67 minute read
OPINION – Food for thought from our regular trio.
MASKING THE DIRE PROBLEM
Jane Stephens wonders why our leaders refuse to reconsider mandating one simple protection against the growing pandemic fall-out.
Advertisement
Our resistance to mask wearing has me stumped. Our legislators’ and leaders’ resistance to telling us we must wear them has me even more perplexed.
Masks don’t hurt or cost much. They are a simple way to help slow the spread of a horrible, insidious disease that is causing new kinds of trouble.
Simply, they protect those around us from catching the virus from us. And even if we don’t love them, why so much resistance?
COVID-19 is on the march. A new variant has wormed its way in and the 50,000 people on the Sunshine Coast who have already had it are at risk again.
People are getting sick – in greater numbers than even at the so-called height of the pandemic. People are still dying.
So why are we not trying to protect ourselves and those we love? Why are our chief health officer (CHO) and political leaders stopping short of mandating masks again and instead talking loads about personal responsibility?
Our CHO said last week: “The future is not about public health measures and public health mandates.” But surely it is.
We have been told that we are all going to be infected with or directly affected by COVID in the coming days and weeks. But no one seems to be listening. I am one of few faces masked up on my bus to work, at the supermarket and my favourite cafe.
One group that does mask up is the health sector: those workers know how nasty this virus can be and how stretched the hospitals and systems are. They know we need to try to slow the rate of infection. Things are dire out there. When public transport services are limited because so many drivers are sick, when surgeries are put off because there are insufficient staff to care for a patient, when sports events are cancelled and when airports grind to a halt because so many staff are ill, we have to do something different.
In The Dark Knight Rises, Batman advises a police officer who works alone to wear a mask. The policeman says he is not afraid to show his face. Batman replies: “The mask is not for you. It’s to protect the people you care about.”
Surely, this is one of the most underused lines of the pandemic.
Jane Stephens is a USC journalism lecturer, media commentator and writer.
OUT OF SERVICE
After dealing with the government and big business, Ashley Robinson is left wondering what happened to customer service.
What have that pompous head of that once-famous airline, our major banks, the government of the time and a major communications company got in common? Maybe I should change that question to what should they all be charged with by the Australian people? Negligence springs to mind, maybe subterfuge, deceit used in order to achieve one’s goal?
I am talking about service, or lack of it. It has happened to me, old mate and a couple of work colleagues over the last few weeks when you ring any of the above for assistance, get put on hold, tell your story to someone who is clearly struggling, who puts you through to next poor soul who is also struggling. Eventually you get put through to someone who disconnects, accidentally of course.
I rang the government trying to sort myGov, which should be changed to My Pain in the Arse, and in the same week tried to challenge a fraudulent transaction on my credit card and got the same result on both – a big fat donut. A few hours of my life that I am never getting back.
The bank issue is ongoing – two people couldn’t help me, so I went online like they told me and emailed the little box that popped up and told my tale of woe, only to be chatted back to by the robo helper to tell me to take it down as it’s my personal details. What the…?
The final straw was when old mate tried to replace our home phone via the carrier who again after two days told her to go to a retailer, so I got sent, of course. I was greeted at the door with the news of how long I needed to wait to see a human. He also told me if I didn’t want to wait, and basically home phones were nearly extinct, I could try an electronics retailer. I tried that, thought I had found the right thing but was told I had to buy two phones not one to make it all work with the modem.
I suggested that to headquarters and got yelled at. I won’t go into any further detail apart about this. It is not the staff’s fault – its owners and shareholders and razor gangs, they are the problem.
Take me back to the days when you could actually talk to someone and get help. But apparently we are better off, which to me is deception in plain sight.
Ashley Robinson is the manager of Alex Surf Club and the chairman of the Sunshine Coast Falcons.
The opinions expressed are those of the authors. These are not the views of My Weekly Preview publishers.
Broken or unwanted jewellery or coins sitting in a drawer? Are you no longer collecting? Are the family not interested? Would the money be of more use? GOLD COINS
• Australian $200 Gold Coins • Sovereigns • Commemorative Coins • Gold medals & fobs • Gold Coins: mounted, holed or worn • Half sovereigns World proof coins & sets • All other world gold coins
GOLD JEWELRY
• Gold chains • Gold bracelets • Gold necklaces • Gold rings • Bullion bars • Gold earrings • Nuggets & alluvial gold • Worn & broken gold jewelry
WATCHES
• All Rolex watches (including Submariner, Oyster, Daydate & Datejust) • All Omega (including Seamaster & Consellation) • Tudor & Breitling • Military pocket watches • No quartz / battery watches • Gold and silver pocket watches • Mechanical (automatic & wind up)
SILVER COINS
• Australian - Crowns, Florins, Shillings, Six Pences, Three Pences, 1966 50 cent rounds • Sou1h Africa, USA & Canada • NZ, Great Britain, Fiji • New Guinea Shillings • Misc Silver Coins • All Other World silver coins
WORLD/AUSTRALIAN COINS JEWELRY
• All world coins • Error & mis-strikes • Proof sets & singles • Collection & accumulation • Trade tokens • Discount & special purpose tokens • Rings, brooches, pearls • Watch chains & lockets • Pendants & sovereign cases • Gold cuff links • Bracelets & bangles • Necklaces & all broken jewellery
THE JOY OF BEING A HOMEBODY
Sami Muirhead fears she may never step outside the house again on a Friday night and that’s just fine.
People suffer FOMO (the fear of missing out), but I am at the queen of JOMO (joy of missing out). I am happiest at home on a Friday night in my pyjamas with dogs, kids and wine all around me. But I pushed my own limits and went to an Asian restaurant to say farewell to a gorgeous workmate who is moving on to a new job.
The night was going well until I decided to eat some edamame beans that were on a plate in front of my friend, Mia. It was one of those situations where one person ordered heaps of food and we all shared.
The boss was paying so there really were heaps of delicacies! Edamame beans are those Japanese stringy beans covered in oil and chilli that you pop in your mouth and squeeze or bite the beans from the pod.
The bit that is left is the stringy carcass that is so tough; you do not eat it. I popped one in my mouth and was thinking how tough it was when I realised I was eating from the scraps plate. The edamame had been in Mia’s mouth. I was pashing Mia via the green bean. Dry retching, I grabbed the beer from the bloke sitting next to me and had a swig.
Then I realised I then had consumed his backwash. Of course, the bloke next to me is the loudest person at work and announced to the entire restaurant that I had put the sucked-out edamame bean in my mouth.
Everyone thought it was a real crack-up. I just wanted the ground to swallow me up.
The last time I was so embarrassed was not that long ago. This time, I was out celebrating a friend’s special birthday. I was dressed to the nines with all my best bling on, clutching my evening bag and wearing my dressiest high heels.
The girls went to a pond to cool our feet in the water. I kicked off my heels and stepped down into the pond. But there was no step.
I just completely disappeared under the water that had been sitting there stagnate for years. I hauled my wet, sorry self out of that pond and just wanted the ground to swallow me up.
So, the moral of the story is perhaps just to stay home on a Friday night. You can get yourself in far less trouble.
Sami Muirhead is a radio announcer, blogger and commentator. For more from Sami, tune into Mix FM.
Dilemma for retirees in low-interest world
How are you funding your retirement in a low interest rate world?
To learn more, Start a Conversation with Ord Minnett today.
A Proud Heritage of Excellence, Ord Minnett Sunshine Coast upholds traditions of integrity, service excellence
Ord Minnett Limited Australian Financial Services Licence 237121
education
Do you know a student with a passion for sport or music, who is keen to develop his or her skills? Leading independent school Matthew Flinders Anglican College is inviting talented students who want to reach their potential and make their schooling years count to apply for Sport and Music Scholarships.
Applications are due by Monday, August 22.
The scholarships are open to students entering Years seven to 12 in 2023.
The program requires applicants to demonstrate outstanding talent, along with sound academic ability and a willingness to contribute positively to the college community. Students who apply and are not currently enrolled at the college can also be considered for the Principal’s Scholarship.
Students’ sporting development is nurtured at the college through a range of curriculum, co-curricular and enrichment programs, including the Flinders Elite Athlete Program that provides tailored sports and academic mentoring to eligible student athletes.
An elite sports training program is also offered on campus as a new partnership between Flinders and the Sunshine Coast Sports Institute.
Students are expertly guided by the Flinders directors of coaching across the sports of basketball, cricket, hockey, netball, rugby, soccer, touch football, volleyball and water polo.
Passionate musicians in the Secondary School have the Middle School Music Edge Extension Program in Years eight and nine and the Senior School Extension Music curriculum to explore, plus the highly regarded Music Band program with a range of bands and ensembles.
Flinders provides a quality education for its 1380 students from Prep to Year 12 and offers extensive co-curricular opportunities in a caring environment.
To learn more and apply for Sport and Music Scholarships, visit mfac.edu.au.
BOUNDING AHEAD IN PREP AT KWSC
A new and exciting opportunity exists for Kindy children considering enrolment in Prep at Kawana Waters State College (KWSC) in 2023.
This vibrant college has launched its Pre-Prep Enrichment Program called the Wolbai Mari (‘Joey’) Program. Children participating in the program will ‘bound ahead’ in exploring science, arts, wellbeing, Indigenous perspectives, Japanese culture and robotics.
“This program strengthens the wonderful and focused work that occurs in our Prep classrooms,” Early Years coordinator Nicky Dodd says. “The college is very proud of its Prep Program, which combines quality focused learning with the value of learning through play. The Primary Campus has a wonderful purpose-built nature playground exclusively for Prep children, which is often filled with an unofficial playgroup of children and parents of an afternoon.”
KWSC is a diverse school community, big enough to provide wonderful opportunities but small enough that every child is really ‘known’. Deputy principal Lyn Duffy says: “It is this individualised approach that really makes us stand out. Every teacher really understands the children in their care and works so professionally to not only meet their needs but extend them.”
Children entering Prep in 2023 can visit the college this year with a range of school tour and Prep interview offerings, the annual Book Week Parade on August 26.
For Prep enrolment inquiries or to book a spot in the Wolbai Mari Enrichment Program, contact Nat Cronon on 5436 9320 in the Primary Campus Administration.
Discover Flinders
As one of Queensland’s leading schools, Matthew Flinders Anglican College educates for excellence in learning and life. Explore our upcoming events and opportunities: • Flinders Music, Sport and Principal’s Scholarships (open to students entering
Years 7-12 in 2023). Apply by Monday, 22 August. • Senior Primary Discovery Evening (Years 4-6), Tuesday, 2 August. • Discovery Tour of the Secondary School, Wednesday, 10 August. Scan the QR code to learn more or visit www.mfac.edu.au/discover
Stringybark Rd, Buderim 07 5477 3260 | Find us on
Nambour State College’s (NSC) prestigious Young Pinnacle Program is igniting passion and interest among primary school students from all over the Sunshine Coast.
The program, which provides enrichment and early high school transition opportunities for highly motivated students, ran another two Young Pinnacle immersion days with Year five and Year six students last term.
A group of enthusiastic Year five students from a variety of schools met at the college to explore four of their Pinnacle strands: athletes, creatives, scholars and change makers. It was an action-packed day filled with rich learning experiences and some serious fun.
By the end of the day, the Year fives were incredibly excited about the prospect of exploring their Pinnacle options further, knowing that they will spend hours at the farm as young cultivators and time navigating the digital world as young innovators in term three.
Two weeks later, NSC hosted Year six Pinnacles who spent half of their day as young cultivators and the other half as young creators. Getting up close and personal with the farm animals was a huge hit among the students.
On the whole, this in-depth exploration of the Pinnacle strands enabled future NSC students to have a better understanding of what passion area they would like to apply for prior to arriving in Year seven.
Applications for 2023’s Young Pinnacle Program are now open for students who will be in Year five and six. Students from all schools are invited to apply for the pathway program.
NSC is excited for its next immersion days, with preparations well underway.
Visit namboursc.eq.edu.au or call 5450 4111 for an application form and more information.
Kawana Waters State College
119 Sportsmans Parade Bokarina PO Box 1049, Buddina Qld 4575 Primary Campus (07) 54369333 www.kawanawaterssc.eq.edu.au Quality P - 12 education
ENROL IN PREP 2023
OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY Respect Excellence Diversity Enjoyment
These core values begin right at the very beginning in Prep. Our teaching staff are committed to creating a unique, safe and relaxed environment which best helps your child as they gain confidence in the essential skills they need in Prep. We invite you to belong to this community.
Prep Interviews
Thursday 18 August - 9:00am to 10:00am Wednesday 7 September - 2:00pm to 3:00pm RSVP is required for attendance Ph: 5436 9330
School Tours
9:00am to 9:45am in Prep Gulla Tuesday 2 August Wednesday 24 August Thursday 15 September RSVP is required for attendance Ph: 5436 9330
Events
Book Week 20—26 August (Parade—Friday 26 August) Prep 2023 students come dressed up and join in the parade
SeniorSchoolingatSiena InformationSession
Registertoattend
Thursday,25August|6.30pm-7.30pm
JoinusonCampusorLiveStreamfortheSenior@SienaInformationSession. DiscoverwhySienaCatholicCollegeistheidealchoiceforyourchildfortheir seniorschoolingyears.
SIENA FOCUSES ON THE WHOLE STUDENT TO INSPIRE GREAT FUTURES
If schools are essentially all the same, why is it so difficult to make the right choice for our children?
The decision is a hard one because each of our children is unique. So, choosing a school – where your child will spend one-third of their life between Monday and Friday – is no small thing.
The move into Year 11 is commonly considered the ‘serious’ part of secondary school. Young people are starting to envision their post-school lives.
They start to develop their career identities and begin a process of selfclarification as they discern what they like and are good at when it comes to school.
Young people need the right kind of environment that lets them dream with their eyes open and receive encouragement and support to propel them into their future, while being offered diverse opportunities to explore the multiple pathways available to them.
Siena Catholic College not only offers our Year 11 students a wide range of subjects suitable for university, a traineeship or apprenticeship, it also provides an environment where students can form in their minds the concept of conscientious and responsible adulthood.
The college focuses on the whole person: the spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional and physical. It does not narrowly define the idea of a successful student merely by where they are placed on a league table or flashy infographic.
The college wants students to understand and experience success in ways which are broadly conceived, and discover things about themselves that other schools leave unilluminated. That is part and parcel of a Catholic educational philosophy: when God is the creator of all life, then there are no limits on what ‘great’ can look like. WORDS: Dr Michael McCarthy Principal, Siena Catholic College.
For more information about senior schooling, attend the Senior @ Siena Information Session.
Sunshine Coast Grammar School has laid the foundations for a new Primary precinct, with stage one, the Early Years, due to open later this year.
“We are creating a place where curiosity and collaboration come together,” says Paul Clegg, the school’s head of primary. “We believe that behind teachers and families, physical spaces hold the potential to influence what and how children learn.”
Discussions between the architects and Grammar staff enabled the teachers to have a voice. By liaising with a sensory landscape team, the Grammar staff could share their deep understanding of how children think, question and explore. The idea to create an outdoor inquiry journey with fluid, interconnected spaces, providing a place conducive to learning, was unanimous.
The new Early Years precinct explores relationships of space, light and shape within its modern architecture. Its curved structure can be likened to an eye wide open and taking in the world around it.
The classrooms reflect new ideas and trends, boasting teaching walls, high ceilings, reading nooks and purpose-built storage. Located on the second floor, the classrooms extend and merge into an enclosed gallery that offers a hybrid of Artist’s impression outside/inside learning. The area also includes naturally styled carpet alcoves for small group learning and a purpose-built low island bench perched in front of a teaching kitchen for inquiry into cooking, experimenting and science, all cleverly hidden behind a teacher-access door.
The ground-floor space will support a broad range of activities including learning, perceptual motor programs and play. The large undercroft allows students to escape the elements if required and adds to the sensory landscaped playground.
“I believe the children will be very excited to see the new classrooms, however, I know they will be thrilled to explore the new outdoor spaces and playground,” prep teacher Rebecca Wells says.
Visit scgs.qld.edu.au
BIOSPHERE BRINGS BENEFITS FOR BUSINESS
What does it mean to be recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve? WORDS: Andrew Eves-Brown, head of economic development, Sunshine Coast Council.
In June 2022, our Sunshine Coast Council local government area was officially recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which will help us protect and enhance our region, communities, economy and our natural environment for future generations.
Years in the making, this prestigious designation is truly a historic moment for our region.
A biosphere is a special place. It’s a place where responsible development and people living sustainably sit alongside active conservation. It’s about creating a legacy for our children’s future; caring for our beautiful landscapes and stunning beaches; and leveraging economic opportunities to grow local businesses.
The past few years have seen so many people move to the Sunshine Coast for its natural beauty and lifestyle with no end to that migration in sight.
Becoming a biosphere supports council and the community’s clear plan and vision for the future and how each of us can contribute to a sustainable region as we live, work and play on the Sunshine Coast. BUT WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR DOING BUSINESS ON THE SUNSHINE COAST? This is our natural advantage. This designation brings opportunity to those already doing business or thinking of investing in our economy. It provides a competitive advantage to facilitate sustainable growth along with a range of benefits to our natural environment, our lifestyle and economy.
From a business perspective, it can attract more investment to our region and help local business grow through the creation of niche markets for our region’s products and services, facilities and practices.
Being a biosphere has a range of benefits, particularly for our tourism and agriculture industries, whereby our biosphere designation could support a sustainable ‘Biosphere Accreditation’ brand that increases the value of products and services. Imagine the potential we now have more than ever to attract tourists from around the world who wish to visit and buy from a region that focuses on sustainability at the forefront of everything they do.
A Biosphere Community Reference Group has played a critical role in both informing and shaping what a biosphere designation would mean for the community, as well as contributing to the planning undertaken to support our transition into implementation, which includes the development of a governance structure, branding and performance measurement and management frameworks.
I would like to personally thank the diverse range of industry sectors, interest groups, government and community groups who contributed to becoming a biosphere.
I encourage business owners and managers to take a look at UNESCO’s 17 Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs) and think about how to align their own strategies with these goals.
We are fortunate to live, work and play in a truly unique part of our world. And you will be integral in shaping what the future looks like as our region grows through significant change over the coming years.
WHAT IS A BIOSPHERE? A biosphere is an international site of excellence, recognised by UNESCO as an area of natural beauty where people live and work. DOES AUSTRALIA HAVE ANY OTHER BIOSPHERE DESIGNATIONS? Australia has only five Biospheres, and across the world there are more than 720 UNESCO Biospheres in over 130 countries. WHAT GEOGRAPHICAL AREA DOES THE BIOSPHERE INCLUDE? Visit the Sunshine Coast Council website to view a map of the Biosphere area. WILL OUR BIOSPHERE DESIGNATION LIMIT DEVELOPMENT OR GROWTH ON THE COAST? A biosphere designation is nonstatutory and does not override existing planning, policy and legislation at any level of government. Therefore, a Biosphere does not override the Sunshine Coast Council Planning Scheme 2014. WHAT ARE SUSTAINABILITY DEVELOPMENT GOALS? SDGs were adopted by UNESCO during the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. These 17 objectives form a program of interlinked global goals that are designed to be a blueprint to more sustainable future. Visit the UNESCO website to learn more.
It’s an exciting time in the Sunshine Coast’s business and leisure events sector, with the recent appointment of Visit Sunshine Coast’s new business and leisure events manager Ali Thompson.
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel says Ms Thompson will hit the ground running during what is a crucial time for the Sunshine Coast as we rebuild our business events market.
“We are very fortunate to be able to attract such a passionate industry professional as Ali,” Mr Stoeckel says.
“With a landscape that is ideal for high-end incentives, the Sunshine Coast has enormous potential to grow its business and leisure events sector.
“Ali will work closely with the events team at Sunshine Coast Council, Tourism and Events Queensland, and business and events operators across the Sunshine Coast to strengthen our position as a leading business and event destination.”
Ms Thompson has been specialising in the MICE industry (meetings, incentives, conference and exhibitions) for more than 20 years. She has run her own marketing and events business and worked and collaborated with events companies and industry bodies from the UK, New Zealand and Australia.
Ms Thompson says that the MICE
NEW BUSINESS & LEISURE EVENTS MANAGER APPOINTED HOW TO GET YOUR BUSINESS THROUGH A CRISIS If COVID-19 has taught us anything, it’s that the unexpected can happen in a heartbeat and the consequences of how we deal with a crisis can be devastating. Navigating through this storm is always complex and risky, so expert advice is a must, but here are a few helpful tips to consider.
1. Have a plan
When a crisis hits and your world turns upside down, a carefully considered plan that steps you through a familiar process allows you to be proactive rather than reactive. industry is truly embedded in her DNA, 2. Mobilise a meeting and she is really excited about joining the Call a meeting with your crisis team – established business events team at Visit those people in the business who can Sunshine Coast. make the tough decisions and then make “The Sunshine Coast offers an array them happen. This meeting ensures of unique incentive and conferencing you’re all on the same page, you have the opportunities, blessed with an incredible right key messages in place, you know coastline and breathtaking hinterland,” who your target audiences are, and you Ms Thompson says. agree how you will talk to them and who “Plus, it has just been declared a will be the point of contact. Biosphere by UNESCO – what better 3. Communicate effectively place to wow delegates in a diverse Avoid a vacuum early in the crisis as this eco-escapism that is committed to will send the rumour-mill into overdrive, sustainability whilst warming the soul which can do irreparable damage. The with year-round sunshine!” more you keep your audiences in the loop and demonstrate transparency, the more they will trust you to find a solution to the crisis. Keep the lines of communication open throughout so people know you’re on the job and know where to find answers to their questions. This is equally important for your internal and external audiences.
4. Learn from it
No one is perfect but if you’ve navigated through the storm of a business crisis, the last thing you should do is try and forget about it. Take a moment to breathe, thank those around you and celebrate the wins; but then go back and review what you actually did in the middle of the storm. Take the time to identify what could have been done better, then update the plan so you can respond next time. WORDS: Maya Gurry, Fresh PR.
EXCEPTIONAL LEGAL SERVICE. EVERY CLIENT. EVERY TIME.
We advise in workplace, litigation & disputes, commercial law, property, structuring & estate planning, intellectual property and construction law. In conjunction with Onsite Law we provide residential conveyancing services.
KYLIE HOWELL Head of Legal (Sunshine Coast) & Head of Construction EBONY ARCHER Associate – Property/Workplace
incorporating
WILLS, ESTATE PLANNING + STRUCTURING WORKPLACE LITIGATION + DISPUTE RESOLUTION COMMERCIAL + PROPERTY CONSTRUCTION INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY CONVEYANCING (ONSITE LAW)
The Sunshine Coast #1 leader in supplying copiers, printers & multi-function devices
Award-winning colour & monochrome laser printers Multi-function copiers / photocopiers and printers Entry level digital printers & advanced digital press units Award-winning 3D printers Displays, interactive & digital signage
PREVIOUSLY FUJI XEROX BUSINESS CENTRE
LOCAL BUSINESSES TO BENEFIT WHEN BUSINESS EXPO COMES TO TOWN
The Thriving Through Change business expo is back this year with a strong program that will focus on the resilience and growth of small businesses in the region.
Taking place on Tuesday, August 23 from 3pm to 7.30pm at Venue 114, the free event is an opportunity for businesses to meet and connect with the growth and support network on the Sunshine Coast.
Sunshine Coast Council, with support from the Queensland government’s Department of Employment, Small Business and Training, sees this event as a great opportunity for local businesses to come away with practical strategies that can be implemented in their operation. The event will host more than 35 exhibitors, a keynote speaker, two masterclasses and a networking session in what will be a stimulating program.
Jetts Australia CEO Elaine Jobson (pictured) will present a practical keynote address, sharing her five lessons on what small businesses can learn from big businesses to help them survive, thrive and grow.
Local, state and federal government agencies, plus the region’s Chambers of Commerce and industry groups, will exhibit. Attendees can take advantage of the direct access to these stall holders and discover their projects and programs that have been tailored to businesses in the region.
Social media and business growth masterclasses have been developed and will be delivered by industry professionals. Each masterclass has been strategically designed to elevate businesses on the Sunshine Coast.
The expo will conclude with a networking event where attendees can connect with the best and brightest business minds in the region.
This expo comes following last year’s event, which focused on business recovery and resilience in the face of COVID-19. The event was a huge success, seeing more than 400 people attend from across the Sunshine Coast region.
Sunshine Coast Council currently has registrations open. To register, visit events.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au and search ‘Thriving Through Change’. New research has revealed many Australians are hoping for a pay bump to ease cost of living pressures.
The survey of 632 Australian workers by Finder found one in five (22 per cent) are hoping for a pay rise in the next three months. This includes 13 per cent who say they are in the process of trying to negotiate their pay, and nine per cent who want a raise but are afraid to ask.
The research shows one in six workers (17 per cent) negotiated a higher salary over the past three months – nine per cent talked their employer into raising their pay, while eight per cent earned a pay bump by switching jobs.
Graham Cooke, head of consumer research at Finder, says the aftershocks of the pandemic continue to affect Australia’s labour market.
“The lack of migrants and backpackers has severely dampened the number of workers, including in sectors like agriculture which traditionally rely on labour supply from overseas. We’re also in the midst of a COVID surge as well as the worst flu season in years, which means at any one time a large portion of a company’s employees are off sick.”
ABS data shows the industries most likely to increase staff wages over the next three months are administrative and support services (59 per cent), accommodation and food services (42 per cent), and information media and telecommunications services (40 per cent).
Finder’s research reveals male employees (19 per cent) are more likely than their female counterparts (14 per cent) to have negotiated a higher salary within the past three months.
Mr Cooke says the demand for higher wages is another reason companies are struggling to fill roles.
WHAT’S ON
Aug 3
There are plenty of business and networking events on the Sunshine Coast, so put these in the diary today.
Aug 23
LINKEDIN LOCAL SUNSHINE COAST
LinkedIn Local Sunshine Coast is and will continue to be a free networking event offered to all business professionals and business owners on the Sunshine Coast. The aim is to help create partnerships within the group, so you have the support and resources to win. You will learn helpful tips on networking with others and utilising LinkedIn. You will share and get feedback from like-minded professionals. When: Wednesday, August 3, 5.30pm. Where: Buderim Tavern, 81 Burnett Street, Buderim. Tickets: Free event, register via bit.ly/3znoH1t. THRIVING THROUGH CHANGE: BUSINESS EXPO 2022
This expo will focus on business resilience and growth. Attendees will connect and grow with a network of support on the Sunshine Coast. An exciting exhibition and program will be delivered. This event will provide you with practical tips, ideas and actions to help your business continue to grow on the Sunshine Coast. When: Tuesday, August 23, 3pm to 7.30pm. Where: Venue 114, 114 Sportsmans Parade, Bokarina. Tickets: Free event, register via bit.ly/3IVhg4L. CALOUNDRA POWERHOUSE NETWORKING BREAKFAST
Grow your business through networking and referrals. When: Tuesday, August 2, 6.45am to 8.30am. Where: Little Mountain Campus Community Hub, 211 Parklands Boulevard, Little Mountain. Tickets: $30 via bit.ly/3B3FDLB. BUSINESS AFTER 5 PRESENTS CATCH UP
A gathering of young entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals on the Coast. When: Tuesday, August 9, 5pm to 7pm. Where: RACV Noosa, 94 Noosa Drive, Noosa Heads. Tickets: $10 to $15 via bit.ly/3yZkIGI. GIVE ME 5 GENTLEMEN’S GATHERING
When: Friday, August 26, 12pm to 3pm. Where: Augello’s Ristorante & Pizzeria, 13 Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba. Tickets: $150 via bit.ly/3aRObur. WISHLIST JAZZ AND WINE FESTIVAL
When: Sunday, August 7, 2pm to 6.30pm. Where: 77 Exhibition Road, Southside, Gympie. Tickets: $30 via bit.ly/3opOnE1. BENTLEY’S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS IN JULY LONG LUNCH BUT IN AUGUST
When: Friday, August 19, 11.30am to 4pm. Where: The Lakehouse, Brightwater. Tickets: Members $100. Non members $115 When: Wednesday, August 31, 5.30pm to 7.30pm. Where: Malt Shovel Taphouse, 8 The Avenue, Birtinya. Tickets: $25, free for members. BUDERIM CHAMBER WELCOME EVENT
When: Wednesday, August 17, 9am to 10am. Where: BR Solicitors, 62 Burnett Street, Buderim. Tickets: Free event, register via bit.ly/3PJKju5. BUDERIM CHAMBER COFFEE MORNING
When: Tuesday, August 2, 7.30am. Where: Montanas on Buderim, 70 Burnett Street, Buderim. Tickets: Free event.
MAROOCHY CHAMBER COFFEE MORNING
When: Friday, August 5, 7.30am. Where: Murrays on Duporth, 100 Duporth Avenue, Maroochydore. Tickets: Free event.
CALOUNDRA CHAMBER COFFEE MORNING
When: Friday, August 5, 8am. Where: Dicky Beach Surf Club, 1A Coochin Street, Dicky Beach. Tickets: Free event.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to COVID and changing circumstances, it is recommended to check with the venue before attendance to ensure the event is going ahead. All events were correct at time of printing.
JOIN THE
KAWANA CREW
Kawana Chamber of Commerce supports the local community and businesses through networking opportunities, events and industry knowledge. Business connections made fun!
BECOME A MEMBER TODAY KAWANACHAMBER.COM.AU
Justin Scattini,
Ord Minnett Buderim.
MARKET TO REPAIR LOSSES
The Australian stock market has recorded a loss for the 2022 financial year. The All Ordinaries Accumulation Index has fallen around 7.4 per cent since June 30, 2021.
We can source financial-year performance data for the All Ordinaries Accumulation Index back to 1981. The index over this 42-year period includes the current financial year to date. The average annual return over this period has been a healthy 10.4 per cent.
During that time there have been 33 years with positive returns, leaving nine years recording a loss.
One year after a financial year loss, the average return was 12.8 per cent with a wide range of outcomes. Six of those years saw positive gains, the other two negative. The best return was up 35 per cent, the worst was down a further 22 per cent.
Extending the investment period after a financial year loss pushes the odds in your favour. In the two years after a financial year loss, the annualised return is 12.1 per cent, but there was only one instance of a loss, which amounted to an annualised fall of six per cent. The best two-year return was 24 per cent per annum.
With a holding period of three years post a financial year, the worst outcome was an annualised loss of -0.2 per cent while the average annualised return was 13.0 per cent. The best three-year return was 27.8 per cent per annum.
Once you reach five years after a financial year loss, there were no losses. The worst result was return of 2.2 per cent per annum; the best result a stunning 35.6 per cent per annum. At 10 years, the volatility is reduced significantly.
This emphasises the importance of maintaining a focus on the ability of the market to repair losses and generate a healthy return for those able to look through near-term volatility and take advantage of the market weakness.
Justin Scattini is an authorised representative (no 427053) of Ord Minnett Ltd, AFS licence 237121. He can be contacted on 5430 4444. This article contains general financial advice only and does not consider your personal circumstances; you should determine its suitability to you. Before acquiring a financial product you should consider the relevant product disclosure statement. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
MOFFAT BEACH BREWING CO
Moff at Beach Brewing Co has been a part of the Sunny Coast craft beer community since the infant years of the industry. Founders Matt and Sharynne Wilson have been busy making exciting new products with other local businesses, providing mentoring for budding brewers and much more. The brewery has found great opportunities to collaborate with local businesses in fun and creative ways. Stand out collaborations include the coff ee stout, which is made in partnership with local coff ee roaster, Tim Adams. Boocock Quality Meats found another use for MBBC’s Dark Ale in a new sausage recipe, quickly becoming one of the butcher’s fastest selling snags. MBBCs involvement in ‘Battle of the Brews’ has seen Matt share his expertise with home brewers looking to improve their craft. The event hosted by the Sunshine Coast Amateur Brewers Society is held at MBBC’s Caloundra brewery where the home brewers have their beers trialled and tested by Matt who then picks a winner to brew a commercial batch with him through the MBBC system. MBBC has been named one of the Local Business Champions in this year’s Sunshine Coast Council series, which highlights Sunshine Coast businesses andtheir contribution to local industry a nd community.
SRJ WALKER WAYLAND
‘Paying it forward’ - the Sunshine Coast business community has operated with this ideology for decades. It’s a concept practised by SRJ Walker Wayland that has helped them develop meaningful relationships with clients and create a local network that thrives on each other’s success. SRJWW has been helping to provide a platform through a range of events for local businesses that builds their network and updates them on what is happening in their industries. Principal Katrina Brennan and the team use these events to connect their clients with other businesses on the Coast, leading to exciting new collaborations and partnerships. Sponsoring and partnering with industry events has seen the team work alongside industry groups such as Awesome Women in Construction, Caloundra Chamber of Commerce, Manufacturing Excellence Forum and Sunshine Coast Business Awards. Katrina believes the business network on the Sunny Coast genuinely wants to see you thrive because if you succeed then the region prospers. They have embodied that in how they build relationships with clients by connecting them to the right network that will help them grow. SRJWW has been named a Local Business Champion in this year’s Sunshine Coast Council series’ which highlights local businesses and their contribution to the local industry and community.
INDUSTRY EXPERTS
Is online cheaper, faster and actually better?
There has been an explosion of online services spruiking the ability for you to do your own Will by clicking a few buttons.
I have trouble grasping how effective a “tick a box” approach is.
I can pick up a hammer, but I know I’m not a carpenter.
I might end up with a new Will that is “legal” but does it do what I want?
How is my super going to be dealt with?
Can my defacto challenge the gift to my children?
Also, once the document is “generated”, it must be correctly executed.
This aspect was recently considered by the Supreme Court.
In tragic circumstances, the Court had to decide whether answers to an online questionnaire, made by a person who had taken their own life, constituted their Will.
After a number of costly hearings, which involved the Attorney-General, the Court declared the online Will to be the deceased’s Will.
The Judge specifically acknowledged digital communication is an essential part of society, but cautioned the case was very “fact specific” and if it wasn’t for other written statements made by the deceased about the online Will, the Court may not have declared it to be valid.
TRENT WAKERLEY
DIRECTOR, KRUGER LAW LEVEL 3, OCEAN CENTRAL, OCEAN STREET, MAROOCHYDORE 5443 9600, KRUGERLAW.COM.AU
What do employers say about your new potential worker?
Hiring the right person for the job may be the most critical management decision you will make.
In this tough market we may tend to cut some corners in the recruitment process – one of these could be reference checking. You have seen a resume – it looks good. You have interviewed the candidate – they said all the right things. Let’s get them started – wrong!
The cost of a wrong choice of employee is estimated to be three times their annual salary. This relates to costs of training and recruitment, consequences on productivity, client satisfaction, employee morale and turnover. A wage of $80,000 could quickly turn into a $240,000 liability.
You should get the candidate’s approval first before checking references provided, as this gives the candidate an opportunity to notify their referees that they will be contacted. If you wish to pursue additional referees you need the candidate’s approval to do so.
Reference checks must be undertaken before an offer is made. Referees must have worked closely with the candidate and be in a position to comment about the candidate’s recent work performance.
SALLY DESCH
DIRECTOR, HRM TOWER 1, LEVEL 2, SUITE 201, KON-TIKI BUILDING, 55 PLAZA PARADE, MAROOCHYDORE 5430 7750. WWW.HRMCC.COM.AU
Succession planning tips
Succession planning is vital for all business owners, but particularly family business owners. Here are a few tips to consider when starting your succession planning: • Commence succession planning early in the life of the business. • Always keep your financial data up to date so that information is easily accessed and ready for any new plan. • Understand the overall strategic plan of the business. • Determine the key roles needed for the future and who will ‘fit’ with your business going forward. • Select a successor as early as possible in the succession planning process and then appropriately train, develop and introduce them to other key business people. • Determine the importance of family involvement in the leadership and ownership of the business. • In addition to the successor, organise a backup of talented people who can evolve through training and involvement in the business. • Set retirement dates for owners/founders. • Communicate your succession plan. • Consider all of the financial and tax implications of your succession plan.
Businesses planning for the unexpected. Start the conversation today.
KATRINA BRENNAN
PRINCIPAL, SRJ WALKER WAYLAND BUSINESS GROWTH ADVISORS, ACCOUNTANTS AND AUDITORS 1 ALLEN STREET, MOFFAT BEACH 5301 9957, SRJWW.COM.AU
What happens during mediation?
Mediation is a process where parties involved in a dispute come together to resolve their issues with the help of a mediator who is a neutral third party.
A benefit of engaging in mediation is that parties can explore options for resolution rather than engaging in a Court process, which can be costly, time consuming and emotionally draining.
Parties involved in family law matters can attend mediation for both financial and parenting matters. It is recommended parties attend mediation with their legal representative but it is not a requirement.
The mediation process generally takes a full day and the parties can be in the same room together, or in different rooms.
All discussions are confidential, and information is not relayed to the other party without the consent of the party interacting with the Mediator. Conversations exchanged between the parties and the Mediator cannot be used in Court proceedings.
The Mediator does not provide legal advice but will help identify the key issues in the dispute and provide solutions to assist the parties in resolving their issues. If there is agreement following the Mediation, the parties’ legal representatives will draft the legal documents to ensure finalisation of the matter.
CHLOE ENGLISH
LAWYER CATTON & TONDELSTRAND LAWYERS. KON-TIKI BUSINESS CENTRE TOWER 1, LEVEL 3, SUITE 315, 55 PLAZA PARADE MAROOCHYDORE. 5609 4933 CTLAWYERS.COM.AU
OUR BEST AND BRIGHTEST
The Sunshine Coast’s women in business are being honoured at one of the region’s most respected business awards events.
The region is set to celebrate some of the best women in business at the 23rd annual Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network Awards.
My Weekly Preview is once again proud to be the media partner for the event, which recognises the success of the region’s women in business.
The awards have attracted the best of the best across four categories including Young, Corporate, Micro Small and Professional.
In addition, one finalist will be named the 2022 Outstanding Business Woman of the Year from the full list of finalists, as well as a Sustainable Business Woman of the Year.
This year, the 55 submissions were narrowed down to 26 finalists. These finalists then face two panels of judges who examine entrants’ written submissions and conduct face-to-face interviews.
SCBWN president Min Swan says the network is excited to hold its longstanding awards and celebrate women in business.
“I have personally witnessed story upon story of life-changing moments these awards have delivered and the long-lasting friendships and business connections that have formed through the process,” Ms Swan says.
“I love that we celebrate the highs and lows of business and celebrate the courage of the entrants to come forward and recognise their dedication and commitment to their careers and businesses. Each year we discover new people that we shine a light on and often hear of how life-changing the experience is for them.”
The winners will be announced at the gala event, which is happening at The Events Centre in Caloundra on August 4.
My Weekly Preview wishes all the finalists good luck. Be sure to keep an eye on upcoming editions of My Weekly Preview as we feature the winners and their outstanding achievements.
SCBWN president Min Swan
CORPORATE
SIMONE BURKE
Lavender Co
What advice would you give other women starting out in business?
Create balance. It’s easy to be consumed by your business 24/7 in the start-up phase, and backtracking to find balance is very difficult.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve
had to overcome? You hear when starting a business “the first two years are the hardest”. In my first two years of business, I had a beautiful, yet very
CORPORATE
KARA DE SCHOT
Pixel Co Creative & Marketing
What advice would you give other women starting out in business?
I would always recommend that you seek out mentors to push you out of your comfort zone. Surround yourself with others that have done what you want to do. That way, you can absorb premature baby and was in hospital for months while running our business, then came the global pandemic.
Name the key factors for your
success: Persistence, constantly reassessing our business model and seeking advice from professionals in their area of expertise.
What’s the best advice you have
ever received? Put yourself first. It sounds so selfish and can be hard to do in our industry. Setting boundaries and clear guidelines for work hours allows me to be highly effective during that time, and then focus on family life and recharging my batteries out of work.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The variety each day brings; there is never a dull moment in our business. The feedback, kindness and support from our guest families is everything I need to keep going.
all their learnings and avoid the pitfalls.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve
had to overcome? My biggest challenge has always been keeping up with demand and growth. I have developed a thorough recruiting and team training process, and spend a great deal of time on our internal culture.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Invest in yourself. Spending time and money on yourself to increase your opportunities is great advice that I live by.
What’s the best thing about your job?
I get to work on many different projects for many different brands each day. It may be creating a marketing strategy one day, then designing a brand the next day.
LEGACY|LEADERSHIP|LIFESTYLE
REMARKABLECOACHING,PROGRAMS&WORKSHOPSWITHIMPACTFORLEADERSINLIFE
Experienceexceptionalstrategysessions,corporateworkshops,one:onecoachingandafullyintegratedlevelofsupportwith renownedglobalhighperformancecoach,authorandspeakerNikkiFogden-Moore.JointheMojoMaker©Academyonlinecourses, oneoftheBoardroomRetreat©experiencesorworkwithNikkione:onetomastertheartoftruesustainablesuccess.Conversations, proventoolsandsimplestrategiestoamplifypeople,purposeandprofit.BetheCEOofyourlifeaswellasyourbusiness.
USECODERSB10for10%off booksandRadicalSelfBelief theonlineprogram "It'snotuntilyouactuallyshowupforsomethinglikethiswithNikkithatyourealisehow muchyouneededit-genuine,highlyexperiencedandextremelymotivatedNikkishifted mefromfeelingstucktoinspiredasafounder,aDadandabusinessowner.Highly recommendthis-ifyoudon'tgetachancetohaveNikkiasyourcoach-graboneofher books!MarkH,Founder/OwnerOperator. ScantheQRCodeformore informationandjoinMondayMojo© forfree.
CORPORATE PAULA GOWLAND
Sunshine Coast Art and Framing Gallery
What advice would you give other women starting out in business?
Surround yourself with mentors that inspire you. Spend time on personal development. Hang out with successful people that build you up and are not afraid to challenge you on your thinking.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve
had to overcome? Being faced with the amputation of a leg gave me a critical decision to make – to learn and grow or to just simply give up on life. I decided to do the former.
Name the key factors for your success:
Spending time and money on my own development. Inspiring and collaborating with others and providing old-fashioned customer service. I love a challenge, processes, education, and goal setting.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Live life to the fullest and be kind. Nothing last for ever, be it the good or the bad. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it and stay in your own lane.
CORPORATE NICHOLE HAMILTON
Synergy Physio
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? I would start by advising self-care practices. This means looking after your body, mind and your heart health.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? The passing away of my son. I found myself transformed from an enthusiastic, ambitious, driven woman to someone who could barely function. This steered me toward developing an understanding of mind and heart health for women navigating life’s challenges. It was through this journey that I developed the key practical steps for resilience that I now teach women on my retreats.
Name the key factors for your success:
Prioritising my health, my self-care and being clear on my strengths and values.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Inspiring positive change in women. It brings me great joy at Synergy to facilitate positive change within different areas of my business life.
CORPORATE SUSAN TOFT
The Laundry Lady
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Tap into existing systems and support, whether it be joining a networking group, finding grants to help your business launch or engaging with mentor programs.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? Moving the business from a side hustle to full time was difficult as a single mum with no other income support.
Name the key factors for your success:
I had a clear vision from the start that the business was about helping people create time and flexibility in their lives. This is true for our customers and contractors, and staying true to this purpose makes the business successful.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Just keep moving forward. Persistence is the key to success. What’s the best thing about your job? I love the opportunity to help people craving flexibility to build their own businesses. We have filled a niche in the market.
CORPORATE AMELIA DICKISON
CaptureCARE
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? To identify their conditioned self versus their true self and be mindful of which version of you is in the driver’s seat in your business and your personal life.
Name the key factors for your success:
When I am mentally, emotionally, physically and financially fit I am a better mother, daughter, sister, friend and business leader. I regularly assess where I’m at with each priority and take time out when necessary to get back on track.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? To be interdependent versus dependent or independent, and network with as many people as possible.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Being able to provide part-time, flexible, high-paying work for parents and people who want to study. As a mum I know it’s extremely difficult, especially in the medical industry, to find part-time flexible work that can suit your family’s needs.
SO STYLISH, YOU WON’T BELIEVE HOW SMART IT IS.
12.3 inch digital display
Wireless charging
Hands-Free Power Tailgate Sync 3 Connectivity
LED Adaptive Headlamps
Embedded Modem
ALL-NEW FORD PUMA EFFORTLESSLY STYLISH
MICRO SMALL NIKKI FOGDENMOORE
The Mojo Maker
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Be 100 per cent yourself, even if it feels scary. It’s your uniqueness, personality and gifts that make you who you are that will propel you forward in business and in life.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? Despite all the lessons in business over the past 25 years, my biggest challenge to date was losing my father during COVID last year.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Stop trying to fit in with what everyone else is doing and step outside of that to follow your own vision. Get really clear on what you want to deliver, what your clients need and see that through.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The people. That is my everything. Over the past two decades from speaking to workshops, private coaching to even the podcasts it’s the feedback on making a difference and an impact on so many levels that fuels me in my job each day.
MICRO SMALL BEVERLEY HENDERSON
Mediderm Medical Aesthetics
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Follow your passion. Be authentic and fearlessly back yourself. Develop a network of other business women with whom you can mutually support and inspire.
Name the key factors for your success:
Having invested in extensive academic qualifications and clinical experiences. Conducting my business with honest and ethical practices and taking a holistic, individualised approach to patient care. Surrounding myself with authentic and positive people.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Lasting change in our life starts with changing how we believe in ourself and how we think.
What’s the best thing about your job?
“If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life” resonates with me. I remain passionate about the cosmetic medical industry and it gives me joy each day to empower others.
SHOP ONLINE
Your one stop upcycling shop. Your one sto Whether you’re transforming your furniture, painting ure, paintingWhether you’re transfor your patio, dying your cushions or adding texture ding texture your patio, dying your & embellishments to your garden pots, en pots, & embellishmen we have all the products you need. u need.we have all Visit our two shops in Buderim & Maleny or shop online. ny or shop online.Visit our two shops www.chaptertwointeriors.com | 0452 181 231 0452 181 231h t
MICRO SMALL RENEE JARRETT
Daisy Cakes and Bakes
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Do it! Set out your plan and step through it, celebrate your wins, no matter how small, and learn from the mistakes.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? Kicking anxiety in the butt and putting myself out there. The women in this incredible network have really helped me on this front! I’m stronger because of that support.
Name the key factors for your success:
A positive attitude, persistence, and self-belief. Also taking opportunities when they present, and not being afraid to create opportunities when they don’t.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? If you fall, make it look like part of the dance.
What’s the best thing about your job?
I get to do what I love every day. It doesn’t feel like work. When I see the smile on my customers’ faces when they receive their cake or cookies, it’s why I do what I do.
MICRO SMALL LEIGH KURYJ
The Numbers Biz
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Just have a go! Value yourself. If you set out to help others you can’t go wrong. Network, network, network. Do what you’re good at, outsource the rest.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? It would definitely be the pandemic. There are often times I support clients through tough times personally or in their business, but to support all clients at once through very uncertain times, carrying part of their stress, while keeping up with new and changing legislation and government funding was a challenge.
Name the key factors for your success:
I’m not your standard bookkeeper. I like to develop the client relationship and help achieve their goals.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Imagine your perfect day. You don’t need to win $20 million to live this. Start making plans and designing a life you love.
MICRO SMALL JAYA MCINTRYE
Empire Art Photography
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Run your own race. Set your goals that you need for yourself and family then put your horse blinkers on and stay focused on your goals.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? I had just rented a new studio space, rebranded my photography business and stepped away from a day job to focus on being a full-time photographer. Four months in I was faced with a breast cancer diagnosis and needed to have a mastectomy, a month of IVF and 15 months of chemo and radiation treatment.
Name the key factors for your success:
Kindness, gratitude and authenticity.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? I am forever grateful for the mentors and teachers I’ve had in my life.
What’s the best thing about your job?
I have created a business that is fulfilling and life affirming, and I’m incredibly fortunate to be doing what I love – photographing people.
MICRO SMALL KATE OGG
OggyE-Scooters
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Plan what you want – write it all down – and don’t hold back when it comes to how big your goal is.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? Carving out time for my family while setting up and running a business. The challenge lies in learning to delegate, so that when I have spare time I’m 100 per cent present with them. Name the key factors for your success: I don’t listen to naysayers. I conduct research and make up my own mind instead of following others.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? If you were hit by a bus tomorrow, would you be happy with what you’ve been doing daily up to this point? If not, change it, now.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The freedom. When there is something exciting to chase or a decision to be made, there is no time wasted.
Dr Tanya Bell
Chief Executive Offi cer Finalist Professional Business Woman of the Year SCBWN, 2022 s Woman n
As a locally grown charity, Youturn is proud of our heritage and the support we have provided to vulnerable people who reach out to us often in times of intense crisis or emotional distress.
Over the last 30 years, we have grown and evolved into a vibrant state-wide organisation dedicated to making a diff erence in the areas of Child Safety, Housing and Homelessness as well as Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.
If you would like to fi nd out more about the work we do or how you can support our community, please contact us, I would love to hear from you.
MICRO SMALL KELLIE SIMKIN
Sundaise Group
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Once you start, know your numbers at all times.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? During COVID lockdowns I had to find new ways to engage with our existing and new stockists. I learnt to let go of my fears, got in front of the camera, put myself out there and embraced modern technologies and social media. Name the key factors for your success: I keep things real. I am honest and upfront. I have always treated everyone I meet in business respectfully and with honesty.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Choose wisely when it comes to the people you align yourself with along with who and what receives your time. Also, do the most productive thing in every given moment.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Oprah says do a job you love and you will never work a day in your life. For the last eight years I’ve realised that dream.
MICRO SMALL HAYLEY WAYLETT
Chapter Two Interiors
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Be open to adapt in challenging times and learn to say no. Never make decisions for the wrong reasons, such as out of malice or feeling under pressure, and follow your instincts.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? My journey to recovery from PTSD and having to develop the strength to make life-changing decisions for myself. The long and ongoing journey brought creativity my way and gave me a voice to help others going through the same.
Name the key factors for your success:
Inspiring the community with innovation, having old-fashioned values and always going the extra mile, listening to customers’ needs, rather than being sales driven.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? There are no problems, only solutions.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Doing something that brings me love and healing on a daily basis.
Transforming lives
Coast2Bay Housing Group is currently building housing for women and children affected by domestic violence.
The project, RISE 2 (Restart In a Safe Environment) will develop 8 new homes and house up to 20 families a year providing safe, secure accommodation as well as support services such as counselling. In order to complete the project we need $400,000 in capital.
If you’d like to help with this please scan the QR code and help us to help them.
PROFESSIONAL LAUREN APPLEGATE
Envestnet | Yodlee
What advice would you give other women starting out in business?
Carefully select vendors who understand and are invested in your business goals and vision to support you.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? My own insecurities. What I have learnt is to trust myself and my gut, take chances and consistently push myself outside of my comfort zone to grow.
Name the key factors for your success:
Joining a new industry, my success has come from being eager to learn and curious to understand the what, why and how.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? “Don’t let perfect get in the way of good.” This quote helps me to not feel overwhelmed and to make a start on new projects, even if it’s small to begin with. What’s the best thing about your job? I have a passion for financial wellness and working with financial institutions and fintechs who positively help Australians.
PROFESSIONAL LEE BANFIELD
Coast2Bay Housing Group
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? It was a huge challenge to reinvent myself after my initial career ambitions were stalled, so I searched for the right kind of opportunity for me to work with people. I still find it challenging at times to work around issues like racism, domestic violence or stigmas about community housing, but it also ignites my passion for being involved in our community.
Name the key factors for your success:
My belief and determination that everyone deserves a safe, secure, affordable home and creating innovative projects in partnership with the community.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? That what others think of you is not any of your business.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The amazing, diverse group of people I work with. We see many lives change for the better by ensuring people and families have safe, affordable places to call home.
PROFESSIONAL TANYA BELL
Youturn Youth Support
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Never underestimate the power of persistence. When you are starting out you will get more rejections, criticisms and “you can’t do that” comments than you might expect.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? During the four years completing my PhD. I was studying full-time doing both my PhD and a graduate certificate in education, working part-time and had two children at the time.
Name the key factors for your success:
I am naturally curious and driven to understand and find solutions to problems. I am known for challenging the status quo and have a courageous self-belief.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Treat everyone in the organisation as though they are the CEO.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Without a doubt it is the sense of community that we create in the work we do.
PROFESSIONAL TAMARA BONAMY
Youi Insurance
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Do something every day that develops your skills. Then put your head down, looking up to be grateful for how far you’ve come.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? Professionally, building credibility with a rapid career trajectory at a young age. I have realised the only way to overcome this is to focus on being a better human.
Name the key factors for your success:
An obsession with learning and personal development, an open mind, unmatched work ethic and discipline, being reliable.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Put one foot in front of the other and embrace your progress.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The best thing in the world is watching people around me grow as human beings, achieving their personal and professional goals and having moments of friction that enable them to learn, grow and progress.
PROFESSIONAL NATASHA HALL
Sunshine Coast Airport
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Know your worth and then add 10 per cent. Unfortunately, a lot of women suffer from imposter syndrome.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? Working in the aviation industry during COVID-19 presented some interesting challenges, including having to close the terminal pretty much overnight.
Name the key factors for your success:
Success is about doing things that bring me joy. For me it is about adding value, whether that be in my workplace or in the community with my roles with SunnyKids and the Sunshine Coast Business Awards.
What’s the best thing about your job?
I work with a great team and am always learning. I love connecting people and that is one of the core purposes of our airport. I am proud to be a part of this journey and to play a role in making sure that we drive sustainability in everything we do.
PROFESSIONAL SHANAGH JACOBS
Sunshine Coast Council
What advice would you give other women starting out in business?
Perfection is procrastination in disguise. Focus on sustained progress towards your goals for long-term outcomes and success.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? Starting a new leadership role, dealing with COVID, commencing my MBA, all while being a mum, wife and sister in 2020.
Name the key factors for your success:
My curiosity, my compassion, and my people. Keeping my mind open to understanding and learning from different perspectives every day lets me support and lead my team in the ways that make them successful, which makes me successful.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Say yes and then work the rest out later. Give in to that moment of courage and commit to giving it your best shot.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Watching things flourish when we’ve done our job well.
PROFESSIONAL EMMA SHEPHERD
Dolphin Plastics & Packaging
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Be resilient. Challenges, barriers and people will constantly provide difficulties with achieving your desired outcomes or goals.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? The daily life balance is a big challenge. Running a company and being a mother and wife means a daily juggling act.
Name the key factors for your success:
Being accountable, surrounding myself with empowered and passionate individuals and setting achievable goals.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Don’t put off what you can do today. Be flexible, resilient and squeeze as many things into your day that is achievable.
What’s the best thing about your job?
I love our diverse customer base and the variety of innovative and sustainable products we are manufacturing. It is genuinely refreshing to be part of a team that works harmoniously towards a goal.
YOUNG
BRONTE CRESSWELL
Dash of Milk / Dash Academy
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Don’t compare yourself; focus purely on the steps in front of you and feel confident in what you know instead of feeling overwhelmed by what you don’t.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had
to overcome? I lost three staff in one week and had to rebuild my team and business back from that on my own. It was hard, but it made me reassess everything, which worked in my favour.
Name the key factors for your success:
Consistency, commitment and a little risk-taking when it’s needed.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? A lot can change in a month. Don’t look at the last six months, and think that reflects the six months ahead.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Being able to work with business owners to grow their biggest asset and partner with them to ensure they’re proud of their brand and can build in the way they want to.
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL FINALISTS
Sunshine Coast Publishing Company and My Weekly Preview would like to wish all of the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network finalists all the best for the 2022 Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network Awards.
VISIT OUR GALLERY CAFE FOR WALL ART INSPIRATION
YOU NAME IT WE FRAME IT
MINYAMA: 3 Longwood St. (Next to Pillowtalk) 5444 0009 | sales@artframes.com.au NOOSA: 2/50 Gateway Dve, Noosaville 5474 1127 | noosa@artframes.com.au
ARTFRAMES.COM.AU
SUNSHINE COAST PUBLISHING
C O M P A N Y
KATIE JOHNSTON
Eats – Meals that Matter
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Never give up. The end doesn’t exist so keep working harder and harder and listen, then adjust to what your customers want. Don’t be scared to wipe the slate clean.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve
had to overcome? Getting comfy with uncomfortable situations. Sometimes the people/person you think less likely to attack will go in for the kill first.
Name the key factors for your success:
Grit, grit and grit. If you’re not tough you get eaten up and spat out. The higher you climb the more sharks there are.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen or get thicker skin.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Meeting absolutely inspirational business people and having them as mentors and connecting with high-profile business giants so I can stand on their ‘knowledge shoulders’. The view is great.
YOUNG
SUMMER MILLER
Youi Insurance
What advice would you give other women starting out in business?
Stay true to your values and be authentic. Being you is your biggest superpower.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve
had to overcome? Completing my MBA while working full time, and leading a team of 220-plus staff while trying to balance my personal life.
Name the key factors for your success:
Being tenacious, kind and always authentic.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Brené Brown said, “It takes courage to cultivate, rest and play in a world where exhaustion is seen as a status symbol.”
What’s the best thing about your job?
The amazing people I get to work with daily. Even on the toughest days I feel safe and supported.
Wholesale supply to varied retailers across Australia & abroad
Sundaise is a 100% Australian locally family-owned wholesale company. Our key focus is to design and supply our stockists with beautiful, quality hats and accessories for the whole family.
YOUNG
CLAIRE O’SHEA
Dance Energy Studios
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Always do your research and think about what problem you are solving for your ideal customer. Starting out in business can be overwhelming so I would recommend creating tangible goals and then breaking them down into steps.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve
had to overcome? Navigating the various lockdowns and isolation rules in relation to the pandemic. While we preferred to be in the classroom with our students, we were blown away by their ability to adapt to learning dance in a digital medium.
Name the key factors for your success:
My wonderful team, the community of supportive parents and students, and my family.
What’s the best thing about your job?
There are so many elements that make up my amazing job, but it all comes back to the kids. We strive for excellence in every area of our business for them.
YOUNG
EMMA SPARROW
Sparo Studios
What advice would you give other
women starting out in business? Find your community. Spending time with others allows you to expand your horizons and truly see what’s possible.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve
had to overcome? Balancing health and business. Early in my business I struggled with memory loss, blackouts and vertigo caused by stress and overworking. While it was a hard lesson to learn, it was an important one.
Name the key factors for your success:
Continuous self-growth and improvement, constant innovation, always reflecting back to my core values and surrounding myself with strong, successful woman.
What’s the best advice you have ever
received? Problems create progress. The more uncomfortable and harder it feels, the faster you learn and grow.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Building a community of like-minded woman and seeing them win.
