About Business March 2016

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IN FOCUS

FAMILY LAW

MILESTONES

BLOKES ABOUT TOWN

DEB MANSON AND KELLY POWELL INTRODUCE US TO THEIR BUSINESSES

WE TAKE A LOOK AT MEDIATION, IS IT THE RIGHT OPTION FOR YOU?

BARBARA LAMONT GOES FROM GRAPHIC DESIGNER TO MINING OPALS

THIS MONTH THE BLOKES TALK ABOUT STRESS AND HOW THEY HANDLE IT

MICHELLE BRIDGES THE MOTIVATOR

The fitness queen and television personality has built an empire on the back of an intense ambition to improve the nation’s health JUDY ELSWORTHY

From the stage to the directorship of a polymer manufacturing business, she has big boots to fill

PROPERTY ADVICE, BUSINESS TIPS, AND MORE!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE COASTʼS LEADING LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE www.profilemag.com.au

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HOW TO CULTIVATE AN AWESOME BUSINESS There is some hard work and heavy lifting to do to make your business the well-oiled machine you want it to be. The most important lesson I have learned is that to expand a business I need to get and stay organized. I work on the CANII system – constant and never ending improvement and innovation and I apply this thinking constantly to five keys areas of business – I call them my ‘High 5’. Get this right and you will have more money, and more time to enjoy it. 1. THE RIGHT PEOPLE.

Set yourself up with the right people and the business runs itself. If you’ve hired the wrong people then work becomes hard work. With the right people, the passion for business flows and it can’t help but attract the perfect clients. People are drawn to businesses that are internally happy and professional. 2. THE RIGHT CLIENTS.

Realising you can’t be all things to all people and focusing on attracting the

perfect client, the sooner you will be successful. When you ‘need’ to accept all clients, you will always have friction and unhappy clients. Saying no and recognizing when a client won’t fit your business model will elevate your business, bringing a level of service for you to have exceptionally happy clients, leading to more client referrals and positive feedback. 3. THE RIGHT TOOLS, MARKETING AND PLANNING. Getting your marketing right, testing and measuring the results, keeping your database clean, working ON the business on a weekly basis as well as working in the business are all CRITICALLY vital parts of running a successful business. 4. THE RIGHT ETHOS.

5. THE RIGHT MINDSET.

Mindset is a choice. It really helps if you decide to have a happy, positive and motivational attitude. Staff are more inclined to bring problems, mistakes and issues to you rather than if they think they are going to get a negative or volatile reaction. Mindset also includes a positive look to the future, goal setting, team spirit and leadership. Get these right and your business can ‘High Five’ itself to success.

You need to have the right ethos to attract the right clients and the right ‘boss’ to attract the right people. A business owner who has the right intentions, who puts people and clients first, and has an ethos of giving more than taking, will create such a positive environment that the business will grow and prosper. WWW.CHRISCHILDS.COM.AU

Let’s take a look at tech accessories and gadgets perfect for the office.

daily n to inspiratioyou! motivate

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dailygreatness Business Planner

compact mirror power bank

THE DAILYGREATNESS BUSINESS PLANNER PROVIDES RESOURCES TO NOT ONLY IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS BUT ALSO YOURSELF. IT IS PART PLANNER, PART BUSINESS ADVISOR, AND PART SELF-HELP COACH ALL WRAPPED INTO ONE! RRP $44.95, WEBSITE/STOCKIST: WWW.DAILYGREATNESS.COM.AU

ORA: LED COMPACT MIRROR USB CHARGING POWER BANK, IS THE LATEST IN FASHIONABLE TECH. IT’S A PREMIUM DESIGNER LED COMPACT MIRROR WITH AN INTERNAL POWER BANK BATTERY PACK TO CHARGE YOUR MOBILE PHONE AND SMART DEVICES ON THE GO. WITH 2600MAH CAPACITY, TWO STYLE MIRRORS, ONE INCLUDING 2 X MAGNIFICATION AND LED LIGHTING FOR ACCURATELY APPLYING MAKE-UP – THE LATEST GADGET BY ZUMI IS MULTI-FUNCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY CATERED TO A FEMALE MARKET. RRP $159.95, SHOP FROM WWW.ZUMI.COM.AU

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Getting creative with your property portfolio is about diversifying; spreading your risk, broadening your horizons and varying your current holdings.

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n short; avoid putting all your eggs in one basket. Luxe Commercial’s managing director Chris Sales says a diversified property portfolio allows for more balanced and consistent returns and greater flexibility particularly in the commercial market. “Property investments are long-term propositions and by diversifying your portfolio and where your money goes provides balance and reduces the risk of any potential negative impact,” he says. When considering diversifying, Chris suggests starting with location and price points. He recommends picking a sector based on its risk profile, industrial being the lowest risk and retail being the highest. Vacant or partially vacant space will often represent a higher return based on the “value add” potential. Property returns are almost always directly linked to the level of risk involved; the riskier the investment the higher its potential return. “The best place to start is to look at investing in areas that you know well and are comfortable with,” he says. “But putting all your money in one area leaves you open to a sudden downturn in a particular sector.” Spreading your risk across different price points can strengthen a property portfolio and provide variety, while buying multi-tenanted investments also reduces risk. Chris maintains quality over quantity as the golden rule, however spreading your investment across multiple properties provides flexibility and security. “It’s not uncommon for clients to mix things up across industrial, office, medical and retail properties. Having a portfolio with a couple of conservative, or relatively safe, investments, allows for greater risk elsewhere,” he says. “With a little creativity the opportunities to build wealth through property are endless.”

WWW.LUXECOMMERCIAL.COM.AU • 07 5493 6652

No financials? NO WORRIES!

Does this sound familiar? You’re a small business owner who has just looked at your work program for the upcoming year and have decided now is the time to buy new or replacement vehicles and equipment to help meet your work commitments. It’s March and your accountant has not yet completed your 2015 tax returns so how can you get finance approval now, when you need it most?

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ost banks and financiers now have policies such as Self Declaration of income and Easy Upgrade finance. They refer to them as ‘matrix deals’, which basically means as long as your current position fits the criteria, you can access these policies which don’t require you to provide up to date financial statements. The Self Declaration policy is designed for businesses that have a trading history and owners who are in a sound financial position to either self declare the income of the business or sign a declaration to confirm they can afford the monthly repayment. The financier will then rely on this information to assess the business’s capacity to repay the loan. AS SUCH, THERE IS SOME BASIC QUALIFYING CRITERIA INCLUDING:

1 2 3 4

The business and owners must have a clear credit file. Even paid defaults exclude you from many of these products.

The business will need to have an ABN that has been registered for GST for two years. The business owner is currently a home buyer or can contribute 20 per cent deposit.

The goods being purchased new-to-three years old and are predominantly for business use.

The second alternative is the Easy Upgrade policy. This is perfect for when you need to trade and upgrade your current car or equipment. In this case your good repayment history proves you can pay the loan, so as long as the new payment is not more than 125 per cent of your current payment, you don’t need to provide financial statements. These policies allow for faster processing and are no more expensive than a normal fully disclosed application. So if you meet the criteria and know you can meet the loan repayments, don’t let a lack of financials stop you from moving your business forward today.

WWW.SPCFINANCE.COM • 07 5443 1644

PROFILE

WHAT DOES ‘DIVERSIFYING’ YOUR PROPERTY PORTFOLIO REALLY MEAN?


BUSINESS

THE

motivator WORDS ANNA RAWLINGS PHOTOS SEAN IZZARD

Fitness queen and TV personality Michelle Bridges has built an empire, guiding people to wellness, coupled with her intense ambition to create invigorating business success. She gives insight into life as a powerhouse in the Australian health and fitness industry, introduces her new family and talks business lessons and success, in a candid interview with Anna Rawlings.

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s a young teen, I remember excitedly tuning in to watch reality television fitness show The Biggest Loser Australia. Inspired, I toyed with the idea of becoming a personal trainer, before choosing a journalism degree and career in the media (although I’m still a bit of a gym rat!), with Michelle being one of my biggest fitness inspirations. So it’s with some anticipation I’m connected through to the queen of a self-made fitness empire and come to discover that away from the glossy brand and television personality, Michelle is down-to-earth, chatty and open. “We’re under a bridge, we’re just driving in Sydney at the moment, you can probably hear the kids in the car,” explains Michelle over the background noise of traffic. ‘We’ is of course, Michelle’s blended family, partner and TBL costar Steve ‘The Commando’ Willis, his three kids, and their first baby together, son Axel who was born in December 2015. With the body and looks of someone who’s spent her entire life adamantly eating well and working out, after all she’s a walking advertisement for her business and brand, Michelle’s earned the crown of ‘fit queen’; she’s broken two Guinness World Records, launched a 12-week weight loss program, published 10 books, and developed a vitamins/supplements and fitness apparel range. Michelle transcended the fitness industry to find household fame in 2007 on the first season of The Biggest Loser Australia and it was through the popular reality show that she met Steve, 39 and the duo has been touted as Australia’s very own ‘celebrity fitness couple’. Of late, snaps of Michelle pushing Axel’s pram in Sydney, or photos from an exclusive mother-and-son photo shoot pepper her Instagram page alongside motivational images of Michelle in the gym. And it’s this new side to Michelle – first-time mum at 45, that has garnered particularly heightened attention. DON’T MISS MICHELLE BRIDGES ON 2ND & 3RD APRIL 2016. TO SECURE YOUR TICKET CALL 1300 433 552 OR VISIT PREMIERSPEAKERSANDEVENTS.COM.AU 46

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“It’s a completely new chapter for me, it’s really exciting. It was in the back of my mind and always there, but for me it was about timing. It’s certainly changed a lot of things, all good changes,” she says of new motherhood and starting a family. “Axel is going to have the same lifestyle I have, so good education, we’re always going to be active, eat healthy food, there’ll be the occasional treats here and there, otherwise pretty much healthy habits.” Michelle spent her early years growing up at her grandparents’ motel in remote country north-west of Tamworth, before moving to Newcastle. “I had a country-ish upbringing, I was pretty much playing every sport I could ... my mum was always complaining, why do you have to do every sport known to man!” she laughs. At 14 years old, Michelle noticed fellow students weren’t participating in the weekly sports lessons and pitched teaching fitness classes to her school mistress. “I put together my mix tape, got my legwarmers out and put pieces from all of my sport together like a circuit, and I thought, I was an absolute champion at this!” she laughs. “So I took myself down to my squash court and told them I could teach fitness classes, they let me loose on the general public at the age of 14 with no registration,

you could never do it now, you’d be sued!” Michelle spent the next four years teaching fitness classes until she qualified as a fitness instructor at age 18 and by her early 30s had a prominent profile in the fitness industry and on television, and had been named Australian Fitness Leader of the Year in 2004. The call from Channel 10 casting agents for The Biggest Loser role was almost serendipitous timing, as Michelle candidly reveals that after two decades in the fitness industry, she almost turned her back on it. “You got me thinking about what was going on in my career in the fitness industry just before Biggest Loser turned up, and I had become disenchanted, I felt like I had done everything,” she admits. “I thought, I’ve done classes, I’m a personal trainer, I’ve owned a gym, I’ve had my own business, there’s not that much more out there.” Michelle started writing for magazines, and was working part-time with a newspaper in advertising just before she got the call for TBL. “What felt like a bad thing actually turned out to be quite good, it made me break the mould and think outside the square of how I could reinvigorate my career and find new ways of doing stuff in my industry. “Straightaway within the first few weeks of Loser, I thought to myself, having been a business owner and operator, you always have your exit plan. So in my head I thought, you should really start getting yourself out there now so you have something to stand on as a foundation, so my book ideas and all the other things, I did that off the first season. “It was like trailblazing in a way and I guess that’s a pretty cool message, that what might be at the time disenchanting or a problem, the solution that can come from it can be a whole new way of tackling stuff.”

BUSINESS

Michelle also weighs in on the nation’s health and obesity epidemic, how she copes with social media criticism, and shares her personal training regime in an extended interview online now at www.profilemag.com.au

But forget the standard tips of implementing exercise into your day for professional success; Michelle outlines a message when it comes to motivation. “My biggest thing is I want to get in their heads – what do they want to achieve? Do you want to lose weight, be fitter, run 5km, run for charity? Work out why it is you want to do it and then look at all the roadblocks you’ve been putting in front of yourself. The bigger question is why aren’t you doing it?” Delivered in typical Michelle Bridges style, upfront and honest. And, she’s taking her own advice with the recent launch of her new book. “I’m excited/nervous because I’ve never done a book like this before ... it’s all about taking stock of where you’re at and what you want to achieve in life, and some personal stories and lessons I’ve learnt along the way.” Michelle will be on the Sunshine Coast next month for a dinner event and morning bootcamp for Premier Speakers and Events. “The Friday night will be an opportunity for me to talk to people about bigger questions, to lead into exercising and eating better. You’ll get to know me a little bit better, not just that trainer who yells at people to do 20 push-ups, although you’ll get a taste of that the following day when you do the workout!”

“What felt like a BAD thing actually turned out to be quite GOOD, it made me BREAK the mould and think outside the square of how I could reinvigorate my career.” march 2016

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MILESTONES

CHANGING PHOTOS CHESTERTON SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

In 1982, Barbara Lamont’s life changed – having left her career as a graphic designer to travel, she found herself in the Australian outback where she met and fell in love with her husband-to-be, Piet and in turn was introduced to opal mining.

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arbara and Piet began opal mining as a ‘hobby’ and by 1984 turned it into a full time business. Over the next few years they mined, cut and polished opal and Barbara used her talents as a designer to create their own jewellery range. The Opalcutter was formed in 1990 and in the early days, Barbara and Piet concentrated on the light opal, sourced from their own mines at Coober Pedy as well as Andamooka and dark opal from Mintabie. The pair also frequently searched Australia-wide to source black opal from Lightning Ridge and the Queensland boulder opal fields. After Piet’s untimely death in August 2006, Barbara ran the business almost entirely by herself and continued the dream.

Life changing milestone 3: Losing my beloved husband, business partner and best mate, 2006 Everything came to a crashing halt with Piet’s sudden death of cancer in 2006. Missing him and running the business by myself I decided to close the shop and move away from Coober Pedy. Piet and I had already planned some time earlier that we would move to Cairns and start a new opal mining venture on the Queensland boulder opalfields near Cunnamulla.

As much as we LOVE OPAL, there are lots of other jewellery and gemstones from all around THE WORLD.

Life changing milestone 1: Life in the Australian outback, 1982 In 1982 I left a career as a freelance graphic artist in Germany intending to holiday by travelling part of the world. After visiting India and then Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide I travelled up the centre and ended up in Coober Pedy. There I met and fell in love with Piet Lamont as well as the outback. Within two days I started a new career as an opal miner, and within the month we were engaged and married a few months later. We had a great personal and working life together, enjoying the beautiful and sparse landscape as well as the easy and simple lifestyle. On the other side, we experienced a lot of financial hardship along the way, as opal mining can be quite an expensive ‘hobby’ despite our best intentions to make it a profitable business – a great learning experience!

Life changing milestone 4: Meeting Edi, 2007 The intention to move from Coober Pedy took on a different time frame and direction when my German shepherd Rex met another German shepherd puppy also Rex (he now answers to Max). Meeting the young Rex’s owner, the last thing I imagined was to find love again. We were married by the end of the year, Edi retired as school principal at Coober Pedy and we moved to Cairns. It didn’t take long for the opal-bug to get me again and we spent lots of time on our mining lease near Cunnamulla, 1000 kms west of Brisbane. Although we loved the mining and simple lifestyle of working on the boulder field, the process is expensive and we were going financially backwards.

Life changing milestone 2: Opening ‘The Opalcutter’ shop, 1990 While continuing our own opal mining, cutting and polishing we started cutting stones for tourists as well as designing and handcrafting jewellery. We quickly grew to a successful business in Coober Pedy and became known as ‘the leaders in modern opal jewellery design’ both locally and overseas. With a great team behind us, Piet and I were able to travel Europe and especially to the London jewellery fair to showcase our beautiful Australian opals to the world. We did this for 10 years and loved every bit of it.

Life changing milestone 5: Opening a new business in Montville, 2012 In 2012 we looked for a new place to live and start a business and liked Montville in the Hinterland of the Sunshine Coast. In December of that year we opened our new shop. As much as we love opal, there are lots of other jewellery and gemstones from all around the world. Mining has come to a halt; now we are busy working seven days a week in our gallery-style shop and we are very happy with our life together. Thanks to Rex and Max for getting us together!

march 2016

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IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS

WORDS ANNA RAWLINGS

Deb Manson

W

Gifts2remember, Bli Bli

hile browsing online classifieds website Gumtree in 2013, Deb Manson found out the site’s ‘buy or sell almost anything’ tagline was worth its weight in gold. Well, gold foil. “I was looking for a new business where I could still have a life after having a busy real estate business. An e-commerce business was the direction I knew I wanted to go in, I always dreamed of owning a gift shop from a young age and Gifts2remember ticked all those boxes when I saw it advertised,” says Deb. Deb took over Gifts2remember from its founder, who created the gift hamper business in 2004. “We purchased it after selling our real estate business while travelling through Europe, on Gumtree would you believe!” Deb laughs. With the purchase of Gifts2remember, Deb traded in a background as a real estate agency owner and eight-year career as a private investigator for more creative work, surrounded by flourishing ribbons, quality products and beautiful bows. In the last two years, Deb has successfully grown the business, particularly her corporate clients, and aims to grow the gourmet food and gift hamper business throughout the Sunshine Coast, with plans to move into a new store in the near future. “I’m passionate about every gift hamper that leaves our warehouse. We take care with how they are boxed, ribboned and bowed because we always remember that it’s going to be received by an individual as a gift from another individual,” she shares. “The greatest thing about an internet business is you can work on it at anytime of the day or night. It still allows me to enjoy my days in my garden, relax with a glass of red with my husband, and spend time with my family.” Now, that’s a gift! 50

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Kelly Powell

F

Kapows Commercial Cleaning, Sunshine Coast

our years ago, Kelly Powell wasn’t afraid to get her hands dirty – juggling 18 months of subcontracting for a cleaning business after hours, six days per week, while holding a full-time job to bring in additional funds. Now, what was a part-time cleaning company born out of sheer financial desperation has grown to a full-scale independent business, and Kelly and husband Jamee are cleaning up. “Don’t be too hard on yourself and don’t be afraid to fail. We have fallen down too many times to count, but we always keep moving forward. Surround yourself with people who want you to succeed,” Kelly advises. “Our biggest triumph was believing in ourselves enough to take that first plunge.” With a joint background in corporate financial services, Kelly and Jamee established Kapows Commercial Cleaning in 2012, winning their first official contract in October that year. “At the time, it was a little scary giving up full time work to ride the crazy train of small business ownership, but we wanted to give it a go,” says Kelly. “We have had profit growth year on year from day one, so that risk paid off.” On the back of winning a large tender in January 2013, the couple was able to grow Kapows to the independent company it is today. Later that year, Kelly was recognised as a finalist in the 2013 Sunshine Coast Business Woman of the Year Award, a nomination she describes as “surreal, overwhelming and insightful,” as her achievements in business ownership were recognised. “We had been employees for such a long time, and thought being our own bosses for a bit sounded like great fun. It is!” Kelly laughs. And fun is certainly on their checklist – at home, Kelly and Jamee “love doing simple things – kayaking, barbecue on the beach, going to local markets, catching up with friends, just simply being together – even grocery shopping can mean lots of giggles!” After all, what’s success without a sparkle of fun?

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Six reaSonS why you need a virtual receptioniSt Micro, small and medium businesses are reaping the rewards of using a virtual receptionist to manage their incoming calls, call handling, live reception, telephone answering and business communications. Michelle Mills of SOI Virtual Receptionist explains the importance of using the services of a virtual office within your business.

immediate reSponSe for your buSineSS SOI Virtual Receptionists undertake all of the training and management of the team. There is always a trained receptionist to answer and manage your calls every working day, no matter what else is going on. Our data demonstrates that 95 per cent of calls are answered within three rings.

don’t miSS a Sale A missed call is a missed sale. Most callers do not like leaving voicemails, they want to deal with a person.

tailored to your needS Your business may be different and unique but our virtual receptionists will handle all of your calls exactly how you want them to.

avoid diStraction Is answering your own calls a distraction and taking away time that you need to run your business?

When you become an SOI Virtual Receptionist client you speak directly to Victoria our Customer Service Manager who works with each of our reception team to understand your business and your unique requirements.

Business owners who take on the role of receptionist are setting themselves up for failure, how can you deal with all the challenging calls that stop you from doing your job?

Grow your buSineSS can your money be better Spent?

The receptionists will become key members of your team, fielding calls, answering questions, transferring calls to appropriate staff or emailing and texting through messages.

Businesses can employ a receptionist to manage these calls, but this can be expensive and time consuming along with the HR component. What happens during sick leave, breaks and annual leave?

The reception team consoles are the latest technology and include detailed information and instructions for your business. A simple phone call or email can then have instructions changed instantly based on your changing requirements.

CAll ROlANd OUR BUsiNEss CONsUltANt tO disCUss yOUR UNiqUE REqUiREMENts WWW.Soireception.COM.AU • PHONE 07 3447 2400


BLOKEtS

abou

CRAIG LEVITT, ANDY WHITMORE, WARREN TEGG AND INGRID NELSON

BUSINESS

TOWN

LEMON PEPPER CALAMARI

STRESS

how the blokes handle it! WORDS INGRID NELSON PHOTOS CHESTERTON SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY VENUE PALMWOODS HOTEL, PALMWOODS

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Stress, it’s an unavoidable part of daily life but it’s how we deal with it that counts. I caught up with the Blokes About Town for their take on stress, how it affects them and how they keep it under control.

t’s no surprise our increasingly busy lifestyle has seen our stress levels rise considerably during the past 10 years, particularly with the explosion of social media keeping us continually plugged in! In fact, stress has been called the health epidemic of the 21st century by the World Health Organisation and costs businesses billions of dollars a year. But it’s important to remember that not all stress is bad. Managed stress makes us productive, happy and keeps us on our toes, mismanaged stress can lead to a host of health problems both physical and emotional. Fortunately we have also come a long way when it comes to recognising and managing stress and a growing number of men and women are turning to mindfulness and meditation to find that elusive balance. I recently caught up with a group of savvy businessmen to wax lyrical about the age old problem over a delicious lunch at the Palmwoods Hotel and what I discovered was very enlightening to say the least. Co-hosting the lunch was

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business development manager with Think Money Craig Levitt, joining us was Warren Tegg, senior solicitor with Bennett Carroll and Andy Whitmore, owner of My Community Connect. profile: On a scale of one to 10 what is your stress level right now? craig: That’s a difficult one because it varies day-to-day. I would say at the moment a six or seven. It really does depend on the time of year too. Towards the end of the year I am really looking forward to a break because I work in marketing so I need to be creative. Towards the end of the year the creative juices are running low so it doesn’t flow as well then your stress levels go up due to frustration! warren: Within the last fortnight I am at a six or a seven. I find the same thing happens towards the end of the year, my stress levels tend to go up as everyone wants everything done before Christmas. andy: My stress levels are fairly high at the moment as we are going through a huge period of growth in our business. The last two profilemag.com.au


months have seen us explode. We have huge customer expectations we now need to deliver on and it needs to be outstanding. It has also been pretty stressful moving my family from the UK recently. profile: What catalysts spike your stress levels? craig: My stress comes from my own internal pressure to produce good work. It’s a direct result of my own self-judgement. With most of us, stress is self created, it’s how we think about what we are going through. warren: Anyone who has high standards will always have a certain level of stress. We are also probably affected to some extent by people who have unrealistic expectations. andy: My stress levels come from being a perfectionist. I also take things quite personally, people say you shouldn’t, but if you care, you just do. If things are not quite right or a customer is not happy first time, I find that phenomenally stressful and everyone around me knows too. profile: How does stress affect your personality? andy: It depends on the situation and who I’m dealing with. If I’m dealing with people who should know better and they can take criticism it can be quite an abrupt response. But broadly I am trying to take 10 seconds before I respond and be more considered. It comes with age. craig: I deal with stress internally. It takes a fair bit for me to get outwardly angry. I tend to shut down and go within. warren: I’m the opposite, I’m a completely emotional animal. If I stand up at my desk and I’m on the phone, look out!

CRAIG LEVITT

legAl proBleM solVers. fixed fee consult Our fixed fee consultation is not limited by time. We will answer all your questions and provide knowledge and options on what to do next, so you can make informed choices without the pressure of being locked in.

A weAlth of experience With almost 40 years experience in family-law you can be sure you are getting the best possible advice. As a results-driven practitioner, Warren is passionate about avoiding trial and has spent 30 years honing those skills.

no ‘legAlese’ We offer practical usable advice delivered in plain and simple terms so you understand your options at every stage.

Senior Solicitor – Bennett cArroll SolicitorS

ANDY WHITMORE

profile: What methods do you use to cope with stress? warren: I did an extensive amount of mediation training in the late ‘80s when it was new. I learned a lot about my personality and other personalities, it was very helpful. I also took up yoga a year-and-a-half ago and I love it. I do two separate classes every week, one is high intensity and the other is stretching, meditation and relaxation. Breathing control is a big part of yoga. I can now control my breathing at the desk when I become stressed. craig: I practice and teach mindfulness, which is the Western word for meditation. I had always wanted to try it because I have a busy mind but like many people I failed the first time. A couple of years ago I had a friend who wanted to get into the corporate space to promote more stillness and calm in the office and I helped him to deliver some programs. I then did an eight-week course in stress reduction and I loved it so much I started running some free classes on the Coast and we have now started doing it at work for the same reasons. warren: It can be hard at the start, but once you become aware that you can do it, you can actually control your emotional and physical responses pretty quickly. It’s not like you need

march 2016

phone 1300 334 566 www.bcglaw.com.au

BrisBAne north • stAfford BrisBAne south • eight Mile plAins sunshine coAst • KAwAnA profilemagazine

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BUSINESS

WARREN TEGG

GRILLED BARRAMUNDI

PALMWOODS HOTEL

“Anyone who has HIGH STANDARDS will always have a certain level of stress.” to be in a zen state for 10 minutes. Most of us also breathe too quickly! My sister who is a bit of a zen master has been telling me for 10 years to breathe and I finally get it now! andy: Apart from a bottle of wine you mean! No seriously what is quite refreshing in Australia is the openness. I would never sit across the table in front of two businessmen and women and talk about stress and meditation and yoga, in the UK they would say, ‘what do you mean you’re stressed, get over it’; so I am very early in my journey. profile: Do you think men and women deal with stress differently? craig: I don’t think it’s really that different from male to female but more person to person. Generally you have people who flow their stress out, which some will tell you is more healthy and those who stay quiet and keep it in, which is worse because it comes out physiologically. I am the latter but I know the benefits of people being able to explode. warren: I agree 100 per cent. It’s a personality thing and not a gender thing. andy: I think it is a personality thing too. The only generalisation I would make is historically women are more considered in their response to stressful situations so I don’t understand why there aren’t more women in CEO positions. I think women balance men beautifully.

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The Palmwoods Hotel has always been a firm favourite among the locals (my family included). It’s one of those venues you can always depend on for a great family meal in the relaxing beer garden setting, or a cosy lunch or dinner for two on the balcony. Affectionately known as ‘the Palmy’, the family-owned restaurant seats up to 300 people, making it a popular choice for parties, functions or even weddings. Well known for their legendary steaks (always my hubby’s choice) the Palmwoods Hotel offers an extensive menu with something to suit all tastes. Families love the fully-equipped kids’ room, complete with the latest in video games and an active play gym to keep the little ones entertained while you relax – perfect! On the day of our visit, we sampled some of the delicious dishes on the lunch menu including the Guinness beef and mushroom pie served on a bed of mash with green beans, which got the big thumbs up from Warren. I couldn’t go past the grilled barramundi which never disappoints at the Palmy. Grilled and served with a fresh salad, it really hit the spot. Other choices included the lemon pepper calamari served with beer-battered chips, salad and aioli and of course the famous rump steak, served to your liking with beerbattered chips, salad and sauce of your choice. Don’t forget they also offer a courtesy bus that operates within a 10km radius of the hotel so you can relax and enjoy a few drinks over lunch or dinner. 28-34 MAIN ST, PALMWOODS PHONE: 1300 725 696 WWW.PALMWOODSHOTEL.COM.AU

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EvEningS to inSPirE miCheLLe bridges

Friday 1 april 2016 6.30 - 9pm • $149 Lake kawana Community Centre A renowned fitness industry figure with over 20 years’ experience, Michelle brings a message of positive change and compassion with unique style and infectious enthusiasm to propel people – no matter what their age, gender or income – to make it happen and live their best life. Join us the following morning, Saturday 2 April, for an energising Morning Workout with Michelle from 8am. Tickets are $39.

TickeTs are limiTed acT now To secure your spoT www.PremierSpeakersandEvents.com Visit our website to find out about all our exciting upcoming events.




MEDIATION –

IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU? PIPPA COLMAN & ASSOCIATES SOLICITORS

This month, the experts from Pippa Colman & Associates talk about mediation, a cost effective method for resolving family breakdowns and separation without the intervention of Court.

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he start of a new year can put some families under financial and emotional pressure. “Happy New Year” resonates with optimism and enthusiasm for the new year ahead but for those dysfunctional families, the new year often becomes the catalyst for life changing decisions, ending relationships and breaking up family units. Mediation is a cost effective method for resolving family breakdowns and separation without the intervention of the Courts. Mediators are highly trained professionals who are impartial and don’t take sides. Mediation is also privileged i.e. nothing you say during mediation can be used in Court or shared with anyone. Mediators don’t give advice or pass judgment. Instead they guide you through a structured process, which allows both parties to speak and be heard, while keeping the discussion flowing so you can find your own solutions.

Mediators are highly trained professionals who are IMPARTIAL and don’t take sides.

Mediation can SAVE you TIME, legal fees and court costs as well as possibly retain an amicable relationship moving FORWARD.

If you can’t agree on arrangements and need the Courts to make orders, then it is compulsory to attend mediation and to show to the court that you have attempted to resolve your issue.

The types of things mediation can resolve include a parenting plan, child support, financial arrangements and property settlement without going to Court. Working with a professionally trained mediator assists couples to identify their major issues, endeavouring to find mutually beneficial 58

resolutions. Mediation can save you time, legal fees and Court costs as well as possibly retain an amicable relationship moving forward. When you are co-parenting young children, it helps if you can both work together with the children’s best interests at heart. Resolutions are not automatically binding on the parties, but can be made binding if agreed and documented by a Binding Child Support Agreement, Consent Orders, Binding Financial Agreement or a combination.

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In children’s matters, the mediator will encourage both parties to view the dispute through the eyes and emotions of the child/children taking into account each child’s age and maturity. Mediation may not be appropriate if a dispute involves violence that renders one party unable to negotiate freely because of another’s threats. Talk to the mediator or your solicitor if you have concerns. To minimise the confrontation, it is not unusual to ask for separate rooms for the mediation session. During the mediation process, you are allowed to obtain legal advice at any stage to ensure you are making an informed decision.

So consider mediation as your first course of action when faced with the breakdown of a family. Your solicitor can talk you through the process and ascertain what is best for you and your family. Pippa Colman & Associates Solicitors 07 5458 9000 12/64 Sugar Road Maroochydore Q www.pippacolman.com

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inVest or LiVe riVerFront pentHouse apartments

For your free information pack CALL 07 5451 1080 www.thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au


100%

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LiVe witHin tHe Heart oF tHe CitY

tHe Beginning oF sometHing new

the skyView lifestyle combines the buzz of city

architecturally designed to exploit stunning river and

culture with the serene natural beauty of waterfront

mountain views whilst being shaded from the western sun.

living. enjoy kilometres of winding paths and

skyView is an exclusive boutique development epitomising

boardwalks along the river’s edge, and be revitalised

the best of contemporary design.

with a new sense of connectedness to both the natural and urban environments.

all thirteen apartments have been afforded a breathtaking river view from a private balcony with an ideal north-

with fine dining, galleries, shops and the CBD just

easterly aspect. most bedrooms also have a separate

a short walk away, all the best rockhampton has to

balcony retreat, allowing you to greet the morning with

offer is right within reach.

invigorating views. the first five floors contain two 2-Bedroom apartments per floor. the top three floors feature one penthouse apartment per level.

For your Free inFormAtion pACk CALL 07 5451 1080 www.thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au


Rockhampton

market benefits from economic diversity By teRRy RydeR, director, hotspotting.com.au

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All thirteen apartments have been afforded a breathtaking river view from a private balcony with an ideal north-easterly aspect.

hotspotting Report:

ockhampton appeals as an important Rockhampton regional city with a diverse economy, affordable real estate and good rental returns. Perhaps its greatest strength is that, while it receives some impact from the resources sector, it is less reliant on it than Mackay or Gladstone and benefits from having a more diverse economy than its regional neighbours. Rockhampton services the cattle industry and markets itself as “the Beef Capital of Australia”. It is also the gateway to Capricorn Coast tourist attractions and a centre for manufacturing, mining and the military. The State Government’s Queensland Infrastructure Plan names Rockhampton as the primary service centre for Central Queensland. The population of Rockhampton is projected to reach 113,000 within 20 years. Agriculture, education and resources are key features in Rockhampton’s economy. The region’s biggest employer is construction, with 11.5% of all jobs. The next four biggest job providers are health & social care (10.3%), retail (10%), accommodation & food services (8%), and education & training (7%). Other major employers include transport, postal & warehousing, agriculture, forestry and fishing. The Central Queensland economy has year-round production of coffee, hydroponic lettuces, basil, pineapple, silver beet and scallops, and seasonal output of oranges, lemons, lychees, banana prawns and mud crabs. The Fitzroy region produces 46% of Queensland’s peas, 43% of the state’s lupins, 41% of the rice and 47% of all table grapes grown in Queensland. Queensland Rail has a large workforce in the city, which is the meeting point for the main north coast rail line and the line to the major coalfields to the west. Rockhampton Airport services the City of Rockhampton and Central Queensland, with regular flights to Brisbane, Gladstone, Mackay, Townsville, Cairns and the Gold Coast. There is also the coal-fired 1,440mw Stanwell Power Station, 30km west of Rockhampton. The Australian Defence Force carries out extensive training exercises at Shoalwater Bay, 75km north-east of Rockhampton. The merger of Central Queensland University and Central Queensland TAFE in 2014 means Rockhampton has a strong reputation in education Rockhampton is serviced by Rockhampton Base Hospital and two private hospitals. Visitors inject $525 million of direct expenditure into Rockhampton region each year, supporting 5,600 jobs. The Great Keppel Island Group and the beaches at Yeppoon are main drawcards. Most suburbs have long-term growth rates (average annual rise in median house prices over the past ten years) around 6-7%, which reflects strong growth from 2004 to 2008, followed by some decline in 2009 and 2010. The market is now moving into the next growth phase. Yields are generally in the 5% to 6% band.

For your Free inFormAtion pACk CALL 07 5451 1080 www.thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au


tHe urBan Centre rockhampton is a city of thriving energy and activity with breathtaking scenery to match. Boasting an enviably sunny climate, and with the beautiful Capricorn Coast right on your doorstep, rockhampton offers a lifestyle that is unique and unparalled. rockhampton prides itself on its economic strength, with industries in tourism, agriculture, retail, mining, administration, construction and manufacturing, which opens up a diverse range of career and investment opportunities. emerging from a rich history of cattle farming and gold mines, rockhampton is the urban hub of Central queensland. Featuring

sKYView riVerFront pentHouse apartments • Thirteen boutique apartments • Exclusive views of the Fitzroy River • 1 kilometre from the CBD • Fine dining, galleries, shops and the CBD just a short walk away

boutique shopping, theatre galleries, and a growing cafe culture, the CBD continues to evolve as a vibrant lifestyle destination.

For your free information pack CALL 07 5451 1080 www.thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au


JUDY ELSWORTHY

BUSINESS

JUDY IN HER ACTING DAYS

AN UNEXPECTED

ROLE WORDS CORIN KELLY PHOTOS REBECCA SMITH

How does a woman step off the stage and into the directorship of a polymer manufacturing business supplying the mining industry? “With a healthy dose of terror and a sense of humour,” according to Judy Elsworthy, who, following the death of her husband Trevor, found herself with some very big boots to fill.

“I

knew nothing about dirt” says Judy, “And dirt is effectively the foundation of our business. I had to learn everything about the business from the ground up. But I do believe that a little bit of terror does you the world of good.” Judy and Trevor’s love story began when they met in a Chinese restaurant in Perth in 2001. But shortly after they were married, they received the devastating news Trevor had liver cancer. Having started her working life as a nurse, Judy cared for him for nine years until he passed away. Weeks before his death, Trevor handed Judy the reigns of his business Australian Engineered Polymers (AEPOL) – a specialist manufacturer and supply company focusing on the development of smarter materials for agriculture, construction and mining industries. It was at this point that Judy put a lifetime of skills and achievements to the test. Having previously been at the helm of a successful communications and training business and a former recipient of the Telstra AusIndustry Business Woman of the Year and Canberra Business Woman of the Year awards along with a professional modeling and acting career, Judy pulled her considerable resources march 2016

together, giving her the confidence to step up to meet this new challenge. “I was terrified,” says Judy earnestly. “I had a broad idea of the business but when it came to actually running the whole show, it took six months before I felt it was under control. I could see straight away that the company needed modernising in terms of marketing and it needed a strong online presence. So in a sense, I had to move backwards before I could move forwards.” Having put these things in place, AEPOL did extremely well during the next 12 months and continues to perform strongly, something Judy is extremely proud of. “It wasn’t easy and it didn’t happen overnight,” she says. “I found myself at mine sites in my pink hard hat and steel-capped boots, ready to do business and the men would be looking over my shoulder for my

suppression to the mining industry. So what motivates her? “I needed to find something about polymers that interested me, something positive and exciting,” Judy explains. “And I did - I discovered what these products do from an environmental point of view and I became very focused on that. “By using polymer-based products on mining roads, the need to spray the roads

“I found myself at mine sites in my pink hard hat and steel-capped boots, READY to do business and the men would be looking over my shoulder for my BOSS.” boss. I felt like they were going to ask me to make them a cup of tea,” says Judy. “When I encountered this the first time, Trevor was still alive and I asked him ‘what am I going to do?’ and he said ‘well, you better do your thing’. So I did. I played to my strengths, stood up tall and told them ‘I’m doing this and you need to deal with me now’, and they were always apologetic, they don’t see many women on site and just had no idea.” Judy’s previous career, training diplomats overseas and enthralling audiences on stage, seems a far cry from selling and manufacturing spray polymers for dust

with water four or five times a day disappears and the maintenance on these roads is also greatly reduced. Our other product is a dust suppressant that is enormously important for coal mining regions. Wherever you are digging holes and blowing things up, dust becomes an environment and health issue. “Another very exciting potential application for our polymers is in the management of asbestos. A polymer spray can act as an encapsulating coating and an entire house can be sprayed. We are only now beginning to discover all the uses for this smart material and its benefits to industry and the environment.” profilemagazine

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REAL ESTATE

DRESS UP YOUR HOME

“Update your cushions on the lounge to give new COLOUR and CONTRAST to the room – an inexpensive way of giving the room a LIFT.”

WORDS SUE GODFREY, THE ART OF PROPERTY STAGING

If a picture paints a thousand words, you want to make sure photographs of your home when on the market are picture-perfect. Here are some helpful tips to consider when dressing your home for sale.

LIVING ROOMS • Remove unnecessary furniture – lessen the amount in a room • Centre the arrangement with a floor rug ensuring the pieces of furniture are on the rug • Make sure furniture does not block any entry/exit points/windows – create an easy walk through flow. • Remove window dressing if it is heavy and blocking light. It is best to have no window coverings than something that will draw the attention to the buyers and especially if it is blocking natural light. • Remove personal items such as family photos/cards. • Update your cushions on the lounge to give new colour and contrast to the room – an inexpensive way of giving the room a lift. • Minimise the amount of items you may have on your coffee table or TV units – keep it simple – less will give the room a larger feeling.

BATHROOMS • Remove all personal items including things like shampoo/body washes etc. unless these are designer bottles matching. If the bench suits, perhaps place a nice package soap and a small pot plant. • Remove floor mats. • Buy new towels – keep within your colour scheme of the bathroom but the safe option is neutral such as whites/taupes/ greys. Patterned towels are striking but make sure they do not clash with your tiles and benchtops. Fold the towels by bringing the edges to the centre then fold back a third of the way and place over the towel rail to give bulk and no edges showing.

KITCHENS • Keep your benches clear of items other than a nice coffee maker. All other appliances should be put away. • Remove all fridge magnets/children’s drawings etc from fridges. • Place a simple arrangement of one colour fruit in a bowl on the bench or perhaps a nice wooden bread board with a couple of colourful bowls and small plates. • Pots of herbs or flowers can work but it must suit the room and they must look healthy! Fresh is best.

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profilemagazine

SIMPLE ARRANGEMENTS OF FLOWERS CAN ADD A FRESH TOUCH TO THE ROOM

BEDROOMS • Remove any furniture other than the bed and side tables if your bedrooms are standard size. If the room is very large then other furniture pieces may work, such as a chair or dresser. • Keep the master bedroom neutral. You want to create a feeling of relaxation and calm. This room is viewed as a sanctuary, somewhere people escape to after a long day. • Avoid hot colours unless they are incorporated into accessories. • Try to keep it plain with quilt covers. Busy covers will draw attention to the bed and will make the room feel smaller. They are also harder to dress with cushions/throws etc. • Make sure your bedside tables have minimum items. • Match your bedside lamps and try to stick with light shades. • Remove all personal photos and items. • Choose artwork that brings the room together or perhaps a mirror may work. Check to see what is reflected in the mirror before placing. profilemag.com.au


av r Gr er e e re age tu at tu i r rn nv n of es s 5. tm 7% en t

RaRE INvESTmENT OppORTuNITy

in the heart of nambour NOW SELLINg

Villas on Image This modern complex is ideally located adjacent to Nambour’s ever expanding hospital precinct. Each of the 28 generous 2 and 3 bedroom townhouses features 2 bathrooms, large study area, private courtyard and the 3 bedroom units have an extra car park.

28 SpacIOuS & mOdERN apaRTmENTS from $315,000

For your free information pack CALL 07 5451 1080 www.thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au


PROFILE

NAMBOUR

on the move

Throughout the early establishment of the Sunshine Coast, Nambour was the thriving epicentre of the region. But during the early 1960s, as the Coast grew and Maroochydore became the central location, Nambour experienced a downturn and was no longer the beating heart of the region – but all that is about to change.

T

he hinterland town of Nambour is now in the early stages of a long-awaited revival. In late 2013, major businesses began moving back into the area, and throughout 2015, savvy entrepreneurs saw the potential in Nambour and set up in town, and a host of existing shopfronts underwent extensive refurbishments. The biggest turning point was in October 2015, when Sunshine Coast Council endorsed the Nambour Activation Plan, giving the community the green light to reactivate the Hinterland town. “Nambour has already embraced increased business investment and the final Nambour Activation Plan further empowers the business sector and community to use their innovative ideas to build on Nambour’s strengths,” Divisional Councillor Greg Rogerson says. “The plan has been developed as a collaborative project by the Nambour Project Working Group – consisting of local residents, members of the business and notfor-profit communities, education leaders, clergy and the Nambour Alliance – and is a culmination of previous planning and projects, community aspirations, and the outcomes of recent community consultation. “Based on the feedback received, the plan

places more significance on being family and pedestrian friendly, improving the ‘look, feel and lovability’ of Nambour, and the importance of building on existing cultural and heritage assets.”

The plan idenTifies four key sTraTegic projecTs:

· Creating Petrie Creek as a major pedestrian and green spine · The Nambour Heritage Tramway Project · Investigation of a Nambour water splash park and leisure corridor · Connecting the town centre to the event hub at Nambour Showgrounds.

Cr Rogerson says one of the key recommendations is a funding request to undertake a $60,000 feasibility study for a water splash park in association with the Nambour Aquatic Centre, as part of 2016/17 budget considerations. “The study will explore a range of splash park elements, consider the traffic

management and car parking of the site and determine what might be viable,” he says. Cr Rogerson says the plan is a contemporary and creative approach to urban renewal and sets a framework to guide activation of businesses, streets and public places in Nambour. “The plan’s success relies on an ongoing collaborative approach and council looks forward to working with the community and focussing on opportunities to make Nambour an extraordinary place to live, work and play,” he says.

for invesTmenT opporTuniTies in The hearT of nambour call 07 5451 1080 or visiT www. ThinkinvesTmenTrealTy.com.au


av r Gr er e e re age tu at tu i r rn nv n of es s 5. tm 7% en t

Villas on Image rare investment opportunity in the heart of nambour

Invest Now 2 BEdROOm 2 BaThROOm + STudy from $315,000 3 BEdROOm 2 BaThROOm + STudy from $340,000 BuILdINg cOmpLETE & tenants in pLace

perfect for the investor, villas on Image offers the very latest in materials and fit out, and features large well appointed kitchen and bathrooms with generous room sizes and front and rear courtyards.

Location This quiet location in thriving Nambour hub of the Sunshine coast hinterland, is handy to the ever expanding hospital precinct, major shopping centre, train and bus station and a variety of educational and health care facilities. • Hospital • Aged Care • Bus interchange • Train Station • Shopping • Airport • Maroochydore

standard inclusions • Spacious Bedrooms • Impressive Kitchen • air conditioning • clothes dryer

• centre Robe + Storage • covered Outdoor Living area • Window coverings • dishwasher

• 2 Large Bathrooms • Remote Entry garage • Security screens

For your free information pack CALL 07 5451 1080 www.thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au

1km 900m 1.4km 2km 2.2km 17.5km 18km


NAMBOUR StANdS OUtS fOR

Affordability, Growth and Yields By Terry ryder, director, hotspotting.com.au

T

he Sunshine Coast is one of the strongest up-and-coming regional markets in Australia - and the inland town of Nambour is one of the strongest parts of it. Median prices have risen 9% for units and 7% for houses in the past 12 months, but the market remains one of the most affordable in the Sunshine Coast region. Rental yields are also strong, with a 6.8% median yield for units. Nambour, with a population around 10,000, is a comfortable drive to coastal shops, restaurants and nightlife – but it doesn’t really need to be, because Nambour is a self-contained regional centre, with an array of shopping, business, government and other services.

It’s the administrative centre for the Sunshine Coast Region. The Sunshine Coast Regional Council has its HQ in Nambour. State Government agencies in Nambour include Primary Industries, Natural Resources and Transport. The Nambour Civic Centre offers a 900-seat concert hall and a 200-seat theatre. Nambour General Hospital, a major regional hospital, recently had a $24 million expansion and employs around 2,500 people. It is currently the major hospital for the Sunshine Coast region (until the $2 billion Sunshine Coast University Hospital at Kawana is completed). Selangor Private Hospital is also at Nambour. Parmalat, a subsidiary of dairy giant Pauls,

“Nambour, overall, presents an attractive package to property investors: an affordable precinct backed by strong services and amenities, in a growth region, with low vacancies and strong rental returns.”

has a milk processing plant in Nambour, while the Department of Primary Industries Maroochy Research Station is nearby. Nambour has numerous primary and secondary schools - including Nambour Christian College, St Johns Catholic College, Nambour State High School and Burnside State School - plus the Sunshine Coast TAFE Nambour Centre. The key centres of Maroochydore and Mooloolaba, as well as the Sunshine Coast Airport where a $450 million upgrade is planned, are all within 20 minutes by road, while Noosa Heads is a 40-minute drive. Nambour has a busy property market, with over 200 houses sold in the past 12 months. Affordability is a key market driver. The median house price is $350,000, compared with the Sunshine Coast average around $500,000. The Nambour median has grown 7% in the past year. The median rental yield for houses is 5.6%. Rents are expected to remain strong, as the vacancy rate is below 1% (and has been consistently below 2% for the past three years). The unit market has recorded 60 sales in the past year at a median price of $245,000, up 9% in 12 months. This market has attractive rental returns, with a median yield of 6.8%. Nambour, overall, presents an attractive package to property investors: an affordable precinct backed by strong services and amenities, in a growth region, with low vacancies and strong rental returns.

for invesTmenT opporTuniTies in The hearT of nambour call 07 5451 1080 or visiT www. ThinkinvesTmenTrealTy.com.au


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