OUTthere Cobham July 2014

+ insidemining

July 2014 • Issue 04

CAMP IN THE CITY A Sydney Harbour island that has it all GO RURAL Young doctors hear the call of the bush

MAGICAL MORNINGTON The peninsula that’s a foodie’s paradise

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Hello, I’m Doctor Brian Ironwood.

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editor’sletter

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Michelle Hespe michelle.hespe@edgecustom.com.au DEPUTY EDITOR Danielle Chenery ASSISTANT EDITOR Simone Henderson-Smart INTERN Kathryn Marshall SUB-EDITORS Kris Madden, Liani Solari, Amal Awad, Tatyana Leonov PRODUCTION MANAGER Brian Ventour SENIOR DESIGNER Guy Pendlebury PRINTER SOS Print & Media CONTRIBUTORS Stephanie Williams, Rochelle Tubb, Sue Webster, Christine Retschlag, Mitch Brook, Kris Madden, Mandy McKeesick, Darren Baguley, Richard Asher, Kevin Lee, Kath Malmstedt, Andrew Crossley ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR, In-flight Division Jason Popkowski jason.popkowski@edgecustom.com.au NATIONAL SALES MANAGER, Rex, OUTthere Peter Anderson peter.anderson@edgecustom.com.au NATIONAL SALES MANAGERS, Inside Mining Chris Wykes chris.wykes@edgecustom.com.au David Little-Jones david.little-jones@edgecustom.com.au SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER, National Property Guide, skytrans Robert Desgouttes robert.desgouttes@edgecustom.com.au WA, SA and NT SALES AGENT Helen Glasson, Hogan Media Phone: 08 9381 3991 helen@hoganmedia.com.au PUBLISHER Geoff Campbell CHAIRMAN Chris Innis CEO Eddie Thomas ON THE COVER:

June: Cockatoo Island, Sydney Harbour.

July: Bathing box, Mornington Peninsula.

OUTthere is published by Edge 51 Whistler Street, Manly NSW 2095 Phone: 02 8962 2600, edgecustom.com.au OUTthere is published by Business Essentials (Australasia) Pty Limited (ABN 22 062 493 869), trading as Edge, under license to MGI Publishing Pty Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of the Publisher. Information provided was believed to be correct at the time of publication. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. OUTthere cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are sent to the magazine, they will not be returned. Some images used in OUTthere are from Thinkstock and Getty Images.

From the editor...

A friend and I recently visited the Yarra Valley and stopped at a charming vineyard called Maddens Rise. Justin is the estate’s owner and his partner Emma, with a background in floral and interior design, took it upon herself to create the ‘shed’ that is now the couple’s stylishly kooky, rustic cellar door.

Emma loves her wine, but she also has a deepseated lifelong passion for watering cans, and that is how one of the stories that defines her and the look and feel of the little wine shed, was created.

A year ago, Emma and Justin travelled to Paris, and while exploring the neighbourhood of Le Marais – an alternative suburb bursting at the seams with artists’ studios and trendy cafés – she found a Fleuriste’s Atelier – a little flower studio that only opened by appointment. With her nose lovingly pressed up against the shop-front window, Emma could make out the little haven inside, and a row of well-used zinc and galvanized metal watering cans, including a tiny old-fashioned, wellloved watering can that looked like it belonged to a child. Just looking at the watering can set Emma’s heart racing – she desperately hoped it was for sale, but feared it wouldn’t be.

Over the next week while the couple stayed in Paris, Emma made many trips past the studio to see if by some stroke of luck, it would be open. It never was, and so they travelled back to Australia, the baby watering can etched in her mind.

At home in the Yarra Valley, Emma wrote an email to the store owners, painstakingly using her best French to tell her story and describe her love for watering cans; only to receive a friendly letter back in English from the Frenchman who owned the store. His name was Frederic Garrigues, and he invited her to visit.

A year later, the couple returned to Paris, and Emma’s heart thumped as they approached the florist, a warm light flooding from the window. A smiling man greeted them at the door, welcoming them into his space. Emma was nervous, but soon ended up deep in conversation with the Frenchman. As he didn’t mention the watering cans, Emma thought it best to not raise the subject. She thought they could not possibly be for sale.

But he must have read her mind, for then he asked if she would like to hold the watering

cans, asking which one she liked the most. She nervously pointed out the baby watering can and Frederic found an old step ladder so that he could fetch it from its resting place. As he placed it in her hands, he said: “I have had this arrosoir since I was a small boy. It was my grandmother’s before it was mine. When I was little I lived with her in Provence and helped her tend her beautiful garden. I would help water the flowers and vegetables with it. My grandmother is responsible for my love of flowers.” A brief pause, then: “This little arrosoir has been waiting for you for over one hundred years, and now I am giving it to you.”

Emma almost fainted but responded quickly – politely refusing the kind offer. But he insisted.

“Many ladies come to Paris for clothes, handbags and shoes. But not you Emma, you came for a little arrosoir – and now it is yours,” he said. She told him that if she took it, it was on loan, and she would keep it safe in Australia for him. The Frenchman agreed and the two became firm friends, who to this day stay in contact.

It’s so lovely to hear inspiring stories like this.

And to hear them while sipping on a glass of wine made by a person in that story, in a small vineyard in regional Australia, makes it all the more special.

Drop us a line sometime. If you have a story to share – we’d love to hear from you. And of course, enjoy your flight and your next adventure.

Michelle Hespe and the OUTthere team 1

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contents getaway

Issue 04 • June/July 05 welcomeaboard Flying with Cobham.

07 cobhamnews

Cobham charters a charity flight to help the Legacy Club of Adelaide and joins the Fitness First Corporate Triathlon. Plus, Cobham’s Microclimate Cooling System that’s offered to the mining industry.

11 don’tmiss

The latest cool events you won’t want to miss.

12 explore

Michelle Hespe makes her way across Sydney Harbour to Cockatoo Island – where art, history and culture join forces to create a wonderful island getaway.

07

getaway

Issue 120 • June

Issue 121 • July

checkin

closeup

Kathryn Marshall chats to Australia’s only female stock contractor in bull riding.

Simone Henderson-Smart catches up with two inspiring Bangarra dancers, and resident composer, David Page.

closeup We catch up with James Courtney – one of V8 Supercars’ biggest stars, and a really down-to-earth guy to boot.

outtahere Stephanie Williams explores some cool getaway options to get into this winter.

It’s not all about chasing the sun.

destination

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outtahere Andrew Smith, NSW ‘Chief Funster’, gets into the top ten fun things to do in New South Wales.

destination Polo in the Paddock may have been a washout, but that didn’t stop anyone from getting stuck into Mudgee’s food and wine.

For too long Armidale has been considered a pit-stop between Sydney and Brisbane.

Not anymore. This historic gem of a town has plenty to offer.

getaway

getaway

businesstalk

Simone Henderson-Smart travels to the Blue Mountains for the region’s Roaring ‘20s Festival.

Christine Retschlag looks at Australia’s HR and recuitment industry to see which job sectors are hot and which ones are not.

Mitch Brook visits Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula to indulge in all things edible – including his first taste of live mussel.

insidemining • news and views • resources sector issues • finance and technology

3

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Where we fly

BARROW ISLAND AREA C

YANDI

BRISBANE BALLERA

Welcome aboard

MOOMBA MURRIN MURRIN PERTH

KAMBALDA SYDNEY PASSENGER FREIGHT

ADELAIDE MELBOURNE

HOBART

Our fleet 6 x BAe 146 (passenger) 4 x BAe 146 (freight) 5 x Avro RJ100 3 x Bombardier Dash-8

British Aerospace 146 (BAe-146) Length: 28.60 m Wingspan: 26.21 m Height: 8.59 m Cruise speed: 801 km/h) at 8,840 m Empty weight: 23,897 kg Passenger capacity: 71–99 seats Freight capacity: 10,300 kg

Avro RJ100 Length: 30.99 m Wingspan: 26.34 m Height: 8.59 m Cruise speed: 780 km/h Empty weight: 23,897 kg

Bombardier Dash-8 Length: 22.25 m Wingspan: 25.89 m Height: 7.49 m Cruise speed: 500 km/h) at 7,620 m Empty weight: 14,700 kg

With my family heritage tied to the Barossa Valley in South Australia, I am in many ways wedded to the scenic tranquillity of the countryside. But since moving to Perth in 2011, I am constantly amazed by the diversity of breathtaking landscapes and ocean views across Western Australia.

I’ve witnessed some beautiful scenes through an aircraft window. I know it’s easy to stop taking notice of these small things when you’re a frequent traveller, but I always take a moment to appreciate these fleeting scenes.

We understand that you often see these beautiful aerial scenes, as more than 77 per cent of you have travelled with us more than ten times, and 45 per cent of you have flown with us more than 30 times.

As part of our focus on continually striving to delight our passengers, I am pleased to advise that major in-flight service enhancements commenced in April. These include new meal trays with Cobham branding, new service delivery flows and a new service approach from our cabin crew.

Changes you will see are an international-standard in-flight catering product, faster meal delivery, and drinks served from the bar with your meal, to name just a few.

No matter how often you fly with Cobham, we will never stop taking notice of the small things to ensure your safety and comfort every time.

Thank you for flying with Cobham – we love having you on board.

Ryan Both General Manager, Regional Services, Cobham 5

TO THE RESOURCE INDUSTRY Darwin

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Mackay

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cobhamnews

Flights for families in need Earlier this year, Cobham chartered a charity flight to help the Legacy Club of Adelaide raise funds to support struggling families affected by war.

“What a marvellous opportunity Cobham gave to Legacy by providing a 99-seat jet for the day to raise much-needed funds,” said Rainer Jozeps, CEO of the Legacy Club of Adelaide. “We chose to fly to Hobart for the day, as it’s something that is all but impossible to do by commercial airline.”

During the flight, Mr Jozeps conducted an entertaining midair interview with Nick Mitzevich, Director of the Art Gallery of South Australia. Mr Mitzevich provided insights into the world of art and explained how unique Hobart’s MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) is compared with other galleries around Australia, and indeed the world.

Landing in Hobart, the group headed to its first destination, Salamanca Market.

The market offered an array of goods, from handcrafted wooden ornaments, to comic books and other collectables.

Legacy Hobart hosted the Legacy Adelaide group for a buffet lunch at

Anglesea Barracks, where a few interested individuals took the opportunity to wander through the significant military heritage precinct, including the Military Museum of Australia.

Following lunch, the group was whisked off to a scenic winery in the middle of suburbia. This, however, wasn’t an ordinary winery, as the driveway soon exposed the remarkable architecture of MONA – the largest privately-funded art gallery in Australia and the brainchild of professional gambler, entrepreneur and philanthropist David Walsh.

The Red Queen exhibition upheld MONA’s wicked and fun reputation with interactive pieces such as a musical trampoline that creates a unique soundtrack resulting from bouncing on certain areas.

“Everyone had such a great time and Legacy raised about $40,000,” said Mr Jozeps. “As CEO of Legacy Adelaide, I was proud to be associated with such a wonderful group as Cobham.”

Adelaide Airport and Hobart Airport waived airport fees in support of the Legacy charity flight.

About Legacy Legacy is dedicated to caring for the families of deceased and incapacitated veterans. Today, Legacy’s caring and compassionate service assists more than 100,000 widows and 1900 children and dependants with a disability. Their support and services now include the dependants of members of today’s Australian Defence Force who have lost their lives as a result of military service. Legacy is dedicated to enhancing the lives and opportunities of these families through innovative and practical programs aimed at protecting individuals’ and families’ basic needs; advocating for their entitlements, rights and benefits; assisting families through bereavement; and helping people thrive, despite adversity and loss. legacy.com.au

“As CEO of Legacy Adelaide, I was proud to be associated with such a wonderful group as Cobham.”

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cobhamnews

Cooling your core Mining is hot and demanding, and so heat fatigue is always a major health and safety concern, especially when working in open operator stations or vehicles.

To help mitigate heat stress, Cobham is offering its highly successful personal Microclimate Cooling System (MCS) to the mining community.

The MCS provides more efficient body cooling over conventional air conditioning in that it cools your body directly, instead of cooling the air around you. The system is worn as a vest attached to a compact portable cooling unit that is easily mounted to a vehicle. Built to withstand shock, vibration and corrosive elements, the unit provides reliable cooling in temperatures up to 65°C (150°F) and can service one or multiple users.

Cobham’s MCS can help to create a safer, more tolerable and efficient work environment for miners with the same ruggedness and reliability that made it the United States military’s system of choice.

The MCS provides more efficient body cooling over conventional air conditioning in that it cools your body directly, instead of cooling the air around you.

Did you know?

Used by the United States Navy and Army, Cobham’s PHANTOM high-altitude parachutist oxygen system allows Special Forces personnel to perform high-altitude jumps to avoid detection. Jumping from a range of aircraft (including the Boeing C-17), Special Forces using the PHANTOM mask and jump bottle system are able to parachute from up to 35,000 feet (10.7 kilometres). The mask also appeared on the big screen when it was used in the highaltitude parachuting scenes in the Batman movie The Dark Knight Rises.

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Cobham joins the Fitness First Corporate Triathlon This year, Cobham entered three teams in the Fitness First Corporate Triathlon held in West Lakes, Adelaide.

The Fitness First Corporate Triathlon National Series is Australia’s largest corporate sports event, attracting more than 17,000 competitors to five races throughout Australia. Teams from the country’s vast corporate community participate in this event that fosters healthy industry, company, team and individual competition and ultimately promotes healthy corporate culture, a healthy lifestyle and charity fundraising.

“It’s our team spirit that got us through this ordeal. We had a blast!” said Greg Caras, Cobham’s Market Analyst, who completed the triathlon.

The triathlon comprised a 300-metre swim, a nine-kilometre cycle and a three-kilometre run.

Team Cobham participants raised funds to support Australian independent non-profit organisation, beyondblue.

Of the 130 teams that took part, the three Cobham teams ranked fourth, thirteenth and thirty-eighth.

All Trades, Professionals, Miners & Oil & Gas.

Slash your tax - this Tax Time Save $3,000 to $15,000 in tax each year. give yourself a pay-rise each year.

This is what you will pay 2014 Tax year.

Taxable Income

Tax Payable

Medicare

Total

10 years Tax Payable

120K 160K 200K 240K

32,347 47,147 61,947 79,947

1,800 2,400 3,000 3,600

34,147 49,547 64,947 83,547

341,470 495,470 649,470 835,470

$

Why not be serious about saving $30,000 to $150,000 of your money over ten years or a lot more depending on what tax structure you use. I am sure you or your family could use a pay-rise every year.

Please be honest with yourself and answer these fair questions, have you....

1) Reduced your average tax on $120,000 pa to only $19,000 pa (16c$) or do you keep paying $34,147 (28c$) each year.

2) Slashed your tax by $15,000 every year or a lot more if you earn more, by Taxation Planning; with Registered Business Partnerships, Family Trusts, Discretionary Trusts, Private Trading Companies, Special Purpose Companies, Salary Sacrifice into your SMSF. You are the fund manager & you are in control. The wealthy never give away management rights, why should you!

3) Set up your own SMSF, purchase direct commercial, industrial, residential property, you’re the boss. Buy direct gold, silver platinum, coins, or bars, gold shares, WA treasury bonds, Infrastructure Bonds, Art, put your super in your AAA rated Australian bank & check it daily by the click of your mouse. I am sure you will not lose your money in the coming massive stock market crash, caused by the US Debt of 17 Trillion $ & massive bond market debt, according to a PhD in economics who picked the last three crashes.

4) Asked for your Property Taxation Analysis before you purchase a Rental Property, getting it wrong it could cost you thousands.

Or do you do nothing each year & you keep paying $34,000, $49,000, $64,000, $83,000 by just completing your tax return each year.

Who we are: We are a Public Accounting Practice who have been specialising solely to Mining & Oil & Gas for the past twenty five years to assist Professionals, Trades and all employees and Businesses associated with these two sectors.

What we do: Get you every dollar that is due in 2014 Tax Return (past).

Taxation Plan your (future) to reduce your tax & keep it down. We specialise in Oil/Gas & Mining & have done for twenty five years.

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Artist impressions for illustrative purposes only.

Mandurah Junction is coming to life.

Two Storey House and Land Packages now selling from $369,330.

Mandurah Junction estate offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with amenities, beautiful open spaces and public transport on your doorstep.

Two storey house and land packages with Aspireon Homes are now available from $369,330 with lots ranging from 187sqm to 270sqm.

LAND4125A

For more information contact Victor Sankey from McGees Property on 0418 926 295 or vsankey@per.mcgees.com.au or visit: landcorp.com.au/mandurahjunction

HELLO OR GOODBYE? Photo credit: Mike Calder Photography.

Devil Facial Tumour Disease was discovered in Tasmanian devils in 1996.

It’s a contagious cancer spread through biting, and it is always fatal.

The devil population has suffered immensely and, more than 80% have been lost.

The ‘Save the Tasmanian Devil Program’ supports the survival of the devil in its natural habitat, the Tasmanian wilderness.

Funding is vital, and we need your help.

To make sure it’s not goodbye, the Tasmanian devils need your help!

AN INITIATIVE OF THE SAVE THE TASMANIAN DEVIL PROGRAM COORDINATED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF TASMANIA FOUNDATION

STDA1894rj

Log onto www.tassiedevil.com.au for more info and ideas.

don’tmiss

Compiled by Kathryn Marshall

these events in June & July if you’re in the right place at the right time.

JUNE 1–30

JULY 9

Hunter Valley Wine & Food Month

A short drive from Sydney or Newcastle, the Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s bestloved wine regions. During June, various cellar doors, restaurants, luxury hotels, chefs and winemakers conspire to tempt and treat you with their local offerings.

It doesn’t get more local than the Original 100-metre Meal held daily at Margan, where everything on the lunch menu is grown within 100 metres. margan.com.au

State of Origin Game Three, Suncorp Stadium Brisbane

JUNE 6–21

Adelaide Cabaret Festival

It’s set to be a big year for the Adelaide Cabaret Festival with a line-up of more than 470 local and international artists delivering 170 performances. Under the creative direction of Australian songbird Kate Ceberano, this year’s festival offers a smorgasbord of theatrical, musical and artistic events to suit every taste. adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au

JUNE 4–15

Sydney Film Festival

The sixty-first instalment of the annual Sydney Film Festival – one of the world’s oldest cinematic festivals – is screening at various venues in the CBD. With a $60,000 cash prize on offer for the winner of the Sydney Film Prize, the event has received 250 entries; including documentaries, animations and short films. Grab some popcorn and be entertained by worldclass cinema. sff.org.au

JULY 3–13

Revelation – Perth International Film Festival

Revelation film festival wants to get you talking. Its films are a backdrop to a wider conversation. It was designed back in 1997 to showcase ideas in contemporary independent films and find a place for them in a conservative cinema and social environment. Today, the event includes more than 100 international films at cinemas, galleries, cafes and bars across Perth. revelationfilmfest.org

One of the most anticipated sporting events on the NRL calendar is the 2014 State of Origin, where the New South Wales Blues take on Queensland’s Maroons. Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium is hosting the third and final game of the series for 2014. Will Queensland’s winning streak continue or will the Blues take the trophy for the first time in nine years? nrl.com

JULY 11

Dan Sultan, Sydney

The Australian king of working-class blues is taking his new album, Blackbird, and a razzle-dazzle big band around the country, playing in capital and regional cities. July 11 sees him pack out the Metro Theatre in Sydney before venturing south. dansultan.com

JULY 4–13

Festival of Voices, Hobart

JUNE 6–9

Fat Tyre Festival, Melrose

The southern Flinders Ranges offers some incredible mountain biking, and this festival attracts devotees to the sport from all over Australia. With tracks winding for kilometres through stands of red gums, there are plenty of jumps to get the heart racing. Melrose tops it off with great accommodation offerings, including the famous North Star Hotel. melrosemountainbike.com

Ben Lee, Clare Bowditch and American a cappella group The Exchange are headlining this year’s Festival of Voices.

Their performances are among an eclectic program of vocal delights, from contemporary and classical, to gospel and hip-hop. festivalofvoices.com

JULY 11–13

Queensland Garden Expo, Nambour

At the thirtieth anniversary of this festival held in Nambour on the Sunshine Coast, hear from the experts, be inspired by the displays and taste nature’s best at the organic food court in the Giant Kitchen Garden. The kids aren’t forgotten either, with lots of entertainment, rides and free activities to keep them happy. qldgardenexpo.com.au

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citystopover

FAST FACT In 1856, Frederick Ward was sentenced to seven years on Cockatoo Island for stealing horses. His wife, Mary Bugg, swam to the island, leaving him the tools to break free. He escaped and became the legendary bushranger Captain Thunderbolt.

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citystopover

Cockatoo Island is a UNESCO World Heritagelisted site in Sydney Harbour.

You can stay there in luxurious accommodation or even go glamping, just a stone’s throw from the CBD, writes Michelle Hespe.

KICKING BACK on the balcony of the Harbour View Apartments on Cockatoo Island, looking across magnificent, sprawling Sydney Harbour with the city lit up beneath a swathe of bright stars, is a completely gobsmacking experience.

It’s easily one of the best views you’ll find in rented accommodation in the city. And there is a beautiful quietness – except for the sound of seagulls coming in to roost and the resident crickets chirping – because there is no traffic. Just the hum of the city from across the water.

From a distance, the two semi-detached historical houses seem to be mere metres from the sharp edge of a seriously steep cliff, overlooking the industrial beauty of the surrounding landscape. Manicured gardens planted a century ago, sturdy lavender bushes, stone steps and sandstone walls complete the pretty picture.

Cockatoo Island is one of the most fascinating and fun historical places in a city that loves to celebrate its past.

In 2010, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, along with 10 other Australian sites, for its convict roots.

It’s a cool cultural hub that plays host to festivals and arts events, making it an ideal daytrip for those seeking a good dose of culture and history. It’s also an affordable island getaway with city glamping, laying claim to being the world’s first urban camping ground. And it’s all just a 15-minute ferry ride from Sydney’s CBD. History buffs can easily spend half a day exploring the sites on Cockatoo Island, and there’s a great choice of self-guided tours.

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citystopover

The 1.5-hour ‘Highlights Journey’ takes in the top attractions and some of the more fascinating historical features such as the main industrial icons and Sutherland Dock.

The 2.5-hour ‘In-Depth Journey’ is a more comprehensive walk that delves further back into history. There is a Convict Trail and a Maritime Trail, as the island was once a gaol for convicts and the dockyard for the Royal Australian Navy.

A few of the highlights include remnants of convict solitary confinement cells and grain silos, a military guardhouse, convict workshops and vast, intriguing, spooky industrial buildings.

From March 21 to June 9, 2014, the Biennale of Sydney was hosted at Cockatoo Island.

Or, if you simply want to chill out while lapping up the spectacular views, make a beeline for the super-cool Island Bar, which is made from recycled shipping containers.

Lay back in the yellow deckchairs peppered across the astroturf, beneath the shade of a beach umbrella, with a cocktail in one hand and a slice of pizza in the other.

Geoff Bailey, executive director of the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, has been working with the organisation since 2000, and the most rewarding part of his job is seeing once-derelict sites such as Cockatoo Island transformed into places that people flock to in droves.

People literally pour in for the events, festivals and shows hosted on the island. From March 21 to June 9, 2014, the Biennale of Sydney saw ferry-loads of people

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Above (clockwise): Relics of the past – Cockatoo Island’s beam-bending machine; military guardhouse; crowds enjoying the historic island. Below: Island Bar.

citystopover

Round-up STAY

Above: Glamping at the island is a whole new camping experience.

The two Harbour View Apartments rent for between $370 and $470 a night, depending on which days, and are interconnected for groups. They each have two double bedrooms and balconies with a barbecue overlooking the harbour.

Glamping will set you back $145 a night on weekdays and $165 a night from Friday to Sunday. The glamping package includes a preerected tent, two single beds or a double bed, mattresses, bedding, towels, sun lounges, an esky and a lantern.

All prices valid until June 30, 2014.

02 8898 9774, cockatooisland.gov.au

DO

Image: Red Bull Media House

checking out awesome site-specific artworks.

In late 2014, there will be a heritage photography exhibition interpreting the island’s dockyard history.

New Year’s Eve pulls the big crowds. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more exciting venue from which to watch the world-famous fireworks spill off the Sydney Harbour Bridge and light up the harbour.

Bailey regularly takes his family glamping on Cockatoo Island for a weekend getaway.

“We don’t need to take anything with us – it’s all set up and ready to go,” he says. “You fall asleep at the water’s edge, under the stars, and wake up to stunning views of Sydney Harbour. You’re still close to the city but there’s a distinct ‘island time’ vibe that makes you relax and unwind.”

At this camping ground, recently named “one of the world’s most spectacularly located campsites”, by Lonely Planet Traveller magazine; the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust is working on setting up basketball and handball courts to keep campers happy.

One thing’s for sure: Whether it’s the history, the views or the chance to camp on a Sydney island and chill out in an island bar that calls you to Cockatoo, you’ll no doubt be lured back again and again.

The Heritage Holiday Houses were once home to the island’s medical officer and engineering manager when the island was a busy shipyard. They are beautifully decorated and set among gardens and have four bedrooms. They sleep up to 10 people and range from $595 a night or $3590 a week.

To book the tennis court, call the Accommodation Office on 02 8898 9774. It’s $20 an hour ($10 if you’re staying overnight) and $5 for racquet hire.

For self-guided and audio tours, call 02 8969 2100. They are $5 per person and bookings for groups of 15 or more are essential.

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Photos by Michael Lawrence & Duncan Macfarlane

A non-profit humanitarian organisation whose aim is to improve the health, wellbeing and self-reliance of people living in isolated regions connected to us through surfing. surfaid.org

checkin

Five

minutes with …

Maggie Beer

She’s Australia’s favourite family cook: a big-hearted woman with an even bigger smile. Maggie Beer tells Simone Henderson-Smart about her new mission.

You recently launched the Maggie Beer Foundation in the aged care sector. What was the catalyst?

The seed for the foundation was planted when I was made Senior Australian of the Year at the Australia Day awards in 2010. This led me to address care leaders during an aged care conference in 2011 about trying to lead the aged care sector towards greater food enjoyment and choice. Following up with a lot of research, I knew that I wanted to make a difference.

Since then my thoughts and networks have grown, and with the support of my husband, Colin, and my marketing manager, Sarah Goodwin, I launched the Maggie Beer Foundation: A Good Food Life For All.

What are the foundation’s aims?

In a nutshell: find the great exponents of aged care, reward them with kudos and

learn about the innovations that people are willing to share to help everyone in aged care have a good food life. Work with three facilities within reasonable reach to influence their food practices so they can become models of what can happen by working from the ground up, and then they can influence others. The three pilot South Australian aged care homes are: Abbeyfield residential care at Williamstown, Mount Pleasant Hospital aged care facility managed by Country Health SA, and Ridgehaven Residential Care Centre.

What will you be doing five years from now?

Why are you concerned about aged care?

If it’s a Sunday night, roast chook with seasonal greens. However, it depends on the time of the year and the celebrations. We also enjoy yabbies with verjuice mayonnaise.

First, there are amazing aged care homes around Australia and we certainly hope to find them all and celebrate them. However, from personal visits to aged care homes of all kinds, and phone calls, letters and emails from staff, family members and friends that are devastating to read, there is a definite need for change in so many.

How will you change the way meals are prepared in these facilities?

Now that the foundation is formalised, we’re setting out to raise funds to support the work we need to do. This work/ change will have to evolve with the input and support of passionate people in the field. The first step towards nutrition, however, is fresh seasonal ingredients, cooked with care.

Continuing as a cook, author and manufacturer. This journey is one for the rest of my life, however, my business life goes on quite separately. I merely have to balance my life so I can devote enough time to that and have my treasured family life, too. There’s a lot to be done and noone can do it alone, so I’m fortunate to have lots of great help!

What’s your favourite dish to cook for your family?

“The first step towards nutrition, however, is fresh seasonal ingredients, cooked with care.”

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The décor features giant artwork recipes and handwritten letters on the ceiling, walls of hanging gardens and sculptural pieces related to food and wine. The restaurant has wide mirrors ingeniously placed to give the illusion of many more rooms in the distance. The menus raise the bar for hotel food, with delicately prepared dishes that are as beautifully displayed as they are lovingly made. The wood-roasted spatchcock with parsley root, burnt butter, white radicchio and sea parsley and the olive wood-roasted Milly Hill lamb with eggplant and piquillo pepper are perfect examples of the restaurant’s hearty yet creative approach to decadent dining. fourseasons.com/sydney

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The Oaks in Sydney’s Neutral Bay has long been an institution for lovers of beer, out food and wine. Now the popular pub is proudly supporting Australia’s burgeoning craft beer scene by hosting The Six States of Beer. This series of bimonthly events spotlights a different state and its craft beer offerings, which are complemented by a selection of produce from the same states. In June, craft beer and chocolate from Western Australia were on the menu. In August, the spotlight is on beer and pork from New South Wales; in October it’s all about beer and seafood from Queensland; and in December the focus is on beer and wine from South Australia. The sold-out events in February (beers, bites and beats from Victoria) and April (beer and cheese from Tasmania) confirmed the public’s enthusiasm for events celebrating Aussie craft beers and excellent regional food. The beer-accompanying degustation menus are the work of acclaimed chef Danny Russo. ‘Beer Diva’ Kirrily Waldhorn hosts the evenings, her wit and beer knowledge making the events all the more merry.

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On May 30, 1990, Aussie band Midnight Oil hit a peak, performing at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. It was a year after one of America’s worst ever environmental disasters: the oil tanker Exxon Valdez had struck a reef off the pristine Alaskan coast and dumped more than 40 million litres of thick, sticky, wildlife-destroying crude oil into the ocean.

The spill horrified everyone, although it seemed Exxon didn’t care at all.

Ever the environmental crusaders, the boys from Midnight Oil cared a great deal, and when they noticed the Exxon headquarters across the road from Radio City, the temptation to “give Exxon the finger”, as Oils drummer Rob Hirst puts it, was too great and they staged a protest gig in the middle

of the street. Black Rain Falls is the story of that gig.

“We’d blocked the street, and traffic is like God in America,” remembers Hirst. “The cops told us we could do one song and then they’d shut us down.

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We ended up playing into the lunch break when 10,000 office workers hit the streets and surrounded us. It was amazing!”

Coinciding with the DVD release will be a tour, although “this time,” Hirst says, “we get to stay at home and send our stuff on tour.” He’s referring to an exhibition that opened in Sydney on June 20, and will tour national and regional centres around Australia, featuring Midnight Oil memorabilia, home movies and musical instruments. “It’s great! The attic’s empty now,” laughs Hirst.

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Bangarra Dance Theatre is much more than a performing arts company.

It’s also a living organism, breathing life into stories and forming an unbroken link to culture, ancestry and spirituality that spans more than 400 centuries, writes Simone Henderson-Smart. n an old pier jutting into Sydney Harbour a story is being born, nurtured by dancers who use their bodies and their instincts to mould and shape it. They inhabit the story, and the story lives inside them, as it has since the Dreaming. It’s a very organic process and quite astounding to watch. It’s instantly apparent that they do things very differently at Bangarra Dance Theatre.

Brothers Stephen and David Page have been living and breathing contemporary Indigenous dance

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theatre since forming Bangarra 25 years ago. The hours are long and the men are prolific. With Stephen as artistic director and David as composer, they have produced and toured a new production every year.

It’s a compulsion. For Stephen, it hit him from the very first performance.

“I had a sixpack and hair back then,” he laughs. “I was young and hungry and had no fear – you just dive in and take risks. But when you hear that first song, you just realise it’s what you were born to do. You know it’s not work when you don’t

even have to think about it – it just flows – and we keep getting better and better.”

That compulsion is also tied up with a deep-seated need to keep the continuous link to story and culture going, which is something the dancers share. Bangarra keeps this alive with regular trips to remote Indigenous communities, where cultural immersion helps the dancers to reconnect, as many of them actually grew up in the city.

For dancer Yolande Brown, a descendant of the Bidjara clan in

closeup

Images: Greg Barrett

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central Queensland, reconnecting with her traditional homeland and people has been an inspirational and grounding experience.

“The commonality between the dancers is our passion for dance, but it’s also exploring history and identity, discovering who we are, and our story,” she says.

Stephen Page explains the link to country perfectly: “The land shapes the people, the people shape the language, the language shapes the song, the song shapes the dance, and the spirit flows through it all.”

It’s how they create, offering themselves as vessels through which story and spirit can flow – both far back into the past, as well as into the future – and becoming part of that eternal organic link.

Stephen only brings broad sketches to the studio, letting the dancers fill in the gaps.

Previous page: Thomas Greenfield in Patyegarang. Above: Daniel Riley, Deborah Brown and Waangenga Blanco.

Below: Stephen Page workshops Patyegarang with dancer Thomas Greenfield.

In rehearsal for new production Patyegarang, Stephen is working closely with the dancers to bring his latest story to life. It’s all about suggestion and collaboration, with the choreography largely being shaped by the dancers themselves and how they feel most comfortable flipping, leaping and gliding across the stage.

When writing the music that inspires the dance, David is also aware that he needs to leave space for the performers’ own artistic expression: “Dancers act with their bodies. I don’t overproduce the music because the dancer provides the lyrics. It’s almost filmic.”

Similarly, Stephen only brings broad sketches to the studio, letting the dancers fill in the gaps.

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Yolande Brown in rehearsal for Patyegarang, the new production that tells a fascinating Sydney story and had its world premiere there in June to mark Bangarra’s 25th anniversary.

“Dancers communicate so profoundly with the mere flex of a foot or a hand, a shift of focus or a roll of the head,” he says. It’s clear he trusts their instincts and abilities.

It’s a sacred, special experience, and one not often found at the pinnacle of dance theatre. Dancer Luke Currie-Richardson knew this from a young age. “I danced to be in this company – no other reason,” he says. The journey so far has taken him from the company’s base at the Sydney Opera House to some of the most prestigious theatres in Europe and deep into outback Australia. It’s a life of immense joy, and Luke’s beaming smile is a permanent fixture as he recounts some of the highlights.

Surprisingly, it wasn’t performing in The Hague in the Netherlands that made Luke the most nervous and excited. It was performing at a funeral for a much-loved Indigenous elder. Six clans had gathered to pay their respects, and at first Luke didn’t think Bangarra would be dancing.

“We put ochre on our foreheads out of respect, and we were just sitting there watching,” he recalls. “In the end, we got up and joined in, but it

was so nerve-wracking dancing in front of the owners of these dances, in a community where they dance every day, every week.” Luke’s deep reverence for his culture is palpable.

For Yolande, too, it’s the time ‘on country’ that is so precious and teaches her the most. It’s quite something for accomplished dancers at the top of their field, who regularly tour internationally, flying around the world and staying in flash hotels, to be able to perform at the other end of the spectrum. Footlights are replaced by little open fires dotted around the desert floor, and the stage is something they’ve had to fashion themselves in a dried-out creek bed.

Apart from the compulsion to perform, it’s clear that the main driving force for all involved in Bangarra is teaching and sharing their precious Indigenous culture – not just to the next generation of Indigenous Australians, but to people all over the world. And they know dance theatre is the best way to do it.

But more than that, they have their creative feet firmly planted in the present, using contemporary dance and music to tell their stories in a way

that connects with audiences easily.

As Luke puts it, “It’s nice to be able to sidestep daily materialism and go on a spiritual journey with the audience, to step into something that transcends language.”

Yolande agrees: “There’s a lack of platforms to share Indigenous culture; the education system just doesn’t touch on the depth of it. But there is so much knowledge out there. Get a mature-age education by following us!” she laughs. “Dance is the best way of learning and teaching.”

Bangarra Dance Theatre is performing Patyegarang nationally until September 6, followed by Kinship regionally in October and November.

Visit bangarra.com.au.

It’s a sacred, special experience, and one not often found at the pinnacle of dance theatre.

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WINTER FUN: Don’t let cooler temperatures dampen your appetite for adventure. New South Wales ‘Chief Funster’ Andrew Smith shares his favourite state secrets.

1

Skydive over the beach

With 892 beaches in New South Wales, there’s no shortage of beautiful scenery to discover. But from 4500 metres in the air, the view is even more incredible. I highly recommend it at terminal velocity – you know, where you can’t possibly fall any faster. You can experience some amazing skydiving with Skydive the Beach and Beyond in Byron Bay, Skydive Coffs Harbour, and Coastal Skydivers in Port Macquarie, just to name a handful. Recently, I did a skydive with Skydive the Beach in Wollongong, and even though you’re falling at more than 200 kilometres an hour, the experience is surprisingly serene.

After the chute is pulled, the next five minutes of soaking up the scenery helps the adrenaline settle and solidifies the moment as one of the best of your life.

2

Get back to nature

Any map quickly reveals that New South Wales is huge, and much of it is untouched countryside, prime for exploring and connecting with nature. Experience a seemingly never-ending expanse of nature on a staggering scale at the Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains. While the history of the Jenolan Caves is enchanting, a tour where you have to angle your way through a network of imposing natural tunnels is nothing short of exhilarating.

Also not to be missed is canyoning through natural pools of water with Blue Mountains Adventure Company.

Another top spot is the Royal National Park, just south of Sydney, which has plenty of secrets to uncover – especially on a night photography class with Understand Down Under.

Burramoko Head and Hanging Rock in the Blue Mountains.

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Explore boutique breweries, bars and historic pubs

Arguably one of the most exciting Australian cultural booms is the explosion in craft beer and artisan brewing, with some of New South Wales’ smallest breweries making the biggest waves.

Australia’s oldest pub brewery in The Rocks, The Lord Nelson, has a spot-on British feel, while newcomers such as Young Henrys in Newtown add a bit of grunge and Sydney hipness. There’s no reason to drink boring beer in Sydney when pubs such as The Local Taphouse, Harts Pub and the Royal Albert Hotel serve nothing but topnotch local craft beer.

And at boutique bars Yulli’s (Surry Hills) and Frankie’s Pizza (CBD) there’s seriously good food to soak up the booze.

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Sydney is such a good spot for those who are artistically minded and seek inspiration. Events range from massive festivals to intimate events. Vivid Sydney is held every winter and offers 18 days packed with technology, light, thrilling shows and music. Carriageworks (left) near Redfern uses the converted rail yard space for incredible events that change on a weekly (if not daily) basis. Even strolling through Newtown reveals art on what seems like every street. For a fun spectacle, head to Darling Harbour on Saturday nights when they put on a fireworks show just for the heck of it. Isn’t the weekend good enough reason to celebrate? I think so, too.

Image: Tourism NSW

5

Indulge your inner artist

Go seafaring

Image: Tourism NSW

In New South Wales there’s a plethora of bays and inlets that provide some of the best water activities imaginable, ranging from relaxing to heartpounding. Cruise Sydney Harbour on the Tall Ships, where you’ll relax on the water and have a chance to climb the mast and tap into your inner pirate. Dolphins are amazingly easy to spot on a Moonshadow cruise in beautiful Port Stephens bay.

Conversely, twin 200-horsepower engines take you nearly three metres into the air as you rip through waves on Port Stephens Watersports’ Thundaraft. It might be hard to believe, but it’s an experience that could potentially one-up skydiving for intensity.

15

outtahere Image: Tourism NSW

6

Go hot air ballooning over vineyards

The Hunter Valley is known for its wines, but hot air ballooning over the vineyards is almost worth a trip on its own.

It’s an experience that can’t be passed up – the hot air balloon gives you a view of the Hunter Valley in its entirety as you drift over the wine estates while the morning fog rolls in. Back on the ground, many cellar doors offer wine-tasting. At the Hunter Valley Resort you can put what’s in your glass into context at the Wine Theatre and learn to crush grapes by foot!

Hop in the basin and feel the fleshy grapes between your toes, or just enjoy a crisp glass of wine at the cellar door.

7

Follow the festivals

Just like the country itself, Australians like to do things on a big scale. This is certainly true for festivals, which are huge and are held all year round. At events such as Big Day Out, Soundwave and Future Music Festival, thousands of people turn up to see the biggest artists in the world performing in the one place at the one time. Equally as large, and famed for its easygoing vibe, Byron Bay Bluesfest sees thousands of people jamming, camping and meeting new people. What has become a ritual for many is the road trip to these events; getting there is half the fun when you cruise up the Pacific highway to Bluesfest.

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Image: Tourism NSW

Recent F1 Grand Prix winner, Daniel Ricciardo, demonstrating at the 2014 Top Gear Festival, Sydney.

Have fun on four wheels

If you’re a fan of gears, horsepower and exhaust, you’re in luck. Over the years I’ve seen many gearheads rejoice as some of the most amazing cars on the planet tear up the asphalt at top speeds.

The Bathurst 12 Hour race brings both modified production cars and top-of-theline GT-class cars out to challenge the aggressive course. At Sydney Motorsport Park the Top Gear Festival and Ferrari Racing Days showcase serious horsepower and even some F1 cars, and there’s the Sydney 500 V8 Supercars at Homebush.

It’s not all cars, though – at Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures, take a quad bike out on the course and sling mud as hard as you can. Speed is a thirst that must be quenched!

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Talk to the animals

There are so many interesting animals in Australia, including a ridiculous number that are native. It’s no surprise, then, that there are some terrific zoos in New South Wales. You want to pat a wombat or put a meerkat on your head?

Sure thing – head to Symbio Wildlife Park, about 45 minutes south of Sydney. Taronga Zoo in Sydney is an iconic place for a reason – you can’t miss the giraffe-feeding against the Sydney Harbour backdrop. At Taronga Western Plains in Dubbo there are some 700 animals ranging around three square kilometres of bush. Stay overnight at the new Zoofari Lodges and see kangaroos, zebras and water buffaloes from your porch – an experience that can’t be matched elsewhere.

10

Get fresh with food

The produce available in New South Wales is second to none. Most of what is consumed here is also produced here, meaning chefs have an abundance of fresh local ingredients at their fingertips. Regional towns such as Orange offer some top-quality wining and dining venues; from the Union Bank Wine Bar to Factory Espresso, it’s hard not to constantly fill yourself to the brim with top nosh. The Hunter Valley is also packed with delicious eateries. In Sydney, there are cafés everywhere; start in Surry Hills with Reuben Hills, Robocog or Bills for breakfast, then top up with brilliant coffee at Sample Coffee or Single Origin Roasters.

If you’re seeking one of the best examples of Australian pride, drop into The Pie Tin in Newtown for a freshly baked sweet or savoury pie.

For more ideas on things to do in New South Wales go to: visitnsw.com 18

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food&wine

Mudgee

Meanderings Despite the lack of pony action at Polo in the Paddock, Michelle Hespe gets into Mudgee – a place where great food and fine wines always lead to fun times. ou’d have to be mad to complain about the rain when the region in question has been droughtstricken for years. That’s the philosophy that the thousand or so revellers adopted at this year’s Polo in the Paddock in Mudgee. The ponies didn’t get their hooves onto the racing track, but that didn’t stop the party trackside kicking off at 11am and continuing all day throughout the sporadic downpour. Heels were dumped in favour of gumboots (with most country ladies being far more prepared than those doing the road trip from Sydney) and men’s jackets

were thrown over party frocks for kicking up some mud while dancing in the rain.

From the back of a truck bed, country star Lee Kernaghan let loose with some cracking hits, and raffle prizes included goods from Paspaley, YSL Beaute, Ralph Lauren, RM Williams and Bunnamagoo Estate Wines – the beautiful sprawling vineyard in which the annual event was hosted. Despite the lack of polo, the event raised more than $5,500 for charities, including a generous donation from Kernaghan after his guitar was auctioned off to one very proud guest. Australian

Revellers head across the fields of Bunnamagoo Estate Wines.

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food&wine

fashion designer Camilla Franks judged the best-dressed competition, and the kids, who didn’t give two hoots about the rain, leapt about in a jumping castle, well-placed away from the long tables for lunch in a trackside paddock.

At the tables, delicious Bunnamagoo wines and craft beers and ciders were poured to match the incredible array of local produce presented for lunch.

Needless to say, everyone left the event merry, despite sporting speckles of mud and hair not particularly blow-dried.

If you’re in Mudgee, there is no excuse for not staying awhile and enjoying the local offerings.

Filling up in Mudgee Mudgee has long been a destination for lovers of food and wine and, being less than a four-hour drive from Sydney, it attracts city dwellers seeking a relaxing country break filled with all the good things in life. The region is home to more than 50 well-known vineyards and wineries, with the earliest plantings taking root in the 1850s. It is known for having perfect conditions for vineyards, with the town and surroundings perfectly positioned on the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range – meaning warm days, cool nights and incredibly fertile soil.

Every year from mid-September to early October (this year from September 12 to October 5), the region hosts the Mudgee Wine and Food Festival. Live music, special cellar door experiences,

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Guests at the Mudgee Wine and Food Festival enjoying top drops.

The ponies didn’t get their hooves onto the racing track, but that didn’t stop the party trackside kicking off at 11am and continuing all day.

The Mudgee Wine and Food Festival is a great excuse to visit the historic town.

food&wine

events and celebratory menus for lunches and dinners across the town and in the vineyards transform Mudgee into a showcase of wonderful local produce.

But even when there isn’t a festival as a drawcard for foodies, Mudgee has so much on offer, with dozens of great restaurants, cafés, bars and pubs, all staffed by some of the friendliest people you’ll find in regional Australia.

Rice & Ice is a relatively new restaurant on the block, dishing up wonderfully authentic Thai dishes, and donning its yum cha hat on the weekends. The busy little restaurant is run by an incredibly welcoming Thai family who present the wonderful flavours of traditional Thai cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

They serve meals that their family would cook at home, and treat customers like loved ones. They also own the My Thai next door, which was so popular that they opened a second place to keep up with the demand.

Image: Amber Hooper

St. Mary’s Catholic Church at night, downtown Mudgee.

Offering modern à la carte cuisine in a stylish establishment perfect for long lunches and dinners that drift organically into the night, Sajo’s Lounge Bar & Restaurant in Church Street is considered an institution in Mudgee. The menu is modern, with a focus on local ingredients showcased in meals that all have clever flourishes, be it in terms of ingredients or presentation, or both.

FAST FACT ’Mudgee’ reputedly derives from the Wiradjuri Aboriginal term ‘Moothi’ meaning ‘nest in the hills’. Aside from wine, the area is noted for its fine wool, beef, lambs, cereal crops, vegies, and honey.

Delicious Thai treats at Rice & Ice.

The Mudgee clock tower; built to commemorate soldiers who fought and fell in WWII.

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food&wine

Locals and visitors enjoy the fine wine and fare at Sajo’s.

The entree menu has delicious dishes such as homemade salmon gravlax with mustard dill cream, caperberries and radish, or rabbit and herb tortellini in a saffron consommé with rabbit confit.

The main menu embraces traditional hearty meals, always with a culinary twist. For instance, the slow-roasted pork belly is accompanied by roasted capsicum, seared scallops and pickled cucumber with marinated mushrooms, and the chargrilled lamb backstrap delights diners by being paired with roasted prosciutto-wrapped figs, a silky goat’s curd cream and brioche.

Fit in a classic cocktail (there are $10 cocktails on Thursdays for ‘ladies night’) and a couple of wines from the exciting menu packed with fine local vintages. And you can’t leave without fitting in a lip-smacking dessert such as the passionfruit cheesecake with a marshmallow and mint apple salad. It somehow manages to seem refreshingly healthy while being wickedly decadent.

Come morning, if you’re suffering from dusty head syndrome after so much wonderful food paired with exciting wines (after all, it’s wise to fit in a couple of wine-tastings as well as many meals when in Mudgee), head to the quirky retro-embracing haven that is Butcher 24

Shop Cafe. Yep, you guessed it – housed in a butcher shop built in 1875, this café is loved by locals and run by ex-Sydney boy James O’Neill. Metal meat-hanging rods on the ceiling and the original butcher’s tiles give hints of its former life, and James is a fan of interesting antiques, so there are some great kooky conversation starters hanging about – such as the bulbous glass wine holders dangling from the ceiling.

The menu is in keeping with the theme, including the Butcher’s Breakfast (the whole shebang) and the Butcher’s Benedict (with bacon and tomato instead of smoked salmon). The regularly

Metal meat-hanging rods on the ceiling and the original butcher’s tiles give hints of the café’s former life, and James is a fan of interesting antiques.

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food&wine

Traditional Chinese dumplings and tea at 29 Nine 99 in Rylstone; and below, business owner Na Lan.

changing range of cakes and cookies is made locally for the café, and all of your classic lighter brekkies, such as pancakes, muesli and fruit salad, are also on the menu.

Dumplings and tea

The spaces are a riot of texture, colour and scent. And the mouth-wateringly good dumplings and exotic teas are what have customers flocking back every week.

Images this page courtesy of Karon Grant

Artist and fabric designer Na Lan, originally from Central China, is the woman behind a true gem of a café/ restaurant/homewares store in Rylstone, about 40 minutes’ drive from Mudgee.

This very special dumpling and tea house, called 29 Nine 99, is a delightful, seemingly haphazard ensemble of incense-perfumed nooks and crannies where you can sit indoors or outdoors surrounded by intriguing, vivid colours.

From teapots, ceramic platters, plates and vases, to bags, scarves, jewellery, serviettes and silk clothing, the spaces are a riot of texture, colour and scent.

And the mouth-wateringly good dumplings and exotic teas are what have customers flocking back every week, ensuring that Na Lan is one of the busiest business owners in town.

As numbers are inextricably linked to China’s traditions and culture, with a person’s fortune often revolving around digits, Na Lan named her arty little slice of China after the date of her marriage to her Australian hubby, Reg. They were married on September 29, 1999.

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food&wine

FAST FACT This year’s annual Mudgee Food and Wine Festival will be held from September 12 – October 5, and gives visitors ample opportunities to sample the high-quality local fare.

Let there be wine Wine-tasting is usually top of the agenda for visitors to Mudgee (for very good reason) and there are many cellar doors to knock upon. However, if you’d like to fit in your dumplings, tea and wine all in the space of an afternoon, drive 1.5 kilometres out of town to visit the team at De Beaurepaire Wines Tasting Room.

This charming tasting room, owned by a husband-and-wife team, is open weekends (by appointment only). The building was a stone stable back in the 1880s, and a Melbourne Cup winning horse is buried on the property.

Rylstone is about 200 metres higher in elevation than Mudgee, thus having different weather conditions leading to longer ripening periods and later grape harvesting. This culminates in the top wines from De Beaurepaire having classic cool-climate characteristics. It’s another business that has a sentimental name: De Beaurepaire, besides being the surname of the vignerons, is French for ‘from a beautiful hideaway’. The winemakers concentrate on handcrafted wines made from their own fruit, adopting a philosophy of quantity over quality.

And, really, that’s the philosophy all of Mudgee holds close to its heart. It’s about one lovely, long, quality experience in a weekend or on a long break, even though the quantity of attractions on offer could keep any lover of food, wine and history busy year-round.

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De Beaurepaire, besides being the surname of the vignerons, is French for ‘from a beautiful hideaway’.

De Beaurepaire’s charming cellar door in an 1880’s stone stable.

Round-up EAT & DRINK

Bunnamagoo Estate Wines bunnamagoowines.com.au Rice & Ice rice-and-ice.com Sajo’s Lounge Bar & Restaurant sajos.com.au Butcher Shop Cafe 49 Church Street, Mudgee 29 Nine 99 Yum Cha and Tea House Louee Street, Rylstone De Beaurepaire Wines Tasting Room debeaurepairewines.com

STAY

Parklands Resort & Conference Centre A grand, sweeping drive leads to this sprawling resort, which is both a wellequipped conference centre and a popular meeting place for locals and visitors. Set in an oasis of green lawns, with wide balconies overlooking beautifully manicured gardens, it’s no wonder many weddings are held here. parklandsresort.com.au

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PRIDE OF THE PENINSULA Mitch Brook spends a weekend on Mornington Peninsula, where the air is as fresh as the produce.

board a small tin dinghy slowly putt-putting over the clear water of Dromana Bay, the crisp sea winds fan my face. I look back to the shore and see, over a grey-blue blanket of water, Safety Beach behind us. Ahead of us is a small fishing barge, swaying on the calm waters of the bay.

I pull my jacket closely around me, as even on Autumn days, the weather down this way can be chilly.

I clamber up to the fishing barge and Geoff Newing of Dromana Bay Mussels meets me in a bright red spray jacket, looking windswept.

Beside him, mussels are growing thickly on lines hanging below the surface of the water. Once fully grown they are pulled out of the water by the boat’s crane and harvested. The same mechanism removes the mussels, which are then washed in a barrel-shaped cage and deposited out the end – where Geoff is standing.

Geoff cracks open a washed mussel with a small knife. “If you’ve ever noticed the different colours of mussels,” he says, “it indicates gender.

Orange ones are female.” He points to the newly shelled creature then picks another, inserts his

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blade and cracks the shell open and shows me.

“The white ones are male.”

I watch as he pops the newly shucked animal into his mouth, chewing steadily with a grin – my uncertainty must be showing, as I had not realised you could eat mussels raw.

“We have an emphasis on freshness,” he says.

“To produce very fresh, high-quality product.”

I know what’s next; Geoff offers me a freshly shucked female mussel. I’m a little nervous, but put the mussel in my mouth. It’s cold, soft, salty and sweet.

“Make sure you chew it to get the real flavour,” Geoff says.

I chew, discovering that the mussel is incredibly refreshing and light, but it’s not overbearing. It’s actually delicious.

Geoff is one of the many small Mornington Peninsula producers that call this beautiful region home. He’s dedicated and passionate because he’s doing what he loves, just like the many others in the community, operating in a range of incredibly varied industries.

A short drive away (nearly everything is a short drive away on the peninsula) I come

getaway

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Previous page: Cape Schanck boardwalk. Top to bottom: Handmade cheeses from Boatshed Cheese; a pier in Portsea, Mornington Peninsula; chocolatedipped strawberries from Sunny Ridge Café.

Image: Mitch Brook

to Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm, owned and operated by the Gallace family.

Wandering the strawberry fields, punnet in hand, and picking fat, ripe strawberries off the rows of shrubs is such a simple pleasure, topped off by biting into a fresh one still warm from the sun. The self-pick experience is fun for kids too, judging by the squeals of delight I hear while roaming the fields.

Like many producers here, the Gallace family operates more than just a farm. While the Gallace elders Mick and Anne mostly look after the fruit grown on the farm as respected wholesalers, the younger Gallaces – Matt and his wife Ruth – have branched off with their own wine label called Rebello Wines.

Rebello focuses on making wines from fruit, like their Strawbellini Moscato Sparkling. They also make fruit liqueurs, aa well as the popular Cheeky Rascal Cider. The latter blends cider and fruit wines to make quirky mixes such as Vanilla Bean Apple, Gingerberry and Pomegranate Apple. These products are available online as well as at the Sunny Ridge onsite shop, which doubles as a strawberry-inspired dessert café.

Don’t leave without sampling the chocolatedipped strawberries: simple yet sublime.

Another local with a flair for produce is Tamara Newing – wife of Geoff – who owns and operates her BoatShed Cheese enterprise from a converted boat shed at their home.

“All of our cheese is small-batch,” she says with pride. “I don’t use anything that’s mechanised; we hand-stir and hand-cut the cheese. Absolutely everything is handmoulded and turned.”

Having such a small operation means that Tamara can keep a close eye on the cheese.

“When you’re doing everything in small

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getaway

batches you can give individual cheese attention, making sure that it’s aged just perfectly.”

Despite being established in 2012, BoatShed Cheese has won local and international awards, most recently winning gold at the May Royal Queensland Dairy Awards for its goat curd, and Best International Cheese at the US State Fair in North Carolina for its Chelsea Blue.

My favourite is the Black Pearl, which won Best Victorian Goat Cheese and Best Australian Non-Bovine Cheese at shows in 2013. It’s a fresh, light goat cheese, with a soft white rind dusted in ash. I’m sure I am one of many fans.

Capping off my trip is a visit to Red Hill Epicurean, which is a bakery, restaurant, and wine-tasting area adjoining function rooms.

Grab a table in the cavernous industrial-style

dining space, near the open fireplaces, and check out the delicious Italian-inspired menu. My pick is the Diavolo di Mare, a spicy prawn linguine, and a smooth, warming pumpkin ravioli with burnt butter sauce. Wines are selected from local vignerons such as Prancing Horse, Paringa Estate and Rebello.

By day, Red Hill Epicurean has pizza-, pastaand coffee-making classes and an extensive and impressive self-serve wine tasting system.

On the winding roads of Mornington Peninsula, twisting their way through hills, valleys and fields, you can’t go 500 metres without seeing a signpost pointing the way to another brewery, winery, dairy or bakery. I think I can speak for all lovers of food and wine when I say that’s just the way I like it.

Harvest time at one of the many Mornington Peninsula wineries. The cool climate here produces stellar Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Grab a table in the cavernous industrial-style dining space, near the open fireplaces, and check out the delicious Italianinspired menu.

Round-up GET THERE

Mornington Peninsula is about an hour and 20 minutes’ drive from Melbourne.

STAY

Flinders Hotel Corner Cook & Wood Streets, Flinders 03 5989 0201, flindershotel.com.au

EAT & DRINK

Dromana Bay Mussels Open Friday through Sunday 10.30am to 2.30pm on Safety Beach Foreshore – Dromana side of the boat ramp.

0409 192 770; dromanabaymussels.com.au BoatShed Cheese Sample and purchase the range of BoatShed Cheese at various farmers’ markets around the region and in Melbourne. See the website for when and where. Tamara Newing also holds cooking and cheese-making workshops. boatshedcheese.com Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm U-Pick open during strawberry season November to April. Strawberry Café open weekends May–October 11am to 4pm. sunnyridge.com.au Red Hill Epicurean Home to a restaurant, bakery, wine tasting space and function rooms. Also hosts cooking and coffee classes. redhillepicurean.com.au 34

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LEADING EDGE The opportunity to lead an expedition in Antarctica saw Rachael Robertson tested to her limits. She talks to Amal Awad about leadership and adventure.

a mother to one child, but she admits that at the time, she wasn’t completely certain packing up and going to the end of the earth for more than a year was the answer. It proved a fortuitous decision, however; Robertson is now on the speaker’s circuit full-time and has written a book about her experiences in Antarctica.

During the Antarctic summer, groups of 120 occupy the research stations – scientists conducting research plus the trade crew doing construction – then they depart in February, leaving a small team of

18 behind to maintain the facilities.

“We just keep the joint warm, keep the power on, the water going, we look after it until the next summer when the next lot of scientists come up,” says Robertson. As team leader, her job was to coordinate Davis Station.

In summer, it was a purely managerial role that focused on logistics. For the rest of the year, however, her position took on a different slant.

Nine months of isolation, four of which are in 24/7 darkness during the winter, meant Robertson had to build morale and teamwork with a bunch of

Above: Davis Station, Prydz Bay, Antarctica, where Rachael was based.

Image: Hannes Grobe, Alfred Wegener Institute

IT STARTED with a newspaper ad, a call-out for a one-off opportunity and the promise of adventure. For Rachael Robertson, the opportunity to lead an expedition in Antarctica proved too exciting to overlook.

“I was literally sitting there reading the careers section on Saturday and saw the penguins in the ad,” she says.

“I thought, I’ll go for it.”

It was 2005, and the then 35-yearold Robertson revelled in her role as head ranger for the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, with an office in Lorne and the opportunity to drive from Torquay to the South Australian border as a day job.

“I loved it, loved my family, loved my life,” she says.

Fast-forward nearly a decade later, and a reflective Robertson concedes there was a reason she was looking at the career section, something she never did.

“I was single, I didn’t have kids, I didn’t have a mortgage, so it was pretty easy to go on an adventure,” says Robertson. “I think I might have just been, in the back of my mind, looking for a big adventure, hoping that one day I might settle down and marry and have children.”

Robertson has since married and is

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“I thought, I can’t actually respond to these guys 24 hours a day, every day, for the next year. It’s going to kill me.”

Brunt ice shelf Graham Land Queen Maud Land Weddell Sea Amery ice shelf

Ronne-Filchner ice shelf

ANTARC TICA

Sackleton ice shelf

Amundsen Sea Wilkes Land

Ross ice shelf Ross Sea Victoria Land

Size of United Kingdom for comparison

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Kilometres

2000

JOURNAL TO BOOK

Australia/NZ

Rachael Robertson kept a journal during her time in Antartica as a way to cope with the experience and keep her ‘resilient’. It’s now been published as a book — Leading on the Edge.

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strangers who didn’t always get along.

More specifically, four women and 14 men, some from the city and others country folk, traversing a diversity of qualifications, beliefs and outlooks.

“People ask me about the environment, and I say the 24 hours of darkness, the minus 35 degrees temperatures, the blizzards… that’s tough, it’s harsh. But that ain’t a patch on what it takes for 18 strangers to live together, on top of each other, with no privacy – everyone knows everything about each other,” she says.

Robertson says she hadn’t anticipated it would be small things that caused so many problems, and that a large part of her job would be trying to get her team to deal with the issues rather than ignore them.

“I call it the bacon war, because we had a fight about whether bacon should be soft or crisp. And it turned out this bacon war between two of my teams – my plumbers and my mechanics – was a different issue about whether the plumbers were treating the vehicles properly because the mechanics had to service them.

“It manifested into bacon because each team thought the other team was deliberately cooking it a certain way to annoy them.”

Realising that teamwork trumps harmony, Robertson made this thinking a rule. She didn’t expect the team members to love, or even necessarily like, each other but they would have to show respect to one another.

“We had a rule called ‘no triangles’. If you’ve got an issue, if you’ve got a problem, just go straight to the source. You don’t go to a third party. It was a really powerful tool for building respect.”

Another step towards creating a more pleasant atmosphere was encouraging them to reduce their reliance on Robertson.

“I thought, I can’t actually respond to these guys 24 hours a day, every day for the next year. It’s going to kill me.

I have to find ways of building this team so they don’t rely on me being all things to all people. I needed to put

a boundary there. So I did.”

For her part, Robertson kept herself in check by keeping a journal, which is now her book, Leading on the Edge.

“It helped me sleep and sleep made me resilient,” she says.

Peer support was also a saviour.

Robertson describes a good friendship with the leader at Mawson Station, a

distant 1000 kilometres away.

“Having a peer who knew what I was going through, who understood the challenge of the role, who understood the environment – it just taught me so much. Particularly in these remote areas, the peer support is just critical. You need someone you can talk to.”

Robertson says she also stayed resilient by telling herself and her team to focus on what they do have, not what they don’t.

“And what we had was the opportunity to see this amazing wildlife and to make some good money and to set ourselves up for the future.”

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DENTSU00016

insidemining Issue 13 – July 2014

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THE ONLY WAY IS UP Jack Cleaver raises five key factors that could see Australian mining reach new heights.

INDUSTRY FOCUS Scoping out scientific roles in mining 17

MINING REVIEW The state of mining in Tasmania

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SPECIAL REPORT Pros & cons of contract labour in mining 26

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WHAT ALL INDUSTRY WANTS – SOMETHING FOR NOTHING

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NEW HOPE GROUP CUTS QUEENSLAND MINING JOBS As coal sales fall, so does the number of mine workers. A recent 17 per cent fall in coal sales – to 1.33 million tonnes – has forced New Hope Group to cut five per cent of its workforce.

About 30 of New Hope Group’s 600 workers will lose employment. As of now, the West Moreton mine and the corporate office will see the effects of the job cuts.

New Hope Group CEO Shane Stephan said making the decision was not easy but it had to be done because of the significant drop in coal sales.

“The continuing difficult times for the coal industry have required some difficult decisions to be taken regarding employment, to allow the company to endure this low point in the cycle and emerge in the best shape possible when conditions improve,” Stephan said.

The job cuts will not hinder production, as current tonnages will be maintained at the mines involved.

New Hope Group isn’t the only company making these decisions, with Wollongong Coal cutting 152 jobs and Glencore also shedding 40 jobs.

CAPE YORK TO SEE INCREASE IN WATER RESOURCES A moratorium that blocked the use of Cape York’s water resources for irrigation has been approved for removal.

The lifting of the moratorium will create opportunities for economic development on Cape York Peninsula, according to Andrew Cripps, Minister for Natural Resources and Mines.

Cripps said there is a plan in motion for water resources in Cape York’s future, as the government named agriculture as one of Queensland’s four economic pillars in 2012.

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“The former Labor government stood in the way of new water users [using] this valuable resource productively on the Cape, due to its ‘lock it up’ mentality,” Cripps said. “We are reducing ... regulation to unlock development opportunities on the Cape, with the removal of the moratorium being the first important step.”

Cripps added this will impact on people with a water licence, as well as

new water users, as they will be able to pursue development opportunities.

The Department of Natural Resources and Mines is finalising a Cape York Water Strategy, which will identify actions of the government to support development and safeguard the future water supply needs of the community.

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MACK CEMENTED IN SAFETY

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Boral, whose new concrete agitator trucks use Mack’s RSA, was named as one of only three finalists at the 2013 WorkCover NSW SafeWork Awards for ‘Best solution to an identified workplace health and safety issue’.

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“There was a great need in the market to find a solution to the dangers associated with concrete trucks and we rose to the challenge,” he said.

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100 JOBS CUT AT BHP BILLITON BHP Billiton has cut 100 jobs at its Perth iron ore headquarters to ensure efficiency within the company.

A spokesperson for the company said it is committed to its productivity agenda.

Many workers affected were involved in projects that had wound down, and since BHP is focused on costs and productivity gains, these workers were let go.

The company reported it is “focused on delivering value by safely and sustainably growing volumes while reducing costs”, and when employees are affected by this, they are given assistance in their efforts to find employment.

The spot price for iron ore is now around $92 a tonne, which marks a 31 per cent fall since the beginning of the year.

BHP’s coal and aluminium businesses have seen cuts as well, and its Nickel West business will be sold because of a desire to decrease unwanted assets.

ILUKA RESOURCES AND BRAZIL’S VALE TEAM UP FOR TITANIUM DEVELOPMENT Australian mineral sands producer Iluka Resources and Brazil’s Vale have partnered for a new development in South America.

The agreement applies to the staged evaluation and potential development of the major titanium minerals deposit at Tapira in Minas Gerais state, Brazil.

Iluka managing director David Robb said this is a very positive endeavour for his company and will give Iluka the opportunity to work on the potential commercialisation of the Tapira Complex, which is one of the largest known undeveloped titanium mineral deposits.

The Tapira Complex contains titanium dioxide, ilmenite and perovskite and covers an area of about 35 square kilometres.

Iluka will work on geological and metallurgical programs to plan for the development of a large-scale titanium feedstock operation.

Vale fertilisers and coal executive 5

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director Roger Downey believes this partnership will benefit his company greatly. “The agreement with Iluka brings a partner with the expertise to add value and seek alternatives for faster development of the Tapira Titanium Project,” he said.

LED LIGHTING TOWER TO BE LAUNCHED AT QME EXHIBITION Mickala Mining will launch its LED lighting tower and give live demonstrations at the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME) at Mackay Showground from July 22–24, 2014.

Designed and manufactured in Australia, the LED lighting tower has dual- or single-axle configuration and optimised lighting capabilities that make it more cost-effective than halide lighting systems. It’s projected that each unit could save up to $64,000 per year.

Mickala Mining, which employs more than 100 people, markets its business as a one-stop shop for mining needs, as it manufactures lighting towers, maintains towers, supplies and installs HDPE fittings and piping, supplies maintenance workers and more.

SANTOS GLNG PIPELINE WINS AWARD FOR INNOVATION IN SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGIES

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REVOLUTIONARY MINING BOOT WINS AWARD Blundstone’s mining boot is safe and tough and now it’s also award-winning.

The 980 underground mining boot is manufactured specifically for the mining industry and won the NSW Minerals Council Health & Safety Innovation Award.

Made by Hobart-based Blundstone, the boot has a height of 350 millimetres

POSITION PARTNERS NOW IN NZ

Position Partners has announced its expansion into New Zealand with a new branch in Christchurch. The Australian-owned positioning and machine control solutions company attributes the growth to increased demand for its services outside of Australia.

“Since introducing new technologies such as ground penetrating radar and Unmanned Aerial Systems in Australia, we’ve noted a rise in demand from other countries, including New Zealand,” explained Martin Nix, Position Partners CEO. “It makes sense to open a branch in Christchurch that will offer a range of solutions and support services for the surveying, engineering, mining and construction industries,” he added.

Position Partners New Zealand offers sales, hire, services and training across a range of products including mobile mapping and scanning solutions, US Radar ground penetrating radar (GPR), MAVinci and AscTec Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Carlson machine guidance.

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Having worked for Position Partners for two and a half years as a machine systems specialist in Australia, Mr Nelson, who is a New Zealand national, is excited about the opportunities to grow business in his home country.

“There is a great deal of opportunity to increase efficiencies and productivity through new technology such as UAS and GPR,” Mr Nelson said. “People are interested in learning more about these innovative solutions and I’m looking forward to getting out on the road to demonstrate how they can increase a company’s bottom line.”

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and is waterproof. It was designed by consulting with workers at Centennial Coal. The manufacturer said that working directly with the miners brought firsthand experience and knowledge into the equation, which helped to create a durable, safe boot.

The boot is made from high-quality leather with waterproofing, abrasion resistance and tear strength that is better than other leathers. It features fully enclosed metatarsal protection, a quick and simple lacing system and a rubber outsole with increased slip resistance.

Rob Regan, the NSW Department of Resources and Energy director of mine safety operations, said the Blundstone 980 has changed the way mining boots are made.

MINERS DISCOVER 700 NEW NATIVE SPECIES BHP Billiton, through its Sustainable Communities Program, has joined forces with Earthwatch Australia and the Commonwealth Government, investing $4 million in a species discovery project called Bush Blitz. The project has been running since 2010, and has so far unearthed more than 700 new native species Australia-wide. Discoveries have

included 272 new bugs, 130 new spiders and scorpions, as well as 36 new species of native bees.

BHP Billiton President – HSE, marketing and technology, Mike Henry, said the company was committed to supporting the program into the future.

“Supporting biodiversity is important to us – we do this at BHP Billiton mine sites through our land management practices and through our contribution to programs such as Bush Blitz, which are leading to a greater understanding of the unique biodiversity values found in Australia,” Henry said.

“I am really excited for everyone taking part in the program, particularly the traditional owners and teachers who are playing a key role in the Kimberley Blitz.”

RECORD IRON ORE SHIPMENT DEPARTS FROM PORT HEDLAND The increase in Australian iron ore exports shows no signs of abating, with a record being set at Port Hedland recently.

The port, which is Australia’s biggest for iron ore exports, set a new benchmark of 1,270,721 tonnes when seven capsize vessels sailed on a single tide in early

June and emphatically smashed the previous record of 160,000 tonnes.

The record comes on the back of a 3.55 per cent increase in exports from Port Hedland between April and May this year, setting a monthly record of 36 million tonnes.

Although the increase in iron ore production is being blamed for a drop in value for the commodity, the big three – BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto and Fortescue Metals Group – have all added extra tonnages to their businesses and are still expanding their operations in the Pilbara.

Which is good news for the economy, as it seems the extra capacity will manage to offset any further price falls and the Bureau of Resources and Energy Economics is actually expecting the value of iron ore exports to increase from $57.1 billion to $76.8 billion this financial year.

Treasurer Joe Hockey is blaming the good weather for the recent record shipments, saying “It’s an extraordinary quarter in March when you don’t have cyclones, particularly in Western Australia affecting Port Hedland, so our miners are exporting their socks off, and thank God because it’s having a positive impact on our economy.”

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forefront

Taking mining to

the next level FORGET THE PRESENT DOWNTURN IN THE RESOURCES SECTOR. HERE ARE FIVE KEY FACTORS THAT HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO SEE THE AUSTRALIAN MINING INDUSTRY EXPAND ENORMOUSLY OVER THE NEXT 50 YEARS.

Illustration by Carmine Bellucci at The Illustration Room

WORDS: JACK CLEAVER

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forefront

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1. The global rise of Asia Let’s start with the big one: Asia’s demand for Australian minerals is tipped to surpass even our tripling of mineral exports in the decade to 2011.

Here are the facts:

Those three goals should be our mantra. The task of getting to the next level is in our hands.

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• By 2050, Asia will be the centre of global commerce, producing more than half of global output.

• The population of the Asia-Pacific region will increase sixfold between 2009 and 2030. It will be the largest regional market in the world.

• Rapid urbanisation across Asia will support increasing living standards. The rate of urbanisation in China is 100 times the scale and 10 times the speed of Britain’s Industrial Revolution. By 2050, average Asian incomes will be equal to European incomes today.

• Another 250 million Chinese will move to the cities by the year 2025 – all needing apartments, roads, cars, bridges, power and resources.

• Some 70 per cent of China’s 1.4 billion people will be living in cities by 2025 – that’s a billion people.

• In addition to China, India and the rest of Asia will see unparalleled mass migration to the cities – the greatest mass migration in history.

• The next generation will be the wealthiest and best educated in Asian history.

This is truly a remarkable page in history that our mining industry has the chance to write on.

2. Productivity Let’s talk about where mining’s growth has to come from. Some 58 per cent of the income growth that Australians enjoyed between 2005 and 2012 was attributed to one-off conditions related to the resources boom. This has hidden real declines in our productivity performance, according to the McKinsey Global Institute’s 2012

report, Beyond the boom: Australia’s productivity imperative.

The report, which is available online, makes good reading. Here’s an excerpt: “Resource sectors: Getting capital productivity right.

Australia is less than halfway through the capital boom, with $443 billion in investment still to come in the resources sector.

Major capital projects are prone to inefficiencies and overruns…”

Importantly – and critically for the next step in lifting our mining industry – the report goes on to say: “…but the country has an opportunity to boost its capital productivity by up to 30 per cent if firms emphasise a top-level focus on value, adopt a best-practice ‘tool kit’ and assemble project teams with superior execution skills.”

Essentially, the report has highlighted the three things we need to do. The succinctness of those three goals should be our mantra. The task of getting to the next level is in our hands.

3. Infrastructure bottlenecks Our infrastructure deficit is putting us on a road to nowhere. We really need a national coordinated plan to fix our bottlenecks and help mining get to the next stage, which is critical for our economy.

There is hope for the future.

Infrastructure Australia was set up as a statutory body in 2008 to organise and prioritise infrastructure spending, reporting to the Council of Australian Governments. Its National Infrastructure Plan, released in June 2013, outlines the major infrastructure reforms that are needed to lay the foundations for a more productive Australia over the next 50 years.

Sir Rod Eddington AO, chairman of Infrastructure Australia, says in his foreword to the plan: “The national infrastructure plan is not a long 13

forefront

list outlining 50 years’ worth of projects. It is a plan focused on the changes we should make to the way we use, invest in and deliver economic infrastructure.

“Some of these reforms have been around for many years. For example, the idea of creating one

Show me the money Nothing is going to happen unless our banks see a dollar in it. Our banks, investment institutions, venture funds and government need to actively keep our mining companies in Australian hands – otherwise we could see our wealth going overseas.

Australia has $1.7 trillion in superannuation savings accumulated over 20 years of mandated contributions, which could be the key. But our financial institutions and government are riskadverse. The answer: spread the risk.

Geographic diversification will eventually generate superior riskadjusted returns for long-term global investors by reducing overall portfolio risk from direct Australian mining, while capturing some of the higher rates of return offered by the emerging markets of Asia, Eastern Europe and Latin America. For global investors, India, China and other emerging markets constitute enormous reservoirs of new commodities consumers.

To tap into this wealth, we need to keep our skills, retain ownership, and convince our lenders that they could be on to a good thing.

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national freight network that would allow freight to be transported efficiently across borders and operate to a single set of rules was first proposed in 1898, around 115 years ago. It is time we got on with delivering them.”

Taking 115 years is sheer craziness! Let’s hope this sensible plan is implemented. As space won’t permit me to cover all the initiatives here, you can check out the plan at infrastructureaustralia.gov.au.

4. Upping our skills We won’t be able to stop demand, but we could stop our chances of growth.

Why is this nation allowing up to 20 per cent of our youth to be unemployed while our current workforce ages? According the Australian Bureau of Statistics, some areas in Australia have already reached this alarming figure.

We must find the key to giving today’s youth the aspirations, tools and resources to gain skills that will be vital to delivering the growth that is surely coming our way in the resources sector. We have good raw human material – let’s use it to deliver a better future for all of us.

5. Expanding our vision and capabilities Australia has always had a widereaching vision, but it’s time to take it further. Grabbing opportunities

from wherever they may arise is something we’re good at. After all, we have one of the world’s top three most experienced and innovative mining industries, so we have the opportunity to export those worldleading attributes (as we do now, to some degree) to a new level and, at the same time, lead the world in developing the future of mining.

Mining is on the cusp of a revolution. Here are the developments that are coming our way (if they haven’t already), which we can be the first to use: • Tunnel boring machines replacing drill and blast.

• Autonomous technology – driverless haul trucks and other machinery.

• Enhanced GPS – ‘to the centimetre’ accuracy is now possible.

• Robotics – the big thing on the horizon is self-activating and selfaware robots, which are coming sooner than we think.

• Remote control of mining machinery from a comfortable city desk.

• A shift in our focus internationally to Africa, South America, the ‘Stans’ in Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan), BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), Mongolia and the AsiaPacific region.

The bottom line? The challenge is out there, so go for it Australia.

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MINING IS A SCIENCE THERE ARE MANY INTERESTING ROLES AND DISCIPLINES IN THE RESOURCES SECTOR. INSIDE MINING PUTS A GEOSCIENTIST AND AN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST UNDER THE MICROSCOPE. WORDS: CHRISTINE RETSCHLAG

F

orget the white lab coat. Scientists involved in Australia’s mining industry are just as likely to be wearing hi-vis vests, hard hats and steelcapped boots. According to Hays recruitment, a geoscientist is involved in the discovery, exploration and development of natural resources such as gas, oil and water. They interpret geophysical, geochemical and geological data to develop models of the subsurface of the earth, with the aim of discovering commercially viable and exploitable reserves of natural resources such as oil and gas.

Then there’s the environmental scientist, whose career focuses on everything from developing renewable energy, to finding ways of eliminating or protecting the environment from pollution.

Meet two men of science who are at the forefront of the mining industry.

The geoscientist A love of geology led Greg Almond into the industry and his role as geology manager for Roy Hill in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. He undertook a Bachelor of Science in Geology at the University of Otago, New Zealand, before starting as a graduate geologist in Kalgoorlie.

Almond worked his way through the ranks, becoming a mine geologist, then project manager and senior manager in both Australia and

overseas, which helped him to climb the career ladder. His role entails: • Supervising the activities of the geology department (five geologists, four field assistants and a team of drillers).

• Drilling exploration holes through the deposit.

• Providing samples to determine the tonnage.

• Grading the ore deposit.

“The role of scientists in the mining industry is hugely important. From geologists defining ore bodies – with the aid of a huge amount of technical assistance from labs, geophysics methods and specialists – to civil and mining engineers building infrastructure, to the ongoing technical work needed to support modern mining, science is a massive part of the story,” Almond says.

“I always loved geology, and the idea of a job that let you get out of the office always appealed.

And what I learnt about the mining industry from some of my lecturers drew me towards it. So I saved up for a ticket to Australia, got the train to Kalgoorlie, started knocking on doors and was lucky enough to get a start.

“Obviously the mining industry is known for its remuneration. More than that, though, the work is interesting. You get to see parts of the world that most others don’t even know about, and working on massive projects is exciting.

“The mining industry isn’t going anywhere in a hurry. The industry will always have a need for

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industryfocus

new people. Exploration is historically a bit up and down, but the operational roles are pretty solid.”

The environmental scientist

“All work carried out by an environmental scientist in mining is directed towards maintaining statutory obligations regarding environmental impacts.”

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An opportunity to further his career in water management and environmental planning drew Robbie Cocks into mining and his most recent role as a senior environmental adviser at a goldmine 30 kilometres from Kalgoorlie in Western Australia.

He undertook a Bachelor of Science degree and had more than five years’ experience in the mining sector to take to his latest role. The role involves a number of key jobs, including: • Supervising a graduate environmental adviser and two environmental technicians; • Reporting and communicating on all compliance issues and drafting regulatory mining proposals and annual reports; • Monitoring and reporting all water, flora/ fauna, dust, hydrocarbon management and soil conditions at the mine; • Opting into the Mining Rehabilitation Fund (MRF) as well as online management communications to exempt the mine from any environmental bonds, and paying an annual levy.

“The role of environmental scientists in mining is critical for ensuring the mine stays operating under the licence conditions prescribed by the Department of Environment Regulation WA and mining conditions laid down by the Department of Mines and Petroleum WA,” Cocks says. “All work carried out by an environmental scientist in mining is directed towards maintaining statutory obligations regarding the environmental impacts of all types of mining activities.

“Ten years ago there were many cowboys who didn’t give the natural environment a second thought, bush bashing in vehicles and disturbing heritage and natural sites.

Nowadays, with the big push for occupational health and safety, and regulators clamping down on our rough-and-ready approaches of the past, there has been a significant change in focus regarding how mining environments are managed and how the environmental scientists are viewed by their peers.

“Mining in Australia is widespread and ageing, and not many new mines are opening up.

Therefore, there is a growing need for mine and land rehabilitation, and this is where scientists new to mining will have the greatest opportunity to commence work.”

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Image Courtesy of MMG Rosebery

miningreview

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miningreview

TASMANIA boasts a ‘small but

While much is known about Australian mining’s superstar states — Western Australia and Queensland — far less is known about its southern cousins. And when it comes to Tasmania, the devil is in the detail.

WORDS: CHRISTINE RETSCHLAG

significant’ resources sector, according to industry heavyweights, who cite mining as the state’s biggest exporter. Indeed, if you look at the list of resources it mines, Tasmania is more than pulling its weight. It is the only Australian state that extracts tin among its raft of other commodities, including iron ore, zinc, copper, lead, gold, silver and industrial minerals such as silica.

In true Tassie style, when asked what impact the high-profile states such as Western Australia and Queensland have on the island state’s mining sector, Tasmanian Minerals and Energy Council (TMEC) CEO Terry Long firmly but politely told Inside Mining: “Not applicable.”

Long doesn’t mince his words when speaking about the environmental issues they are battling down south. “Demand in Tasmania is currently strong. Most of Tasmania’s minerals are exported overseas. The future looks strong for the next 30 years or so if approved mining in Tasmania is permitted to proceed and reach its potential,” he says.

“The challenges are extreme environmental groups who are against mining activity, especially in Tasmania’s mineralised north-west. They will use whatever tools possible to hold up and delay any approved mines.

“The area is known to be one of the world’s most highly mineralised and

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prospective regions with a history of 140 years of mining. It’s a hotbed of minerals such as gold, silver, tin, zinc, iron ore and tungsten.”

Last year, former Tasmanian Premier Lara Giddings announced there was more than $11 billion in untapped mineral potential on the west coast.

The most recent Tasmanian Mining Economic Survey reveals the sector has been growing steadily, with a slight stumble around the GFC, in the eight years leading up to 2010–11.

The number of employees is now at 2561 and contractors at 1067, making a gross annual payroll of $240 million.

Eight mines are in profit and two are reporting marginal results, but none have posted a loss.

Aaron Brannigan is general manager of Tasmania’s MMG Rosebery mine, a polymetallic base metal mine that produces ore, which is then processed into zinc concentrate, lead concentrate and gold and silver doré. Rosebery also produces a small amount of copper concentrate. Challenges have included continuing to uphold safety records, as well as the mine’s declining grade profile.

“Rosebery has had a declining grade profile over the past couple of years – and it’s still continuing to decline – so there is a requirement to produce more ore to maintain a metal profile, allowing us to remain a sustainable operation in the future,” Brannigan says.

“The site is managing that through the implementation of a number of programs, including significant improvement in stope turnaround time and keeping the haul trucks in cycle.

Remarkable improvements have been achieved in mill throughput via greater collaboration across the site.

“Rosebery achieved records in mining and milling in 2013, which was an exceptional result,” says Brannigan, adding that current demand for Rosebery’s products is “solid”.

“Our concentrates are shipped in bulk carriers to smelters in Hobart, Port Pirie and internationally. Gold doré bars are sold to a refinery in Australia,” Brannigan says. “Commodity markets are continuing to improve, with supporting economic data showing improved outlook for developed economies, adding confidence to long-term commodity market growth projections.

“Rosebery makes a significant financial contribution to the state’s economy – approximately $60 million

in royalties paid in the past five years.

The company also contributes a significant amount to surrounding communities by way of sponsorships, donations and other [contributions].”

Despite this, Australian Greens Leader and Tasmanian Senator Christine Milne has told Inside Mining that Tasmania has huge renewable energy reserves and does not need fossil fuels.

“Mining is, by definition, unsustainable, because the resources

Challenges have included continuing to uphold safety records, as well as the mine’s declining grade profile.

Above and previous page: MMG’s polymetallic base metal mine located in the township of Rosebery, on Tasmania’s west coast.

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Fast facts • Minerals and metals make up more than half of Tasmania’s exports by value.

• In 2010/2011, the value of sales/shipments from mines was $1.03 billion — an increase of 17 per cent in a year. $17.3 million was spent on mining leases — up three per cent.

are non-renewable, so the key is to minimise impacts on water, biodiversity and the environment generally,” she says.

“The new push for unconventional gas mining is a problem for our food producers and tourist towns. It’s crazy to disrupt our food-producing regions and endanger long-term groundwater supplies for short-term gain from gas exports, especially since Tasmania does not need fossil fuel energy.

“Attempts to mine the Tarkine, the Southern Hemisphere’s largest tract of temperate rainforest, fly in the face of the ongoing battle to recognise and protect it.

“The Greens want industry and government to recognise the need to protect Tasmania’s natural values and food-producing areas. We are a clean, green and clever state.”

Surprisingly, though, Milne concedes there is a place for a mining industry in Tasmania.

“Some mining is essential to produce the minerals that support our modern lifestyles, but it must return a financial dividend to the people and give back to

nearby communities,” she says.

“These mines must take full responsibility for their waste, must not pollute the land or water, and must operate with the consent of landowners and traditional owners, not forcing themselves onto public or private lands which are best suited for other purposes, whether that be conservation or farming.”

Grange Resources manager director Wayne Bould says his mine has been operating since 1968, producing iron ore pellets for export to Japan and, more recently, China. The mine employs about 600 people full time and about 400 contractors.

“We are a bit of a late-comer, but we produce about 65.5 per cent iron ore content, compared with the Pilbara, which produces between 50 and 62 per cent. To my knowledge, we are the only producers of iron ore pellets in Australia that actually exports.”

Doing business in Tasmania, whether mining or otherwise, is challenging because of the high costs of transport in and out of Bass Strait.

“Mining isn’t an easy game at the best of times. You’re relying on a deposit likely placed there as an act of God. We all have issues in that regard,” Bould says.

“Our ability to compete and sustain our business in Tasmania is about hardworking people who are innovative and conscientious.”

“We are a bit of a late-comer, but we produce about 65.5 per cent iron ore content, compared with the Pilbara, which produces between 50 and 62 per cent.”

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specialreport

CONTRACTORS MAKE UP A LARGE PORTION OF PEOPLE WORKING IN THE RESOURCES SECTOR, BUT THERE ARE SOME SNAGS...

TRANSIENT WORKFORCE WORDS: ORYANA ANGEL

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specialreport

B

ack in mid-2012, around the peak of the mining boom, the success of some $268 billion worth of projects hinged upon having enough manpower to complete the projects.

Chris Kent, state regional director for Western Australia and national director of resources and mining at Hays recruitment, says one of the biggest differences between then and now is the growing use of contractors.

“We were placing a lot more permanent positions back then.

About 50 per cent of revenue was from permanent requirements, which ramped up towards the peak,” says Kent. Now, he estimates, about 20 per cent of positions are permanent. “There’s been a massive shift towards contract requirements over the past two years.”

Kent says it’s the overall feeling of uncertainty, especially in iron ore and coal prices, that’s driving

the trend. “There’s a concern that if prices get lower, projects are not justifiable. Everyone has their finger on the trigger. They can’t afford to carry underperforming assets,” he explains.

“They see contractors as a way of being able to flex up and down on headcount without going through major redundancies,” he adds, citing flexibility as the main benefit of using contractors.

“It represents ‘try before you buy’ for miners and enables workers to get more diversity in experience. If you’ve worked on a goldmine and want to get into iron ore, they might take a chance on you on a contract basis and see if you can develop that skill set,” says Kent.

He adds that many candidates are looking for temp assignments because the nature of the work is mostly fly-in fly-out or drive-in drive-out and contract workers see it as a way to find work/life balance.

“They can also experience working for a big company like BHP and for a junior company,

too – getting the idea of the difference and where they want to end up in the future.”

Jody Elliott, a consultant who specialises in sourcing trends, strategies and global skills supply and demand for the resources sector, says organisations see the use of contractors as a simple, effective solution to a particular need.

“They like to use contractors to outsource work when they don’t have the required expertise within their permanent workforce or don’t regard the function as core business,” she says.

“In cases where entire production or operational areas of a mine site are outsourced to a mining contractor, the decision is typically taken because the operator believes the expertise, skills and efficiencies offered by the contractor far surpass what the operator is capable of providing.”

Elliott says often parcels of work or functions can be outsourced to organisations that specialise in that work or function. “A completely

“They like to use contractors to outsource work when they don’t have the required expertise within their permanent workforce.”

27

specialreport

new mine and/or operator is often well suited to – and elects to – outsource components of the operation, which may include production and/or maintenance, for example,” Elliott explains.

She also says that functions such as drilling and shutdowns are outsourced, as they are not considered core business.

Professor Peter Hartley, BHP Billiton Chair in the Business of Resources at The University of Western Australia’s Business School, agrees that a lot of contractor work is often specialised and technical.

“What’s happened over time is that contractors have developed specialised expertise in performing these types of functions and have become highly efficient in them,” Hartley says.

For instance, a major player might have a need for seismic activity in the beginning of the project, but then won’t need it again until some time down the track. “Rather than employing someone to do that and then let

28

them go, they employ service companies that do a job for each company and keep the workers fully employed,” says Hartley.

An example is experienced liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant builder Bechtel, which is building about half the world’s under-construction LNG plants.

The American contractor is constructing all three Curtis Island LNG projects: BG’s Queensland Curtis LNG project; the Santos-led Gladstone LNG project and the Australia Pacific LNG project.

Contracting out can be a good thing, says Hartley, because having a market for these services means that contracting firms are competing with one another.

“Taking advantage of that competition will drive costs down and give contractors incentives to perform,” he adds.

Conversely, the very benefits of using contractors can also be the precursor to its downsides. If a task is not understood innately, for instance, it can be difficult to

“Taking advantage of that competition will drive costs down and give contractors incentives to perform.”

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manage and assess how well the task has been done.

Hartley says there must be ways to ensure the contractor has completed the job to a certain quality. “If there are ways they can do it less well, and if it’s hard for you to detect that, it could end up as a very expensive mistake. The last thing you want to do is take the contractors to court,” he warns.

And this happens. The 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, which claimed 11 lives and is the largest accidental marine oil spill in the history of the petroleum industry, is a classic example.

At least three years of court battles followed the disaster as BP fought with two of its major contractors. BP blamed American contractor Halliburton for botching

the cement work on the failed rig, while rig operator Transocean put responsibility back on BP for compromising the integrity of the well, each shifting responsibility for the disaster away from themselves.

Also, just as contractors allow for the dissemination of information, this can flip from being a bonus to a hitch. “You might lose exclusive ownership of the technology. If you get a subcontractor in, it’s hard to make sure they don’t tell other businesses. It’s hard to hold onto that intellectual property,” says Hartley.

“There is also a loss of control of technological innovation, to some extent. They have all the expertise and you don’t. You don’t know when the expertise will be important for the next technical innovation.”

There is also the safety factor.

A disturbingly high proportion of

contractors are hurt in accidents on mine sites. In February this year, the Queensland Commissioner for Mine Safety and Health, Stewart Bell, issued an alert about the number of contractors killed on Australian mine sites. In the seven months leading up to February, eight workers died on mine sites, including five contractors.

“Families should be confident that when a loved one goes to work in the mining industry they will come home safely, regardless of whether they are contractors or mining company employees,” he wrote in a statement.

He said mine operators, site senior executives and managers must understand that effective management of contractors is among their key obligations.

Fast facts • The ‘Queensland mines and quarries safety performance and health report 2012–13’ found contractors represent nine out of 10 coalmining industry fatalities over the past decade.

• In the five years leading up to 2013–14, the contract mining industry is forecast to expand at a compound annual rate of 9.6 per cent to be worth $12.9 billion.

30

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A RECENT SENATE INQUIRY PUT FUEL DEDUCTIONS UNDER THE PUMP. WORDS: DARRELL CROKER

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mininginsider

D

iesel surged into public discussions as the May federal budget approached.

A Senate inquiry into the government’s Commission of Audit fuelled speculation about changes to the diesel rebate scheme. Members of Labor and the Greens pressed senior bureaucrats and industry leaders on the scheme’s merits, and government sources confirmed the budget razor gang was examining it.

The Greens continued a campaign for miners to lose the credits.

“We have always said farmers who need our support should continue to receive it through the fuel rebate, but the big miners can’t have it both ways,” Greens leader Christine Milne said, a week out from the budget.

“They’re making a one-off profit from natural resources that belong to every Australian, and if they won’t pay the mining tax they must stop reaping billions of dollars from the public purse through rebates. It seems that everyone but the big end of town will do the ‘heavy lifting’ in this budget.”

The ABC reported “speculation” of a possible cut to the 38 per cent fuel tax credit had prompted emergency crisis meetings in the mining industry.

“Leaked confidential correspondence between top mining chief executives, obtained by the ABC, reveals deep anxiety within the resources sector,” it stated.

Treasurer Joe Hockey assured the mining industry that there would be no cuts to the diesel fuel rebate. And he was true to his word.

Way back when Back in 1926, a petrol excise was introduced to raise revenue for road building and maintenance. A diesel excise was added in 1957. The rebate of the excise on diesel was implemented to reimburse industries for fuel used in activities not requiring access to

36

government roads. The scheme applies to mining, agriculture, manufacturing, health services and construction, as well as arts and recreation.

Only the ‘fossil-fuel industries’ come in for criticism when the rebate scheme is judged. And it is a long time since governments have used ‘petrol money’ solely for roads, although that will change with the budget’s reintroduction of fuel indexation.

Opponents of the scheme say the mining industry already receives more than $2 billion in concessions, and fuel tax credits are a “subsidy” providing a “huge advantage”.

The mining industry points to a principle of sound taxation policy that states business inputs should not be taxed. This is consistent with Australia’s GST system and has been confirmed

by Treasury in notes released under the Freedom of Information Act: “Fuel Tax Credits are not a subsidy for fuel use, but a mechanism to reduce or remove the incidence of excise or duty levied on the

fuel used by business off road or in heavy on-road vehicles.”

Writing in The Australian a week before the budget, Judith Sloan said commentators should get their facts straight when making strong statements about preferred means of reining in spending or raising more revenue.

“Take ABC1’s Insiders program on Sunday,” Sloan wrote. “Phil Coorey, from The Australian Financial Review, maintained that Treasury has been arguing for a paring back of the diesel fuel rebate for years. Where does he get that information?

“In fact, the diesel fuel rebate is not contained in the Treasury’s tax expenditure statement because it is not regarded, quite rightly, as ‘a provision of the tax law that causes a deviation from the standard tax treatment that would apply to an activity or class of taxpayer’.

“In fact, all the evidence points to Treasury being a staunch defender of the rebate as a means of avoiding the imposition of a tax on a business input.

“In fact, all the evidence points to Treasury being a staunch defender of the rebate.”

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“Why, as a country, do we not get behind our strongest industry that creates so much wealth?”

(Note that farmers, as well as miners, receive the rebate.) Dating back to 1982, the rebate is structured to minimise compliance costs, ensuring the excise is paid only for road use.

“As John Ralph, former leading company executive and director, pointed out in this newspaper, there are other means to achieve this result. In Britain, for example, diesel is labelled red and white to make the distinction between its use and its liability for excise. We simply chose another means to achieve the same result. But every working journalist should understand that the diesel fuel rebate is not a subsidy.”

Digging in Minerals Council of Australia chief executive Brendan Pearson reportedly told the Senate committee not to touch the fuel credits scheme. Mr Pearson said descriptions of the scheme as “fossil fuel subsidies”, and calls for it to be scrapped, were part of a “thinly disguised antimining agenda’’.

Tax office figures showed the rebate cost the government $5.4 billion in 2012–13, with the mining industry

Fast fact The diesel fuel rebate can also be claimed by producers of biodiesel and renewable diesel under the ‘Cleaner Fuels’ grant scheme.

claiming $2.1 billion of that and farmers about $700 million.

Critics will always circle, but Treasury supports the scheme, asserting that abolishing credits would impose an unfair tax on industries reliant on diesel fuel simply because they operate large equipment in remote areas and generate their own power off the electricity grid.

According to one mining services company senior executive, “with the massive investment required to bring new production to market and to operate a mine, every additional cost reduces Australia’s competitiveness against our global competitors.

“Our mining industry is worldclass and has sophisticated technology, significant innovation and some of the best professionals available. Why, as a country, do we not get behind our strongest industry that creates so much wealth, employs people on very high salaries and contributes huge sums of money to local communities?

“It seems there is an element of tallpoppy syndrome when it comes to the treatment of the mining industry. It’s time we took a more mature view and considered the long term for our country.”

39

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It incorporates a Cummins QSKTTA60CE diesel engine that generates 2125 kW (2,850 HP) at 1900 rpm and meets EPA Tier 2 emission requirements. The all-hydraulic actuated braking system provides precise braking control and quick system responses, and a new Hitachi system monitor displays information and diagnostics of all onboard systems and controls.

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frame life, means mining operators will benefit from better performance, higher availability, and significant reductions in maintenance and operating costs.

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Dampier Salt RIO TINTO has a large stake in three salt mining operations in Western Australia: two in the Pilbara and one in the Gascoyne area. Based in Dampier, Port Hedland and Lake MacCleod, the salt mines produce more than nine million tonnes of salt every year, making Dampier Salt one of the world’s largest privately owned salt producers. The large evaporation ponds, which cover up to 52 square kilometres, are also an important bird habitat.

41

innovation

MARCH OF THE MACHINES TRUCK TECHNOLOGY IS TAKING GREAT STRIDES FORWARD, RESULTING IN A SAFER AND MORE EFFICIENT WORKPLACE. WORDS: ORYANA ANGEL

43

innovation

I

nnovation is rapidly changing truck technology in the mining industry.

Driverless trucks, mandated antilock brakes and a greater emphasis on safety, are all great news for miners. Trucks that have the ability to transport greater capacities, as well as success in reducing environmental noise, will offer benefits to everyone.

Mack Trucks’ vice-president Dean Bestwick says we’re in a period that’s all about “finessing the technology that we currently have”.

In conjunction with its parent company, Volvo Group, one of the most exciting projects that Mack Trucks is working on is the 290-tonne gross combination mass (GCM) truck. This Mack Titan has been developed to transport commodities from the ground to a processing plant or distribution point where there isn’t a railway available and when the job is not suitable for yellow mining equipment.

“When there is a large amount of material and you can’t get access to rail, this is where the new high-GSM Mack Truck comes into its own,” Bestwick says.

The Mack Titan, with the combination of a 685-horsepower engine and mDRIVE (automated manual transmission), can haul up to four trailer loads. The truck is then highwayready – the trailers can be unhooked and it can be used on the road as a normal prime mover.

Fast facts • Australia is a hub for mining software, with 60 per cent of the world’s product developed here.

• A new Australian Design Rule will require anti-lock braking systems (ABS) or load proportioning brake systems to be installed on new heavy trailers.

Image courtesy of Caterpillar Inc

“In the past, safety wasn’t so important, but now customers are driving this.

Particularly with dangerous goods.”

“While it resembles a highway truck, the engineering is in the driveline and under the hood to increase the load it can carry while being a lot more economical than buying large yellow equipment,” Bestwick says. They are set to be available in the first quarter of 2015.

44

Image courtesy of Mack Trucks

At Freightliner, another of the industry giants, product planning manager Chris Loose says the big development in the industry has been a push towards improved vehicle safety for big trucks.

“In the past, safety wasn’t so important, but now customers are driving this. Particularly with dangerous goods, it’s becoming mandatory to have safety systems in place or you don’t sell a truck,” says Loose.

“It’s a huge improvement from an attitude of only a few years ago.”

He says the company is now seeing a lot more interest in its trucks that have roll stability – a system designed to be proactive and improve vehicle stability by slowing the vehicle as it goes around corners.

There’s also increasing interest in electronic braking systems (EBS) technology, which works by applying the brakes when sensors detect that

innovation

Image courtesy of Caterpillar Inc

the trailer is not in a controlled situation.

One of the biggest changes to truck technology in the past few years has been the development of autonomous – or driverless – trucks.

In the Pilbara, Caterpillar has already deployed autonomous trucks at Fortescue Metals Group’s Solomon mine and plans to expand the fleet to 45 Command trucks over a three-year period.

Caterpillar is also working with BHP Billiton and has launched a Cat Command for Hauling production trial at the Jimblebar mine in Western Australia. The company is also in negotiations with other groups for the autonomous hauling solution.

Caterpillar global mining technology and solutions manager Dale Blyth says the main benefits of autonomous trucks is safety and improved productivity.

“The past five or six years have seen

customers wanting to test the technology with small-scale operations. We are now working with our customers to expand into large mining operations,” says Blyth.

Meanwhile, Queensland-based transport equipment developer Duratray has been working on a way to reduce environmental noise on mine sites.

A trial held at Moolarben Coal Mine near Mudgee, New South Wales, compared noise output between the loadings of a standard steel dump tray and a Duratray Suspended Dump Body (SDB). The results were encouraging, showing that noise was reduced by up to eight decibels.

Moolarben has since launched a ‘stealth fleet’ of Komatsu 830E haul trucks fitted with custom-designed SDB. The technology is also being utilised in some of the largest mines in Australia, Africa and the Americas.

45

resourceinsight

Source: argylediamonds.com.au

The rare pink diamond Pink diamonds do not come cheap. The highest quality gems are sold at private, invitation-only auctions (also known as ‘tender’) and can fetch anywhere from $100,000 per carat to more than $1,000,000. On average, pink diamonds cost 20 times the price of an equivalentsized white diamond.

Argyle pink diamonds have been sold at tender since 1985. Rio Tinto’s Argyle mine, in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, is the world’s largest supplier of pink diamonds, with more than 90 per cent of pink diamonds coming from there. Even so, for every million carats of rough diamond found, less

than one carat of this is deemed fit for auction.

Why the diamonds are pink is a mystery. One theory is it is due to a change in the diamond’s molecular structure either after it is formed in the earth’s mantle or when it ascends to the earth’s surface.

Indigenous Australians have another theory. They say that pink diamonds are from the hearts of barramundi fish that were escaping from three women who were trying to trap them. Where the fish landed became the mine site and the different coloured diamonds in the mine are from different parts of the fish.

• Diamonds were formed about three billion years ago, 150 kilometres beneath the earth’s surface. Under temperatures between 900 and 1300 degrees, and great pressure, carbon atoms joined to crystallise and grow as diamonds inside rocks. The atoms arranged to form diamond’s hard substance.

• A diamond’s beauty comes from its ability to refract light. This is true of all transparent gems, but diamonds have a higher refractive index, which is what gives them their sparkle.

• In 1851, a gold prospector near Bathurst, New South Wales, found the first diamond in Australia.

• The world’s largest diamond mine was discovered in 1979.

It became the Argyle Diamond Mine.

47

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propertyguide

Check out some of the latest hot properties on the market in our regional towns and cities 50

HOW WE VIEW WEALTH The way we think can shape how ‘rich’ we are

DIG IN YOUR HEELS Bag your dream house, without extra cash 53

7 INVESTOR HABITS The habits of effective property investors

55

49

National

propertyguide

ARE YOU RICH OR COMFORTABLE? A recent media article published on news.com.au asked a sample of average Australians whether they considered themselves to be rich or comfortable.

Their responses confirm that money alone does not maketh a man rich.

KEVIN LEE

Founder and director of Smart Property Adviser

MONEY IS A man-made concept designed to facilitate the bartering of goods and services. But across the world today, money is really a ‘fiat currency’ – that is, it has no underlying value of its own.

Most people don’t realise that the actual value of their money is completely controlled by government and its whims, fantasies and needs.

What makes you feel rich is your perception, your attitude to life and all it holds. Money is simply a means to achieve your goals. Let’s look at it this way: What do we really need in this life? Food, water, shelter and clothing. However what some people actually strive for is status symbols relevant to food,

water, shelter and clothing.

Those people are chasing the illusion of success, adorning themselves with various products, labels and brand names to show off their perception of their own success.

Sometimes to people they don’t even know.

I’m continually intrigued by this in relation to motor vehicles.

Otherwise intelligent people go to extraordinary lengths to parade their idea of success by their choice of a luxury vehicle.

Often, and sadly, they do so when their financial reality is anything but successful.

Many people believe they need to borrow $40k, $60k, $100k, $150k or even $200k to buy a luxury car so that friends

and family (and some random people they don’t know) will think they’re doing well in life.

In most cases, though, the reality is that they aren’t. They can’t afford the car, so they take a lease or personal loan over four or five years, usually with a 30, 40 or 50 per cent ‘balloon/ residual payment’ at the end.

Putting that in plain English, a balloon payment means you won’t, or can’t, pay off the vehicle in the specified time.

If the car has a 40 per cent balloon, you’ll only pay off 60 per cent of the contract price, but you’ll pay interest on the whole amount.

In effect, you’re renting the car, which is depreciating at least at the same rate. When

Most people don’t realise that the actual value of their money is completely controlled by government and its whims, fantasies and needs.

50

National

propertyguide

the finance term is finished, you either need to buy the vehicle at its residual value or trade it in and start from scratch again.

This is a sure-fire way to financial disaster for most Australians. You might look rich driving that expensive car, but you should consider the longterm financial damage before you sign that contract.

In my opinion, whether you really are rich, comfortable or struggling is often out of your hands anyway, and is largely the result of the way our country and its system works.

Because even though you may be earning $200,000 a year, after income tax, mortgage repayments, credit cards, car and personal loan repayments, a plethora of indirect taxes and levies and the cost of living, if you’re like most families you’d be lucky to save $1000 a month.

And if your kids are in private schools, you can forget saving.

It’s easy to see why people on

decent incomes become jaded.

Firstly there are years of striving for excellence in high school, followed by years of studying at university. Then there are subsequent years of climbing the corporate ladder until you reach the pinnacle – that $200k salary and the expected prestige that goes with it. But then there is often the self-realisation that you’re actually in the same ratrace and on the same treadmill as everyone else, except your treadmill is costing a lot more to operate.

Unless you look at your own situation now and do something about it, it’s not going to get any better in your lifetime. The statistics below reinforce what you’re really up against.

Firstly, Australia’s estimated population is 23.4 million (ABS, May 2014). According to the 2011 Census, there are about 5.7 million kids, 2.37 million people on the age pension, 850,000 on the

invalid pension and more than 1.5 million on other government benefits. There are 929,000 full-time students over 19 years of age and 1.8 million government employees.

So if you do the maths, there are 13.2 million Australians indirectly relying on the taxes paid by the 10.2 million people who work in the private sector.

That’s 56 per cent of the population relying on the taxes paid by the other 44 per cent.

It is simply out of whack. It’s unsustainable, and it can’t work over the long term.

I believe that the 2014 Federal Budget was recognition of the fact that the system isn’t working, and that it looks like becoming increasingly worse over the next 40 years or so. It’s unfunded and systemic.

Will the age pension be around when you reach 70?

I personally doubt it very much.

So the question is, what will you do about your future?

I suggest stepping outside the system – start putting an asset base together to provide for your future, as soon as you can.

We can help you create your strategy, but I wouldn’t wait too long to get started.

Kevin Lee is regarded by many as Australia’s most trusted property investment adviser.

To attend one of Kevin’s free ‘No Secrets’ Seminars, visit smartpropertyadviser.com.au

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EUDCTAION CAHNGES EEVRYTIHNG If you’re not educated reading a simple sentence is almost impossible! Imagine trying to get a job, keep yourself healthy or support your family if you never got to finish school? That’s the story for more than 60 million girls around the world.

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When putting in an offer on a property, it’s not always the money that gets you over the line.

DIG IN YOUR HEELS ZORAN SOLANO From Hot Property Specialists Buyers Agency

Having the confidence to dig in your heels on price and not play the selling agent’s game doesn’t come easy to many. This is why it’s handy to have another agent do the batting for you.

I recently bought a property on Brisbane’s north side, about eight kilometres from the CBD, on behalf of a New Zealand investor. Their brief was to find a renovated property to lease and hold, giving them a foothold into the Brisbane market.

The vendor wanted to sell because they were relocating elsewhere; they had overcapitalised on the

renovation works – a bonus for my buyer.

After I inspected the property and undertook a comparative market analysis, I found the property to be competitively priced.

The selling agent was marketing the property in the high-500s, so I offered $580,000 with our best conditions – a 30day settlement, building inspection and rental clause – which allowed us to market the property for rent before settlement.

The vendor’s agent told me there was another offer on the property and the price I offered wasn’t high enough. I dug in my heels on our offer price and said, “That’s all we have. If it’s not enough, we’ll move on.”

The selling agent said, “Look, you’re not far off.” I said, “We’re done negotiating.”

He said, “The other offer is $10,000 more than yours, and it’s from another buyers agent [that] I know usually leaves a

little in the tank.”

I didn’t appreciate the game he was playing. He was trying to auction us up, which is a practice he’s not supposed to engage in, and he was a high-profile agent.

Thirty minutes later he said, “Congratulations, the seller has accepted your offer.”

It turned out the vendor preferred our conditions of a shorter settlement and our cash offer with no finance clause to the other interested buyer’s price offer of $10,000 more. This was because it allowed the vendor to relocate sooner with a greater guarantee of settling.

Apparently the other offer included a longer settlement.

What this proves is that to be successful with an offer it’s not always only about money.

Being in a position to place an offer with competitive time frames, finance preapproved and the confidence to negotiate (and knowing when not to negotiate) with

the selling agent can give you the winning advantage.

Because we included a detailed clause in the contract to market the property for rent before the property transaction settled, we had a tenant ready to move in at settlement time.

The new tenant just happened to be the other interested buyer who was not in a position to make another offer. But they loved the property so much that they decided they would rent it.

And they agreed to pay $640 per week, which reflected a premium return. Overall, a sweet victory for my client.

Zoran Solano is the office manager and senior buyer’s agent at Hot Property Specialists Buyers Agency. He has been a buyer’s agent for more than five years now and is recognised as one of Brisbane’s leading agents in buyer representation. hotpropertyspecialists.com.au (07) 3170 3760.

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EXPERTS ARE SAYING BRISBANE IS THE NEXT MARKET TO MOVE

How to know your buyers’ agent is only working for you One thing I find really frustrating as a buyers’ agent are the other buyers’ agents who act dishonestly and discredit our practice.

I’m talking about those so-called buyers’ agents who steer buyers towards a new apartment or house development on behalf of a developer. Upon sale they receive a healthy sum in the back pocket from the developer and leave you with a poor investment choice.

Other dodgy so-called agents who call themselves buyers’ agents may not charge the buyer a fee. But this is when the alarm bells should be screaming because the agent must be paid somehow, if not by the buyer, then by who? In this scenario they should be honest and tell buyers they’re simply a selling agent representing a developer.

More and more selling agents are masquerading as buyers’ agents or buyer managers these days so be careful not to let that line be blurred if you’re after independent advice.

Fortunately there are plenty of honest buyers’ agents with buyers’ interests only at heart. If you’ve done your homework thoroughly you’ll find one who will help you get ahead on your property investing, particularly helpful if you’re time-poor, geographically challenged, or want to get the best value for your dollar with the greatest potential of return or capital growth.

It helps to know there is a professional body to go to – the Real Estate Buyers’ Agents Association of Australia – where you can find a listing of credible buyers’ agents Australia-wide and learn some useful tips on finding a goodie.

So how should you qualify a buyers’ agent before you start talking strategy and sending one out on the property hunt?

BUYER’S AGENT

STRATEGISTS

1. Is the buyers’ agent appointed in writing to represent you?

In Queensland this written appointment form is called PAMD form 22A, there are standard government forms for each state.

Also check if they’re members of the Real Estate Buyers’ Agents Association and the Real Estate Institute in their state.

2. What fees do they charge?

For genuinely independent advice you should pay a fee, this could be a flat rate or commission. Otherwise be suspicious of their motive.

3. Check their website. If it features properties for sale, or sales pitch-style articles about a particular development then be cautious.

4. Do they have current professional indemnity insurance?

5. How much experience do they have as a specialist buyers’ agent? This means time being paid fees by buyers only, not sellers. Do they thoroughly understand the market conditions and real estate transaction process?

6. Can they provide testimonials and referee contact details?

Well that should give you a good start to finding a genuine buyers’ agent. Good luck on your buying mission!

Zoran Solano Buyers’ agent, Hot Property Specialists Buyers Agency VENDOR ADVOCACY

Looking to buy real estate in Brisbane? Don’t do it alone!

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

SUITE 1/15-17 MONTAGUE ST, GREENSLOPES | P (07) 3170 3760 | E enquiry@hpsba.com.au | W hotpropertyspecialists.com.au

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THE 7 HABITS OF HIGHLY

EFFECTIVE PROPERTY INVESTORS

MICHAEL YARDNEY

From Metropole Property Strategists

Michael Yardney is a director of Metropole Property Strategists, which creates wealth for its clients through independent, unbiased property advice and advocacy. metropole.com.au

HAVE YOU noticed how

Habit 1 – Be proactive

some people seem to rise to the top of their chosen field, or journey ever higher up the property ladder, while others consistently achieve the same ‘average’ results?

In the 1990s, management guru Dr Stephen Covey explained what he believed to be the defining characteristics that distinguish ‘highly effective people’ in his book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, which has become a modern-day business classic.

Not surprisingly, the seven habits Covey suggests we should aspire to if we want to replicate the achievements of others are also very important to the business of property investment.

So let’s take a moment to reflect on the seven significant traits.

Life is not simply a series of events that happen to us.

In every moment, you are faced with a choice and the opportunity to move forward in your life’s purpose. You can choose to have a positive or negative attitude and you can choose to take control or be controlled. This is about either taking responsibility for your own destiny or being overtaken by the actions of others and, in doing so, becoming a victim.

How to apply it – Become the pilot of your life and not a passenger. You are where you are because of all the things you’ve chosen to do and all those you’ve chosen not to do.

Either you run the day or the day runs you!

Habit 2 – Begin with the end in mind By focusing on your desired outcomes, you will be compelled to lead yourself towards those goals, thus developing the habit of personal leadership.

The key is in blocking out the distractions that can inhibit forward momentum by instead concentrating your efforts on relevant actions to propel you forward.

How to apply it – All the successful investors I know have set themselves a long-term goal of financial independence and have a written plan and strategy of how they’re going to get there.

Then it’s easier for them to make their investment decisions in light of their goals and not be distracted by the short-term market noise.

All the successful investors I know have set themselves a long-term goal of financial independence and have a written plan and strategy of how they’re going to get there.

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propertyguide

Habit 3 – Put first things first Once you have established attainable goals, you must develop the habit of planning and implementing activities that will enable you to reach them.

Importantly, you need to learn to prioritise your actions in a way that reflects your values and life purpose. This is the art of manifesting your ideas into physical reality by taking a stepby-step approach.

How to apply it – Keep the big picture in mind and don’t be afraid to say no to so-called opportunities if they don’t fit in with your plan. I’ve made more money by saying “no” to deals than by saying “yes”. Take personal responsibility, because while you cannot change the circumstances, the cycle or the market, you can change yourself.

That is something you have control of.

Habit 4 – Seek first to understand and then to be understood Most people engage in conversation to be heard rather than to understand. Often, instead of really hearing what someone else is telling us, 56

Keep the big picture in mind and don’t be afraid to say no to so-called opportunities if they don’t fit in with your plan.

we spend our ‘listening time’ thinking about our reply.

In doing so, we place our ideals and philosophies on others, without truly hearing them. As a consequence, we go through life missing out on valuable insights.

How to apply it – Many property investors suffer from confirmation bias, which is the tendency to begin with an answer and then search for evidence to support the preconceived outcome. The lesson here is to be sceptical of your preconceptions and try to disprove your own theories rather than continually defend them.

Habit 5 – Think win-win More is gained from life through the art of cooperation than competition.

How to apply it – Win-win not only applies to negotiations, but to all elements of your life.

Learn how to be happy with

what you have while you pursue all that you want.

Habit 6 – Synergise Creative cooperation among humans allows us to uncover new solutions to old problems. When we interact with one another and apply the rule of empathetic listening, we augment our brainpower and grow from our experiences with others.

How to apply it – There is no such thing as a self-made millionaire. Every successful property investor turns to a proficient team of consultants for advice and to mentors for inspiration and counsel.

Surround yourself with people who will lift you up, rather than negative nellies who will drag you down.

Habit 7 – Sharpen the saw The greatest asset you will ever have in life is yourself. To be

effective you must look after the only tools you have control over – your mind, body and spirit.

Maintain balance in all you do and never stop learning.

How to apply it – The best investment you can make to ensure success through property investing is in your own wisdom. Don’t be afraid to spend (invest) money on your education and be prepared to learn not only from your victories but also from your mistakes and those of others.

To become financially independent you must follow the habits of successful investors who’ve already achieved what you want to achieve. Turn part of your income into capital by saving and investing, then slowly build your asset base by reinvesting until you eventually have a ‘cash machine’ that gives you the financial independence you desire.

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5/13/2014 7:37:24 AM