and not too breezy, we head off for Cape Jervis along scenic roads that reveal a seemingly endless display of rolling green hills at every twist and turn. Once at Cape Jervis, we board our car on the SeaLink ferry, disembarking just 45 minutes later at Penneshaw to continue our self-drive journey. Half and hour on, off the Cape Willoughby Road, we find the ideal place to catch our breath –Chapman River Wines. Run by eccentric British bohemian artists Diana and Bruce Keir, the winery is located in a large green field, peppered with interesting artworks and a colourful playground. Inside the teahouse, we munch on an exquisite orange

Diana and Bruce Keir

polenta cake washed down with a selection of their fine wines. Diane talks us through some of her artworks and is somewhat modest about her achievements. “I have a few pieces in that Southern (Ocean) Lodge place,” she smiles, pursing her bright red lips and readjusting her perfectly cocked black beret. Southern Ocean Lodge is one of Australia’s most luxe hotels and Kangaroo Island’s premier retreat. Next we drive out to the Cape Willoughby Lighthouse, about a 25-minute trip, to enjoy lunch at Kangaroo Island Source with the highly acclaimed chef Kate Sumner. Using the property’s farm-based kitchen as her base, Kate established Kangaroo Island Source as a gourmet food business, incorporating catering, a cooking school and a range of natural products using local fare. Indeed, all her ingredients and produce are hand selected and supplied by local producers who share in the same philosophy – food that encapsulates the freshness, quality and flavour

Scenic roads reveal an endless display of rolling green hills at every twist and turn of the Kangaroo Island region. We tuck into dukka-encrusted fish, quinoa salad and freshly cooked haloumi with homemade beetroot relish. While we gorge on these delights, Kate tells us about the upcoming Kangaroo Island FEASTival – one of the region’s annual highlights – in which she is heavily involved this year. “I’m working on a couple of initiatives, including a French toast masterclass, an enchanted garden, and Feastival of Pizza,” she enthuses.

food&wine

Above: Chef, caterer, cooking teacher and all-round superwoman Kate Sumner. Above right: A freshly shucked delicacy at The Oyster Farm Shop. Left: Travelling in luxury – the latest Audi Quattro.

“It’s going to be great fun, as we’ve all put more effort in than ever before.” Feeling well and truly satiated, we press on to Cygnet River – some 20 minutes away – to Kangaroo Island Spirits (KIS), located on the Playford Highway. KIS is South Australia’s first and only boutique distillery, producing a range of high-quality liqueurs and spirits with an emphasis on using local and native ingredients. Even with the hefty price tags, the mind-blowingly good gin and chiliinfused vodka are tipples you won’t want to leave without. A 30-minute drive on, we find ourselves at The Oyster Farm Shop at American River. The Oyster Farm Shop is the processing and packaging facility for Kangaroo Island shellfish and is the largest commercial oyster farm on the island, showcasing local aquaculture and sustainable seafood. It offers tours and shucking lessons and prides itself on its salty, rich and fresh oysters. With sunset approaching, we drive back to the island’s largest town of Kingscote and rest up at beachside hotel Aurora Ozone. The rooms are comfy and modest, but the real gem is the view from the balcony, which backs directly onto the ocean. With the smell of salt in my hair, I take a deep breath and take stock of another amazing day. Day

three

Kingscote to Haines

In the morning, we decide to visit Clifford’s Honey Farm in Haines, about a 20-minute drive from the hotel. Run by Dave and Jenny Clifford, the farm started out as a hobby with just a couple of hives back in 1973. Dave now runs roughly 300 hives and produces about 20 tonnes of honey annually. The bees actually originated from Italy in the province of Liguria and are famous for 21

food&wine

Clients travel far and wide for delicious feta, haloumi, labneh and manchego Beeswax candles from Clifford’s Honey Farm

Island Pure Sheep Dairy

producing an excellent range of honey high in quality and quantity. Attracting a constant stream of visitors – including MasterChef judge Gary Mehigan recently – the farm and adjoining shop boast a diverse range of goodies, from everyday honey-based products to more complex propolis toothpaste. After stocking up on a bevy of sweet delicacies, we meet with Dave’s daughter Sharon, who recounts the rather morbid story of the queen bee. “When a young queen emerges from her cell, she will seek out queen rivals in the hive and attempt to kill them. So, basically, they kill all their sisters so they can reign supreme...” Nice. Next stop on our list is to Island Pure Sheep Dairy on Gum Creek Road, a journey of about 25 minutes. This dairy was actually South Australia’s first sheep dairy and cheese factory when it opened back in 1992. Now clients travel from far and wide to 22

Andermel Marron’s famed seafood platter

purchase delicious feta, haloumi, labneh and manchego, as well as exquisite yoghurts and milks. Tours of the dairy are held daily and milking starts at 2pm. Cheerful dreadlocked retail manager Elizabeth George hands us a couple of samples to test while delivering the health benefits of sheep cheese. “Unlike cow’s milk, sheep’s milk is a lot easier to digest,” she explains. “Many people who are lactose intolerant can consume sheep’s dairy without the ill effects.” My co-pilot and I are so impressed with the produce that we plot ways to bulk order online so we can tuck into Island Pure feta back home.

For lunch, we take a 45-minute drive to Andermel Marron to enjoy freshly cooked marron, which is basically a smaller, purple breed of lobster indigenous to the island. The meat is a little more delicate and richer in taste than the standard lobster and provides a mouthwatering centrepiece for the venue’s famed seafood platter, which we enjoy with one of its Two Wheeler Creek wines – definitely one of the most memorable and satisfying lunches on our trip. Armed with a couple of bottles of their very quaffable plonk, we take a 45-minute drive to the aforementioned Southern Ocean Lodge.

Positive Cash Flow From Day One Since itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inception after the Reserve Bank Reforms in March 2009 ATM ownership continues to hit all the right keys. Owning a fleet of ATMs has become a well known business opportunity since Own Your Own ATM launched in March, 2009. Many of our clients have diversified their portfolio and are now enjoying a minimum of 20% p.a. returns that an ATM business can provide for the life of the agreement. It is possible to use your ATM income to subsidise a large investment portfolio and not hit the serviceability wall, allowing you to make further investments in the future. Unlike a term deposit, where you are liable for tax at the first dollar of interest earned, ATMs being plant and equipment, can be depreciated to offset the transaction income earned. These private ATMs are placed in a variety of convenient locations throughout Australia. You own the Automated Teller Machines and experienced national ATM deployers place the machine in the site and manage it. ATM income is directly deposited into the account of your choice. Legal agreements state the deployer must cover all costs for parts and maintenance, insurance and payment processing for the life of the agreement. ATM owners are paid a minimum 20% p.a.* or $0.30 per transaction, whichever is higher, paid monthly. In times of market volatility, a portfolio of ATMs can provide a steady income stream and potentially solve your cash flow issues.

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BUSINESS HOURS ATMs TRANSACTION FORMULA 0 - 783 TRANSACTIONS $235 PER MONTH 784+ CALCULATED AT $0.30 PER TRANSACTION TOTAL TOTAL MONTHLY TRANSACTIONS AMOUNT DUE

SITE NAME

SERIAL NUMBER

Luna Park

KIC090600143

2,002

$600.60

Sea Lake Foodworks

KIC090600146

1,282

$384.00

Caloundra Caltex

KIC090600147

705

$235.00

Hazelbrook Bowling

KIC090200014

471

$235.00

Tumbarumba Bowling Club

KIC090200004

472

$235.00

Wardell Liquor

KIC091200001

556

$235.00

Northhampton Supermarket

KIC090300074

813

$243.90

BP Childers

KIC091200002

1,123

$336.90

Grand Old Crow Hotel

KIC090200028

490

$235.00

Sportsmens Hotel

KIC090300065

842

$252.60

TOTAL AMOUNT DUE

$2,993.00

THIS PORTFOLIO OF 10 BUSINESS HOUR ATMS COST $140,000 +gst

*Example: a business hour machine costing $14,000 ex gst, the annual return is $2,800 or $235 per month. Returns continue for the life of the agreement.

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Round-up GET THERE

You can fly into Adelaide then drive and take the SeaLink ferry to Kangaroo Island, or fly to Kingscote.

STAY

Wining and dining at the opulent Southern Ocean Lodge

The hotel is considered one of Australia’s most extraordinary lodge experiences. Exclusive and award winning, this world-class retreat offers an unforgettable blend of contemporary luxury and raw nature. Twenty-one suites boast breathtaking views, while all-inclusive rates, first-name service and a personalised itinerary combine to offer the ultimate Kangaroo Island sojourn. After checking in to our stunning suites, we take the ‘Coastal Clifftop Trek’, a scenic walk starting right on the lodge doorstep atop the limestone cliffs of Hanson Bay, capturing a bird’s eye view of thundering waves crashing along the coastline. Standing on top of the cliff with the wind whipping around us, we look out to sea and realise there is nothing but ocean between here and Antarctica. The day ends with sunset drinks and a gourmet dinner at the lodge. As the evening settles and we drink warmed brandy next to a crackling fire, we find ourselves lost for words and immersed in thought, both reflecting on how awe-inspiring our visit has been. Road tripping will never be the same again.

The Retreat at Chapel Hill 1 Chapel Hill Road, McLaren Vale (08) 8323 9182, chapelhillwine.com.au Aurora Ozone Hotel The Foreshore, Kingscote, Kangaroo Island (08) 8553 2011 auroraresorts.com.au/Aurora-Ozone/index.php Southern Ocean Lodge Hanson Bay Road, Hanson Bay, Kangaroo Island (08) 8559 7347, southernoceanlodge.com.au

EAT & DRINK

There is nothing but ocean between here and Antarctica.

Ekhidna Kitchen Cnr Kangarilla & Foggo Roads, McLaren Vale (08) 8323 8496, ekhidnawines.com.au Red Poles 190 McMurtrie Road, McLaren Vale (08) 8323 8994, redpoles.com.au The Salopian Inn 5 McMurtrie Road, McLaren Vale (08) 8323 8769, mvbeer.com Hugh Hamilton Wines 94 McMurtrie Road, McLaren Vale (08) 8323 8689, hughhamiltonwines.com.au Chapman River Wines Cape Willoughby Road, Antechamber Bay, Kangaroo Island (08) 8553 1121, chapmanriverwines.com.au Kangaroo Island Source 90 Cape Willoughby Road, Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island (08) 8553 1041, kangarooislandsource.com.au Andermel Marron, The Marron Café Harriet Road, Kangaroo Island (08) 8559 4114, andermel.com.au

EXPLORE

Kangaroo Island FEASTival, 1–8 May A series of authentic dining events highlighting the rich history, spirit and character of Kangaroo Island. tourkangarooisland.com.au/kifeastival Festival Fleurieu, 11–19 April An artisan and music festival showcasing national and international performers. festivalfleurieu.com.au

MORE INFO

southaustralia.com goodfoodkangarooisland.com

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weekender

Just a 75-minute ferry ride from Brisbane finds you a small slice of paradise like no place on earth. Faye James uncovers magic on Moreton Island

IT’S 7.30 IN THE MORNING. On the dusty shelter of Holt Street Wharf, 30 or so excited teenagers sit patiently awaiting the Tangalooma ferry. “I just can’t wait to snorkel the wrecks!” shrieks one. “I’m gonna bash those dunes!” says another. “I want to go home,” says the little voice in my head. Let’s face it, the promise of paradise with a ferryload of schoolies was fast invading my slice of heaven. I had booked myself a weekend on Tangalooma Island Resort, Moreton Island in the hope of getting away from it all. The lure of turquoise-coloured waters, pristine golden sand and spectacular marine life had me sold for a memorable couple of days. Approximately 35 kilometres long and 10 kilometres wide, Moreton Island is the third largest sand island in the world. Moorgumpin meaning ‘place of sandhills’ is the Indigenous name for Moreton Island and Tangalooma means ‘where fishes meet’. The Indigenous people of Moorgumpin are known as the Ngugi. Extensive site surveys have established the Ngugi people lived permanently on the island, maintaining a marine-based lifestyle for more than 2000 years. Fish, shellfish, dugong, turtle and crustaceans formed a major portion of their diet, which was supplemented by midyim berries, pandanus and honey – so an island of plenty it clearly was. After the war, a whaling station was built at Tangalooma that operated between 1952 and 1962. In June 1963, the whaling station was sold to a syndicate of Gold Coast businessmen. The current owners – local Brisbane family, the Osbornes – bought the resort in 1980. The Osborne family still owns Tangalooma Island Resort today and reaps the rewards of an extremely popular holiday destination. During the ferry trip, punctuated by the yells and screams of

the passengers, I thought long and hard about whether I was headed to an oasis of bliss, or an island filled with rampant teens. 75 minutes later, a little worse for wear from the constant shrieks, the ferry swept into the island. The azure water glistened in the sunlight and, as I disembarked onto the jetty and stepped onto the vast strip of powdery sand, cheerful general manager, Henk Loosschilder, greeted me. Apparently he’s not working today but he’s still keen to meet and greet. I’m whisked straight to my room, located in the Deep Blue building, which happens to be quite far away from maddening crowds. “These apartments are ideal for those seeking somewhere a little more private,” says Henk who admits the island is a huge hit for schoolies and tourists – mainly from the Asian continent. “They just love the activities on offer here, from snorkeling and dune bashing to parasailing and dolphin feeding. That said, when you come here, the island is big enough not to feel inundated with people. Even if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, you’ll definitely find it here,” Henk assures me. I’m feeling a little less apprehensive.

weekender

I am greeted by hundreds of species of marine life from parrotfish to turtles and wobbegong sharks. Overlooking straight onto the ample horizon, I check out my pad for the weekend. These newly appointed apartments boast huge palatial rooms, comfy furnishings, plus a plunge pool in the bathroom. There’s even a large BBQ on the terrace so you can entertain comfortably – in style nonetheless. I make myself a cup of tea and sit on the balcony to soak in the splendid views and peruse my itinerary in the sanctuary of my huge apartment. The anxiety melts away and I’m feeling as excited as those shrieking teens on the ferry. Like Henk said, the island is not short of activities. As well as the aforementioned snorkelling, parasailing and dune bashing, there’s also paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, bush tucker walking, scuba diving and helicopter joy rides. My first activity is snorkelling among the shipwrecks. I’m extremely curious about this as there are approximately 15 sunken ships to snorkel through. Wrecks are generally great diving and snorkelling spots as they create artificial reefs, which often attract a plethora of marine life. The boats were originally sunk by the Queensland government to create a safe haven for functional boats to moor safely. Little did they envisage the wrecks would create some of the best snorkelling the region has to offer. Indeed as we circle the wrecks after a short boat

ride from the resort’s dive centre, I am greeted by hundreds of species of marine life from parrotfish to turtles and wobbegong sharks and am suitably impressed. I’ve snorkelled in Fiji, the Maldives and Mexico and not witnessed such abundance in one concentration. I can hear squeals of delight from neighbouring teens, but, to be honest, I am just as thrilled as they are. Next up on the itinerary is quad biking through the surrounding sand dunes. It’s my first time on a bike and, after a short briefing, we head off into dunes – motor reverberating angrily through the sand and me, as I desperately try to negotiate the incoming bends. This is a great way to tour the island and understand the true expanse of the dunes and surrounding Moreton National Park. It’s here you fathom the enormity and beauty of the island and get a sense of all the nooks and crannies where you can get away from it all. I have found that slice of peaceful heaven I was so desperately seeking. I spend the next day exploring the island on foot. The stretch of beach is vast, and although many tourists flock to the sand to take their obligatory selfies, there’s enough of a stretch to find solitude. Moreton Bay Island is also an ideal spot to bushwalk and, as you maze your way through the national

weekender

park, you’ll see plenty of campers getting their fill of island camping. One family admitted they preferred Moreton Bay over its larger sister, Fraser Island, due to facilities and fantastic shipwreck diving. As the sun sets over the horizon, I head back to the jetty to witness the hugely popular wild dolphin feeding. The owner of the resort, Brian Osborne, has been feeding the dolphins here at Tangalooma since the ’80s. “During the ’80s, resort guests fishing on the jetty started throwing fish at the dolphins and, over the years, they’ve brought their families and friends to join in. Throughout the winter of 1992, my wife Betty and I, and our poodle Yoplait, spent every night on the patio waiting patiently for the dolphins to arrive so we could feed them,” recalls Brian. In 1994, Brian opened the resort’s Dolphin Education Centre and, since then, the program has been continually improved. “We’ve added a new jetty and grandstand and hired a team of extremely dedicated marine education biologists. When we visit the jetty and watch the program, our minds go back

to the first dolphin – Beauty – that fed from us, as we watch the antics of the young dolphins at play. What an incredible legacy Beauty has left us.” When I head down to the jetty at 6pm, crowds of tourists flock in droves and queue up to feed the dolphins fresh fish from the buckets. As I wade into the water, a fellow marine biologist talks me through the name of the dolphin I’m feeding and its characteristics. He literally spirals through the water to grab the fish and soaks me with water in the process. Apart from being drenched from head to toe, the dolphin feeding is a unique experience, mainly because the dolphins are wild and not part of a controlled environment – that and the passion from Brian and the marine education biologists, who clearly cherish and love the mammals. As I sleepily amble back to my room for a blissful sleep overlooking the ocean I dream of all the beauties I have witnessed on Tangalooma. It may be a popular place frequented by many, but that doesn’t stop it from being an absolute dream destination.

Round-up GET THERE

Tangalooma is a 75-minute ferry ride from Holt Street Wharf, Brisbane.

STAY

Tangalooma Island Resort Tangalooma.com

EAT & DRINK

For traditional Chinese, try Fire & Stone, bistro style dining at Beach Café or casual buffet dining at Turisops Buffet Restaurant all located at the resort.

charity

CONSCIOUS

CEO

Proving that conscious companies can be every bit as successful as capital driven enterprises, CEO Dwayne Martens shares his philosophies on life and business with Riley Palmer.

Dwayne Martens doesn’t conform to the sports car driving, power-hungry capitalist stereotype of a successful CEO. For one thing, he feels more at home in his yoga getup than he does in a suit and tie, and for another, wealth and material gains don’t seem to be very high on his agenda. “I’ve got everything I’ve ever wanted right at this moment, and every other moment,” says Dwayne – his inflection revealing another atypical characteristic of the clichéd CEO; a smile. Today Dwayne is lauded for his enterprise and cunning in starting up the highly successful Amazonia – the company behind the much-loved Acai and Raw product ranges. But at 22, when Amazonia was little more than a pipe

dream, the praise was less forthcoming. In fact skepticism and concern featured much more predominantly where Dwayne’s ambitions were concerned. When Dwayne quit university in his last semester of a health science degree, even his parents thought his head was in the clouds. “They said: ‘Dwayne, go back to uni,’” he laughs. “And they said it with a lot of heart, and a lot of sternness.” Our engrained fear of failure – and the fear of those who love us most – seems to frighten a lot of us down life’s more conventional paths. However, operating from fear simply isn’t in Dwayne’s nature. “You need to have enough confidence in yourself to just go for it,” he says. “And that’s the thing a lot of people never get past. A lot of people settle for good, and

FAST FACTS • For every tonne of Amazonia’s freeze-dried Acai powder there are 20 tonnes of leftover seed. • Amazonia supplies its products to six hospitals and more than 1200 retailers, cafes and juice bars.

charity

Amazonia supports the preservation of more than 4000 acres of natural rainforest in Brazil by providing education on the financial incentives of sustainable farming. that’s not to say that good is bad, but it’s good. And good is not great. Good is just a pretty comfortable life, which is beautiful for a lot of people. But for me, good is not good enough.” So Dwayne took his parents’ concerns with a pinch of salt, wore his heart on his sleeve, and decided that if he fails “it’s not the end of the world”. Looking from the outside in, it seems Amazonia was always destined for success, but that’s not the case. Mother Nature very nearly saw Amazonia come completely undone. “We went incredibly well to start out with,” says Dwayne. “Then we lost it all in the Brisbane floods.” A misfortune that cost him $90,000, Dwayne concedes this was a very testing time. While coming back from such devastation is one of Dwayne’s proudest achievements, nothing seems to gratify him more than the impact of Amazonia’s conservation practices and ethical measures. Amazonia supports the preservation of more than 4000 acres of natural rainforest in Brazil by providing education on the financial incentives of sustainable farming to local families –

As the lungs of the Earth, Dwayne understands the importance of preserving the rainforest ecology of South America.

many of whom now view the rainforest as more valuable standing, than logged. “We go into communities and actively work on preserving rainforest,” explains Dwayne. “And that, I am incredibly, incredibly proud to say.” In 2009, Amazonia founded the Fair Trade Project of Sambazon, which focused on the socioeconomic development of northern Brazil’s riverside community, Rio Mariaizinho. The project’s Fair Trade Fund has so far provided the resources for this community to build a new school and finance community workshops in correct waste disposal. It has facilitated education into good harvest practices, the importance of personal protection and the proper management of Acai trees in order to maximise fruit production. The Fair Trade Project of Sambazon has donated tarps, gloves, crates, waste disposal barrels and new machetes fitted with leather sheaths to protect from injury. It’s also facilitated the recycling of all Acai seeds, which the locals now use as an alternative fuel to timber. Amazonia has recently extended its ecological practices into Thailand where it’s enabled the organic production of 2000

acres of coconut plantations. “Because of all the herbicides and pesticides they use on the plantations in Thailand, their ecosystems are being destroyed,” says Dwayne. “And the beautiful thing now is the fish are back, the bees are back – the ecosystems are growing back, and the yields are also bigger.” So palpable is his passion that you get the sense Dwayne could talk about his community involvement and environmental footprint – or lack thereof – for an eternity. Reiterating his anti-materialism and anti-capitalism philosophies, he says: “Instead of always trying to get the upper hand, there can be this kind of giving back mentality that can stand you in good stead.” There are few people who discern so definitively the difference between a good, comfortable life, and a great, uncertain one. Fewer still who authentically live the great, uncertain one. Dwayne is one in a million – and while it’s not the end of the world if any of his ventures ever fail – his self-belief and attitude towards others all but ensure this will never happen.

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JUICE JUNKIES

THIS MONTH, FITNESS EXPERT PAUL MELDRUM GIVES FIVE TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR WORKOUT

With hit TV show Bondi Rescue being aired in 180 countries around the world, it’s no surprise Head Bondi Lifeguard, Bruce “Hoppo” Hopkins has jumped at the chance to expand the brand with Bondi Rescue HQ. This unique new addition to the sea of cafes that border North Bondi’s sidewalks, not only offers a nutritionist-formulated menu, using all-natural ingredients, but gives fans of Bondi Rescue a chance to meet the stars – with Hoppo, Maxi, Reidy and Harries regularly visiting Bondi Rescue HQ. Check out its customised juice-based cleanses to restore vital minerals that help heal, hydrate, refuel H E ALTH and energise the body. For the gym junkie there’s the ‘Muscle Up’ smoothie with coconut water, blueberries and added protein, and for the party animal there’s the ‘Morning After’ juice which improves energy and eliminates any harmful substances in the body. R IT

Try a new sport or activity Trying new activities can help you improve your movement skills. For example, taking up rock climbing can improve performance. Learning dance can help improve movement awareness in leg training exercises. If you continuously learn new skills and add to your movement vocabulary you will gradually find your movement quality in training gets better and better.

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Think of training as practice, not working out This is a huge paradigm shift. Most people go to the gym trying to exhaust

Stop each set before burnout Many people take each set to burnout. This will lead to suboptimal movement quality. It is a good idea to stop the set with one or two reps left in the tank. This will ensure every set is consistently effective.

Self limiting exercises Put them in your program. An example of this is jump rope. As it is impossible to jump rope with poor alignment and form, it builds quality of movement and is great for your overall workout. Also, try barefoot running, rock climbing, single leg exercises and kettlebell presses which will all improve your overall fitness routine.

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themselves and sweat as much as possible. This may be fun, but not productive. I recommend using one day at the gym to practice a particular lift.

Breathing To improve movement quality and breath simultaneously, try limiting all your breathing during a moderate training session to nasal breathing only. It can help with balancing the nervous system, optimising core function plus preventing a stress response from exercise.

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TOP 5 TIPS

HEALTH NEWS

WORK IT

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CALLING ALL LOVERS! Rydges Sydney Central are currently offering the Suite Romance package from just $279, which includes king suite accommodation, a delicious ‘Rise’ buffet breakfast, sparkling wine on arrival, wi-fi and checkout as late as noon. With the hotel’s location just a few minutes’ walk from Central Station, the Sydney Light Rail and the Central Bus Transit Centre, it is the perfect base for interstate and intrastate couples to shop and explore the Sydney, Darling Harbour, Chinatown and Surry Hills precincts. rydges.com.au

REJUVENATE HIGH TEA A twist on the old-fashioned afternoon high tea, Food Society is reintroducing its award-winning Vodka High Tea. Diners can enjoy a delightful degustation uniquely created by head chef, Fernando Sanchez, who offers a ‘tea gastronomy’ of handmade savoury and sweet canapés. The centerpiece of the high tea is, of course, the vodka tea itself. Working hand-in-hand with the head chef, Food Society’s cocktail maestros immerse themselves into the world of vodka with a selection of 70 different types. Complementing fragrance and flavours are carefully selected to match the current season and market produce. foodsociety.com.au

The centerpiece of the high tea is, of course, the vodka tea itself

Perfect for all skin types, Neal’s Yard Remedies Rejuvenating Frankincense Refining Cleanser is enriched with frankincense to firm and tone, organic baobab to intensely moisturise, and cocoa butter to nourish skin as you wash away impurities. Perfect to use while travelling, this quenching cleanser also comes with a soft, organic muslin cloth. RRP: $32.95, nealsyardremedies.com.au

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LITTLE TRAVELLERS Melbourne-raised mum Bronwyn Darnoc has recently launched this cute kids’ flight logbook, Simply For Flying. Designed to look like a passport, it’s a fun way to keep track of your little one’s flights. simplyforflying.com 39

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backed by cutting-edge science and has been thoroughly tested. Three of the key ingredients in TRX2 are officially recognised by the European Commission as contributing to the maintenance of normal healthy hair*. The effects can be impressive. Start TRX2 as early as possible in order to address your hair problem before it is too late. “Your hair becomes much heavier and thicker. You maintain your healthy hair.” TRX2 is suitable for men and women of all ages. The crystalline white capsules come in a brown glass bottle, which is sufficient for one month of treatment and costs approximately A$70. The manufacturer offers a money-back guarantee if ordered via TRX2’s official website, and ships worldwide. www.trx2.com, contact@trx2.com Oxford BioLabs Ltd, The Oxford Science Park, Oxford, UK

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AGRIBUSINESS

MINING

INVESTMENT

PLUS...

The latest news, information and innovations from the agricultural industry

Helpful insights and fascinating facts about the Australian mining and resource sector

Top tips from the experts on how to make the most of your hard-earned cash

Conference destinations Motoring review Must-have boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; toys Seasonal flavours

RegionalBusinessReview Issue 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; March 2015

of food Dan Barber redefines ethical eating

conferencedestinations

WORK, REST & PLAY ATTENDING A CONFERENCE OR EXPO IS A GREAT WAY TO DEVELOP YOUR NETWORK, LEARN ABOUT THE LATEST INNOVATIONS AND SLIP IN SOME WELL-EARNED DOWNTIME. SYDNEY ROYAL EASTER SHOW MARCH 26–APRIL 8 SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK, HOMEBUSH, NSW Roll up, roll up for the greatest show on earth! For two weeks, Sydney Olympic Park will be crammed with showbags, carnival rides, food and wine stalls, woodchopping competitions, sheep shearing, an adorably cute farmyard nursery and very smiley people. Of course, as the event is staged by the Royal Agricultural Society of New South Wales, it also provides an opportunity for Australia’s very best producers and breeders to take a bow.

WHERE TO STAY: There are four hotels on-site at Olympic Park. The Novotel is perfect if you have the kids in tow, as they stay and eat breakfast for free as long as they’re under 16. For a bit of luxury, check in to one of the King suites at the Pullman where you can stay seven nights and only pay for 2

RegionalBusinessReview

five. If it’s space you’re after, then an apartment at Quest with large living spaces and a fully equipped kitchen for a spot of DIY dining is your best bet. By far the most affordable option, with rooms from just $69 per night, the Ibis Budget hotel offers a comfortable sleep without the bells and whistles.

WHERE TO EAT: If the timehonoured Easter Show tradition of frankfurts covered in batter and slathered with sauce isn’t your thing, then head to Ribs and Rumps opposite the Olympic Park train station. The menu is a vegetarian’s worst nightmare, and at lunchtime, local beers and house wines are just $5 each. Other dining options at Olympic Park include Vietnamese at Lotus Story, Italian from Piccolo Roma and daytime loveliness from the oddly named Abattoir Blues deli, bar and café – all in the same little strip by the station. WHERE TO PLAY: For just $24, you can enjoy unlimited public transport for the day. That doesn’t sound too exciting; however, this is

Sydney, and that means unlimited cruising on one of the world’s most beautiful harbours. Starting out from Olympic Park, take a trip down the Parramatta River to Circular Quay, then enjoy the 30-minute ride across the harbour to Manly. Forget Bondi – Manly is half as crowded and twice as beautiful. There’s plenty of surf action, or take a walk around to Shelly Beach at the south end and watch the sea dragons sunning themselves on the rocks of this lovely sheltered little cove. Next up, grab another ferry to Watsons Bay, arriving just in time for lunch at the pub by the wharf. The beer garden, perched just metres from the sand, boasts beer that is consistently icy cold and fish and chips that are legendary. Finish the day in Darling Harbour for a spot of shopping, a visit to the Maritime Museum or Aquarium and a flutter at The Star Casino – if you pull an all-nighter, don’t miss out on breakfast at the casino complex’s Sokyo, which perfectly fuses Japanese and Australian cuisines.

Clockwise from top: Take a ferry on Sydney Harbour; the food and views are breathtaking at The Watsons Bay Hotel; surf’s up at Manly Beach.

conferencedestinations

ANZIF 2015 (THE INSTITUTE OF FORESTERS AUSTRALIA AND THE NEW ZEALAND INSTITUTE OF FORESTRY) APRIL 13–15 NOVOTEL FOREST RESORT, CRESWICK, VIC The theme for the 8th ANZIF conference will be Creating Resilient Landscapes – going beyond tenure to better forest and land use, and promises a full and varied program offering talks on all aspects of forestry in both urban and regional areas across Australia and overseas.

WHERE TO STAY: Obviously, your best bet is to book a room at the Novotel in Creswick, where the conference is being held. The aptly named Forest Resort sits on 60 hectares of state forest and boasts its own 18-hole championship golf course. All rooms offer kingsize beds, balconies and floor-toceiling windows to take advantage

of the views. Book online at novotelforestresort.com.au

WHERE TO EAT: The restaurant on site, Harvest 383, offers an innovative menu created around fresh, local fare, with most dishes citing how many kilometres the produce travelled to get from the farm to your fork. Fortunately, they are surrounded by fertile farmland so they easily make it under their self-imposed limit of 383 kilometres. If you’re after something a bit lighter, the burgers at Springs Bar & Terrace (also on site) should hit the spot. For a quick cake and coffee fix, local Creswick French bakery Le Péché Gourmand has tarts, pastries and éclairs aplenty.

stress melt away. History buffs will find plenty of interesting places in and around the gold mining town of Ballarat. One of the most popular is Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum that transports visitors back to the gold rush days of the mid-1800s. Stay around into the evening for the 90-minute light and sound extravaganza retelling the tale of the Eureka Stockade.

WHERE TO PLAY: Creswick is a short drive from both Daylesford and Ballarat. Known for the region’s 72 mineral springs, Daylesford is the place to completely unwind and relax. Book in a massage, take a stroll around the lake, visit one of the many cellar doors and feel the

Clockwise from top right: Daylesford is dotted with cellar doors; Sovereign Hill evokes the gold rush era; the Novotel has its own 18hole course; relax amongst the vines.

RegionalBusinessReview

conferencedestinations

MINE SITE AUTOMATION AND COMMUNICATION CONFERENCE APRIL 21–22 PULLMAN HOTEL, KING GEORGE SQUARE, BRISBANE, QLD Hear from mining experts from the likes of BHP Billiton, CRC Mining, Rio Tinto and the CSIRO on the latest innovations in automation and communication and how they will affect the future of mining in Australia.

WHERE TO STAY: The easiest option is to indulge in some 5-star luxury at the Pullman Hotel, where the conference is being held. However, being in the Brisbane CBD, there are loads of other great options. If you prefer to have a bit more room to move, Hotel Jen has a range of newly refurbished and huge executive suites close to Roma Parklands and the main CBD. 4

RegionalBusinessReview

WHERE TO EAT: Splash out on a feast to remember at Brisbane’s only triple-hatted restaurant, Esquire. Perched on the river’s edge, executive chef Ryan Squires’ latest venture offers a choice of two degustation menus: either seven or 15 courses of small but perfectly designed and executed plates of imaginative fare. Adjoining is his other restaurant, Esq, which offers a far more informal approach to dining. Centre stage on the menu here is the charcoal grill, which cooks Australian bay lobster with garlic and parsley or Tasmanian lamb ribs with miso and sake to perfection. WHERE TO PLAY: It would be a shame not to take advantage of being a hop, skip and a jump away from one of Australia’s favourite playgrounds: the Gold Coast. As well as the multitude of theme parks, famous beaches, non-stop nightlife and thousands of bars and restaurants, the region is home to more than 30

golf courses. If that all sounds a bit too hectic, take the 75-minute ferry trip from the city out to pristine Moreton Island. The world’s third-largest sand island is a fishing, snorkelling and generally lazing around lagoon-filled paradise.

Clockwise from top left: Fancy fare at Esq; highlife meets high rise on the Gold Coast; unwind with a spot of fishing on Fraser Island; it’s a surfers’ paradise.

conferencedestinations

HARD ROCK MINE VENTILATION 2015 APRIL 29–MAY 1 NOVOTEL PERTH LANGLEY, PERTH, WA This conference is an absolute must for mining executives looking to improve the way they deal with the issues of dust, crystalline silica and diesel particulate management. Talks will also be given on how to save money with an optimised and efficient ventilation system. Key speakers include Jaco Kok, President of the Mine Ventilation Society of Australia, and Allison Golsby, CEO at ConsultMine. Clockwise from top right: Little Creatures brewery; a craft beer tasting tray; Public House Kitchen & Bar; aerial view of Perth and the Swan River.

WHERE TO STAY: The Novotel Perth Langley offers a wide range of accommodation options, from basic rooms to apartments. Better still, it’s also home to Perth’s oldest Irish pub, Fenians, where live music and great pub grub rule the day. If you’d prefer to be right on the waterfront, book in at the Crowne Plaza – the only hotel

in Perth with balcony views of the Swan River.

WHERE TO EAT: If wine’s your thing, head straight to Perth’s best and fairest wine bar, Lalla Rookh Wine Store. Here you’ll find a huge variety of local and international wines available by the glass, ensuring a journey of discovery for your tastebuds as you match each new drop with the Italian-style morsels you’re nibbling. For something a little more hearty, Nonna’s meatballs are the real deal. If you’d prefer to treat your tastebuds to a trip to South America, then Public House Kitchen and Bar is the place to be. The food here varies from tapasstyle munchies like buttermilk bun sliders and corn on a stick with cheese and lime, to more substantial meat dishes that are cooked low and slow for maximum juiciness. Try the 18-hour pork with pork scratchings and you may decide to move here permanently.

WHERE TO PLAY: There are two main entertainment hubs in Perth. Northbridge is full of great pubs and nightclubs and attracts a younger crowd. Further south is Fremantle, home to the iconic Little Creatures brewery right on the water at Fishing Boat Harbour, as well as two other very worthy brewers The Monk and The Sail and Anchor. All three are utter purists, with a real commitment to quality beer. Grab a tasting tray and try the lot.

RegionalBusinessReview

profile

HEAD OF REGIONALLY BASED PR COMPANY, SAUCE COMMUNICATIONS, LIANE SAYER-ROBERTS IS A WOMAN ON A MISSION. SHE SPEAKS WITH RILEY PALMER ABOUT LIFE IN LEETON AND BUSINESS IN THE BUSH. When you moved to Leeton, you never intended to stay there longterm. Now, 10 years on, what keeps you there? Sometimes success comes from the most unexpected sources. We came to Leeton for my husband’s career, but we’ve stayed for mine, and the lifestyle it affords our young family. Admittedly I clock a lot of kilometres between Sauce’s various offices – but you can’t beat the two minute commute to work in Leeton, the warmth of the community and the house prices! What does the name ‘Sauce’ mean to you? On launching the business, I felt confident I could offer a niche service in the region and invested in developing a strong brand and collateral from the outset. Our Sauce ‘tomato’ logo and tagline – “We say tomato the same way as you!” – has been with us from day one and represents the fact we don’t apply a run-of-the-mill corporate approach to the work we do. I also grew up on a tomato farm, so dad likes to take credit for the brand too. Have you always been a staunch advocate for rural women? I’ve always been a strong advocate for women in general, but my passion to unlock talent in rural communities has definitely been honed by my experience building a business in the bush. Because an agency of our size and scale is unusual in a regional city, let alone a town the size of Leeton, talented women in our field regularly seek us out. So many of them have shared their

RegionalBusinessReview

delight at finding Sauce, given the limited opportunities that exist in our field in many rural locations, that I felt compelled to do something about it. I’m currently working on a model to reach and link the many thousands of rural women in marketing, PR and events. It’s my personal project outside of Sauce to shine a light on their talent, build their capacity as small business owners and connect them with each other. Throughout your career you’ve had the opportunity to interact with many strong, like-minded individuals. What have you learned from them? Some of the best advice I’ve been given is to surround yourself with incredible people, ask for help when you need it and never limit yourself or your thinking by geography or circumstance. That’s certainly been my experience too – I firmly believe anything’s possible with a good Internet connection, a great idea and the drive to bring it to life.

Fast facts • Liane is just as comfortable in Blunnies as she is in heels. In fact, her stockings hide a number of bruises incurred while playing rugby with her two boisterous boys. • According to her parents, Liane has variously aspired to be a police officer, a long haul truck driver and even an army recruit.

Your public persona is so selfassured. How do you overcome self-doubt? I’m a big believer of standing on the ledge, feeling the fear and jumping anyway. I wouldn’t have moved to Leeton or launched my own business without that mindset. Some of the most successful businesspeople I know tell me they still get nervous before public speaking or brokering a large deal, and I think that’s healthy. Complacency’s a killer in business. When I’m setting goals for my business or myself, I know that I’ve set the bar high enough if I feel a knot in the pit of my stomach. What notions about rural Australia do you hope to foster in your two young boys? I hope my boys can see that rural Australia is a dynamic place to do business – it’s full of talent, innovation and opportunity. I also trust they’ll learn the value of hard work and the importance of giving back. What’s been the most rewarding project you’ve ever worked on? Partnering with the Devondale Murray Goulburn team in the launch of their $80 million Devondale Dairy Beverages Centre in Laverton [Melbourne] last year was definitely a standout. While it was a wonderful to be a part of such a high profile event, the real reward lay in appreciating the centre as the most significant dairy asset built in Australia in 15 years. It’s the backbone of a milk supply contract with Coles that will benefit Murray Goulburn’s dairy farmers for the next decade.

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boys’toys

GOTTA HAVE IT

WE UNEARTH THE BEST GOODS AND GADGETS JUST FOR YOU

1. Product: Canon EF 100–400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens, Price: $2380, Website: canon.com.au Replacing its 16-year-old 100–400mm telephoto zoom lens, Canon’s most anticipated lens boasts a superior range of functions; from image stabilisation, and greater focus length, to wetweather and dust resistance and exceptional image quality. This lens is designed to capture a fleeting moment in time, making it ideal for sport and wildlife photography in particular. 2. Product: Striiv FUSION Activity / Sleep Tracker + Smartwatch, Price: $149, Website: striiv.com A standout in the growing variety of fitness bands, the Striiv Fusion combines sleep quality and activity tracking (steps, distance, calories and active minutes) with the latest in smartwatch technology (calls, texts, app notifications and upgrades). What really sets it apart, however, is its seven-day battery life. 3. Product: Kaiser Baas selfie pole, Price: $69.95, Stockists: 1800 665 774 Hardly a day goes by where our phones don’t double as cameras, or, more specifically, as selfie capturing devices. Using Bluetooth connectivity and a remote control located on its grip handle, the Kaiser Baas Selfie Pole enables you to frame these everyday moments with effortless perfection.

RegionalBusinessReview

boys’toys

4. Product: Tivoli Audio PAL+ Portable FM/DAB+ Radio, Price: $399, Website: tivoliaudio.com.au Weighing less than a kilogram, Tivoli Audio’s weather-resistant PAL+ is the stylish answer to portable audio. With a rechargeable battery, a clear display with an adjustable backlight, DAB, DAB+, DMB and FM RDS reception and awardwinning audio circuitry – the PAL+ is perfect for travel, a day at the beach or even just lazing in the backyard.

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5. Product: Orbotix Ollie, Price: $119.99, Website: gosphero.com/ollie Made of a durable polycarbonate shell, the latest plaything sure to impress all those big kids out there is Ollie – an app controlled robot, engineered to spin, drift, stall, flip and race at up to six metres per second. 6. Product: Hoverboard kit by ZR®, Price: $7690, Website: zapata-racing.com/en Transforming your wildest childhood fantasies into a reality, Zapata Racing has invented a fullyfledged hoverboard. Functioning via the water pressure generated through an 18-metre hose, which is attached to a personal watercraft (such as a jet-ski), the hoverboard is an absolute must for all thrill-seeking water enthusiasts out there.

RegionalBusinessReview

boys’toys

7. Product: SensoGlove, Price: $104.75, Website: sensoglove.com Impress your mates with the sudden perfection of your golf swing. The world’s first digital golf glove, SensoGlove provides real-time audio and visual feedback to notify you if your grip pressure is less than optimal. Helping you avoid bad habits and injury, SensoGlove acts as your personal trainer on the green. 8. Product: Wireless Aluminum Keypad, Price: $64.70, Website: newertech.com/keypad Seamlessly matching the texture, colour and style of Apple’s much-loved wireless keyboard, NewerTechnology’s 28-key numeric keypad brings back the convenience of all your sorely missed buttons without forcing you to compromise on Apple’s sleek, cordless design. 9. Product: Darche Air Volution™ AT-4 Person Tent, Price: $899, Website: darche.com.au Even the least adept tinkers will be able to construct an AT-4 Air-Volution™ tent. Durable air poles that inflate in less than one minute replace traditional poles – ensuring your time is spent relaxing in the wilderness instead of arguing over an instruction manual. 10. Product: OM Up & Running Kit, Price: Pre-order $234.29, Website: omsignal.com OMsignal is leading the way in wearable technology with a range of exercise clothing containing biometric sensors that measure performance. Touted as a potential tool for people with health concerns (such as epilepsy), these smartshirts collect data on a separate module that provides feedback to a smartphone app, which then connects with the Cloud.

RegionalBusinessReview

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agribusiness

We bring you the latest news, innovations and opinions as Aussie agribusiness transitions from the mining boom to the dining boom

meettheproducer

THE

WORDS: RILEY PALMER

FUTURE OF FOOD DAN BARBER HAS SPENT A DECADE EXPLORING FOOD PRODUCTION THAT ACTIVELY EMBRACES THE DIVERSITY AND ABUNDANCE OF OUR LAND. HE SHARES HIS INSIGHTS ON THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE AND DELICIOUS FOOD. 18

RegionalBusinessReview

meettheproducer

If you have your own herb garden, shop locally, and prefer grass-fed meat to its corn-fed counterpart, chances are you’re very aware of provenance and the philosophy behind the farm-to-table movement. Over the past decade, revered chef Dan Barber, has realised that we – the consumers – dictate what is produced and, when rendering our perception of farm-to-table as being sustainable, are somewhat erroneous. “Farm-to-table allows us to cherry-pick the ingredients we most want for dinner – whether it’s a perfect heirloom tomato, or a grass-fed steak – without supporting the long-term productivity of the land,” explains Dan. “It’s a way of eating that’s extractive.” Executive chef of Blue Hill in New York City and Blue Hill Stone Barns in Tarrytown, Dan is setting out to redefine good food, and good food production. To convey the past, present and future of food, he developed ‘three plates’, each one representing the ‘classic steak dinner’ and its transformation over time. “The first plate has a large piece of prime-cut, cornfed meat, paired with a few vegetables,” says Dan, describing the meat and three-veg staple of our grandparents’ generation. “The second plate represents the ideals of the modern farm-totable movement. The meat is grass-fed and the vegetables are local and organic, but the second plate looks nearly identical to the first. The provenance of ingredients may have improved, but the architecture of our diets is the same.” It’s difficult to imagine a balanced and nutritious steak meal looking significantly different, but Dan’s third plate does just that. “In the third plate, the steak dinner of the future, a carrot ‘steak’ dominates the plate, with a sauce of braised second cuts of meat.” The challenge of not only envisioning, but also finding Dan’s ‘third plate’ appealing, likely comes from being so accustomed to the first and second plates. And, given consumers are the driving force behind food production, creating a culture that connects agriculture with food is as much our responsibility as that of farmers, cooks and policy makers. Currently, society is focusing on mass production and genetically modified produce

– a perceived solution to global food shortage. However, as Dan says; “It’s impossible to overstate the deleterious effects of mass production on our health and our communities. By removing any human connection, we have stripped the culture from food and cooking.” Brought about by a system reliant on fossil fuels, agriculture has undergone more changes in the past century than it has in the last 10,000 years. Citing anthropologist Ernest Schusky, Dan says; “Previously, farmers were able to produce 10 calories for every calorie of energy expended. Today we expend 10 calories for every calorie produced.” Having spent 10 years travelling and researching various cultures that still live symbiotically with nature, Dan has walked away with some unique insights into the relationship between soil health and cuisine, the abundance of what our land can provide and the benefits of ethical farming. He believes this style of eating – the third plate – could solve our current problems with energy-efficient production and food shortage. “The great cuisines of the world celebrate biodiversity, variety and an abundance rooted in what the land can provide.” One of Dan’s most memorable culinary experiences took place in a community in southern Spain, whose agriculture is entrenched in the dehesa system – a 2000-yearold agrosilvopastoral system linking production and nature conservation. “I met a farmer who is using the dehesa system to produce the world’s first ‘ethical foie gras’,” says Dan. “Every fall, when the temperature drops, his geese naturally gorge on the abundance of the land to prepare for the winter. So he’s able to harvest their livers without any force-feeding. The foie gras is unlike anything I’ve ever tasted.” In his most recent book: The Third Plate: Field Notes on the Future of Food, Dan studies the principles that underpin systems like the dehesa – from the ethics concerning the health of the land, to farming that’s supported by the local cuisine. A model of eating that’s as sustainable as it is scrumptious, Dan says; “For me, the third plate is a new and sustainable paradigm of eating for the future.”

Fast facts • Five major components make up dehesas; oak trees, grasslands, crops, livestock and wildlife. • Genetically modified crops have been grown commercially since 1996.

RegionalBusinessReview

TO STAY AHEAD OF THE GAME, YOU NEED THE UAS BUILT FOR PERFORMANCE, NOT PLAY

...don’t waste your MORE THAN 80 TECHNICIANS time with toys NATIONWIDE TO SUPPORT YOU

Get in touch after touch down:

agribusiness

WORDS: RILEY PALMER

Well-oiled machines Australia’s ‘dining boom’ is moving into a golden age. We examine the latest and greatest in agriculture machinery, to help you make the most of the industry’s greener pastures. KUHN GROUP wants to be Australia’s go-to manufacturer of agricultural machinery. It may seem like an ambitious goal, but Kuhn has been a market leader in machinery since 1828, and this French company turned global enterprise set the wheels in motion in 2010, when it established its Australian headquarters in Victoria. This, in conjunction with its thriving operations in more than 80 countries worldwide, makes its objective far more conceivable. Proving its success is not simply due to market saturation, last year Kuhn Group won two technical innovation awards at EIMA (International Agricultural and Gardening Machinery Exhibition) – a biennial event

showcasing the industry’s latest in agricultural machinery and equipment. The event, which was held in Bologna, Italy, attracted a record 1800 exhibitors, rendering Kuhn’s dual win noteworthy, to say the least. The two pieces of machinery that garnered particular attention were Kuhn’s Axis H EMC + AXMAT (an advanced fertiliser distributing system), and its LSB 1290 iD (intelligent density) TWINPACTplunger system (a high-density baler).

The new technologies will have a positive financial impact on Australia’s agriculture sector – both directly through cutting costs, and indirectly, thanks to increasing overall speed and efficiency. AXMAT is the first system in the world to utilise a microwave sensor to fully automate the measurement and distribution of fertiliser. This reduces emissions and costs – a rare feat. To simplify an extremely technical

The new technologies will have a positive financial impact on Australia’s agriculture sector. RegionalBusinessReview

agribusiness

Fast facts • According to the ABS, 2012-13 saw a three per cent increase to the previous financial year’s gross value of total Australian agricultural production, bringing it to a total of $48 billion. • In 1828, Joseph Kuhn established himself as a specialist in the production of scales and weighing apparatus. In 1864, Kuhn expanded into agricultural machinery production following the opening of the Paris-Strasbourg railway line. Today Kuhn Group produces 65,000 machines annually and employs 4500 staff worldwide.

Agrifood exports that require fertiliser (such as grains, cotton, vegetables, fruit and rice) amass a total of $15.5 billion each year. process, Kuhn’s Axis H EMC + AXMAT combines its previous Axis range of fertiliser distributors with AXMAT – microwave sensors that are mounted on the swinging arm of the fertiliser spreader disc. The addition of AXMAT means fertiliser distribution is continually monitored so that, if necessary, it can be automatically readjusted from the vehicle’s existing control box. The constant feedback from this technology ensures precision in the transverse distribution of fertiliser – even if the grain size or type of fertiliser varies. According to a 2012-13 report by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade entitled Trade in Primary and Manufactured Products, agrifood exports that require fertiliser (such as grains, cotton, vegetables, fruit and rice) amass a total of $15.5 billion each year. This

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gives AXMAT’s increased production capacity and reduced costs the potential to have an impact beyond the individual farmer and on the country’s economy at large. Bringing about a decrease in emissions, the overall cost of fertilisation and amount of manual labour, AXMAT gives Kuhn Group a head start on its claim to Australia’s cash crop machinery market. Its second award-winning technical innovation – the LSB iD TWINPACTplunger system, similarly highlights the company’s place in the progression of Australia’s agriculture sector. The LSB iD can compress bales up to 25 per cent denser than those made with a large square baler – a technology that facilitates a more efficient transportation and handling of crops. In order to increase the density of the bales to this extent, Kuhn had to develop a compression system with

twice the force of a conventional baler. As such, the TWINPACT-plunger was designed with an upper and lower segment, enabling the compression of bales in two steps. This division of force ensures transmission stress and power absorption rates are kept within safe levels. Speaking with Fairfax journalist Sally Cripps, Kuhn area sales manager Vincent Arnould describes this innovation as ‘very simple’, but one that nonetheless has won Kuhn much recognition. But the Australian market will have to wait a little longer. According to area sales manager Sarah Govier, “... neither product is ready for introduction into the Australian market as yet. The Axis H EMC is currently available in Australia, however the AXMAT feature will not be available until late 2016/2017.” She adds: “We would not expect to see the LSB iD machine until 2017 in Australia.”

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OVERVIEW OF THE AUSTRALIAN WATER MARKETS Waterfind is Australia’s leading water trading organisation that facilitates the buying and selling of permanent and temporary water across all major irrigation regions in Australia. Since its foundation in 2003, Waterfind has been pivotal in the development and maturing of Australian water trading markets. Their system provides their clients with access to live water markets, where users can compare prices and volumes available for trade online. For more information on water trading opportunities or to secure your water requirements for the next irrigation season please contact Waterfind’s dedicated and experienced water brokers on 1800 890 285.

12,000

$8,000 $7,000

10,000

$6,000 8,000

$5,000

6,000

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Water Use for Irrigation (MDB)

Gross Value of Irrigated Production

1/ 12

2/ 13 20 1

20 1

0/ 11 20 1

3/ 04 20 04 /0 5 20 05 /0 6 20 06 /0 7 20 07 /0 8 20 08 /0 9 20 09 /1 0

2/ 03

20 0

1/ 02

20 0

0/ 01

Gross Value of Irrigated Production | AUD$Millions

Water Use & Gross Value of Irrigated Agriculture – Murray Darling Basin 2000-2013

20 0

Right: Australia is above the pre drought GDP, using 20 per cent less water.

widely utilised by the agriculture sector to manage risks associated with climate change, maintain or increase agricultural production and gain capital from surplus water allocations. Permanent water trading allows larger farms with irrigated sugar, cotton or rice crops to secure water that they require for daily operations. As an extension of the Spot Market, the Forward Market enables the contracting of surface and groundwater parcels at a set price to be delivered at a future date. This advancement in water trading was conceptualised by Waterfind in 2014 and, at the time of introduction, was the first Forward Market for water in the world. The Forward Market enables buyers and sellers to manage risk and water security months ahead of time.

ML of Water Used for Irrigation | Millions

ver the past decade the development of water markets in Australia has facilitated the ongoing growth of irrigation industries, which created resilience in the water market against droughts and more importantly aligned the interest of irrigators with the environment. Water trading in Australia operates in catchment and aquifer based markets due to the requirement for physical connection of the water between the vendor and the purchaser. There is the capacity for water trading in all states and territories, however the level of maturity of the markets varies. Water market policy and systems commenced development during the 1990’s and early 2000’s but trading was still of a relatively small scale until the first phase of the millennium drought which commenced in 2004 and continued to escalate for 10 years. Since the end of the millennium drought, water markets have remained active and are now a core part of water management in Australia. Water trading enables multiple strategies to maximise returns and minimise water supply cost and risk. For instance, temporary water trading is

Production Trend

Source: Waterfind Australia, 2014

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calibration and maintenance service for high-powered torque tools operating within Australia. Business Development Manager John Turner, said the new service will allow TEX Onsite technicians to calibrate equipment with a much higher accuracy. Testing pneumatic torque wrenches on-site allows TEX Onsite technicians to utilise the customer’s regular air supply, the same air supply being used to operate the machinery on a day-today basis. “Utilising the customer’s air supply allows our techs to calibrate torque tools more accurately, resulting in a higher accuracy calibration,” John said. TEX Onsite strives for continuous improvement and expansion of the services it offers, securing its position

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Helpful insights and facinating facts about the Australian mining and resource sector RegionalBusinessReview

Onsite servicing. Thinking beyond the tyre. The reputation of Bridgestone Earthmover Tyres is built on more than the supply of high quality off-the-road tyres. By working with our customers, we help to maximise tyre life and optimise equipment availability. Our tyres are backed by comprehensive support products and services, including onsite servicing, TOPY wheels, rim repairs, tyre repairs and trusted advice that can improve operating safety and save you money. Think outside the tyre. Discover the full range of Bridgestone products and services at: www.bridgestone-earthmover.com.au

news+views CONSTRUCTING TOMORROW’S INDUSTRY Forecasted to amount to $228 billion in 2014–15 by the Australian Construction Industry Forum (ACIF), Australia’s construction sector is the largest per capita in the southern hemisphere. While this figure is slightly down on the previous biannual forecast, overall it seems there is a disproportionate sense of panic in relation to the mining sector’s impact on machinery required for large-scale construction projects. Executive director of ACIF Peter Barda indicates that, “... there are winners and losers in those big numbers – by regions and work types.” While Australia’s falling commodity prices continue to incite a decrease in investment in supporting infrastructure, one of these ‘losers’ is inevitably the mining sector. That said, ACIF recognises the impact of ongoing projects – such as the port expansion of the Pilbara and the Wheatstone Project, a gas megaproject – contributing to the expectation that expenditure will remain above historic levels for the next decade. Combined with the expected increase in levels of commercial construction, particularly in infrastructure to support the predicted increase in the construction of transport, telecommunications, health and aged care, accommodation and entertainment, the flurry of economic panic surrounding mining and construction machinery seems somewhat sensationalised.

RAGING AGAINST RANGER With its 40-year mining licence ending in January 2021, uranium miner Energy Resources of Australia (ERA) is at a juncture – uncertain whether or not to progress with its underground mine proposal at Ranger 3 Deeps. Located in the World Heritage-listed Kakadu

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National Park, the Ranger uranium mine has a long and contentious history stemming back to a Parliamentary act in 1977 that allowed mining to go ahead without the consent of the indigenous Mirarr people. Having had more than 150 leaks, spills and licence breaches since it began operations in 1981 – one of the worst

in Australia’s history occurring fairly recently in December 2013 – activists believe the environmental concerns relating to the mine site are reason enough to discontinue operations. In conjunction with the depressed profit margin of uranium exports following the 2011 Fukushima disaster, the implementation of aggressive spending RegionalBusinessReview

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cuts by Rio Tinto (ERA’s largest shareholder), and the limited time remaining on ERA’s mining licence, it’s not altogether surprising that they are weighing up 3 Deeps’ viability.

SAFETY ADDICTS Fortescue Metals Group (FMG) teamed up with the Western Australia Police late last year in order to combat what company executive Richard Kinnane referred to as ‘a bit of a drug problem’ within the mining community. Kinnane’s comments followed the discovery of $25,000, scales and methamphetamine in a 31-year-old contractor’s lodgings

at FMG’s Hamilton Village in South Hedland last October. Drug use is a significant safety concern in an industry that relies so greatly on the focus of commitment of its employees to prevent injury or death. In order to both support their employees and reduce risk on their sites, FMG have introduced a program called ‘Speak Up’ – allowing workers to admit to a drug problem without the fear of being made redundant. In December last year around 300 FMG employees were searched by a drug sniffer dog upon arriving at the company’s site airport in the Pilbara. While the enduring impact upon the

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The ability to leverage global resources also means that Henkel can expand its offerings of value added services for customers. These services include testing and validation, education for suppliers in the fundamentals of products, automated systems for more efficient applications as well as providing customers with analysis and recommendations for process improvements. “We want our customers to see us as their total solution provider,” explains Technical Service Engineer, Ladi Singh. For more information, please contact Henkel Technical Hotline on 1300 885 556 or visit henkel.com.au.

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Henkel’s Technical Customer Service (TCS) team for General Industry Adhesives (AG) in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) leverages synergies across the globe as an integrated part of a global AG TCS organisation. “Being global not only means sharing products or expanding our business geographically. It means that we share best practices and processes,” explains Joerg Raichle, Chairman of Adhesive Technologies for ANZ. A global AG TCS organisation provides Henkel’s local TCS teams with access to dedicated resources and global industry experts, allowing the teams to build stronger expertise in key growth segments. This means team members are able to build their expertise in markets and segments that may have very complex requirements, such as medical research. For Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Technical Specialist, Siva Ayadurai, it means that the TCS team can dedicate resources to studying trends in each segment, and work proactively to develop the best products and services for local customers. “We’re dedicated to customer excellence, which we achieve by improving our customers’ operations through access to the most effective and efficient global best practices and technologies available,” he said.

broader industry is still unknown, spokespeople from the mining sector, police force and broader community alike have all welcomed the targeting of prohibited drugs – particularly in the context of complex equipment, peer reliance and remote locations.

FREE TRADE DISAGREEMENT The China-Australia free trade agreement (FTA) is being flaunted as Australia’s economic saving grace, however members of the mining industry are not yet convinced of its unequivocal benefits. While there are reasons to celebrate the removal of tariffs on alumina, zinc, nickel, copper, uranium, and eventually coal, there are also concerns regarding Australia’s depressed employment figures in light of Chinese companies being allowed to provide their own employees when there is a skills shortage. Of course, the parameter of a ‘skills shortage’ is one that is largely intangible, making both miners and their union advocates justifiably nervous. In response to these labour concessions, and in the context of the mining downturn and significant job losses experienced throughout the sector, industry advocates are calling on the Federal Government to introduce stronger protections for Australian workers. Unions from various sectors have addressed the government in a letter demanding greater job security, which at this date, includes signatories from the Australian Council of Trade Unions, Australian Manufacturing Workers Union, Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union, National Union of Workers, Australian Workers Union, Textile Clothing and Footwear Union of Australia, United Voice, Transport Workers Union and the Rail Tram and Bus Union. Under the current provisions of the FTA, Chinese companies will be able to bring in employees on three-month skilled visas – a sticking point for the unions who argue that the economic benefits of the FTA will be negated if the profits go back to China.

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MOBILISING AN INDUSTRY NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATION, THE CRANE INDUSTRY COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA (CICA) PROVIDES A RARE SNAPSHOT OF THE PITFALLS AND SUCCESSES CURRENTLY EXPERIENCED THROUGHOUT THE SECTOR. WORDS: RILEY PALMER

IN MAY of last year, the Crane Industry Council of Australia (CICA) Board, in conjunction with the CICA NSW branch, embarked on a research project into the ‘State of the Industry’. Helmed by independent researcher Stuart Anderson, who CICA CEO Brandon Hitch referred to as “a walking encyclopaedia on cranes”, this ongoing project is exploring CICA’s consistent member feedback

regarding the erosion of profitability for crane owners, operators and manufacturers concerned. Having interviewed various crane owners and users in both NSW and Victoria, Anderson presented the preliminary findings of this report at the 2014 CICA Conference in September last year. His findings consolidate industry concerns around declining investment in mining machinery in an industry

affected by decentralised governance and the burden of red tape. Hitch chats to Regional Business Review about the significance of his research, and shares the latest in innovation in the crane industry. Why is profitability so elusive for crane owners? A lot of the costs associated with owning a crane aren’t related to crane work itself.

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Fast fact • Australian engineer Dave Francis developed the first Franna crane in 1980. The name Franna stands for ‘Francis and Anna’ – his surname combined with the name of his daughter.

This includes things like traffic and access permits, or dealing with councils and local governments who frequently have different stipulations on what they need for traffic management systems. Additionally, a lot of crane companies absorb in their overheads things that they should probably be charging for, like lift studies and transport costs. At some point the chickens come home to roost, so to speak, and the question becomes the viability of the crane company, and what corners are being cut to make payroll.

Do we need more legislation to uniformly regulate things like Stamp Duty? Or would a more industry-led system with less government intervention be more suitable? The ‘State of the Industry’ report highlights there is excess burden in terms of paperwork and over-thetop red tape in the industry, so I would not be advocating additional regulations for the crane industry. I would advocate, that where CICA is not allowed to self-regulate, that there be harmonisation across state

A lot of crane companies absorb in their overheads things that they should probably be charging for. 34

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policies – certainly Stamp Duty, road accesses and permits are some examples of where there is inconsistency between states. This has the consequence of driving people and industry into certain states, and out of others. How effective are current crane safety regulations? Compliance with Australian Regulations and Standards requires crane owners in the industry to do annual inspections. CraneSafe, which was devised by CICA as an industry-led and regulated safety system, is probably the most prolific of the annual inspections. It has been significant in driving day-today improvements in the operational state and upkeep of cranes. There is also a major inspection, which is typically undertaken at

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10-year intervals to measure the crane’s remaining design life, based on its usage. Based on ‘State of the Industry’, 10 per cent admitted to doing a ‘quickie’ major inspection. However, given this inspection relates to longevity of the machine more than safety in and of itself, this figure is more reflective of red-tape than safety. With a predicted increase in residential and non-residential construction, what changes do you foresee for the crane industry? In the past few years there’s been a focus in the mining states – whereas, certainly this year, Sydney is looking pretty optimistic for significant

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construction work. I don’t know if the type of equipment will be changing so much because a lot of the fleets are currently quite diverse. However, if the work is residential, there may be more utilisation of tower cranes – a sector that’s currently more in demand than in the past. How are environmental concerns bringing about changes to machinery? The crane industry is certainly impacted by the Tier 4–5 emission requirements, so manufacturers have been investigating ways to reduce emissions while working within existing regulations and weight restrictions. For instance,

Fast fact • Based on data collated by the Government of Western Australia’s WorkSafe department, the occupations that experience the most crane-related injuries, in order of magnitude, are: crane, hoist or lift operators; crane chasers; fitters and construction riggers. manufacturers like Manitowoc, Terex and Liebherr are investigating pollution reduction through developing single-engine models. Manitowoc is also using a hybridhydro engine power plant on its

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GMK6400. It has been developed with hydrostat wheel hubs that propel the crane at up to 20km/h, at which point a smaller diesel engine takes over. What are some of the industry’s up-and-coming technologies? Manitowoc is currently working on the production of synthetic hoist ropes, which is particularly exciting because of the weight savings the ropes provide. If weight can be saved getting the crane to site, it helps with the cost of permits – so not carrying around a heavier winch with a steel-wire rope is an advantage. Once at the site, the crane’s weight also has an impact on things like ground conditions

Once at the site, the crane’s weight also has an impact on things like ground conditions and loads. and loads, so this innovation has a lot of potential. However, I think this is a bit of an interim step in Manitowoc’s overall plan to design a crane specifically for synthetic rope. Another breakthrough innovation is Terex’s newest Franna model cranes: the AT-20 and MAC25-4. These cranes have been designed with side-slope deration calculated into their load-lifting

capacity, and that’s something that was previously left to the operator to manually compute. This innovation should have a direct impact on site safety as well as the mobility of the crane with the load, which is particularly exciting given it’s in relation to articulated mobile cranes, the most commonly used cranes throughout Australia. RegionalBusinessReview

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sk many Australians to describe prefabricated homes and it’s likely they’ll come up with just two ideas: kit homes and log cabins. Back in the 1970s both of these concepts seemed like fine ideas, particularly for a weekender, but not the type of abode most would choose to build as their primary residence these days. Thankfully, there have been major improvements in recent times, and prefabricated housing is now at the forefront of the building industry’s next generation. At the moment, about $4.6 billion per annum is spent on the prefab housing sector, with this figure expected to rise by about five per cent each year for the next decade. The reasons are simple. “Whether you’re building a one-bedroom love shack or a very large, high-end primary residence, the process is very simple,” explains architect Ramon Pleysier of architecture and interior design firm Pleysier Perkins. For the past eight years, his firm has been working with Prebuilt, a Melbourne-based company responsible for the building and installation of more than 300 homes – with budgets ranging from $200,000 to $3 million – since its inception in 2002. “Since we’ve been working with Prebuilt,” continues Pleysier, “we’ve been able to formulate the most efficient working model possible. We now have a very logical way of working with projects of any size.”

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For a client the steps are simple; first, they collaborate with the architect on design. Prebuilt has four pre-designed modules that can be individualised or used as a starting point; alternatively, there’s the option of a customised solution. Once a design is agreed upon, the house is modelled, right down to the cladding types and paint colours. For the average person looking to build a home this is where the benefits of prefabrication become very obvious. “It’s a really precise approach to delivering a product,” says Prebuilt managing director Rob Colquhoun. Full approval at the modelling stage means an accurate budget can be presented and, with all homes built in the Melbourne factory,

there are no delays due to bad weather or overextended tradesmen. “A lot of the houses we’re delivering to Sydney are constructed in the factory in 12 weeks, but would take a year or so to build on site,” explains Colquhoun. “That also helps with budget because you’re not having to finance the project for extended lengths of time when you can’t live in it.” The worst-case scenario, says Colquhoun, is the budget would be the same as that for a house built completely on site: “Normally the higher quality or more complex the project, the more cost savings can be obtained.” For more information, visit prebuilt. com.au or call 1300 734 544 to make an appointment.

“A lot of the houses are constructed in the factory in 12 weeks.”

A HOUSE BY THE SEA Making the most of the spectacular view was of prime importance when Prebuilt constructed a three-bedroom home high on a hill at Inverloch in Victoria. “But we also needed to achieve a balance with the lightweight aesthetic, and did that with contrasting rammed earth that acts as a plinth,” says Ramon Pleysier. The fully customised design has many individual features – a glass link from garage to house, built-in seating under windows, a view from the en-suite through the bedroom and a fireplace – all of which was constructed in Prebuilt’s factory during a period of 12 weeks, during which time the owners visited to follow progress on their brand new home.

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LIAISONS AMID THE BELT TIGHTENING THAT IS GOING ON THROUGHOUT AUSTRALIA’S RESOURCE SECTOR, INVESTMENT IN LOGISTICAL SOLUTIONS AND EFFICIENCY MEASURES HAS BEEN LARGELY UNDIMINISHED AS WE LEARN TO MINE SMARTER. WORDS: RILEY PALMER

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iven the widespread panic surrounding the decline of Australia’s mining industry, it’s not surprising that mining companies’ focus on logistics and efficiency has sharpened in recent months. The sector has shifted towards a productivity model – a stark change from the quantitydriven, verging on frenzied, pace of the industry throughout the commodity boom. While the buzzwords ‘productivity’ and ‘efficiency’, are notorious among employees who work in an operational capacity – miners, site managers, and heavy vehicle operators to name but a few – they flash like beacons of opportunity for technology innovators. In fact, new technologies are a large external influence driving the upsurge of internal change taking place in resource companies across the board. According to Robert Frandsen, Managing

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Director of InfoMotion – a supply chain Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software company – the abundance of logistics technology has made new technology much more affordable. Therefore both the hardware and software implemented to streamline processes and reduce costs have become more accessible. In an interview with the website Ferret, Frandsen says: “With the same technologies and functionalities becoming available to all, and the same opportunities for efficiency through automation, competition within the industry is about to heat up even more.” This goes some way to explain why the resource sector’s investment in technology and innovation has been largely unaffected despite extensive costcutting throughout the industry. The approach to the development of new technology has typically required substantial investment, with the potential for returns years or even

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decades down the track. However, the demand for more immediate efficiency measures in the sector has led to the very recent inauguration of tech accelerator Unearthed, a pilot program nurturing startups that show problemsolving capacity specifically in relation to the mining industry. Launched just last month, Unearthed is dedicated to connecting new startups with industry mentors. They intend to foster these pivotal connections by hosting four ‘hackathons’ throughout the year – the first occurring this month in Perth. These events will bring together software developers, designers and industry figureheads, who, with the provision of data attained by both the government and proprietors, will be tasked with creating prototype solutions to industry problems – all within one weekend. Organised by Resource Innovation through Information Technology (RIIT), the program has already garnered

support from industry leaders including Rio Tinto, BHP Billiton, Landgate and the Australian Government Department of Industry. After participating in a Perth-based hackathon run by RIIT in May last year, Newton Labs have been announced as the first of three startups to be selected for Unearthed’s six-month pilot program. It was after liaising with industry experts at the hackathon that the members of Newton Labs conceived their prodigious idea – a monitoring system that identifies oversize boulders in hard rock mining, a problem that currently costs the industry more than $100 million each year. At its core Unearthed is the innovative facilitation of innovative invention. Justin Strharsky, member of the Unearthed Board of Directors (and bearer of various other directorial and entrepreneurial titles) says, “The event [hackathon] format lowers the barriers to experimentation and

Driving change Proving that mining logistics aren’t simply the realm of technology developers, commercial car manufacturers have recently found a new niche – light commercial vehicles that are custom-designed for the mining industry and business sector fleets. Driven by the mining boom, the Ford Ranger XL Plus – which debuted on the market in May last year – has so far been very popular with mining contractors, government departments and private buyers alike. Where the Ranger has provided increased efficiency for the mining sector is in its inclusion of factory features that have been designed to make the installation of commercial equipment more cohesive when transitioning between delivery and operation. Set to hit the market in just a few months, the 2015 Ranger model is rumoured to contain a range of new safety features that are likely to appeal to the mining industry. These include autonomous emergency brakes, high-beam headlights that automatically dip, blind spot monitoring, and a lane departure warning system. While much of Australia’s mining industry is in slowdown off the back of falling demands in commodities, the redevelopment of light commercial vehicles has demonstrated the industry’s continued investment in products and technologies that improve efficiency, safety and productivity.

RegionalBusinessReview

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miningreview

expedites the development of proofof-concept solutions. Essentially we’re crowdsourcing multiple potential solutions to industry challenges.” In doing so, the tech accelerator is also in the business of job creation, boosting exports and increasing industry productivity. There are various problems faced by the resources sector that would benefit from expedited technological solutions. For one thing, a more integrated flow of big data and analytics throughout the whole-of-business system is necessary to improve efficiency. The development of a cohesive and automated logistics system would mean that data need only be captured once for it to be available system-wide. “One good example is the flow of data from logistics to in-cabin telematics and GPS systems with the three systems working together to automatically optimise delivery routes while also accounting for fatigue management,” explains Frandsen. While

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big data has already been implemented to an extent, its seamless functionality is what requires a bit of work. Another problem faced by the sector – and one that has seen our government rather stymied – is the dependable accessibility of high-speed Internet connectivity. Particularly in the remote communities in which the majority of mining operations take place, the capacity for Internet is restricted and temperamental. The technologies that underpin the mining industry’s increasingly automated operations – such as collision avoidance systems and driverless trucks – are only as dependable as their connectivity to high-speed data communication. These are merely a few focus points in what is an overabundance of processes that tech solutions could revolutionise. Not without its challenges, the realm of tech innovation could prove integral to the future of mining in Australia.

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