The Australian government has promised to crack down on excessive card surcharges costing shoppers millions of dollars every year.
The Reserve Bank of Australia reveals that Australians lose almost one million dollars to surcharges each year, with typical rates for credit cards falling between 1 and 1.5 per cent. Surcharges exist because businesses are charged a vendor fee each time a customer pays using a credit or debit card. Under Australian consumer law, these businesses are allowed to apply surcharges to cover the cost from providers such as Visa, Mastercard and Square. However, it can’t be higher than what they are being charged.
In October this year, the government announced that it was providing $2.1 million in funding to the Australian Competition and Consumer
A thriving new industry
The Western Australian government wants to expand the Kununurra’s Ord River Irrigation Area from 28,000 hectares to 50,000 hectares as part of a major 10-year strategy.
According to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, the strategy aims to encourage agricultural growth by creating more fertile land for producers. The Ord Valley is mostly used to grow horticultural crops including melons, pumpkins and mangoes, but research has shown that cotton growing could be a successful venture due to the dry conditions.
Additionally, the Ord River Irrigation Area is connected to Lake Argyle, which is the biggest water storage facility in Australia. It holds more than 20 times the amount of water in Sydney Harbour, meaning producers in the region can access 17 megalitres of water per hectare per year.
Commission to fight excessive surcharges, stating it is working towards banning debit card surcharges from 2026, while ensuring small businesses are protected.
“Consumers shouldn’t be punished for using cards or digital payments, and at the same time, small businesses shouldn’t have to pay hefty fees just to get paid themselves,” says Treasurer Jim Chalmers.
While big brands can often negotiate cheaper rates with providers, small businesses are left paying higher surcharge rates for their sales. Despite living in the digital age, the economy is yet to catch up.
As the cost of living crisis continues to impact Aussie families, many are left frustrated at the additional fees continuing to add up on purchases. The government hopes that by banning
Land values in this region have rapidly increased over the past decade, mostly due to the potential for cotton production. However, in order for the proposed expansion to go ahead, land clearing approvals need to be obtained. This is complicated by the presence of endangered species in the area, including several native plants. Work needs to be done to ensure the protection of these species before development can begin.
The current construction of a new cotton processing gin in the Ord River region, intended to be completed half way through next year, will increase local production capabilities. The Western Australian government is hopeful that more jobs can be created, supporting a strong economy and a booming agricultural sector.
debit surcharges – a move that wouldn’t apply to credit cards –shoppers can feel confident they are benefiting from lower prices.
Stephen Jones, Minister for Financial Services and Assistant Treasurer, states “this is good news for consumers and for small business owners and will help our payment systems keep up with the digital economy.”
EMPOWERING REGIONAL BUSINESSES
An Interview with David Taylor, CEO of BusinessHub
For over two decades, BusinessHub has been providing cloud software solutions across Australia. Over this time, the award-winning team have become well regarded as ERP experts. Here we speak to CEO of BusinessHub, David Taylor, about what regional businesses can gain from implementing or improving their cloud software.
Q: As we know, regional businesses face many unique challenges. What inspired you to focus on bringing MYOB Acumatica to these businesses?
A: Regional businesses are the backbone of Australia, and every year they face tough hurdles – especially those using outdated systems. Our team aims to help businesses to simplify their operations, gain greater visibility, and scale confidently.
Q: What are the biggest pain points that you have identified across regional industries?
A: Managing inventory and logistics. Many agricultural resellers need to track equipment, monitor stock levels, and ensure timely deliveries.
Traditional systems simply can’t offer the real-time data needed to make informed decisions.
Compliance is a major challenge too, with complex, ever-changing regulations. MYOB Acumatica streamlines this by automating reporting and ensuring accurate, up-to-date data.
Another big issue is connectivity. It’s not uncommon for regional businesses to have teams across multiple locations. They need to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Q: ERP technology can sometimes feel intimidating, especially for businesses that are used to older systems. How do you support this transition?
A: Change can feel overwhelming, but we pride ourselves on making a transition to new software smooth. We conduct a system audit and customise MYOB Acumatica to fit a company’s processes. We also provide training to their teams and offer ongoing support.
Q: What are some standout features of MYOB Acumatica that regional businesses love?
A: Flexibility is the standout. MYOB
Acumatica isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Businesses can add modules and processes depending on their needs.
Real-time insights is another. Many businesses rely on gut instinct to make decisions, which isn’t ideal.
Q: What excites you about the future of ERP in regional Australia?
A: I’m excited about seeing regional businesses thrive. Our goal is to empower them with tools that simplify success.
Q: For businesses interested in exploring MYOB Acumatica, where should they start?
A: Visit us at BusinessHub.com.au or give me a call directly on my mobile: 0412 764 178. I’m always up for a chat! It’s a privilege to support businesses that keep Australia running.
POWERING THE FUTURE: THE SUSTAINABLE JOURNEY OF AUSTRALIAN POWER EQUIPMENT
For the Directors of Australian Power Equipment (APE), Abby Crawford and Andrew Cockbain, the past year has been a period of growth, success, and sustainability-driven innovation.
From strengthening supply chains to receiving industry accolades, APE has been at the forefront of the renewable energy and resources sector. “It’s been a huge year,” says Abby. “We’ve been travelling across the globe – Milan, New York, Istanbul, Surabaya and right across Australia – working closely with suppliers to meet the growing demand for power solutions in the resource and renewables sectors.
A YEAR OF RECOGNITION AND SUSTAINABILITY
The duo’s work has been well rewarded. APE earned a 2024 Australian Enterprise Award and |made it onto the Financial Review ’s ‘Top 100 Fast Growers’ list.
These accomplishments are the result of a relentless focus on sustainability and innovation, particularly in the realm of the circular economy.
“We’re passionate about reducing waste and finding ways to repurpose equipment,” says Abby. “A circular economy model is one of our most significant achievements this year. By refurbishing retired equipment and repurposing it for new
projects, we’re not only creating more sustainable power solutions, but also supporting local businesses and reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing new products.”
APE’s dedication to sustainability has resulted in tangible impacts. For instance, the company recently repurposed equipment for a renewable energy client, which was destined for landfill.
“Manufacturing a new product would have taken more than 10 months and required extensive international shipping,” Abby says. “Instead, we identified existing equipment from a client who was closing a division and avoided 12.5 tonnes of waste.”
The repurposed equipment was delivered in just nine weeks – far faster than the 10 or so months it would have taken to manufacture.
This initiative resulted in significant cost savings, ultimately reducing the company’s expenses by 75 per cent. It
also helped avoid the environmental impacts associated with new manufacturing and long-distance transportation.
The benefits didn’t end there. Local businesses were employed for refurbishing, engineering and certifying the equipment, further contributing to the Australian economy. Most importantly, it accelerated the client’s solar farm project, enabling renewable energy to flow sooner.
WILDLIFE WARRIORS: CONSERVATION IS KEY
APE’s commitment to sustainability continues beyond the equipment it supplies. The company is deeply invested in Australian wildlife conservation, with a particular focus on protecting our native species and their precious habitats.
“We’re proud to have been sponsoring Aussie Ark for three years, supporting its incredible work in
THIS PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT: THE ICONIC AUSTRALIAN PLATYPUS – APE IS DEDICATED TO CONSERVING AUSTRALIAN ANIMALS (IMAGE COURTESY OF RICK STEVENS); ANDREW COCKBAIN AND ABBY CRAWFORD OF APE.
wildlife rehabilitation and conservation,” Abby says.
“Our contributions help ensure the organisation’s stability, allowing it to invest in crucial resources and staff.”
One of APE’s conservation efforts is investment in the Broad-Headed Python Project, which involves funding an Indigenous ranger to manage the project. This initiative ensures the protection of a species that plays a critical role in Australia’s ecosystem.
Additionally, APE has partnered with the Taronga Conservation Society to support its Platypus Project. APE’s funding has enabled Taronga Zoo Sydney to hire a dedicated Platypus Project Lead who
is responsible for developing husbandry, operational, and scientific guidelines at a purpose-built refuge and research facility.
This work not only supports the conservation of the iconic platypus, but also contributes valuable data to broader conservation strategies for the species. APE’s involvement allows for field work and hands-on wild animal handling that further enhances the understanding of this unique native Australian animal.
BUILDING A LEGACY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
Looking beyond the present, Abby and Andrew are deeply committed to leaving a lasting legacy.
“It’s something we talk about often,” Abby says. “Our efforts today are about more than just running a successful business. We want to leave behind a legacy that inspires future generations to take responsibility for the environment and drive innovation in the power industry.”
The pair’s vision is built upon four pillars: empowering future generations, promoting sustainable
“We hope to be remembered not just as leaders in the power industry, but also as a company that truly cares for the planet and the people living on it.”
business practices, enriching communities, and inspiring a global movement.
“We want to show that profitability and environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand,” Abby says.
“Our work is testament to the fact that businesses can be economically successful and environmentally conscious at the same time.”
Beyond its contribution to wildlife conservation, APE is focused on the communities it operates in, aiming to enrich the lives of people as well as protect the environment.
“We hope to be remembered not just as leaders in the power industry, but also as a company that truly cares for the planet and the people living on it,” Abby says.
As Abby and Andrew take a well-deserved break over the festive season, their eyes remain firmly on the future. They’ve laid the groundwork for a legacy that prioritises sustainability, empowers the next generation, and leaves a lasting positive impact on both the environment and the global business community. The hope is that their example will inspire others around the world to follow suit, ensuring a cleaner, greener planet for generations to come.
WHAT UNDERGROUND ACOUSTICS REVEAL ABOUT SOIL HEALTH
Words: Matilda Meikle
THIS PAGE: ACOUSTICS CAN HELP EXPERTS MONITOR SOIL HEALTH; DR. JAKE ROBINSON, LEAD RESEARCHER.
Recordings of underground acoustics can help experts determine the health of our soil, according to a new study.
The report, led by ecologists from Flinders University, found that soundscapes barely audible to human ears can be used to identify the diversity of life living in soil. This has major implications for monitoring and protecting soil health in the future.
IMPORTANCE OF SOIL HEALTH
Currently, 75 per cent of the world’s soil is degraded, threatening the multitude of living creatures that make their habitats underground. In fact, almost 60 per cent of the Earth’s species live in this secret ecosystem. According to the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, soil microorganisms and microfauna transform organic and inorganic materials into food for other plants and animals, acting as a vital part of their ecosystems and the food chain.
Dr. Jake Robinson, from the Frontiers of Restoration Ecology Lab at Flinders University, believes this reveals why it is vital for experts to continue monitoring this environment.
“Restoring and monitoring soil biodiversity has never been more important,” he says.
“Although still in its early stages, ‘eco-acoustics’ is emerging as a promising tool to detect and monitor soil biodiversity and has now been used in Australian bushland and other ecosystems in the UK.”
DIGGING DEEP
The study, which took place in the Mount Bold region of South Australia, compared results from acoustic monitoring of vegetation plots from 15 years ago, which were revegetated after a period of degradation.
ENVIRONMENT
THIS
PAGE: DR. JAKE ROBINSON AND THE TEAM EXAMINE SOIL HEALTH; AN EXPLAINATION OF THE MONITORING SYSTEM.
Using a variety of tools and indices for passive acoustic monitoring, the team was able to measure soil health over five days in the chosen region, tracking several important factors. In order to record invertebrates in the soil, below-ground sampling devices and sound attenuation chambers were utilised.
“It’s clear acoustic complexity and diversity of our samples are associated with soil invertebrate abundance – from earthworms and beetles, to ants and spiders – and it seems to be a clear reflection of soil health,” says Dr. Robinson.
“All living organisms produce sounds, and our preliminary results suggest different soil organisms make different sound profiles depending on their activity, shape, appendages and size.
“This technology holds promise in addressing the global need for more effective soil biodiversity monitoring methods to protect our planet’s most diverse ecosystems.”
ACOUSTIC ANSWERS
The study has been published in the Journal of Applied Ecology, and researchers hope it will encourage further focus on soil monitoring and underground acoustics.
“The acoustic complexity and diversity are significantly higher in revegetated and remnant plots than in cleared plots, both in-situ and in sound attenuation chambers,” says Dr. Robinson.
“Acoustic complexity and diversity are significantly associated with soil invertebrate abundance and richness.”
By establishing a measure of soil health and numbers of invertebrates, experts may be able to effectively protect this overlooked ecosystem in the future.
“All living organisms produce sounds, and our preliminary results suggest different soil organisms make different sound profiles depending on their activity, shape, appendages and size.”
A winning formula at Winmark Wines
Karin Adcock is the owner of Winmark Wines, an award-winning vineyard and beautiful property in the heart of the Hunter Valley. We spoke to her about her journey building the business from the soil up.
What drew you to the Pooles Rock property back in 2016?
It wasn’t until I set foot on the property that I ever envisioned launching my own wine brand. I went to look at the property as an investment – a place to have in the country that was close to Sydney. But the sheer beauty of the property, the breathtaking backdrop of the Yellow Rock escarpment, and the state of neglect that the historical vines were in, were all contributing factors. I’m a businesswoman at heart and the opportunity to give new life to the vineyard and renovate the three fabulous homes on the estate, all made sense to me.
How did you recruit your team?
I’m always a believer that you should hire the best you can afford, which is how I came to hire my three viticultural and oenological experts: John Belsham, who is an international wine maker, viticulturist Liz Riley, and vineyard manager Dave Grosser. All three are at the top of their game in the industry, and shared my motivation
for returning the property to prosperity. They’re also all equally passionate about chardonnay and its ability to thrive in Broke Fordwich, and on the Winmark Estate in particular.
What are some of your greatest achievements since starting the business?
In 2023 at our local wine industry awards night, Winmark Wines was named Hunter Valley Cellar Door of the Year, ahead of all the longestablished cellar doors. It really was such an honour and more of a surprise than anything.
The same year we signed our first distribution agreement for our wines to be sold to the trade in Sydney, so it felt like it was all coming together after a few short years of incredibly hard work and little distribution. The icing on the cake was when I got a call just a month later from Halliday – the bible of the Australian wine industry –to suggest that I came to their annual award night in Melbourne as Winmark had been Shortlisted for Best New Winery. I almost fell off my chair. We didn’t win, but to be named THIS PAGE: POOLES ROCK ON THE WINMARK PROPERTY; WINMARK PRODUCES FOUR AMAZING CHARDONNAY WINES.
in the Top 8 Best New Wineries for 2024 gave me immense satisfaction. Furthermore, we are now a 5 Star Halliday Winery. This is true testament to the quality of the four chardonnay wines that we offer at our Cellar Door.
What has been the most challenging moment so far?
Every day is a challenge in the wine industry, economically and environmentally. We’ve experienced bushfires, a pandemic, floods, an
economic downturn, you name it!
But we remain strong and committed to doing the absolute best we can. It is very important that we continue to give a consistently exceptional experience
Where did the idea of your sculpture trail begin?
We often talk about Winmark as “A place to connect”. A place to connect with nature, art, friends, family and yourself. Everyone who knows me, knows that I have an ingrained passion for art and design, I guess that’s the Dane in me, and my jewellery background – starting Pandora in Australia is evidence of that.
THIS PAGE: CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: THE STUNNING SCULPTURE TRAIL; WINMARK CELLAR DOOR; MIO MONTE PROPERTY; KARIN ADCOCK, OWNER AND ENTREPRENEUR
Wine is also an art form to me, so the bringing together of all forms of art on my beautiful property just seemed to make sense. The sculpture park now has 25 pieces and is so complementary to our art gallery and cellar door.
How do you decide which talented artists to showcase in the art gallery?
I spend a lot of time travelling the world looking for known and lesserknown artists to represent. I go with my heart and my knowledge of both the gallery and the clientele. Many of our artists love to collaborate with us too, and bringing artists to us in a residence program that we’ve been evolving has created great interest.
What is your favourite Winmark Wines chardonnay?
Chardonnay is a natural fit at Winmark, as the Broke-Fordwich sill and climate is perfectly suited to premium chardonnay growing. We have some of the oldest vines in the region, and the clones from the former Penfolds clone seem to thrive.
But choosing my favourite is like choosing my favourite daughter, and I have three! I really can’t pick my favourite; they are all so lovely for different reasons. But it often depends on how I’m feeling or what I’m eating. If it’s just a relaxing glass after a day’s work, I really can’t go past Rusty’s Run as it’s a lovely lightly oaked style that works perfectly as an aperitif, and it really doesn’t need food. If I’m entertaining, I show off our best of the best – our Icon 7 2, which is made from only 18 rows of fruit and given absolute royal treatment. Then my two middle children are so different – one so Burgundian, the other so naturally expressive of our vineyard. You really can’t go wrong!
THIS PAGE: EXPERTS FROM UNSW’S CENTRE FOR ECOSYSTEM SCIENCE HAVE DISCOVERED A METHOD FOR ACCURATELY COUNTING HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF FLAMINGOS IN BOTSWANA USING AI.
COUNTING FLAMINGO POPULATIONS USING AI
words: Matilda Meikle
Conservation scientists are employing the power of artificial intelligence to count flamingo populations in Botswana.
Experts from UNSW’s Centre for Ecosystem Science have discovered a method of accurately counting hundreds of thousands of flamingos in Botswana using AI. The study was recently published in the journal Global Ecology and Conservation, completed using aerial photos of the northern basin of Sua Pan and the eastern pan in the Makgadikgadi Pans. Taken in 2019, these images enabled researchers to determine there were 532,197 flamingos in total living in the pans.
Given this area is one of the largest salt pans in the world, collecting accurate population numbers has been an elusive task since the 1970s. The recent UNSW count is the first estimate of flamingos in the area for a decade.
HARNESSING THE POWER OF TECHNOLOGY
There are currently two species of flamingo inhabiting Africa, the lesser flamingo Phoeniconaias minor and the greater flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus. These pink birds live on large salt lakes, feeding on microscopic algae and invertebrates. They achieve this by straining the water and catching their food with special comb-like structures lining their beaks.
In order to determine the number of flamingos in the area, the team input 3,715 images into a machine learning system. The pictures were taken by a Cessna aeroplane that flew at a height of 500-600 metres above the pans.
To gather an accurate estimate, the scientists needed to monitor the overlapping of photos on the margins and ‘teach’ the system to recognise pink dots as flamingos. This was a challenging task largely due to turbulence which impacted the stability of the plane, and thus the stability of the images.
However, when compared to a researcher who manually counted each individual dot across several of the photos, it was found that machine learning was equally effective at numbering the birds.
Sophie Yang, a researcher from the Centre for Ecosystem Science, led the study and developed the new analysis technique.
“It was quite a challenge to organise so many photographs across such a largely featureless landscape,” she explains.
“Given some restraints during data collection, we had to partition the dataset to account for the variation in overlap between photographs.”
A SPECIES UNDER THREAT
Citizen scientist Mike Holding was the man behind the project’s origins. With the help of others, he rigged up the plane and flew it systematically over the pans.
“Previous flamingo counts in Botswana have been done manually from photographs – a painstaking and lengthy process. The use of AI technology is groundbreaking for
“Previous flamingo counts in Botswana have been done manually from photographs – a painstaking and lengthy process. The use of AI technology is groundbreaking for assessing flamingo and other bird species’ numbers.”
assessing flamingo and other bird species’ numbers,” he says.
Currently, the pans are one of only six major breeding sites for lesser flamingos, and Sua Pan is one of the most important breeding sites in Africa. This is because these birds are classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Flamingos require very specific breeding conditions, including the right amount of flooding to create an island of mud for raising chicks, removed from the threat of predators. However, current protections of the Makgadikgadi Pans are insufficient, leading to threats from adventure tourism developments, dam building and other human-related activities.
According to Professor Richard Kingsford, co-author of the study, “these fragile environments must be protected if we are to conserve these incredible birds, which are an
important part of these rare ecosystems and a major tourist attraction.”
“We need to protect the flooding regime, by making sure water from the Nata River in the north and other rivers to the Makgadikgadi Pans, such as the Boteti River, are maintained.”
In order to track levels of flooding, the team used satellite technology. Researcher Dr Roxane Francis says “we were able to use available satellite imagery to investigate the frequency of the pans filling from rivers and local rainfall, giving us a good idea of their likely importance for breeding and feeding flamingos.”
If Sua Pan is to be protected as a sustainable feeding and breeding habitat, regular monitoring is vital. Researchers are hopeful that their AI method of counting birds can simplify future surveying and protect these beautiful animals.
THIS PAGE: FLAMINGOS ON THE RUN; SUA PAN IN BOTSWANA.
THERE’S NOTHING HOTTER THAN SAUCE
Words: Matilda Meikle
THIS PAGE: DECLICIOUS CHILLI OFFERINGS FROM THE FERMENTALISTS.
Australia’s hot sauce industry is reaching new levels of innovation and flavour, with companies continuing to push the boundaries of possibility.
What once was a small industry has since boomed into a phenomenon of artisan producers, using the best produce and processes for a new era of spice.
We spoke to leading Aussie hot sauce brands about what inspired them to start their chilli journey, and what sets them apart from other products on the market.
THE FERMENTALISTS
After years of experimenting with coffee, beer and food, the team at The Fermentalists decided to try their hand at fermenting chillies. Using natural processes, they managed to extract the characteristic complex flavours of fermentation,
resulting in sauces and condiments that take a meal to the next level.
According to best mates Chris and Kosta, “it was initially a weekend hobby, but positive feedback from friends and family encouraged us to continue developing new recipes and expand the range.”
Now, customers can choose from a popular collection of sauces, oils and jams that strike a perfect balance between heat and flavour.
“We don’t want our products to be hot for the sake of being hot,” explain Chris and Kosta. “We want to make sauces and condiments that can be enjoyed every day – not burn your tastebuds!”
They’re committed to developing products that everyone can enjoy, which is why they are vegan friendly, gluten-free, and contain no added sugars. The versatile range is
“An incredible amount of work goes into fermented hot sauce. It takes 4-6 weeks of monitoring and development, which allows for immense flavours to develop.”
designed to pair with any dish, and the duo are constantly experimenting with new flavour combinations.
“There aren’t many dishes that wouldn’t pair well with at least one of our sauces or condiments. Having said that, we can’t go past pairing our Chilli Jam with a beautifully cooked steak, stirring our Habanero Chilli Oil through a tomato and basil spaghetti, or adding a dollop of Fermented Chillies to a panini.”
When asked what’s next, the pair explain that they’re focused on expanding range and distribution.
“We will continue to experiment with new flavour combinations and unique product formats that enable you to quickly and easily add a hit of flavour to your meals. We have also started working with some amazing distribution partners and will continue to find ways to ensure we are available in more stores.”
NOMAD CHILLI CO
Having spent several years as head chef at a local Latin restaurant, Nomad Chilli Co founder Gavin Roberts was involved in importing lots of sauces from Mexico
“Despite being authentic, I wasn’t happy with the long list of ingredients on the back,” he explains. “They were full of unnecessary additives, but I wanted to reproduce the great flavour of Mexican sauces using a natural process.”
He spent four years perfecting recipes and sauces at the restaurant, before establishing his own company in July 2022. Using lacto-fermentation processes, the range at Nomad Chilli Co is unlike any other hot sauce on the market.
“An incredible amount of work goes into fermented hot sauce. It takes four to six weeks of
monitoring and development, which allows for immense flavours."
Gavin is passionate about the depth of flavour in his range of products, believing heat comes second to taste.
“Our sauces pair incredibly well with any type of Latin food, due to the predominant ingredients being Mexican-based such as tomatillo, guajillo and pasilla. Our Tamarind Gold is a great hot sauce for barbecued meats, while our Watermelon and Lemon Myrtle pairs amazingly with seafood, particularly grilled prawns and calamari. In fact, there’s even a restaurant in Kyneton that uses it in their spicy watermelon margarita cocktail.”
Nomad Chilli Co is currently experimenting with a BBQ sauce and fermented hot honey, with hopes of releasing these products in the next few months.
“I like to think of our hot sauce as a culmination of my time spent travelling through Latin America and my time as a head chef,” says Gavin. “We want people to explore hot sauces as a condiment, and there’s nothing better than seeing their faces light up after they try our sauces for the first time.”
THIS PAGE: NOMAD CHILLI CO'S WIDE RANGE OF HOT SAUCES.
KNOX COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Knox Grammar School, nestled in the leafy surrounds of Wahroonga, Sydney, is proud to have built an extensive community that stretches across regional New South Wales and overseas. We have celebrated our centenary this year and our connections with this community remain central to who we are. Many of our boarders share ties with former Knox students – whether they be brothers, fathers, or uncles. Some of these links date back to the school’s very first boarders in 1924.
We cherish these lifelong relationships, especially as we welcome former students back as staff and mentors in the Knox Boarding Centre. Peter Li, from China, is one such Old Boy. After graduating in 2019, Peter returned to Knox as an intern Science teacher and also served as Assistant Head of Stage 6 Boarding. While pursuing Bachelor of Secondary Education and Bachelor of Science degrees at the University of Sydney, Peter contributed significantly to the school community.
Reflecting on his time at Knox, Peter says, “Unlike many students who work hard from the start of Year 11, my experience in that year – the year I joined Knox – was rather disorienting. Being in a new country was much more challenging than I had anticipated. The cultural differences, new academic environment, and being away from home created a whirlwind of emotions.”
He continues, “The staff at Knox were incredibly supportive. Regular
TOP TO BOTTOM: PETER IN THE CLASSROOM WITH YEAR 11 STUDENTS – ARCHER FROM DUBBO, NSW, DARREN FROM HONG KONG AND TORRON FROM GRIFFITH, NSW; PETER LI – A FORMER KNOX BOARDER FROM CHINA, NOW STUDYING EDUCATION AND WORKING WITH YEAR 11 AND YEAR 12 STUDENTS IN KNOX BOARDING.
check-ins, academic guidance, and personal support helped me navigate through this transition.”
Peter’s journey at Knox has deeply influenced his decision to pursue teaching. “It was through these experiences that I understood the power of empathy and support. I made a promise to myself that I would strive to be a source of light for others, offering help whenever it’s needed. This commitment ultimately inspired my choice of teaching as a profession.”
Knox isn’t just about academics –it’s about character building and exploring every opportunity to fulfil one’s potential. This is a philosophy Peter embraced as a student and now personifies as a teacher.
In addition to the academic benefits, boarding at Knox offers regional boys the chance to broaden their horizons by connecting with peers from around the globe. It’s not just international students who benefit from this cultural exchange; Australian students gain valuable insights into other cultures, fostering a more global perspective.
Online applications for Knox Boarding Scholarships for boys from regional areas open on 11 November 2024 and close on 5 February 2025, with exams held in Sydney and Dubbo in February 2025.
To learn more about Boarding at Knox, we encourage you to tour the Boarding House when you’re next in Sydney. Alternatively, you can contact Martin Gooding, Head of Engagement, at 02 9473 9768 or goodingm@knox.nsw.edu.au to discuss how Knox Boarding could support your family.
Online applications for Knox Boarding Scholarships for boys from regional areas open on 11 November 2024 with exams to be held in Sydney and Dubbo in February 2025. Scholarship details at www.knox.nsw.edu.au/enrolments/scholarships.
Find out more about Knox Boarding
Contact Martin Gooding, Head of Community Engagement, on 02 9473 9768 or email goodingm@knox.nsw.edu.au
THREE CHARITIES TO SUPPORT AS THE YEAR COMES TO AN END
Words: Matilda Meikle
With Christmas around the corner, now is the time to consider how you can help the people around you. These three incredible Aussie charities work hard to advocate for those in need. From food drives to school presentations, discover all the ways they are changing lives, and what you can do to help.
THE BIG UMBRELLA
The Big Umbrella (TBU) has been making and serving hearty meals to those
experiencing food insecurity and homelessness since 2010. Today, the team of 46,400 volunteers has served a total of 420,000 meals using rescued ingredients and produce.
TBU’s main initiative is Feed Melbourne, a supportive and safe space for those experiencing homelessness in Melbourne to gather for friendly conversation and a delicious meal, located in Federation Square. All dishes are created in the Brunswick commercial kitchen before being transferred and served by welcoming volunteers.
DONATE HERE
THIS PAGE: TOP TO BOTTOM: TBU VOLUNTEERS WORKING IN THE URBAN FARM; THE TBU BRUNSWICK KITCHEN; YOUNG PEOPLE LEARNING WITH BEACON.
Behind the TBU kitchen is an urban farm stretching 750 square metres, where the volunteers access lots of fresh produce to be used in cooking. Here, the formerly disused land has been transformed into an abundant farm run entirely on solar panels and fertilised using food scraps from the kitchen. TBU is always looking for new volunteers to cook and serve the delicious free meals, or to get their hands dirty in the garden.
TBU also runs corporate team building programs, where businesses are invited to send their staff to the Brunswick kitchen where they help cook restaurant-quality meals to be served at the Feed Melbourne base. Along the way, staff will also learn all about the importance of being environmentally and socially conscious.
BEACON FOUNDATION
Beacon Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation working with young people to help them find the aspiration, motivation and skills they need to gain valuable career opportunities. The
charity believes every student has the right to equally access work, education, and post-school pathways. For more than 35 years, it has been delivering career-ready programs all across the country, particularly targeting schools with teens from low socio-educational backgrounds. The organisation offers short day-long courses, as well as multisession programs. The short courses can be delivered in schools or businesses to boost employability skills and foster connections between young people and the world. In the longer career programs, students attend eight sessions where they work
towards post-educational opportunities by developing their awareness, exploration and experience. This program includes hands-on skills that can be applied in the real world, and work experience to get young people into their desired fields.
Beacon Foundation is also instrumental in facilitating work placements for young people in need. It aims to create a safe environment where these students can learn and grow while feeling supported.
Students who participate in Beacon programs can talk to industry volunteers about their career journeys, and gain valuable advice on how to prepare for the working world.
BLAQ ABORIGINAL CORPORATION
Blaq Aboriginal Corporation is all about empowering LGBTQIA+SB Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through inclusion and advocacy work.
It wants to create opportunities for community engagement and help to ensure that the specific challenges and needs of its community are addressed.
Throughout the year, the organisation hosts workshops for those who identify with the community, designed to develop important life skills. These can focus on a number of areas including renting laws, financial credit, cooking, CV and job application writing, budgeting, creativity and more.
Blaq Aboriginal Corporation also offers workshops for businesses to educate their staff on creating a culturally safe place for LGBTQIA+SB Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. These are run by those within the community who have experienced and understand intersectionality. The training modules on offer cover topics such as understanding the rainbow acronym, pronouns and identities, intersectionality and sistergirls and brotherboys.
THIS PAGE: TOP TO BOTTOM: MOTIVATING YOUNG PEOPLE AT BEACON FOUNDATION; BLAQ ABORIGINAL CORPORATION EMPOWERS LGBTQIA+SB COMMUNITIES.
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HOW SOCIAL HEALTH CAN REDUCE THE RISK OF DEMENTIA
Words: Matilda Meikle
Social factors have been identified as a major influence on dementia risk.
In a study co-led by UNSW Business School and UNSW Medicine, it has been found that prioritising social health can improve cognitive functions.
WHAT IS DEMENTIA?
Dementia is a condition characterised by significant loss of cognitive function, affecting thinking, memory and reasoning. According to Dementia Australia, there are an estimated 421,000 people living with some form of dementia in Australia in 2024.
Sadly, this figure is predicted to increase to more than 812,000 people by 2054, with the illness set to become the leading cause of death in Australia.
With people living longer, the risk of dementia is becoming an increasingly important concern. However, it’s not just genetics and lifestyle that can impact cognitive health – social factors have a role to play as well.
WHAT ARE THE IMPACTS OF SOCIAL FACTORS?
The study led by UNSW was published in the Journals of Gerontology: Series A , and emphasises the need to assess factors such as marital status, living arrangements, income and education when determining an individual’s risk of dementia.
“We know that a healthy lifestyle – factors such as a balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding smoking can reduce dementia risk – but our study shows that social factors are increasingly important,” says UNSW Associate Professor Katja Hanewald.
The team developed a “poly social risk score,” made up of 19 social determinants over five domains. The scores ranged from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating more social risk. The tool is intended to help businesses and healthcare providers identify individuals and groups with a greater risk of developing dementia.
“Being married or in a partnership provides emotional and social
THIS PAGE: SOCIAL CONNECTION, INCOME AND EDUCATION CAN IMPACT AN INDIVIDUAL’S RISK OF DEMENTIA.
support, which can help reduce stress and promote mental health, thereby lowering dementia risk,” says Scientia Professor Henry Brodaty from the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing at UNSW.
Similarly, Shu Chen, a UNSW Business School Scientia PhD graduate, points out two other factors lowering the risk of dementia.
“Higher household income is often associated with better access to healthcare, healthier living environments, and lower levels of chronic stress,” Chen explains.
“As for education, higher education levels are linked to greater cognitive reserve, which can delay the onset of dementia symptoms by making the brain more resilient to damage.”
WHAT CAN AUSSIES DO?
The study has major impacts for all workplaces, as employee wellbeing directly impacts job performance and health. This means that reducing dementia risk can economically and socially benefit businesses.
Research indicates that companies need to look beyond just encouraging physical health, and integrate social interventions into their programs.
Professor Brodaty says that it’s impossible to completely control our environment, but small day-to-day changes can make a big difference.
“Our research uncovers a powerful insight: your social connections and daily habits could be your brain’s best defence against dementia,” he says.
“By staying active and nurturing meaningful relationships, even in difficult circumstances, you can significantly reduce your risk.”
