True Blue Magazine – November/December 2020

TrueBlue Nov/Dec 2020

OUR HEART IS IN THE COUNTRY

A real Australian business magazine

SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS

A touch of bonnie Scotland in Australia

SAY CHEESE!

A journey through the Bega Valley and surrounds

CAVES FOR THE CURIOUS

Adventures to be had below the surface

Meet

Sam Harris

MODEL, ACTIVIST AND A HUMBLE HUMAN BEING

IF YOU READ ME, TAKE ME HOME!

EDITORIAL

Publisher & Editor: Michelle Hespe publisher@publishingbychelle.com Art Director: Jo Quarmby Assistant Editor: Bethany Plint editorial@publishingbychelle.com

ADVERTISING

Sales Manager: Richard Bunting sales@publishingbychelle.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Welcome to the November/ December issue of True Blue.

It seems you can’t keep a good traveller down.

True, it hasn’t been the greatest year for exploring, but through adversity you can often find opportunity. Many people have been looking closer to home for travel options and they like what they see. Regional travel has never been more rewarding.

Take a city like Orange, in the central west of New South Wales.

Rex has been flying there since the airline formed in 2002. Hazelton Airlines, one of Rex’s predecessor airlines, began servicing Orange back in 1975.

And there are plenty of reasons we so proudly fly there. It’s a true blue regional success story. Orange boasts a vibrant economy, a growing community, a world-renowned wine region and an exploding food scene.

If it hasn’t been on your must see list, put it on and Rex will get you there in a snap.

Orange is one of our community

fare routes, which means you can get a seat for as little as $109 if you book at least 30 days before departure, or inside seven days (subject to availability). Think of the extra vino you could bring home with the money you save!

As 2021 approaches, Rex is looking to a new chapter in our story.

Rex’s heart will always be in the country, and our regional services will remain, but the time has come to spread our wings between Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. We’re expanding into the major city routes.

The first flights from Melbourne to Sydney return take off on March 1 next year and the Brisbane connection will begin shortly after.

So, you’ll soon have a new choice to fly between the major cities.

And if you need to get from, say Orange to Melbourne, you’ll be able to stay with Rex all the way, without any hassles at the airport.

Until next time, safe travels.

Neville Howell Chief Operating Officer

Michelle Hespe Tatyana Leonov Olivia Bornstein Andy Hurt Darren Baguley Ian Lloyd Neubauer Libby-Jane Charleston Bethany Plint

PRINTING

IVE Print Sydney 81 Derby Street, Silverwater NSW 2128

Cover image: Paul Henderson-Kelly True Blue is published by Publishing ByChelle, (ABN: 78 621 375 853 ACN: 621 375 853) Level 1, 3 Westleigh Street, Neutral Bay NSW 2089 publishingbychelle.com The reproduction of any content, in whole or part without prior written permission by the publisher is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed in the content are those of the contributors, and not necessarily those of the publisher. All information in this magazine was believed to be correct at the time of publication, and all reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. Publishing ByChelle cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are sent to the magazine, they will not be returned. We apologise if we don’t get back to your email, as we do receive a large volume of communication via various online channels. Some images used in True Blue are from iStock and Getty Images, and we make every effort to credit all contributors.

NOV/DEC 2020

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Welcome Back

If you would like to read the digital version of True Blue, please be our guest!

Simply go to trulyaus.com – which is dedicated to exploring and celebrating all things Aussie, giving travellers the lowdown on the best places in regional, rural and outback Australia.

TRULYAUS.COM 2 TrueBlue

that is also close to our hearts at Rex and at Publishing ByChelle.

Make sure you take care of yourself and those around you, and if you need help, ask for it. If you need someone to listen, speak up. Call one of the many organisations (Beyond Blue, CAN Mental Health, The Black Dog Institute, Lifeline, to name a few) who have people on the end of the line who are dedicated to helping you through a tough spot. Your life is important.

I’m looking forward to 2021, but I am not assuming it will be the answer to everyone’s prayers. I’m hoping that the world and everyone in it manages to find a better way of moving forward.

I’m also hoping that means more time on Rex planes heading off to exciting places, visiting friends and family, or simply going home. Enjoy your travels and drop us a line anytime – we love hearing from you.

MICHELLE HESPE & THE TEAM AT TRUE BLUE

Cover image of Samantha Harris by Paul Henderson-Kelly

IT HAS BEEN a particularly tough year for so many people here and across the world. In Australia, the horrendous bushfires, ongoing drought and the onslaught of COVID-19 had many of us thinking that this was a year that needed to be forgotten.

I’ll look back on it as a year of challenges, innovative thinking, and one where so many companies (like ours) had to give it everything they had, while also trying to support others.

True Blue is all about supporting Australian destinations and Australian products, and so in this issue we have focussed on some wonderful destinations, some great Aussie businesses, and we’ve also put together some pages of Truly Aussie products.

It’s easy to say that you are going to support only Australian products, but it does take a bit more effort to actually do it, and put your money where your mouth is.

I personally feel so much better ordering soaps from a local miller rather than picking one up at the supermarket. It’s about knowing where your money is going and usually if you support a small business it’s going right back into helping that business to survive and hopefully, to thrive.

This year the spotlight has been shone on mental health, and that’s something

30 Inside TrueBlue AusBiz. Check out AusBiz. at the back of the magazine.

MINING Hot new mining machinery on the scene AGRICULTURE Myth-busting Australia’s hemp industry ENVIRONMENT Australia’s native bee population under threat INDUSTRY The price of plant power is about to drop

upfront

Features

07 Rex News

26 Cover Story

In this issue, we cover the history of Australia’s most trusted regional airline as well as plans for a bright new future for domestic travel. Plus, our events round up is packed with awesome activities to keep you busy. Find your next book, film or podcast in our Entertainment section.

Model, activist and proud Dunghutti woman, Samantha Harris gets real about work, life and family.

23 Great Southern Nights

30 Explore the Bega Valley Come for the delicious cheese, stay for the spectacular views and return time and time again for the country-style hospitality on the Sapphire Coast.

36 Southern Highlands Getaway Enjoy a wee escape to this Scottish-inspired region.

44 Aussie Made Local businesses keeping things close to home.

46 Top Caves for the Curious Underground rivers, glowing caverns and cave cathedrals to explore.

Live music returns to New South Wales with more than 1,000 gigs across the state in November.

24 Sip, Eat, Sleep We scope out the best new and established venues to wine, dine, play and rest your weary head.

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UPFRONT Keeping up with the Customer Contact Centre

Images: Regional Express

We sat down with Rex’s Customer Contact Centre Manager to learn more about this important aspect of Rex’s operations.

REX’S CUSTOMER Contact Centre (CCC) is unlike many corporate call centres – not only it is located in the NSW Central West regional city of Orange, but it also has a unique history steeped in Australian aviation legend.

“Our call centre operations have a long history in regional NSW, dating back to one of Rex’s predecessor airlines, Hazelton Airlines,” says the CCC’s manager, Grace Pereira.

Hazelton Airlines and its founder Max Hazelton are pioneers of Australian ‘bush aviation’, dating back to 1953 when Hazelton acquired a single engine aircraft and provided charter services from his brother-in-law’s property at Toogong, 50 kilometres west of Orange.

In 1959, Hazelton moved its base to Cudal and grew to become the largest general aviation company in Australia in the 1970s. In 1975, it began regional passenger services before introducing flights into Sydney in 1979.

The call centre moved from Cudal to Orange in 2000, and the following year, Ansett took over the airline.

On 12 September 2001, Ansett was placed into voluntary administration. Hazelton was also placed into the hands of administrators, though it recommenced operations a week later and its passenger airline business, along with Ansett’s other subsidiary regional airline, Kendell Airlines, continued to fly. They became part of the Rex Group on 1 August 2002.

CCC consultant Kristen Smith was there when Ansett collapsed and is still with Rex today. She tells of how the collapse of Ansett changed things overnight.

“During this time we used a reservations system which was provided by Ansett so of course this was now not operating.

So how does an airline operate without a reservations system? Our system was very elegant: paper, pencil and eraser,” she recounts.

“We numbered each page with 36 seats and as we received a booking the consultant would run to our ‘Control Room’ where the passenger’s name would be pencilled in.

When we had a cancellation the passenger was rubbed out.”

“It was a very trying time but I feel proud to be associated with keeping the airline going,” says Ms Smith.

It was a time of great transition, with staff passionately

Grace Pereira (centre) pictured with consultants and Ian Coelho (far right) at Rex’s 4th birthday celebration in 2006.

rallying to keep planes in the air. And as Hazelton became Rex, the call centre operations remained in Orange in homage to the airline’s regional roots.

Around three years after that, Grace Pereira joined the team as manager. She recalls that there was still plenty of excitement in the air as Rex had been able to rise from the ashes of the Ansett collapse.

“I had worked in a various capacities in the industry, and had vast knowledge in reservations. But, coming from the background of big airlines, I was really intrigued in Rex emerging into its very own brand,” she says.

Another staff member who witnessed the transition from Hazelton to Rex is Ian Coelho, who joined Hazelton in 1989 as an Operations Controller before moving across to Central Reservations Control (CRC).

While other call centres are located in metro areas, or have moved offshore, Rex has kept its call centre in the community that Ian has called home for the past three decades – something which he’s found a welcome surprise.

“The birth of Rex and the uptake of new reservations technology has given me the opportunity to continue to work and live in a regional community I love,” he reflects.

Rex’s consultants remain as dedicated as ever, eager to assist customers to book flights, answer enquiries and deal with operational requirements on a day-to-day basis.

“I have to say the Rex Call Centre team is one of the best that I have ever worked with – they are hardworking, highly intelligent and always think outside the box to find solutions,” glows Grace.

Although the phones are a little quieter at the moment with COVID-19 reducing flying activity, Ms Pereira is confident Rex will not only see the other side of this pandemic, but will thrive through its proposed expansion into domestic services.

“I’ve seen Rex survive the GFC, the pilot shortage crisis and I have every faith we will get through COVID-19.

I’ve always loved our motto, ‘our heart is in the country’, but now our heart is extending to include major city routes, and we are eagerly waiting the start of jet flights in 2021.”

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FROM MARCH 2021

SYD-MEL-BNE We’re excited to start domestic services between Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane* from March 2021.

Tickets on sale December 2020 from rex.com.au

*Subject to regulatory approval, Melbourne/Sydney flights commence 1 March 2021. Brisbane flights subject to announcement.

NEW HORIZONS

Smooth flying through turbulent times toward a promising future Our history begins with Rex’s two predecessor airlines, which merged to form Rex after the collapse of Ansett Australia in 2001 – Kendell Airlines which began as a small charter and flying school business in Wagga Wagga in 1965, and Hazelton Airlines which started in 1953 as a charter service. Both airlines were namesakes of local aviation legends who helped pioneer the early regional aviation industry in Australia.

Over the past 18 years, Rex has built upon the foundations laid in regional Australia more than 60 years ago to become Australia’s largest independent airline, operating to 59 destinations across Australia with a fleet of 60 aircraft.

Rex first proposed its intentions for domestic expansion in May earlier

8 TrueBlue

this year. It was in September that Rex announced that it had signed a long-form term sheet and was in advanced exclusive negotiations with PAG Asia Capital (PAG) a leading Asia-Pacific focused investment firm, regarding an investment by PAG of up to AUD150 million to be used exclusively to support the launch of Rex’s domestic major city jet operations scheduled to commence on 1 March 2021.

This was followed by an announcement that Rex had signed Letters of Intent with two Lessors for the lease of six new Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft.

Of the expansion, Rex’s Deputy Chairman, John Sharp, said, “Rex has the biggest regional network in Australia and we are the only carrier

in the country that has been able to successfully navigate the turmoil and shocks over the last two decades with uninterrupted operational profits since 2003.

“With Rex’s expansive regional network of 59 destinations, existing infrastructure in all these capital city airports, superior efficiencies and unbeatable reliability, it will simply be an incremental extension for Rex to embark on domestic operations,” Mr Sharp continues.

“Rex’s domestic operations will be priced at affordable levels but will also include baggage allowance, catering and pre-assigned seating. It will be a unique hybrid model that Rex has so successfully pioneered over the last two decades for its substantial regional operations.”

news

Rex goes pink You may have seen our crew donning pink epaulettes or wearing pins last month.

The Rex Group participated in the FlyPink initiative which ran for the entire month of October.

2020 was the 6th year for FlyPink, an initiative founded by QantasLink Captain, Susan McHaffie, with the aim to raise $20,000 for breast cancer research. Since then, FlyPink has raised over $600,000 for the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Movember and affiliated overseas charities.

Funds are raised through the sale of ‘FlyPink’ pins and pink epaulettes, and the campaign has grown to 30 countries including hundreds of pilots across 135 airlines; as well as corporate, general aviation and flying schools worldwide.

Flight Instructors, Onur Ramadan and Tiffany Lau, from AAPA Victoria with their pink epaulettes.

Stretch with

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For ea r ly t ic ke t ac c ess and infor mation u p d a t e s, b eco me a F r iend of F.O.O.D! www.o ra n gefo o d w e e k.com.au/ j oinus @orangefoodweek #orangefoodweek

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news

Holiday at home with Rex

Images: Tourism Australia & Time Out Australia

Let’s explore our big, beautiful backyard While we are eagerly waiting for state borders to open up (and international borders in the seemingly distant future), this is the perfect time to explore and support our home-states. We all have so much to appreciate in our own corners of this Great Southern Land.

It’s something that Tourism Australia is promoting in their ‘Holiday Here This Year’ campaign, says Tourism Australia Managing Director Phillipa Harrison.

“Our Holiday Here This Year campaign is all about galvanizing Australians to support their fellow Australians by booking a holiday wherever they can around the country,” she says.

If you’re looking for a destination to holiday at home, why not consider one of the 54 regional destinations on the expansive Rex network?

Take, for example, Monkey Mia (Shark Bay) in Western Australia. Drawing in people from all over the world, Monkey Mia is famous for its dolphin experience. There is so much more to do in the region – marine activities for the whole family, national parks to explore, Aboriginal cultural tours, and a fine example of the world’s oldest living fossils: stromatolites at Hamelin Pool.

Situated in the heart of the South Australian outback, Coober Pedy has a reputation as the opal capital of the world – with about 70 per cent of the world’s opals being mined here. Britain’s The Telegraph named Coober Pedy

as the world’s strangest town for its underground lifestyle – about half of Coober Pedy’s small population of about 2,000 people live in underground dugouts where it’s cool in summer and warm in winter.

For passengers in New South Wales, although famous for its winter activities, when the snow melts, the Snowy Mountains are still a spectacular destination. There is something for everyone, from kayaking, hiking, horseriding, to fishing and mountain biking; not to mention indulging in the region’s delicious local produce. All a stone’s throw away from Cooma, the ‘Gateway to the Snowy Mountains.’

Queensland is home to Australia’s premier paleoattractions. Incorporating the towns of Winton, Richmond and Hughenden, the ‘Dinosaur Trail’ offers a unique and informative experience for visitors of all ages. There’s fossilised dinosaur footprints dating back 95 million years in Winton, the home of the Muttaburrasaurus in Hughenden, and Australia’s best vertebrate fossil in Richmond – plus so many more prehistoric delights to discover.

For our Victorian passengers who are grounded at the time of writing, we love the river city of Mildura. Seen from the air, the gorgeous Mildura River is an oasis, fanning out neatly from the mighty Murray River in a patchwork of vines and orchards.

We’re proud to now offer Tasmanians an air link between Burnie and King Island. We love King Island for its coastal beauty and shipwreck history, golf courses, and excellent food, and know you do too.

With domestic and international travel up in the air, and tourism businesses suffering following drought, bushfire and now COVID-19, this is the perfect time to support regional Australia and holiday at home!

NOV/DEC 2020

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Expectations exceeded. #meetmackayregion

Photo Credit Rebina Criddle

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Directory

TrueBlue Experiences

Great places to stay and awesome things to do across Australia

King Island Escapes

Commonwealth RoofClimb

Adelaide Oval Stadium Tours

135 BARNES RD, LOORANA, KING ISLAND TAS T 0417 580 550 E stay@kingislandescapes.com.au kingislandescapes.com.au

ADELAIDE OVAL, WAR MEMORIAL DRIVE, NORTH ADELAIDE SA T 08 8331 5222 E enquiries@roofclimb.com roofclimb.com.au

ADELAIDE OVAL, WAR MEMORIAL DRIVE, NORTH ADELAIDE SA T 08 8205 4700 E enquiries@radelaideoval.com.au adelaideoval.com.au

Immerse yourself among the raw beauty of King Island from the comfort of a luxury four-bedroom retreat. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the red cedar hot tub and glass sauna, with access to your own private beach.

Relax and reconnect at Porky Beach Retreat with King Island Escapes.

An unforgettable experience awaits with this exhilarating adventure across Adelaide Oval’s iconic roofline. Enjoy picturesque views of the city before testing your nerve with a lean-out point 50m off the ground. With a wide range of climbing possibilities, RoofClimb is a must-do for locals and visitors alike.

Take a fascinating journey behind the scenes of Adelaide’s sporting Mecca.

Explore the 100-year-old heritage scoreboard, gain an insight into matchday preparations inside the players’ change rooms, feel the roar of the crowd on the hallowed turf through the interactive players’ race, and more.

NOV/DEC 2020

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Entertainment

Watch, read & listen

By: Bethany Plint

books

podcasts

ART Know My Name

Searching For Charlotte, Kate Forsyth & Belinda Murrell November 2020, NLA Publishing, biography Sisters and co-authors uncover the buried story of their great-great-great grandmother, Australia’s first children’s author.

To My Country, Ben Lawson December 2020, Allen & Unwin, poetry The Australian actor’s first literary foray addresses the devastation that occurred during the bushfires of summer 2019/20, and to our fierce endurance of spirit.

November 14 – July 4 at the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra ACT Bringing together more than 300 works from galleries across Australia, Know My Name showcases a collection of highly evocative work by female artists from 1900 to now in an attempt to upend the assumption that modern and contemporary Australian art is a maledominated narrative.

theatre

Let’s Talk About Sects

This true crime series investigates the creepiest cults from around the world in monthly instalments, diving into the nitty gritty of recruitment, cult practices and what happens when members get out (if at all).

Rusty’s Garage

Automotive commentator and journalist Greg Rust sits down with the most passionate riders, drivers and designers in the industry to discuss the machines they’ve owned, raced, crashed and restored.

The Picture of Dorian Gray

The New Wilderness, Diane Cook

Killing Time, Jimmy Barnes

August 2020, Oneworld, fiction Shortlisted for the 2020 Booker Prize, The New Wilderness is a daring, passionate novel about a mother’s battle to save her daughter in a world ravaged by climate change.

October 2020, Harper Collins, autobiography Outrageous and witty, Jimmy Barnes shares more than forty yarns in his latest book, detailing some of his most memorable (mis)adventures over the course of his epic career.

14 TrueBlue

November 24 – December 19 at the Roslyn Packer Theatre, Sydney NSW This new interpretation of Oscar Wilde’s century-old moral fable, adapted and directed by Kip Williams, is devilishly wicked and packed with witticisms.

An exquisite-looking Dorian Gray throws himself into a life of luxury and excess after making a wish for eternal youth, but he soon learns there is a steep price to pay for such longevity.

Cat’s Pyjamas with The Chaser

In true Chaser fashion, this podcast explores the weirdest and most awful tales from history through a satirical lens, with titles like Failed Assassinations, Deranged Diets and Bat Sh*t Crazy Royals.

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I N F L I G H T I N F O R M AT I O N

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

As you sit back in comfort en route to your destination, the Rex crew hope you enjoy this entertaining and informative light reading.

Q. Why do the flight attendants insist that all window blinds be up for take-off?

A. The most critical phases of a flight are the take-off and landing. In the most unlikely event of a situation that requires an emergency evacuation, it is important that crew and passengers are able to have a clear view of the outside conditions in case of obstructions. For example, before exits are opened, staff must check for fire or other obstacles that may present potential hazards during the evacuation.

Q. Why do I have to stow my hand luggage in the overhead lockers, under the seats or in the seat pockets for take-off and landing?

A. Flight crews are required by Civil Aviation Regulations to secure the cabin as well as possible for take-off and landing. As mentioned, these are the most critical phases of the flight, and securing as much hand luggage as possible ensures that, in the unlikely event of an emergency, the exits and aisles stay as clear as possible, in case evacuation is necessary. It is also important to keep hand luggage secure whenever possible to ensure heavier items do not become airborne within the cabin. This is especially important when the aircraft is experiencing turbulence.

Q. Why do I feel so tired from flying?

A. As the aircraft altitude increases, air pressure decreases. As the pressure of the air decreases, the body absorbs less oxygen than it would at sea level — therefore, it must work harder to supply oxygen to the body’s cells. As the body is working harder, it becomes more tired.

Q. Why do I sometimes feel pain in my ears or sinuses during ascent or descent?

A. The sinuses and middle ear are air-containing cavities that connect with the nose via narrow channels.

As aircrafts ascend and cabin pressure drops, air passes out of these cavities (without any effort from the passenger) to balance the cabin pressure. It is a different matter during descent, as the cabin pressure increases. The channels close down and must be actively opened by holding the nose and blowing to

inflate the cavities. Facial and ear pain can occur during descent if re-inflation does not occur, and this is much more likely if the passenger has nasal congestion. If you must fly with a cold or hayfever, use a decongestant nasal spray before descent and buy some ‘ear planes’ to plug your ears. (Information contributed by Dr Daniel Hains, ENT surgeon.)

Q. When can electronic equipment such as laptops, iPods and mobile phones be used?

A. All Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) must be placed in flight mode inside the departure terminal and must remain in flight mode until inside the arrival terminal.

Small handheld PEDs weighing less than 1kg, such as mobile phones, can be used in flight mode during all stages of flight on Rex’s Saab 340 aircraft. PEDs over 1kg, such as laptop computers, must be stowed appropriately for taxi, take-off and landing, and are permitted to be used only during cruise when the ‘Fasten Seatbelt’ sign is switched off. PEDs cannot be used while crossing the tarmac.

Q. What is the average speed of the aircraft when cruising in flight?

A. Approximately 500 kilometres per hour.

Q. Why do I have to get permission from the Captain to move to a vacant seat?

A. The aircraft’s take-off speed is calculated by the weight and balance of the aircraft, and many factors need to be considered for a successful take-off. Factors include the weight of passengers and where they are seated, the weight of cargo, freight and fuel, the distance available on the runway, etc. For example, if there are 100 or more kilograms of freight in the cargo, the balance of the aircraft will be better maintained if passengers are seated in the forward rows.

AIR TURBULENCE Q. Aircraft often experience air turbulence, but what causes it?

A. Imagine the air around the aircraft is water in a stream. We can see how water is disturbed around rocks or when two streams converge. Turbulence in the air is

similar: as the aircraft passes through cold air or in the vicinity of terrain that has disturbed the airflow – often incorrectly referred to as ‘air pockets’ – the aircraft climbs and descends in the same way that a boat moves on water. Though turbulence can be uncomfortable, it poses no threat to the aircraft and is akin to driving on a rough or unsealed road. More severe turbulence can be associated with developing thunderstorms. The Saab 340 has a sophisticated weather radar that pilots use to avoid these areas. Occasionally, a flight attendant will discontinue serving passengers in turbulent conditions; this is a precaution to ensure everyone’s safety.

Q. Why should I keep my seatbelt fastened even when the ‘Fasten Seatbelt’ sign is switched off?

A. On occasions, the flight crew cannot foresee turbulence or it is not picked up on the flight-deck radar.

Because of this, we could unexpectedly experience turbulence at any time. The company recommends that you always keep your seatbelt fastened while you are seated – for your safety, just in case unexpected turbulence is encountered.

ENGINE NOISES Q. Why do the aircraft’s engine noises change during the flight?

A. Aircraft need more power to climb than to descend, in the same way that a car needs more power to go up a hill than down one. The Saab 340 turboprop has more than enough power to climb, so shortly after take-off you will notice a change in noises as the power is reduced. The pilots also control the pitch angle of the propellers for various stages of the flight, and as they ‘change gears’ this can also be heard in the cabin.

Q. What should I do if I see or hear something that does not look or sound right?

A. Please advise your flight attendant. The flight attendant may be able to answer your query and allay any fears. If not, the flight attendant will contact the flight deck and advise the pilots of anything unusual.

Rex encourages open communication and will always treat a passengers’ concerns with the utmost seriousness.

NOV/DEC 2020

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Exercise and stretch regularly while seated SEATED EXERCISES

Inflight comfort

ANKLE CIRCLES Lift feet off floor, draw a circle with the toes, simultaneously moving one foot clockwise and the other foot counterclockwise. Reverse circles.

Do each direction for 15 seconds. Repeat if desired.

FOOT PUMPS Start with both heels on the floor and point feet upward as high as you can. Then put both feet flat on the floor. Then lift heels high, keeping the balls of your feet on the floor. Continue cycle in 30-second intervals.

Flying can be demanding and altitude may make your body more sensitive to the effects of alcohol and caffeine.

Sitting in one place for a long time can be uncomfortable and slow down your blood circulation. To help your body adjust to flying and to maintain your personal comfort and wellbeing, we recommend you take the following steps: Keep hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids – water, juice, non-caffeinated soft drinks – to prevent dehydration, fatigue and headaches. Minimise intake of alcohol and coffee. Moisten the face to help reduce the drying effects of cabin air.

Eat lightly. Eat lightly on longer flights to avoid indigestion – our inflight menu is designed to provide lighter meal options.

KNEE LIFTS Lift leg with knee bent while contracting your thigh muscle. Alternate legs. Repeat 20 to 30 times for each leg.

SHOULDER ROLLS Hunch shoulders forward, then upward, then backward, then downward, using a gentle, circular motion.

ARM CURLS Arms held at 90° angles, elbows down, hands in front. Raise hands up to chest and back down. Alternate hands. Repeat in 30-second intervals.

SEATED STRETCHES

Exercise. We encourage you to do the gentle onboard exercises on this page to enhance your wellbeing during the flight.

We recommend you do these exercises for about five minutes every one to two hours. You should also occasionally walk down the aisles, as space permits. In addition, we recommend that you avoid crossing your legs.

Please note: you should not do any of these exercises if they cause you pain or cannot be done with ease.

KNEE TO CHEST Bend forward slightly.

Clasp hands around left knee and hug it to your chest. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds.

Keeping hands around knee, slowly let it down. Alternate legs. Repeat 10 times.

SHOULDER STRETCH Reach your right hand over your left shoulder. Place your left hand behind your right elbow and gently press your elbow toward your shoulder. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds. Repeat on the other side.

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FORWARD FLEX With both feet on the floor and stomach held in, slowly bend forward and walk your hands down the front of your legs toward your ankles. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds and slowly sit back up.

NECK ROLLS With your shoulders relaxed, drop your ear to shoulder and gently roll your neck forward and to the other side, holding each position for five seconds. Repeat five times.

OVERHEAD STRETCH Raise both hands straight up over your head. With one hand, grasp the wrist of the opposite hand and gently pull to one side. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds. Repeat on the other side.

Please note: you should not do any of these exercises if they cause you pain or cannot be done with ease.

Moving about the aircraft. You may move about the aircraft as space permits and when the seatbelt sign is off.

However, when the seatbelt sign is on you are required to remain seated with the seatbelt fastened.

If you feel unwell, tell the cabin crew.

They can assist with the more common inflight complaints and, if necessary, can seek further advice and assistance for you.

On descent. Ears and sinuses can cause discomfort, due to the change in air pressure on descent. To minimise discomfort: • Yawn or swallow frequently.

• Pinch your nostrils together and blow firmly into your cheeks with your mouth closed.

If you have ongoing discomfort, seek the advice of the cabin crew.

UP, UP AND AWAY!

Regional Express: Our heart is in the country

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I N F L I G H T I N F O R M AT I O N

CHECK- IN Online check-in You can check-in online through the Rex website, rex.com.au, on your desktop or mobile devices between 48 hours and 60 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time of your flight.

BAGGAGE

Airport check-in If you have checked baggage, we recommend that you arrive at the airport for check-in at least 60 minutes before the scheduled departure of your flight at all airports except Burketown, Queensland (90 minutes before).

Passengers in possession of a Rex Flex Fare are permitted a 23 kilogram free baggage allowance.

Checked baggage Passengers on all fares (except Rex Flex) are permitted a 15 kilogram free baggage allowance.

Passengers with international connections (within 24 hours) are permitted a 23 kilogram free baggage allowance upon presenting a valid itinerary or ticket.

Rex check-in closes: •6 0 minutes prior to scheduled departure time at Burketown airport.

•3 0 minutes prior to scheduled departure time at Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Queensland airports (with the exception of Burketown above).

•2 0 minutes prior to scheduled departure time at regional airports in NSW, SA, Tas, Vic and WA.

Cabin baggage A maximum of two pieces per passenger up to a total of 7 kilograms of cabin baggage is permitted onboard.

Excess baggage Excess baggage is permitted subject to restrictions of the day and a surcharge of $7.70 per kilogram.

Passengers with special requirements Passengers with special requirements must check-in at the airport (online check-in is not available) no later than: •6 0 minutes prior to scheduled departure in major cities and all Queensland regional airports except Burketown (please see below).

•4 5 minutes prior to scheduled departure in NSW, SA, Tas, Vic and WA regional airports.

• 90 minutes prior to scheduled departure in Burketown.

Virgin Australia Baggage Agreement Rex accepts the checking of baggage to/from Virgin Australia flights. Ask at check-in for more information.

REX AIRCRAFT FACTS AIRCRAFT

MAX. TAKE-OFF WEIGHT (KG)

SPEED (KM/H)

AVAILABLE SEATS

GALLEY

REST ROOM

FLEET SIZE

CRUISE ALTITUDE (METRES)

CREW

SAAB 340

13,155

520

34

Y

Y

60

8,000

3

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Events

Ocean Talks: 2020 Series For those who can’t make it to the museum in person, you can still get your fix in the newly created Virtual Ocean Talks. From chasing sea monsters to ocean science discoveries and indigenous stories, the dynamic talk series features a range of fascinating marine experts, scientists, authors, filmmakers and adventurers who will challenge everything you know about out ocean.

What’s On at the Australian National Maritime Museum?

Choose your own adventure with exhibitions, vessels, hands-on workshops and creative activites every day. compiled by: Bethany plint Image: Australian National Maritime Museum

Under Southern Skies This immersive exhibition explores the story of navigation and voyaging around Australia through a unique lens. Bark paintings, compasses, telescopes, historic portraiture and model ships aim to capture the essence sea of discovery around Australia and the role that the night sky and its constellations have played in guiding the explorers of the past.

Climb aboard the HMAS Vampire

Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Australia’s largest museum vessel is the last of our country’s big gun ships, serving the Royal Australian Navy from 1959-1986. In its sea days, this Destroyer ship was equipped with twin turrets, anti-aircraft guns and five torpedo launchers. Get a feel for life aboard Vampire at Action Stations, an immersive navy experience.

On loan from the iconic Natural History Museum in London, this extraordinary collection of images from wildlife photographers all over the world allows us to witness unique moments in the natural world rarely caught on film, encounter the diversity of life on Earth and reflect on humanity’s role in its future.

General admission is free. Open 9:30-5pm daily. For more information or to purchase tickets to special exhibitions, visit sea.museum NOV/DEC 2020

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Events

Streeton

From November 2020, the Art Gallery of New South Wales will present a landmark exhibition featuring one of Australia’s most renowned impressionist painters, Arthur Streeton, whose brilliant evocations of light, land and sea captured the spirit and optimism of our country. Featuring a definitive collection of more than 150 paintings, drawings and watercolours from both public and private collections, some which have not been exhibited for more than 100 years, Streeton is an in-depth exploration of the artist’s prolific output over six decades.

“STREETON’S POETIC AND TECHNICALLY BRILLIANT IMPRESSIONIST PAINTINGS WERE MADE DURING VIVID PERIODS OF JOY AND PERIODS OF DURESS: FROM ABUNDANCE AND ECONOMIC BOOM TO BROUGHT, BUSHFIRE AND WAR.” DR MICHAEL BRAND, DIRECTOR OF THE ART GALLERY OF NSW 22 TrueBlue

Among Streeton’s greatest works are remarkable depictions of Sydney Harbour, Blue Mountains and the Hawkesbury River, as well as scenes from further afield inspired by locations including Egypt, Venice and the Italian countryside. Two years in the making, Streeton brings together the artist’s famous sun-drenched landscapes, pastoral paintings and visual narratives from around the world over a 60-year period.

The first Streeton exhibition in a quarter of a century and the most comprehensive since his 1931 lifetime retrospective at the Art Gallery of NSW, Streeton presents works from around Australia alongside works from the Gallery collection and rarely seen works from private collections.

Tickets for the Streeton exhibition can be purchased through the Gallery website. Guests are advised to adhere to social distancing, health and safety guidelines on display while visiting the Gallery and to stay updated through the NSW Health website.

Images: Jenni Carter, AGNSW

Australia’s iconic impressionist painter takes over the Art Gallery of New South Wales November 7 – February 14

Events

GREAT SOUTHERN NIGHTS

Live music returns to New South Wales with 1,000 COVID-safe events across November What better way to celebrate Australian Music Month than to reignite the live music scene in the music-loving state of New South Wales? Great Southern Nights will bring 1,000 COVID-safe performances to live music venues in Greater Sydney and regional NSW throughout the month of November.

Showcasing the unbelievable talent of established, emerging and local Australian artists, Great Southern Nights will culminate in Australia’s premier music industry event, the ARIA Awards. From household names such as Jessica Mauboy, Jimmy Barnes and Matt Corby to outstanding newcomers like Tash Sultana, Ruel and Thelma

Plum, the lineup perfectly encapsulates the hugely diverse and exceptionally talented crop of musicians we have right here in Australia.

Destination NSW and the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) have partnered up to lead this government-backed initiative, which aims to stimulate the revival of the live music and entertainment sectors across the entire state.

All music events will be programmed in line with current NSW Government health advice regarding physical distancing and venue capacity of public gatherings.

For tickets and more info, visit greatsouthernnights.com.au NOV/DEC 2020

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Out & About

Sip, Eat, Sleep

words: Bethany Plint

The Cove Jervis Bay South Coast, NSW Need an escape? Travel a mere 13 kilometres through native bushland in Booderee National Park on the New South Wales South Coast and you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to a truly remote oasis. Tucked away in Jervis Bay, The Cove is a private sanctuary with a range of self-catering accommodation from 1, 2 & 3-bedroom cabins to spacious bell tents for a high-end glamping experience. Spend your time swimming at the secluded beach, hit the bushwalking trails and enjoy a relaxing soak in the open-air bath tub that oozes rustic luxury. With an Advanced Ecotourism Certification, The Cove is dedicated to providing unforgettable experiences that not only do no harm to the environment but aim to contribute to the conservation of the local area including its surrounding communities. thecoverjervisbay.com

Mount Lofty House, MGallery by Sofitel Adelaide Hills, SA Overlooking the stunning Piccadilly Valley in the Adelaide Hills wine region, Mount Lofty House provides a unique historic setting to indulge in one of the most luxurious accommodation experiences in South Australia.

This designer boutique hotel boasts a three hat fine dining restaurant as well as an indulgent day spa to truly spoil yourself.

Although just 15 minutes from the Adelaide CBD, Mount Lofty House is in the heart of one of the ten Great Wine Capitals of the World, and just a short drive from the neighbouring McLaren Vale and Barossa wine regions.

From spacious suites to private cottages, a stay at Mount Lofty House will give you a taste of old-world decadence. mtloftyhouse.com.au

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Out & About

Summer on the Central Coast Breakfast at Bouffant Possibly the most Instagram-worthy bakery on the Central Coast, Bouffant is responsible for some of the flakiest croissants, tastiest tarts and most drool-worthy desserts you’ve ever seen.

Their signature pastry and namesake is a delicious stack of light, buttery croissant pastry, fried and filled with lemon curd and meringue. As a bonus, they also do excellent coffee. Bouffant is taking the Coast by storm with two locations already in Gosford and East Gosford and a new Terrigal store coming soon. bouffant.com.au

Lunch at Woy Woy Fishermen’s Wharf Serving up some of the best local seafood on the Central Coast for more than 40 years, this beloved Woy Woy outfit is run by three generations of the Gregan-Clayton family. The original restaurant has been transformed into a stylish waterfront venue with dinein and takeaway options. The team is committed to working with and supporting local fishermen, aquaculture experts and farmers to supply the highest quality sustainable seafood. woywoyfishermenswharf.com.au

Dinner at Bombini Less of a restaurant and more of a dining destination, Bombini is spread over a leafy two acres near Avoca Beach. The main dining room features a three course a la carte menu with a focus on sustainable, locally-sourced produce, as well as a degustation menu with antipasto, cocktails and an impressive wine list. In the sprawling undercover terrace, Bombini Pizza Bar is perfect for a casual meal with a selection of local and imported wines, a cocktail list featuring European classics such as Aperol Spritz and Bellinis, and a selection of woodfired pizzas and smaller plates for sharing. bombini.com.au NOV/DEC 2020

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W I T H

We meet one of Australia’s most successful (and humble) models. WORDs: Michelle Hespe photography: paul henderson-kelly

U P

SAM HARRIS

S T R A I G H T

Cover Story



Cover Story

R

EAD SOME of the many stories on Samantha Harris and you’ll quickly learn that she is renowned as being the second Australian aboriginal woman to grace the cover of Vogue at the age of 18, and that she began her impressive 20-year modelling career when, as a shy girl of only 13 years, she won Girlfriend magazine’s coveted modelling competition.

These stories may also tell you that Samantha is the daughter of an aboriginal woman who was a part of the Stolen Generation, and that she is outspoken about Indigenous rights and the renaming of Australia Day. What you might not know is that Samantha Harris has to be one of the most down-to-earth, humble models on the planet, and actually, she finds it ‘kind of weird’ that people think her job is a big deal, as “it’s work, at the end of the day”, that she feels very lucky to have.

Sam has more than 70,000 followers on Instagram and is the ambassador for many products and organisations such as Biology Smart Skincare, Jeuneora skincare from New Zealand, World Vision, Barnados (a charity to help keep children safe from abuse and neglect), the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence.

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“I hope that by being an ambassador for brands and organisations that mean something to me, I can make some kind of difference to other people’s lives,” she says. “I’m the kind of person who enjoys making other people’s lives that bit better, if I can.”

Sam and her husband travel a lot with her work and its a part of the gig that she adores. “We love exploring new places and experiencing different cultures,”she says.

“It’s a part of the job that I really enjoy.”

Sam and her mother recently embarked on the trip of a lifetime for World Vision where she visited Indigenous families living in remote communities in the Kimberley region, and it was something entirely new to her.

“The people I met had so little in terms of material belongings, but they were so happy,” she says. “Some people have so much and yet it’s never enough. All the people I met in those communities simply needed their families around them, food and shelter,” she says.

Samantha is also passionate about showing others that beauty is not skin deep, and she is proud of the fact that she is not a rake-thin model of the kind everyone was accustomed to seeing in the 1980s.

“We’re all special and unique in our own way,” she says.

“And we’re all beautiful. I hope that I encourage young

Cover Story

people to be happy with who they are as we are all different shapes and sizes. There is no ‘right shape’ and I am proud to have been a part of the change in the way that people perceive models. We aren’t all size 6 or 8 and you can’t expect to sell clothing to someone who is a size 12 or 14 by showing them a photo of someone in a tiny dress.

That’s unrealistic and fashion brands need to understand that they have to cater for all body types.”

It’s this humble attitude towards fame and fashion that makes Sam so relatable. “Through my social media I hope to also show the normal side of my life. Going to the park with my husband for some exercise, us at home with our cat.

I was the first person to be sitting around at home in my Ugg boots and PJs watching Netflix when COVID hit, believe me!” she says with a laugh. And that smile – it’s dazzling. It speaks of a person content in her own skin.

“I’ve been targetted by racism.

If someone is racist, it says more about who they are, rather than it being about me.”

Samantha is not shy about sharing her opinion on the topic.

“I’ve been targetted by racism – it still happens – but the older I get, the less I take that kind of thing personally,” she says. “I just think – I don’t know this person and they don’t know me and what they are saying is not valid. If someone is racist, it says more about who they are, rather than being about me.”

Sam has also been vocal regarding the debate about moving Australia Day to another date.

“Australia is a multi-cultural country and everyone has their own opinion, but people also need to understand that it’s hurtful for everyone to be celebrating a day when the English arrived, and once they settled, started raping, murdering and kidnapping. My mother was taken away from her family as a part of the Stolen Generation, and everyone is running around celebrating that day. I’m proud to be Australian, but it’s not easy to see why some people are upset. You can tell history however you like but there is no sugar coating it.

No amount of sugar is going to change what happened.”

Sam doesn’t look back though – she’s too content looking forward, perhaps soon, to a family of her own. I ask her what is the most important thing in life, and her humble nature shines through. “Being happy. And being the best version of yourself that you can be.” TB

“I can see why young people look at models in magazines or on Instagram showing off beautiful things – whether its clothing, perfume, bags or a holiday at a fancy hotel – and perhaps feel down. Maybe they don’t have those nice things and they don’t look like that model. But it’s important to remember that it’s not all glitz and glamour being a model or an influencer. And young people need to understand that what they see online is a showreel of the best parts of someone’s life. It’s not a true depiction of what their life is, day in, day out. My husband even says to me sometimes – put your phone down and look around you!”

She says this as she sits in a pile of ivy in a garden where its recently rained, re-arranging herself so that the twigs don’t scratch her ankles and she doesn’t get dirt on her jeans. Somehow she looks completely comfortable, and she continues to smile.

Sam grew up in Tweed Heads with her mother and three brothers. She shares how her mother had a tough upbringing without a family around her, so the main thing her mother wanted to give her children was love. “That’s what she has always done – given us love,” Sam reflects.

Samantha is passionate about the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement that gained serious momentum after the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis earlier this year, but she finds it sad that a man had to die in order for another conversation to be sparked and for the subject to be firmly resurrected around the world. “Someone should not have had to die for the conversation to be taken seriously,” she says.

Having been targetted by racism herself over the years, NOV/DEC 2020

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Explore Bega cows grazing verdant pastures

BEGA say cheese! –

Country charm meets beachside bliss on the Sapphire Coast.

Image: Images courtesy of Dairy Australia

WORDs: tatyana leonov

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Explore

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Lunch time at Tathra Hotel, Streetscape of Tathra; A burger from Tathra Hotel; Cabin at BIG4 Tathra; Poke bowl from Cafe Evolve; Walking trail along the Sapphire Coast; Beautiful Bega River; Tathra oysters.

PERFECTLY POSITIONED with rolling fields in one direction, national park in another, and the ocean a short drive away, Bega is the buzzy regional centre of the Sapphire Coast. It’s famed for its cheese production, but beyond cheese tasting there’s a whole lot more to see and do around town – and beyond. Stay a while and get to know the rural heartland of the region.

Stay longer and explore the charming country towns nearby.

WHERE TO STAY

Bega Village Motor Inn The Bega Village Motor Inn features decent-sized rooms with all the mod cons required for a comfortable stay, including fridges, microwaves and stovetops for those who wish to dine in. If you want to head into town, the shops and restaurants are all a hop and a skip away and the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre is the 10 minutes’ drive away.

Bega Downs Motor Inn The well-designed rooms in this comfortable hotel come in a variety of configurations, ideal for everyone from the corporate traveller to the family on that much-needed holiday.

There’s also a restaurant onsite, and a salt water swimming pool for when the weather calls for it.

Bega Motel Located on the Old Princes Highway (now Newtown Road) – making it a convenient option for those who want a quick overnight stop en route to a destination further along the coast – Bega Motel is a budget friendly and comfortable option. The motel has a variety of rooms to suit solo travellers, couples and families. Some room options even allow pets so you can bring your furry friend on the road.

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BEYOND BEGA

Images: Destination NSW, Sapphire Coast Tourism & Cafe Evolve

Tathra Hotel This comfortable recently renovated hotel in Tathra – located 15 minutes’ drive from Bega – comprises both a hotel (rooms and suites) and a motel (units), with some of the lodgings boasting stellar views of the ocean.

Whatever option you choose, guests who stay here can expect laid-back coastal comfort, super friendly service, and the headland location makes for a spectacular backdrop.

There’s also an onsite bistro, which is very popular with locals and visitors alike, so be sure to book ahead. Star dishes include the loaded burgers and straight from the source oysters.

BIG4 Tathra Beach Holiday Park This one is a gem for families, with everything for camp sites to cabins available for a variety of budgets.

The reality however is, that kids care way more about the location than where they will sleep, and there’s plenty to do on the premises and beyond. With a solar-heated pool onsite, Tathra Beach across the road, great bike tracks nearby (and bike hire available through BIG4), a playground, recreation room and more, everyone in the family will sleep well. From here, it's an easy stroll to shops, clubs, restaurants and galleries.

TOP FOODIE FINDS IN BEGA

Nook Tea and Espresso Bar For simple cafe fare done incredibly well, you can’t go past Nook Tea and Espresso Bar. Manager Brent is extremely passionate about all things coffee, with his special ristretto coffee the talk of the town. But if chai is more your cup of tea, the team here brew their own and it’s a delightful concoction of Tielka’s Organic Chai Tea. Lunch options include gourmet toasted sandwiches made from local Whealtey Lane Bread sourdough and warm and gooey jaffles. The raw treats on offer seal the deal, made in-house with a range to suit gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian needs.

Phoenician Street Food Wassim Hayfa is recognised around Bega for his delicious Lebanese/ Phoenician street food. He started with a food van business in 2016 before opening Phoenician Street Food in late 2018… and the crowds came running.

Locals and visitors come here to feast on dishes such as lamb kofta (his mum’s recipe), beef soujouk (an Armenian family friend’s recipe), spinach and cheese pide with zataar, and home-baked falafels. Meals are best finished off with a dose of Wassim’s organic coffee. 

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Explore

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Candelo General Store & Cafe; Smoothie Bowl from Wild Orchid: A delicious lunch is served at Wild Orchid; Candelo Produce & Rural Supplies

Red Cafe For delicious and vegetable-laden breakfast and lunch dishes, Red Cafe can’t be missed. The meals here are always beautifully presented and substantial (think huge and colourful salads, gutsy quesadillas and delicious wraps) and all served with a smile. Save space for a sweet treat (or three), washed down with an aromatic cup of T2 tea or homemade ginger beer.

Cafe Evolve This is where the locals come to hang out, and it’s one of the very few places open on a Sunday for breakfast in Bega. The menu spans well-loved favourites as well as a changing specials menu (the buttery mushrooms

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FURTHER AFIELD

Wild Orchid, Tathra A simple and seasonal driven menu and the modern beach vibe setting make this the go-to cafe in the bustling seaside town of Tathra. In a way, Wild Orchid embodies the people who live and visit Tathra – outdoorsy and stylish.

Chef Row Ellard – a born and bred Sapphire Coast resident – spent time working in kitchens across Sydney and London, but ultimately decided to put her skills to use where she came from… which everyone in Tathra was very pleased about.

Candelo General Store & Cafe, Candelo Located in the charming original general store building, the Candelo General Store & Cafe is the hub of the small and vibrant village of Candelo.

The building was given a refresh in 2014, and today acts as both a shop selling unique giftware and a cafe serving scrumptious food with a focus on fresh and seasonal produce from farms in the local area. TB

Images: Candelo General Store, Candelo Produce & Rural Supplies & Wild Orchid

BEGA IS THE BUZZY REGIONAL CENTRE OF NEW SOUTH WALES' STUNNING SAPPHIRE COAST.

served on Turkish toast served alongside poached eggs is a good choice for breakfast). And the coffee – Cafe Evolve’s own direct trade organic coffee, with milk-based coffees made using local Tilba milk – is a great way to start the day.

BORN AND BREWED IN CANBERRA

Find our range of award winning beers at www.bentspokebrewing.com.au/beer-finder

Or visit our award winning Brewpub 48/38 Mort St, Braddon ACT 2612

Getaway

Rolling through the

H I G H L A N D S A few bonnie days in NSW’s Southern Highlands and you’ll feel as though you had a wee escape into the heart of Scotland.

Images: xxxxxxxxxxx

Words: michelle hespe

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Getaway Luxurious suite at The Robertson Hotel

ROMANCE AT THE ROBERTSON Towering conifers, sprawling fig trees, neatly trimmed hedges and Weeping Willows adorned with fairy lights create film-like surrounds as we cruise up and around The Robertson Hotel’s gravelled circular drive. A statue of Mary imported from the Vatican graces the space, and a stone artist’s impression of baby Pan is resting playfully in the perfectly manicured gardens with his flute at the ready.

Smoke from the hotel’s many fireplaces rises against a star-filled sky and peals of laughter escape from the warmly lit windows of the restaurant where we’re booked in for a delightful Christmas in July feast.

We park our car and head towards the entrance of the famous hotel that has had many incarnations and numerous names since it was built in 1924 – Hotel Robertson, Hotel Ranelagh, Ranelagh Country Club, Ranelagh House and Fountaindale Grand Manor.

Bar the now-mandatory masks worn by the impeccably suited staff buzzing about, it’s as though we have stepped back into the 20s. At the manor’s entrance, water trickles from stone wine barrels upon which bare-bottomed cherubs sit like cheeky guardians, the light spilling from dormer windows adding to the dollhouse charm.

Chandeliers light up the lobby’s grand hallway, where we’re welcomed and quickly ushered to our seats before an enormous fireplace with logs crackling

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away. Napkins are slipped across our laps and as if on cue for our arrival, a harpist seated beside a Christmas tree heavily laden with gold baubles begins to play. All voices hush to an appreciative murmur.

Three suitably UK Christmas favourites are served – pumpkin soup and steaming hot bread rolls with lashings of butter; sliced ham and turkey with baked vegetables, creamy whipped mash and a hearty slathering of gravy; and then perfectly moist Christmas pudding with a brandy sauce to round things off.

with lounges and bookshelves, display cabinets, intricately carved side boards and coffee tables – ornaments, books and lamps from yesteryear sitting like artfully scattered stories of what might have happened between these walls.

We find our suite and love its high ceilings, king-sized mahogany bed and exceptional views of the gardens and driveway below. The toilets still have the original pull-chains that I haven’t seen since I was a child.

The Robertson’s many previous owners have ensured that its original Gatsby-esque charm has been preserved. The grand entry staircase, ornate ceilings, many hanging chandeliers and the stained glass windows installed by monks are just some of the incredible details highlighting its uber luxurious past.

In fact, the hotel was named the ‘Most Luxurious Hotel in the Commonwealth’ by the media a year after opening in 1925. Back then it boasted a nine-hole golf course, two tennis courts, croquet, lawn bowls, billiards, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, and an on-site mechanic who

“There’s nothing quite like a crisp, blue-sky day with a lingering early morning mist in the gorgeous Southern Highlands region.”

The feast wraps up with tea, coffee and a rising crescendo emanating from the kitchen – and then a Scottish marching band takes everyone by surprise as the members strut into the room with kilts firmly in place, followed by a jolly bell-ringing Santa who draws the lucky door prizes.

We sip on a lovely Tertini Pinot Noir and then like all good highland folks, retire to the moody 1920s bar area where we make ourselves comfortable on Chesterfield couches covered in velvet cushions. Soft merino blankets are on offer to spread across our knees and the staff continually stock the numerous fireplaces.

Later we wander around the hotel’s many corridors and sitting areas filled

looked after guest’s cars. And it was the first hotel in Australia to have phone lines in every of its 100 rooms.

Golfers were given a whistle on a string when heading out to play, so they could be located when the famous ‘Robbo mists’ rolled in.

Alf Stephens (of Alf Stephens & Sons) was the builder of the manor. Stephens employed only the best craftsmen in the region to create the masterpiece and he was best mates with none other than Sir Donald Bradman. The two spent many a day and evening on the premises, enjoying all that the hotel had to offer.

If only the walls could talk.

And in some senses, they do. In one of the staff change rooms, the odds on

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Welcome to Joadja Distillery; The former mine site’s manager’s homestead; Enjoying the Southern Highlands sun.

several horse races of the day are etched on to the wall – with the name Phar Lap coming up more than once.

In 1947, the building was converted into a Franciscan Friary and seminary – thus the installation of stunning stained glass windows, meticulously assembled rock walls and numerous fountains.

Franciscan monks kept peacocks and many other birds and animals on the grounds, as they were known as protectors of all creatures great and small. Animals seem to be a recurring theme – the hotel was also the set for the cult classic film BABE, with many of the scenes shot in and around the buildings.

Today, Sydney hotelier Con Kotis and his wife Lisa own the hotel. After falling in love with the place in 2011, they are committed to slowly bringing the manor back to its original glory with a multi-million dollar overhaul. They have big new plans that have just been passed by council that include a new swimming pool for the locals and visitors, hot spas reminiscent of European spas, a large modern conference centre, family-friendly eco cabins, and a petting zoo. An artist’s studio will also be installed in an existing cabin in the rainforest next to the hotel, and The Robertson’s very own train station is in the process of being lovingly restored.

WHISKY LOVING AT JOADJA We enjoy a leisurely breakfast of bacon and eggs in another of the hotel’s light-filled dining rooms and then head off down the drive.

There’s nothing quite like a crisp, blue-sky day with an early morning mist in the Southern Highlands, where most residents are devoted to maintaining their English-style gardens and enormous neatly trimmed hedges that have taken a century or more to grow.

Rolling green hills, paddocks bursting at the seams with produce, vineyards graced with sunshine and cool evening breezes and dams the size of small lakes form a constant backdrop for cruising along the winding roads that pass through quaint villages  NOV/DEC 2020

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Getaway

dotted with sandstone homes, cafes, churches and gift stores.

And there’s a good reason why so many of the town names and street signs have a Scottishness to them – Bundanoon, Brigadoon, Balmoral, Braemar, Glenquarry, Craigieburn, Invergowrie and Highland Glen to name a handful. Much of this Scottish influence can be traced back to Joadja Town – a now-abandoned historic settlement established in the late 1870s by the Australian Kerosene Oil and Mineral Company. By heating shale in unique D-shaped iron ‘retorts’, the company produced kerosene, candles, wax and oil between the 1870s and 1911. Hundreds of Scots were employed as shale miners and on the side – lo and behold – the stilling and brewing of sly grog began.

Today the Spanish-born Jimenez family own the property and in 2014, the Scottish heritage and history of

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bootlegging inspired them to set up Joadja Distillery in the heart of the valley surrounded by mountains where the mine’s crazily steep inclinator once crawled up and down.

Now visitors can partake in a whisky tour and some wee drams that were created in hand-picked ex-sherry barrels that pay homage to the owners’ homeland. It’s a truly unique experience as Joadja is one of only a handful of single malt whisky distilleries in the world to grow their own barley on site, and the property has its own natural springs. The distillery also produces fortified wine, a dry gin, anis liqueur, 100-proof rum and a delicious brandy.

Guests can take a drive through the old town and see the rows of empty shacks where once around 1,000 miners and their families lived and worked. There are also many remnants of the mine that have survived – such as brick furnaces and part of a railway.

On your way in or out of Joadja, swing into the lovely Joadja Estate – a picturesque winery where you can book a wine tasting with a cheese board. They do a lovely sparkling chardonnay pinot noir and a light and crisp summer rose. For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss a sip or few of their boysenberry liqueur.

GOING FOR GOLD The Southern Highlands (that expands out into the Southern Tablelands) has an abundance of food and farm experiences, but as it’s truffle season (June to August) we’ve decided to include a truffle lunch at the aptly Scottish named The Loch in our packed itinerary. And so we thought it wise to gain some fancy fungi knowledge beforehand.

Let’s face it – much like oysters, truffles are an acquired taste and many find them a little too pungent to enjoy.

While others consider them to be pure culinary gold.

Wayne Haslam and his son Justin at Blue Frog Truffles in Sutton aim to de-mystify the mighty funky fungi

Images: Jeffrey Atkinson

TOP TO BOTTOM: The joy of finding your first truffle; Pepper the expert truffle tracker; Pepper leads the hunt.

through talks and tours of their farm, where guests can venture into the paddock with dogs and their handlers, locating and digging up truffles.

“The fungus infects the roots of the trees and lives in a symbiotic relationship with the tree, breaking down minerals in the soil, otherwise unavailable to the tree. In return the tree generously provides sugars and carbohydrates for the truffles, which are the annual fruiting body of the fungus,” Wayne explains to us.

Pretty simple so far.

search of more treasure.

So that we can have a go at foraging, Wayne hands us our high-tech truffle digging equipment (a tablespoon) and after we carefully dig up our very own truffle, he wraps it in a napkin for us to take home and enjoy.

“They’re as thick as boots, just scrub it down at home,” he says warmly while waving us off.

Wayne later emails us a few basic recipes to get over our truffle cooking fear and I opt for his son Justin’s favourite – truffle scrambled eggs with

TOP TO BOTTOM: The lovingly restored restaurant and loungeroom at The Loch; Exploring the ruins of old Joadja Town.

“When we arrive the garden is alive with music, laughter and the tinkling of champagne glasses filled with a sparkling red from Cherry Tree Hill Winery.”

“A standardised testing scheme has been refined and introduced by the Truffle Growers Association in Australia, where black truffle inoculation of hazelnut and/or oak seedlings can be validated and evaluated prior to purchase by prospective growers. Before this, it was really down to being lucky if you had the right trees and conditions for truffles to grow on your land,” he says.

Wayne explains that sometimes you might find a rare truffle that has broken the ground and is poking out of the soil, but really, dogs are an essential part of locating truffles.

“They used to use pigs because you didn’t have to train them, but pigs love to eat them so you lose a lot or have to fight for them,” Wayne explains.

“Believe me, there are many older European truffle farmers who fought pigs for truffles and now have a few fingers missing!”

We have a great time in the rows of almond trees, following the dogs around and getting as excited as them about their golden finds. Our dog enthusiastically taps her paw – X marks the spot – and grins from ear to ear when she receives her treats – little pieces of cabanossi. Once the truffles are marked for Wayne with a pink flag on a steel rod, off the dog trots in

bacon on toast. You pop the eggs in a container with the truffle for a day or so and they absorb the flavour through the shell. Scramble in a frying pan and serve. You can’t get more simply gourmet than that.

FUNGI FIELD DAY AT THE LOCH Well, actually, you can really ramp up the gourmet Richter scale in many places in this region, and our Scottishthemed gourmet getaway came to a glorious end with ‘Fungi Field Day’ at The Loch.

The gorgeous estate, which is only six kilometres from the heart of historic Berrima, hosts regular food, music and business events and is owned and run by the extremely talented business woman and chef Brigid Kennedy.

Brigid has turned what was once an old barn into one of the most sophisticated and luxurious (yet somehow understated, in a rustic Tuscan villa kind of way) places to stay in the region. Complete with sprawling gardens for al fresco dining and dancing, and a vegetable patch that would make any green thumb jealous, the place is an oasis of style.

When we arrive the garden is alive with music, laughter and the tinkling of champagne glasses filled with a

sparkling red from Cherry Tree Hill winery, down the road in Sutton Forest.

Soon we’re seated at our own antique wooden dining table in the middle of the lawn, with an exciting fungi-filled menu before us.

The farmer who grew the truffles – Dick Groot Obbink of Durran Durra Truffles – delivers a fascinating talk about his own experience as truffle grower, explaining the mind-boggling array of scents you can depict in any given truffle. We’re helped out with a picture of a truffle aroma wheel to refer to during the meal.

Brigid takes to the stage (aka her garden) throughout the five delectable  NOV/DEC 2020

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Getaway CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Ambling through the grounds of The Loch; The beautifully-appointed Argyle Room at The Loch; One of the many incredible dishes from Fungi Field Day’s delightful degustation.

“The perfectly balanced dishes are just as beautiful in appearance as they are in taste.” courses to explain our meals – and as anyone will know who has eaten Brigid’s food, the perfectly balanced, truffle- and mushroom-infused dishes are just as beautiful in appearance as they are in taste.

The first entrée is tempura pink, yellow and white Li-Sun oyster mushroom topping Agedashi dofu matched with a Tertini Riesling, followed by Gruyere fondue with Durra Durran truffle shavings (that Brigid applies herself, popping from table to table like the impish dynamo she is) served with croute and baby pickles.

The mains are just as good – Wafuglazed Loch beef fillet squares on Li-Sun Shimeji harvest rice paired with a Rotherwood Estate Pinot Noir and Loch-foraged Saffron Milk Cap

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mushrooms preserved in salsa verde, layered with prosciutto and Fontina (Italian washed-rind cow’s milk cheese) lasagne with a pine nut salad.

Dessert is mouth-wateringly zingy – lemon curd layered with blood orange jelly on a chocolate crust with pink grapefruit and native lime drizzle.

To balance things out, it’s served with Joadja Estate’s much-loved boysenberry liqueur.

As the sun slips down toward a field of horses grazing, creating a paddockto-sky sunset of glowing orange with soft swirls of hot pink and purple ribbons, we sit in Brigid’s garden and watch as one by one, our dining friends disappear. We wave goodbye, feeling rather smug about having booked a night at The Loch in one of the four

luxuriously appointed guest rooms.

Now we simply have to cross the garden, ascend the stairs and fall into our queen-sized bed in The Argyle Room, which, fittingly, has sweeping highland views fringed with pear capital trees. There’s nothing more to do on our little Scottish getaway, except climb into bed and pour ourselves a wee dram from Joadja. As the Scots would say: Slàinte Mhath! TB

FACT FILE • therobertsonhotel.com • joadjadistillery.com.au • joadjawinery.com.au • bluefrogtruffles.com.au • theloch.net.au

THE FISHERMEN ASKED AND VICTORINOX LISTENED

Image:Luke Rutts @Skipperrutts

In response to popular demand, Victorinox has released its Swibo knife range in a Clam Pack. The Swibo collection is the go-to knife for filleting and deboning to perfection and it now comes with a protective sheath.

Prices range from $69.95 for the 16cm curved blade boning knife – (clam pack with sheath) up to to $89.95 for the 20cm curved flexible blade filleting knife.

The Swibo range is now available at bcf.com.au and leading tackle stores across Australia.

Aussie made

Supporting local businesses keeping things close to home.

1. Sodashi Skincare

4. The Marshmallow Co.

7. Aromababy

9. Hughie

Sodashi takes a holistic approach to beauty with unique formulas and ingredients that deliver healthy, nourished and radiant skin. Founded in 2000 and based in Western Fremantle, WA, all Sodashi products are handcrafted in single batches and are free from synthetic ingredients including parabens, sulfates, dyes and GMOs.

Based on the NSW Central Coast, The Marshmallow Co. makes unique marshmallows by experimenting with different flavours and styles.

The cornerstone of their recipe is the fluffiness and with over 40 flavours available in mixed boxes, these sweet treats make excellent gifts and are perfect for sharing.

Based in Victoria, Aromababy has been producing sensitive skin-friendly, organic skincare for mother and child for more than 25 years. Founded in 1994 by beauty writer Catherine Cervasio, the brand has expanded its offerings to include gorgeous, hand-sewn face masks along with the range of body balms, scrubs, candles and gifts.

Brewed in Goulburn, NSW by award-winning Tribe Breweries, ‘Hughie’ is a light, refreshing lager made from 100 per cent Australiangrown hops and malt. Not just a great thirst-quencher at the end of a long, hot day, $2.00 from every case will be donated to help raise funds for those living in droughtaffected communities around the country.

8. Underground Spirits

10. Griffin Jerky

Led by medically-trained Head Distiller, Toby Angstmann, Underground Spirits uses local, highquality ingredients and pure spring water from the Snowy Mountains, along with a unique cryofiltration process, to produce award-winning spirits in the heart of Canberra, ACT.

Griffin Jerky is made from 100% grass-fed Australian cattle. These healthy treats are gluten-free and have no preservatives, nitrites or nasty MSG. It’s simply real jerky that’s naturally delicious. Their flavours range from spicy Srirachuan to punchy Massaman Curry.

5. Trudy Rice

Founded in Melbourne by Designer Bianca Latorre, Third Boi specialises in basics and loungewear with a focus on quality and style. The label aims to fill the gap in the market for stylish yet on trend pieces for women in their 30s and beyond.

Inspired by the Australian bushland and the stunning coastal surroundings near her home in Lorne, Victoria, Trudy Rice’s vibrant and colourful works transfer brilliantly to fabric, resulting in a fabulous range of homewares, linen and gifts, all donning her unique, hand-crafted creations.

3. Invisible Zinc

6. Palm Beach Collection

Invisible Zinc represents the Australian way of life to a tee.

Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb the sun’s UV rays, Invisible Zinc uses naturally sourced Zinc Oxide to create a protective shield on the surface of your skin, reflecting both UVA & UVB rays – the perfect protection for your skin this summer.

Family owned and run, Palm Beach Collection creates beautiful hand-poured scented candles, reed diffusers and bath products in an array of fragrances, each inspired by Australia’s coastal landscape – in particular, Sydney’s Palm Beach; the place that shaped the journey of the brand.

2. Third Boi

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Cave

ADVENTURES for curious explorers

Australia has no shortage of natural wonders, but its incredible array of caves is truly astounding. From underground rivers and glowing caverns, to cave cathedrals and sunken forests, here are some of Australia’s best caves to explore.

WORDS: Olivia Bornstein

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Adventure

Jenolan Caves, NSW The Jenolan Caves are the oldest known open caves in the world.

Located 2.5 hours from Sydney, the Jenolan Caves are the perfect day trip destination. Visitors can explore the vast limestone caverns and narrow passageways – you may even spot a rare marine fossil. While tourists have access to eleven unique caves, more experienced cavers can also venture into narrow underwater passages.

The surrounding area is the perfect weekend getaway for families, couples or even a solo retreat.

Stay at the historic Caves House and enjoy dinner at Chisholm’s Restaurant.

Take advantage of your time in the stunning Jenolan region and visit Secret Creek Sanctuary and the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling nature adventure or a relaxing weekend away, the Jenolan Caves have it all.

Buchan Caves Reserve, VIC At Buchan Caves Reserve, there is never a dull moment. From touring prehistoric caves and four-wheeldriving to rock climbing and even horseback riding, your visit will be filled with fun. The Reserve is jointly held by the state and the Gunaikurnai Nation, who care for the land and preserve their unique culture. The most popular cave sites are Fairy Cave and Royal Cave, which feature incredible pillars made from stalactite and stalagmite.

Visitors can venture into the beautifully lit caverns, many of which have rippling pools and underground rivers. The Buchan Caves are about a five hours by car from Melbourne, but are undoubtedly worth the trek.

Images: Visit Victoria

Capricorn Caves, QLD The best word to describe Capricorn Caves is magical. Surrounded by lush rainforest and incredible wildlife, you will be transported to another realm.

Walk through the vine-covered entrance into the famous Cathedral

Cave – a true wonder of the world.

Here, you’ll learn about the geological history of the cave and experience its echoing acoustics. For the more ambitious cave explorer, check out The Flowerpot, Jack’s Beanstalk and Fat Man’s Misery. Just 23 kilometres from Rockhampton, Capricorn Caves is an easy weekend escape. Onsite accommodation options include cabins, the Lodge and a caravan park.

Chillagoe-Mungana Caves National Park, QLD Immerse yourself in nature at the Chillagoe-Mungana Caves National Park, located in North Queensland.

The impressive cave system has been formed over the past 400 million years through erosion and weathering.

Today the caves are filled with dazzling mineral deposits, as well as several unique wildlife species. Bats, spotted pythons, insects and spiders can all be found within the caverns of Chillagoe – the fossilised bones of the extinct giant kangaroo were even found here.

Popular caves include Donna Cave, Trezkinn Cave and Bauhinia Cave.

Mole Creek Karst National Park, TAS This natural wonder is found in the Great Western Tiers of Tasmania.

In addition to its caves, Mole Creek features countless springs, streams, sinkholes and gorges. Marakoopa Cave is perhaps the most famous cave, as it hosts a colony of glow worms that create a dazzling picture. Further into Marakoopa is the Great Cathedral, a vast cavern with near-perfect acoustics.

Visitors delight in the underground streams and pools, which create a cool, relaxing atmosphere. Not to be missed is King Solomons Cave, which is home to gorgeous stalactites and stalagmites that stretch from floor to ceiling.

Although other caves are scattered across the Park, only a few are accessible due to recent conservation efforts to preserve the rare site.  NOV/DEC 2020

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Adventure

TOP: Jenolan Caves, NSW BOTTOM: Capricorn Caves, QLD Images courtesy of Destination NSW and Tourism & Events Queensland

Lake Cave, WA

Gunns Plain Cave, TAS Gunns Plain Cave was first discovered in 1906 by a possum hunter whose prey escaped into the cave entrance. The very hole the possum disappeared into is still the main public entrance into the cavern. Once inside, visitors can enjoy a dazzling array of helictites, flowstone, stalactites and stalagmites.

If you’re lucky, you might be able to spot the elusive platypus or Tasmanian giant freshwater crayfish swimming in the underground streams. Just 30 kilometres from Ulverstone, this magical underworld is a perfect day trip for the Tassie local. For the best experience, contact a local tour guide who knows the ins and outs of the cave and its unique history.

"Jewel Cave in Western Australia boasts cave coral, helictites, pendulites, stalagmites and flowstone – a trove of geological treasures."

Jewel Cave, WA

Ngilgi Cave, WA

Just a 10-minute drive from Augusta, Jewel Cave is an absolute must for any cave enthusiast. It boasts cave coral, helictites, pendulites, stalagmites and flowstone – a trove of geological treasures. Incredibly, the fossilised bones of extinct Tasmanian Tigers were discovered within the cave after 3,000 years. Visitors can even see a complete tiger fossil at the Jewel Cave Centre.

This crystal cave is one of the most popular caves in WA, and for good reason. Make sure you book a guided tour in advance so you can fully enjoy the stunning displays. On your way out, don’t forget to stop by the Information Centre, where you can enjoy a snack at the cafe or buy a souvenier.

Ngilgi Cave, formerly known as Yallingup Cave, is truly a thing of beauty. The cave’s new name celebrates the Aboriginal spirit Ngilgi, a good spirit who defeated an evil foe.

Only a 5-minute drive from Yallingup, there’s no excuse for not exploring this stunning cave. A web of boardwalks allows you to see every chamber of this wonderland. Calcite crystals sparkle along the walls and ceilings, and you can even get your hands on some at the “Touch Table.” Expert guides will show you the way through the labyrinth, interweaving the tales of Aboriginal mythology with natural history. This cave walk is relatively easy, making it the perfect destination for all ages.

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Lake Cave is nothing less than astounding. Visitors enter the deep crystal chamber from the floor of an ancient forest. Karri trees tower high above you as you descend into the sparkling depths of the cave. The appropriately-named Lake Cave features a stunning lake that reflects the crystal structures hanging from the cave ceiling above. This “Suspended Table” of crystals nearly touches the surface of the lake, creating an incredible mirror effect. After pulling yourself away from this gorgeous display, ascend up to the Lake Cave Deck. Here, you can enjoy a spectacular treetop view of the forest.

Without a doubt, Lake Cave is one of the wonders of the world, and is well worth a visit.

Naracoorte Caves, SA Cave explorers and scientists alike flock to the Naracoorte Caves year after year.

Of the 28 caves in the region, just four are accessible to the public. The rest are the sites of active geological and prehistoric research but, with any luck, will slowly open to experienced cavers.

The Naracoorte Caves are listed as a World Heritage site due to their incredibly rich fossil deposits. For more than 500,000 years, the caves acted as roosting sites and pitfall traps, leading to an enormous collection of wellpreserved animal fossils.

Caving tours allow you to explore beyond public access sections, so be sure to book a tour to escape the crowds. With so much to explore in the surrounding forests and walking trails, plan to stay for a few nights at the Wirreanda Bunkhouse or one of the nearby campsites on the Limestone Coast. Immerse yourself in the prehistoric wonders of Naracoorte Caves – the perfect otherworldly escape from urban mundanity. TB

AusBiz.

NEWS+VIEWS | MINING | AGRIBUSINESS | INdustry

p.10 what’s new in mining machinery P.14 myth-busting the hemp industry P.18 the pandemic of the bee world P.24 government, small business and recession p.28 the price of plant power is about to drop

WORLD’S BEE POPULATION FACES A PANDEMIC OF ITS OWN Honey bees are essential for the pollination of about one third of the food we eat, yet their health and ability to pollinate our crops is under serious threat. p18

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AUSBIZ NEWS

BRAINFOOD Bringing you the latest insight and analysis Words: BETHANY PLINT

BUSINESS TRAVEL IN THE AGE OF COVID-19 The tourism sector in Australia is still reeling from the impact of COVID-19 but with border restrictions loosening between some states, confidence is returning for leisure travellers.

But what about business travel?

Whether or not a Zoom call can adequately replace an in-person conference or meeting altogether is a separate arguement, but there are still plenty of questions circling around what Australia’s business travel sector will look like in a post-COVID world.

Many businesses within the tourism sector have had to be agile when it comes to navigating through this challenging time. Many travel insurance

providers, for example, have shifted to a closer-to-home approach, extending their offerings to provide support to travellers who may be impacted by COVID-19 during their trips. One in particular has honed in on business travel during the pandemic.

World Travel Protection, previously specialising in international insurance policies, has since redirected its focus to domestic travel insurance for business travellers.

The company’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Stephen Rashford, says travellers should assess the entire trip, from departing their house or office to arriving at their destination. This could include using a Maxi Cab to put extra space between them and the driver, avoiding public transport, and

monitoring movement through the airport in crowded spaces such as check-in and security screening.

Further, Dr Rashford suggests checking whether the meeting place or conference venue has a COVID-Safe plan. Rooms should have capacity limits with allocated seating. And while it may feel awkward or unusual, Dr Rashford recommends individuals avoid shaking hands with business partners and colleagues.

On an organisational level, Adrian Leach, World Travel Protection’s CEO, strongly encourages businesses to develop and implement an internal education campaign to equip employees with the knowledge and resources needed to conduct business travel safely now and in the future.

NOV/DEC 2020

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BUY OUR AWARD-WINNING BEERS ONLINE Or visit Tumut River Brewing Co’s 1,500 litre brewhouse with adjoining bar and restaurant. We proudly showcase 24 taps of TRBC’s beers along with a small range of other locally sourced beer, wine, cider and food.

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Big spring flush for Australian dairy Australia’s dairy industry is set to break a three-year downturn as milk production climbs above nine billion litres for the first time since the 2017/18 season.

A newly-released sector report attributes the spike in production to timely rainfall across Australia’s ‘dairy belts’, keeping the sector on track for a strong spring flush – the time of year when milk production typically surges.

Agribusiness banking specialist Rabobank’s senior dairy analyst, Michael Harvey, says this 2.8 per cent increase follows a turnaround in production seen halfway through the 2019/20 season as a result of recent rainfal.

The report highlights the dairy farming regions in Tasmania and eastern Victoria as leaders in production.

The ongoing recovery in milk supply means Australia’s exportable surplus will alleviate some cost pressures for dairy producers and may also encourage dairy exporters to explore growth opportunities.

Closer to home, however, sales growth is plateauing as ‘pantry loading’ triggered by the COVID-19 lockdowns recedes. Further, out-of-home dairy consumption at restaurants and cafes remains well below levels in recent years as strict lockdowns and venue capacity restrictions continue.

This season’s spring flush will be a welcome one.

India to begin brewing with Aussie barley The Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre (AEGIC) is in talks with key stakeholders in the Indian brewing and malting industry to strike up a new deal between the two nations.

After a 10-year-standing technical phytosanitary restriction reached its expiry date, the AEGIC swooped in to capitalise on the opportunity that could address the growing demand for Australian barley in India.

“By 2030, the size of the Indian malting barley market is likely to be between 450,000 and 650,000 tonnes,” says AEGIC’s Barley Markets Manager, Mary Raynes. “The Australian barley industry is working to ensure Australia is well-placed to capture a strong share of this market.”

The new trade agreement would go a long way in softening the blow of China’s reported dumping margin of up to 73.6 per cent of Australian barley in May, and their announcement of a trade deal that gives preference US goods.

SMALL BUSINESSES GIVING BACK In a time where some businesses are holding on for dear life, struggling every day to stay afloat, it is incredibly surprising in the most heart-warming way to hear how many of them are taking what little they are making and sharing it with those who might need it more.

Since COVID-19 hit, we’ve seen countless businesses pivot in order to weather the storm but in a rather unanticipated move, a lot have gone down the charitable giving path. It seems these businesses have stayed true to the “we’re all in this together” sentiments from earlier in the year that many have since forgotten.

One such business, Victorian-based tourism operator Kangaroo Jack, has gained a swathe of media attention and even celebrity coverage from their new partnership with a local Indigenous not-for-profit. Teaming up with the Wadawurrung Indigenous Community

at the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre, the Torquay tour operator is now manufacturing face masks that feature authentic Indigenous artwork and donating the profits to a community leadership program that supports disadvantaged Indigenous youth in the area.

Reporting a 55% increase in annual profit, Kangaroo Jack’s owner, David Zaffina shares his elation with the success of the partnership, despite having faced dire challenges in recent months: “Only 7 weeks ago, the business was really struggling, surviving on JobKeeper from the devastating effects on the Australian Tourism Industry due to lockdown restrictions in Victoria, so the community has really got behind us and the support has been amazing!”

Another small business, Sydney-based organic skincare brand Aromababy, have opted to add masks to their offerings, too. However, this time

the buyer has the option to choose where their donation goes. For each cotton face mask sold, Aromababy will donate an additional mask to a local hospitality business, or one bottle of Aromababy to a charity caring for mothers and babies during the pandemic.

These are just two of the countless small businesses not only seeing the bigger picture but acting on it to aid others through rough seas.

NOV/DEC 2020

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Introducing Internet-enabled corrections for your base station • Replaces UHF radios • Works with all brands of GNSS • From $99 + GST per month 6

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

MiRTK: A refreshing alternative to UHF radios for RTK corrections IF YOU’VE worked on a construction site with base stations in the past 20 years, there’s a solid chance you’ve worked with UHF radios as well. UHF radios have been a staple for site communications and GNSS (Global Navigation Satelite System) corrections across Australia for years, but that hasn’t made them immune to issues. Whether it’s dropouts, configurations or radio interference, UHF radios have a history of being difficult to set up, difficult to operate and difficult to keep running for long periods of time.

Yet despite the issues that plague UHF radios, they’re consistently found on construction sites from Sydney to Port Augusta. The main reason why? Nothing was invented to replace them.

WHAT CUSTOMERS HAVE TO SAY: “I’d say, in ideal conditions, UHF and MiRTK are probably the same, the only problem is, we don’t work in ideal conditions and often there’s interference on the UHF and you just don’t get any of those problems on MiRTK.” “MiRTK pretty much runs without a hitch. We haven’t had any problems or black spots that we see with UHF radios. It’s working really well.”

“MiRTK gives us much better signal in areas where we’d previously had to setup radio repeaters. As far as setting up machines to use MiRTK it was really simple and only took a few minutes.”

Everyone in the industry simply accepted that this was the way life was going to be on-site; that the radios were an improvement and they should just be happy they’re not doing things the old-fashioned way. However, when you’re working with a 20-year-old product in the 21st century, you have to wonder why no one has thought of a better option.

Now imagine having a little modem that you slot onto your tripod, plug into your base station (regardless of its age or brand), power it on then leave it to run for up to 20 hours straight. No repeaters, no antenna masts, no configuration.

MiRTK is an annual subscription service, but unlike the UHF radio licences, you don’t have to worry about interference or your configuration.

With pricing from $99 + GST a month, it is a simple and cost effective option that can be swapped between any GNSS system, wherever it’s working, with no additional costs or set up.

Not only this but the MiRTK hardware is brand agnostic, no matter if you have a Topcon, Trimble, Leica, Sokkia, Hemisphere, Carlson or any other brand of GNSS unit, MiRTK will work with it. This saves you having to hire or buy multiple units for the various GNSS units you use regularly. Want to know more? Get in touch the Position Partners team to get all the details. positionpartners.com.au

TOP BENEFITS OF MIRTK 1. Works with all brands of GNSS 2. Uses all satellite constellations 3. Reliable corrections via internet rather than UHF 4. Simple subscription, no repeaters or complex licences

NOV/DEC 2020

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beyond anxiety

BUSINESS IN THE WORKPLACE

REMOTE WORKING: AUSTRALIA’S POST-PANDEMIC REALITY Andy Hurt, Managing Director of communication technology company Poly, shares his predictions for the future of remote working in Australia.

Words: ANDY HURT COVID-19 has caused the biggest disruption to business in living memory.

The impact has advanced far beyond initial predictions to become the biggest economic crisis since the Great Depression with higher job losses and more industries affected.

While coping with the lockdown was the initial focus of most organisations, Australian businesses are now looking to navigate what the new normal will be as we emerge from the pandemic.

With most of the world still at a high level of crisis, what is appropriate for business here? How can Australian companies return to business-as-usual – if that even exists anymore?

REMOTE WORK: THE NEW NORMAL Remote work was initially envisioned as a way for companies to carry on through the lockdown. Now, it looks like it’s becoming the new normal, particularly in the form of “hybrid working” where employees may switch between remote and office-based work. Organisations that were previously sceptical about allowing remote work have now been forced to enable it and realise the benefits: not just business continuity, but higher productivity, flexibility and improved work-life balance. Employees no longer waste hours every day commuting.

Thanks to advances in communication technology, we have reached a point where remote working can be virtually as impactful as being there in person. But for remote work to happen productively, employers need to ensure that the technologies deployed for employee use – laptops, private networks and communication tools – are fit for the task.

The quality of communications is critical. Studies have shown that both video and audio quality have a significant impact on people’s ability to learn and recall information.

Research by Forbes Insights found that 73 per cent of executives for high growth companies believe videoconferencing “significantly improves” the quality of communication. But even with high quality video, having high quality audio remains critical. A study in Sweden found that poor audio affected people’s perception of video.

In Australia, 84 per cent of respondents assume that people will be equipped with video devices and headsets in future, according to an Australian Public Sector survey in June 2020. Further, 80 per cent believe that devices such as headsets and video cameras allow people to be more effective in the workplace.

Employees who need to meet frequently with vendors, partners or customers will need proper teleconferencing technology to replace physical meetings, as well as training on how to replicate face-toface contact as closely as possible.

Employers should also think about their business processes to ensure business continuity. For example, are employee roles and responsibilities made clear if teams are required to be split into smaller groups, with some working from the office, and others working from home?

Another issue is that some employees struggle to work from home. How can they be supported?

What extra channels or ‘virtual water coolers’ might help to create a more holistic workplace experience?

LOOKING TOWARDS A DIFFERENT FUTURE Australian technology infrastructure has made significant strides in recent decades. From moving to the cloud to the advent of 5G, affordable and scalable solutions are available more widely now than ever before. But how these technologies are deployed and used is all-important.

Most epidemiologists warn that COVID-19 will not be the last or even the worst pandemic. Other viruses have already been identified with the potential to jump species and cause worse havoc. In the years to come, the coronavirus lockdowns may be seen as the dress rehearsal for something far more severe.

We need to leverage technology to ensure we can have business continuity throughout future crises, from natural disasters to pandemics. Ultimately for businesses to operate successfully in a crisis, it all boils down to the employees and how they can be empowered through technology to work in the best way possible, from anywhere – even quarantine.

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WHAT’S NEW From drilling machines to excavators, crushing and grinding equipment – the mining industry requires a dizzying array of machinery and technology to carry out its work. These tools are constantly evolving to meet new safety requirements and output targets. Here’s a round up of what’s just hit the scene.

Words: DARREN BAGULEY

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MINING MACHINERY

Image: Jayben Group

Jayben S60 REMOTE CONTROLLED MINING SCALER Claimed by the Jayben Group as a world first, the S60 Scaler is a diesel powered, fully remote controlled crawler unit designed to safely clear material that has built up on stepped benches and remediate the vertical walls of open pit mines.

Highly flexible in operation, the S60 has a variety of quick attach accessory tools such as hydraulic impactors, picks for scaling and a bucket for material clearing that can be attached to a specifically designed multi-positioning mount. For future development,

shotcrete applicators, drilling and explosive placement, meshing and water blasting attachments are all in the process of being designed.

In operation, the S60 is secured to a piece of heavy equipment such as a bulldozer. Two large onboard winches, incorporating auto cable condition monitoring, allow 130 meters of extension over the mine edge.

Extendable stabilisation arms provide lateral stability on uneven faces.

Designed for the harsh conditions of the Australian mining industry, the S60’s body incorporates heavy duty fibreglass panels to protect the powerpack, along

with guarding around vital components such as the track frame and winches.

Several cameras strategically placed around the machine, together with powerful floodlights, leverage cutting edge 3D camera logic to enable the operator to remotely view the work area and control the machine at all times, day and night.

The Wi-Fi enabled, cloud-connected Industry 4.0 machine interface allows direct connectivity to the factory from anywhere in the world to enable comprehensive data analysis to assist with maintenance and trouble shooting. jayben.com.au ď ˝ NOV/DEC 2020

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MINING MINERALS

Bis Razor UNDERGROUND GRADER Winner of the Best Product Launch category of the Queensland Mining Awards 2020, the Bis Razor is the first all-new underground grader to come onto the market in 20 years. Engineered to improve uptime, reducing maintenance costs and down time, the Razor boasts superior engine power and grader mass that has been optimised to increase tractive effort by over 30 per cent.

Bis has designed the grader with safety front-of-mind. The modular drivers’ cabin has dual access with improved ergonomics for the driver safety and visibility, both forward and at blade. The braking system is NSW MDG 39 compliant incorporating dual SAHR emergency/park brakes directly coupled to the rear drive wheels for greater safety and reliability.

The engine system is NSW MDG43 compliant providing low engine exhaust emissions as well as increased power and torque, providing traction for ground engagement forces through the blade. The transmission has also been upgraded from 3 to 4 speed for a wider range of grading speeds. bisindustries.com

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IMDEX Blast Dog BLAST OPTIMISING FIELD ROBOT Universal Field Robots joined Bis Industries on the podium at the Queensland Mining Awards 2020, taking out the Greyhound Innovation (METS) Award. UFR and IMDEX conquered the challenge of logging blast holes, while removing operators from harm’s way by taking the IMDEX BLASTDOG™ solution from concept to prototype in just four months.

The collaborative project combines UFR’s E20C 2-ton robotic platform that operates UFR Autonomy (called AutoLog), and IMDEX’s downhole

“The Bis Razor is the first all-new underground grader to come onto the market in 20 years.”

sensor technology, to deliver IMDEX BLASTDOG™; a semi-autonomous system that helps optimise blasting based on measuring hole physicals and high-resolution three-dimensional material models built from sensor data.

To perform the sensing, UFR AutoLog drives along the mining bench to hole locations derived from mine data as provided by the IMDEX system.

AutoLog uses robotic vision to check the hole location and then lowers the IMDEX sensor down the blasthole.

The critical data is sent to IMDEX’s IMDEXHUB-IQ system in the cloud in real-time where mining engineers can analyse it and, if necessary, make changes to the blast design.

The improved blast design can lower the cost of blasting, improve fragmentation, and reduce the dilution of ore to improve mining outcomes.

UFR AutoLog and IMDEX BLASTDOG move people out of a dangerous zone to improve safety, increase productivity and reduce risk. universalfieldrobots.com.au

Images: Bis Industries, Universal Field Robots and Safescape.

Bortana EV DUAL CAB UTE Safescape, a mining services company operating from offices in Victoria and Western Australia, has shipped 10 prototypes of the locally developed Bortana electric vehicle to mine sites across Australia for testing in underground and general mining activity. Developed in a collaborative industry effort led by the Mets Ignited Industry Growth Centre, the vehicle is based on the Agrale Marruá, a heavy-duty, corrosion resistant Brazilian vehicle.

Mets Ignited provided support of $500,000 while industry partners Safescape, Minetech Australia, Aeris Resources, and Cougar Mining Group spent $700,000 developing the Bortana.

The Marruá ute is made by Brazilian bus and truck manufacturer Agrale.

Designed for the military, it is as tough as the Portuguese translation of Marruá, meaning “wild bull”.

The Marruá has a chassis of heavygauge steel that is completely sealed (no holes) and coated to prevent corrosion; a fully galvanised body; a bulletproof drive train, overengineered axles (the rear is rated

“Bortana is based on the Agrale Marruá, a heavyduty, corrosion resistant Brazillian vehicle.”

1000kg more than the vehicle’s payload); and it was designed to be dropped from height to reach the speed of 9m/second before hitting the ground – without breaking any part.

Safescape had the 10 vehicles shipped from the Brazilian factory without drivetrains or components associated with internal-combustion engines. The EV propulsion units are fitted in Australia, initially at Safescape’s Bendigo facility and then in WA. The electric drivetrain comes from components sourced globally and the batteries are Australian-made lithiumion NMC batteries. The Bortana is fully-ADR compliant and has safety equipment that meets the category,

LEFT TO RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM: UFR AUTOPILE, UFR AUTOLOG, BORTANA EV & BIS RAZOR

including electronic stability control and anti-lock braking. As it is classified as a truck, it is not required to have airbags.

The Bortana prototype has a range of about 120km, which can be further enhanced with more batteries. The batteries are currently under the bonnet and in a unit atop the tray, but in future will be mounted under the load tray.

As vehicles in mining operations do not cover large distances, the Bortana can complete a normal shift on one charge. Recharging can be completed to 80 per cent within 15 minutes and to maintain battery charge, the vehicle can be plugged in underground while the vehicle is not being used. safescape.com NOV/DEC 2020

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AUSTRALIAN

HEMP INDUSTRY ON THE RISE

One of the world’s oldest cultivated plants, industrial hemp fell afoul of concern about its cousin, marijuana; but 80 years after production was banned, it’s now legal to cultivate under licence in all Australian states and territories.

Words: DARREN BAGULEY

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Image: Nick Parkinson, Afends.

AGRIBUSINESS

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AGRIBUSINESS

THE HISTORY OF HEMP in Australia is as old as European settlement; when the First Fleet arrived in 1788, it carried Cannabis sativa seeds onboard. Hemp was a strategic commodity for Great Britain. The Royal Navy was the dominant sea power and kilometres of hemp would be used to rig and caulk the timbers of a man o’ war while the ship’s sails and its crew’s clothing were made of hemp.

At the time, the Empire depended on Russian-grown hemp for its supply with its accompanying strategic and geopolitical risks. As a result, the Admiralty planned to establish large hemp crops in the new penal colony.

A hemp industry was established in Australia but in the 1920s and 1930s it ran afoul of prohibitionists concerned about marijuana. According to an industry overview published by AgriFutures Australia, “There are over 2,000 different varieties or strains of C. sativa, which are botanically alike but differ in their chemical makeup.

The C. sativa plant contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which at high concentrations is a psycho-

active or mind-altering ingredient.

In 90% of C. sativa varieties, the concentration of THC in leaves and flowering heads is extremely low and deemed harmless.”

In his book, Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs, author and investigative Journalist, Johann Hari, details how the head of the US Department of Prohibition, Harry Anslinger, shifted emphasis to marijuana and other narcotic drugs when he realised the end of Prohibition would make his department redundant.

At the same time, powerful business interests associated with nylon and cotton saw the opportunity to take out a competing industry by playing up the connection with marijuana as they lobbied governments. As a result, from the late 1920s onwards, cultivation of Cannabis was outlawed in the US and Australia with no exception made for industrial hemp.

LEFT: HEMP BEDDING FROM HEMP CLOTHING AUSTRALIA AND HEMP CLOTHING FROM AFENDS. RIGHT: HEMP CROPS GROWING IN AUSTRALIA & A BAG OF DRIED HEMPS SEEDS.

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STRUGGLING WITH STIGMA It wasn’t until the early 2000s that Australian state governments started to make a distinction between the low-THC varieties of industrial hemp and marijuana. In November 2017, the Food Standards Code was amended to permit the sale of low THC hemp seed foods for consumption and when the Northern Territory made it possible to grow industrial hemp under licence earlier this year, it became a legal crop in every state and territory. THC is limited to below 1 per cent in New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland and 0.35 per cent in other states.

The reason growers must apply for a licence is that industrial hemp is not recognised as a farming commodity.

Instead, industrial hemp (even with the approved THC levels) is classified as Cannabis under the ‘Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981’.

According to James Vosper, president of the Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance, “The growing location must be approved by the State Government, i.e. no public access, not near schools et cetera, and growers need to agree to inspections and monitoring by state government inspectors.”

Although the legalisation of low THC hemp seed foods for consumption unfortunately coincided with the onset of drought in Eastern Australia, hemp cultivation is growing. In 2011, there was 185.5 hectares nationwide and in 2020 there are around 2,500 hectares under hemp, with Tasmania the leading state for hemp growing.

"The anti-marijuana movement has set the hemp industry back decades, however, some serious R & D effort is being put into the crop."

Image: Anrielle Hunt, for Hemp Clothing Australia, Ecofibre & Afends Clothing

WHY GROW HEMP? Some proponents claim almost miraculous properties for hemp, however, it’s not a silver bullet according to Vosper.

Nonetheless, hemp has some outstanding qualities. It is more water efficient than cotton – it uses between three and six megalitres of water per hectare – although it is nitrogen hungry for the first few weeks after germination. It is fairly pest resistant in the Australian environment and because it grows so rapidly, it outcompetes most weeds which negates or greatly reduces the need for herbicides or cultivation.

With a large, vigorous root system, it is an excellent crop for carbon sequestration. The portion of the hemp plant known as the hurd can be used to produce hempcrete, a concrete replacing building material that absorbs carbon dioxide as it cures.

Modern textile production techniques can turn the fibre into a soft but hard-wearing fabric similar to cotton.

According to Vosper, “it has been used to clean up contaminated industrial sites as its root system takes up substances such as gold, lead, cadmium and nickel from the soil. The Russians used hemp to decontaminate irradiated heavy metals in the fields around Chernobyl in the 1990s.”

Hemp can be grown anywhere lucerne grows well, says Vosper.

Although primarily grown in the summer months, in some parts of Australia it is possible to harvest two crops per year. Harvesting of hemp for fibre occurs as soon as the last pollen is shed but before the seed sets, which is normally 70–90 days after planting.

Harvesting for seed would occur four to six weeks later than fibre harvest, when 60 to 70 per cent of the seed has ripened. Watching for signs that birds are stripping the seeds off the plant is a good way to tell that seeds are ready for harvest. Hemp is sown by a conventional disc drill and harvested by good quality sickle-bar mowers and hay swathers.

FUTURE OF HEMP IN AUSTRALIA

FAST FACTS

The anti-marijuana movement has set the hemp industry back decades and it is still regarded as an emerging industry, however, some serious R & D effort is starting to be put into the crop.

The Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance has received funding from AgriFutures Australia to conduct trials across the country, but especially in Northern Australia, to determine what strains of C. Sativa grow best and where.

Although hemp grows best in subtropical and tropical climates in temperatures between 15–27°C and a moderately humid atmosphere, Tasmania is currently the major hemp growing state as it sourced cool climate varieties from Canada which legalised hemp growing in 1998.

In 1941 Henry Ford built a Model T which had a body incorporating bioplastic made from hemp and it ran on fuel derived from hemp seeds.

As we face a warming world choked with non-biodegradable plastics while seeking to draw down carbon dioxide, it will be difficult to ignore the benefits of the 10,000-year-old C. Sativa.

• Industrial hemp is grown from Cannabis Sativa, fast growing herbaceous plants with a minimal concentration of the mind-altering substance tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) • Industrial hemp is grown for seeds or fibre, usually not both • There is a wide range of uses for industrial hemp’s fibre and seeds ranging from textiles and cosmetics, to building materials, biofuels and food.

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COVER STORY

COVID OF THE BEE WORLD Words: Ian Neubauer

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AS HARD AS COVID-19 is on humanity, take a moment to think about the European honey bee and its existential fight for survival against the Varroa mite – also know as Varroa destructor – a parasitic mite that attaches itself to the bodies of bee fetuses and creates a vector for 18 debilitating diseases, including the deformed wing virus, which induces mortality rates of up to 95 per cent.

“When they say 'destructor' they really mean it,” says Daniel Webb, a commercial beekeeper and owner of iWoohoo, a beekeeping supply store in Minto, Western Sydney. “When I started doing my beekeeping apprenticeship in New Zealand a decade ago, beekeepers could leave their hives over the winter and come back to healthy hives,” he says.

“But after the Varroa mite arrived in Auckland and ravaged the country, they'd come back at the start of spring and every single bee would be dead.”  NOV/DEC 2020

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KOMBUCHA

COVER STORY

Images: CSIRO

"In Australia, 65 per cent of horticultural and agricultural crops grown in Australia require honey bees for pollination."

“In commercial terms,” he continues, “the contagion tripled the number of inspections beekeepers needed to do each year to keep hives healthy, which was ultimately reflected in the price of honey in New Zealand because honey cannot be imported to the country.”

With the exception of four islands of Hawaii and southeastern Libya, Australia is the only beekeeping country in the world free of the Varroa mite. Not that the destructor hasn't tried to reach our bees.

“In 2018, we intercepted a swarm of honey bees carrying Varroa off the Port of Melbourne that had built a hive inside a container on a ship that originated from the US,” says Dr John Roberts, the research scientist leading bee pathology research at the CSIRO. “In that instance, the swarm was

detected before it left the ship and before the ship reached port.”

But next time, Roberts says, Australia's biosecurity experts might not be so lucky. “I don't have a crystal ball but the feeling of the scientific community for a long time has been that Varroa is now found everywhere else in the world and it is just a matter of time before it makes landfall in Australia.”

FOOD SECURITY North America has been especially hard hit by the Varroa mite. Parts of the US have reported annual colony losses of up to 30 per cent, with many American beekeepers now reliant on Varroa-free queen bees imported from Australia.

But it's not just the price of honey that's affected. While collecting nectar – the substance they use to make honey – from flowers, honey bees spread pollen or seed plants from flower to flower.

By carrying out this vital task known as pollinating, bees facilitate the production of one-third to threequarters of all food on the planet.

In Australia, 65 per cent of horticultural and agricultural crops grown in Australia require honey bees for pollination, according to information provided at a 2014 Senate inquiry into the Future of Beekeeping.

But unlike many other developed countries that use managed honey bees to pollinate crops, most of our horticultural and agricultural industries rely on unmanaged feral honey to  NOV/DEC 2020

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COVER STORY

pollinate crops – making us particularly vulnerable to sudden declines in feral honey bee populations.

“I think that's the biggest point to get across,” says Webb. “If and when Varroa arrives in Australia, beekeepers can manage Varroa in their hives with more frequent inspections. But if it decimates feral bee populations, we will be completely reliant on farmed bees to pollinate our crops.”

It's a view shared by CSIRO Pollination Researcher Dr Saul Cunningham: “Our managed bee pollination services would be hardpressed to meet the extra demand required to replace the key role feral bees play. So the outcome would likely be a drop in crop production and a rise in prices of popular food staples like fruit and veggies.”

And Varroa is not the only mite threatening honey bees in Australia and their massive contribution to our food security. “Another serious risk for us that I am working on now,” says Dr Roberts, “is the Tropilaelaps mite.

It's an external mite, like the Varroa,

native to the giant honey bees of Asia but even more damaging. It isn't a global threat yet but it recently spread to Papua New Guinea, right on our northern doorstep.”

PLAN B So how did the Varroa mite penetrate New Zealand, which, like Australia, is one of the most biosecure countries on Earth?

“With any security system, there are always unpredictable things that can happen,” says Dr Roberts.

“So it is definitely about preparing for the worst with a good plan.”

In addition to beefing up surveillance at ports and other locations considered the most likely entry point of the Varroa mite in Australia, the CSIRO has devised a high tech early-warning system that looks out for changes in the normally predictable behaviour of bees.

The solution comprises microsensors, each measuring 2.5mm x 2.5mm, that scientists in Hobart are painstakingly fitting by hand to the

backs of the bees. The bees are then released into the wild, where the micro-sensors work like vehicle e-tag systems to send data to receivers placed strategically around beehives to identify individual bees' movements.

By modelling bee movement, scientists can help identify outbreaks and isolate them from the larger bee population. To date, more than one million bees have been tagged – the first time in history such large numbers of insects have been monitored.

“We call them bees with backpacks,” says Paulo de Souza, an expert in micro-sensors at the CSIRO leading the study. “But this is not about bees or microchips or technology. This is about the future of our planet.”

DID YOU KNOW? • Bees can recognise individual humans the same way we do, by cobbling together lips, ears and other organs to make out a whole face

Images: CSIRO

• Some bees are thrillseekers. Others are more timid. A US study even found that agitated honeybees can be pessimistic, and may have feelings

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SPECIAL FEATURE

HOW GOVERNMENT CAN BEST SUPPORT SMEs DURING THE PANDEMIC AND BEYOND 24

AusBiz.

Image: XXXXXXXXXXX

Small businesses struggle at the best of times so it’s no secret that over a third of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Australia are feeling pessimistic about how they’ll survive the next three months.

Words: Libby-Jane Charleston

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SPECIAL FEATURE

THE AUSTRALIAN BUREAU OF STATISTICS’ latest survey of COVID-19 business impacts shows 35 per cent of small businesses predict it will be difficult to meet financial commitments (compared to just 18 per cent of large companies).

Dr Andrei Lux and Dr Flavio Macau from Edith Cowan University researched 223 business owners.

Their findings reveal that when an SME is struggling, it is not only due to an individual entrepreneurs’ personal resources and capabilities; the local business environment also plays a major role.

There are four significant issues Dr Lux and Dr Macau believe governments need to focus on.

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1. SMES NEED GOOD ADVICE “Our research shows that access to professional advice, including tax, legal and accounting, makes a significant difference to small business outcomes.

During an economic downturn, spending on these services can be some of the first things to go at a time when they’re needed most, as business owners face tough decisions, such as whether to borrow to keep their company afloat or to cut their losses,” says Dr Lux, lecturer in Leadership and Organisational Behaviour.

“Governments will need to ensure that professional services are available and accessible to small businesses on favourable terms.”

According to Dr Macau, senior lecturer in Supply Chain Management and Global Logistics, sometimes the advice is there and small businesses don't know about it or how to access it.

“Business owners may know about

the advice and think it is too complicated, off-limits or rigged.

Governments could step up and teach business owners even more on how to take the most value from the services that are available to them,” says Dr Macau. “It can be frustrating but like Sisyphus, it is governments' job to roll the boulder endlessly up the steep hill.”

2. PROMOTE MENTAL HEALTH The pandemic has already put the spotlight on mental health around the world, as many are struggling to cope with the confines of a lockdown.

Research by Dr Macau and Dr Lux shows that business owners’ mental health resources have a direct effect on their firm's performance.

“The mental strain of the pandemic, lockdown, and subsequent economic downturn, is making things even harder for small business owners. That’s why it is particularly important for

"Local government support groups could help business owners facing what is possibly the greatest professional challenge of their lives."

governments to support small business owners’ mental health as part of their long-term recovery plans,” says Dr Lux. “There is much talk on how the pandemic affects our mental health but not that much on how we can persevere and heal. Local government support groups could help business owners facing what possibly is the greatest professional challenge of their lives,” says Dr Macau.

3. GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT Dr Lux and Dr Macau maintain small businesses should be given a real advantage in procurement and that all policies and processes are clear, protective and accessible to the “small guys.” Efforts should be made to ensure that access to this help is not a “maze” that ends up only helping the large corporations.

Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Kate Carnell, has

proposed that federal government contracts worth up to A$10 million go through a small business panel as part of the tender process. Dr Lux and Dr Macau agree with Ms Carnell’s statement that “lowest cost is not always the best value for money.”

4. ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO BUY LOCAL Buying local is more important than ever before. Dr Lux says the reason is explained by the 'velocity of money'.

“Let’s say you get paid $10, and you use that $10 to buy dinner from a local take-out, that pays the chef's wages, who then uses that $10 to take an uber home, the uber driver pays that $10 to a babysitter, who then uses it to buy groceries. That $10 has produced $50 worth of economic value for your community,” says Dr Lux. However, Dr Lux claims there are two big problems with this: “You buy from a company based overseas—the same

process happens, but over there, and that $10 (and the subsequent $50) have left our community. Also, if you buy from a big business, even one that's Australian owned, some of that process still happens because those goods/services are provided by Australian workers, but wealthy business owners tend to just add the profits to their bank account, again taking that money out of the economy.

That's why it's so important to spend at local businesses in a recession, so that your $10 adds $50 to our economy.”

According to Dr Macau, buying local is best for everyone.

“The best-case scenario is when you buy local because it is the best offer, balancing price, quality, flexibility, reliability and speed. Where possible, local must be stimulated to excel globally, expanding to not only ensure that the money stays local but also that it is attracted from the outside to the community," says Dr Macau.

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Plant

POWER words: BETHANY PLINT

Image: Fable Food Co

INDUSTRY PLANT POWER

IMAGINE, IT’S 2024. Every restaurant in your town has a dedicated vegan menu with more than just a garden salad and mushroom risotto on offer. Beyond Meat is reasonably priced. Non-dairy milks now come in 2L bottles rather than tiny, two-cuppa Tetra Paks.

Cadbury has recreated their entire range with almond milk. Life is good.

This may be a very specific dream but it’s one that will likely resonate with the 2.5 million Australians whose diet consists almost solely of vegetarian food (according to a recent study by market research company, Roy Morgan).

It may also pique the interest of the approximately 10 million Australians who have reported they are consuming less red meat on a regular basis.

‘Plant-based’ is no longer a buzz term. It’s just the most recent iteration of a lifestyle choice that has been reshaped and repositioned for marketing purpose time and time again. Those who have adopted the plant-based lifestyle – whether in part or in full – now enjoy a far less abrasive reaction when discussing their dietary choices with meat eaters. People were once met with concern from meateaters if they admitted to not eating a hunk of beef everyday, but discussions around plant-based eating are much more open today. Or, perhaps, the notion has been around long enough that people simply don’t care anymore.

There are plenty of other divisive topics to discuss these days.

The proliferation of widely recognised research supporting the health benefits of plant-based eating has helped society reach a general consensus – “it’s not for everyone but there’s no denying its benefits.” Yet, the movement still faces strong resistance from Australia’s farming industry. 

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INDUSTRY PLANT POWER

Farming has and always will be an integral part of the Australian economy, as well as our wider culture. In fact, we dedicate 58 per cent of our land to it.

With a $65 billion valuation across agriculture, fisheries and forestry production – and more than 50 per cent of this being tied to animal agriculture (Snapshot of Australian Agriculture 2020, ABARES) – it’s unsurprising that those with vested interests are concerned about meat alternatives disrupting the industry.

However, the aim of many of these companies is not to put farmers out of business, but rather to offer an alternative that allows consumers to diversify their diet with different plant-based protein options.

When posed with the notion of going plant-based, most consumers turn their nose up at the idea of dry chickpea patties, kale-infused sausages and other bland products dressed up as their carnivorous favourites. But the meat-alternative market is becoming increasingly plump with established food producers and start-ups creating products that are convincing enough to make even the most die-hard meat eaters do a double take.

THIS PAGE: UPTON'S NATURALS JACKFRUIT OPPOSITE: FABLE PLANT-BASED MEAT

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BUT IT DOESN’T TASTE AS GOOD… Fable is considered the gold standard of meat alternatives in Australia.

Headquartered on the Sunshine Coast with a development kitchen in Melbourne, the three brains behind Fable are the first to admit they love the taste of meat. “One of life’s greatest pleasures is biting into a juicy burger or getting elbow deep in a tantalising bolognese, curry or stew,” they concede on their website. "But the challenge is, there are some major issues with how we produce and consume meat today.” They’re referring primarily to the huge environmental impact of excessive meat consumption in Australia. The CSIRO found that greenhouse emissions from Australian diets are 200 per cent higher than those of a typical high-income country, placing the blame on meat-heavy diets.

Fable’s answer to this issue is by basing their products around the humble shiitake mushroom. Needing only a few other ingredients – coconut oil, soy sauce and tapioca flour – mushrooms have the same natural umami flavours that help make meat so appealing which means processing is kept to a minimum.

BUT IT’S EXPENSIVE… One of the main hurdles when it comes to uptake is cost versus demand – the more consumers who want the product, the more companies who are willing to produce it. More competition in the market means lower prices for the consumer and, thus, a higher uptake by individuals whose main barrier to entry is cost.

One Australian plant-based meat startup is about to blow that cost barrier out of the water. v2food, the creators of Hungry Jacks’ Rebel Whopper, have picked up contracts with Marley Spoon and Dinnerly since striking their deal with the fast food giant in 2019. Their most recent win – signing a deal with

Woolworths to carry their products in over 600 stores around the country – is a big step forward in their mission to make plant-based meat a regular item on Aussie dinner tables. Understanding that there will not be mass acceptance of meat alternatives until value is comparable to their animal equivalent, v2food has launched their products with a retail price of $8.50 for 500g of mince, on par with Woolworths’ own lean beef mince.

The founder and CEO of v2food, Nick Hazell, cites population growth and the subsequent increasing demand for protein sources as the driving force of “some of the greatest health, food security and sustainability challenges facing our world.” He continues, “ but people’s habits are only going to change if they have alternatives that taste just as good as the real thing, at a fair price and which can be easily replicated in their favourite meals.”

This is where v2food aims to outshine its competition.

BUT I DON’T HAVE TIME TO COOK...

The sheer abundance of plant-based meal delivery kits from names like HelloFresh, Purple Carrot and Pepper Leaf are a nod to the increasing demand for high-quality, tasty meals that don’t require any animal products.

The issue for many is that they don’t have the estimated 30 minutes to an hour required to produce most of these recipes. That’s where ready-toeat meals and pre-seasoned meat alternatives are rising up in a big way.

Upton’s Naturals, for example, has just entered the Australian market to address the demand for easy-toprepare, wholefood meat alternatives.

Their hero product, Uptons’ Naturals Jackfruit, is positioned as a substitute for recipes that call for pulled pork, shredded chicken or fish. These pre-seasoned, heat-and-serve pouches are the first of their kind in Australia, ranging in flavours from Thai Curry and Chilli Lime to Bar-B-Que, Sriracha and Sweet and Smoky.

When you consider the resources required to produce one kilogram of beef, for example, the output for crops such as rice, grains, beans, fruit and vegetables is substantially higher – a study conducted by the Livestock, Environment and Development Initiative (LEAD) found that one kilogram of beef requires twenty times more water than plant-based protein such as chickpeas.

Counter arguments against the agriculture industry shifting to plantbased alternatives vary from the sheer volume of plants needed to meet caloric requirements to the fact that a large portion of land that is currently used for grazing is not suitable for growing suitable crops. If the demand for plantbased alternatives continues to grow exponentially as predicted, Australian farmers are posed with an opportunity, though some might see it as an ultimatum: embrace plant power or lose out to overseas producers who are already ahead of the curve.

"The meat-alternative market is becoming plump with products that are convincing enough to make die-hard meat eaters do a double take."

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19

20

21

22

23

24

25

27

Y E R E L P P A Y A M O A

R L E R A S P B E R R Y W D E

I

O D R B D Y R R E B R A B

U W Y R R E B F L O W R R

H

H

C O C

D K

R

T

B O O B O O

S

D

SOLUTIONS:

R

R D B K S Z K D Q M K W R

Y

E

A

M T

R

A

F R

L

A

C

E R

A N

T B

I

R

E I W

T

E A

A

R A E B

R L

T

E

N

N G U

R B

Y L

F

D I

G T

D A

F R

U A

O O O

A I

S

E T S

T T O

S

T

D L

H

A L

C G

D

P O R S

B R

E G A P

S

A

O A

S

D

H R N

A

T C

I

E E E I Y R R E B L U M O

C

B

A C

N A

I

T

T C U P

S

B R S L O G A N B E R R Y

T

W B O P A Z L J G R A P E

S

A E O Y R R E B K C A L B P Y R R E B E L B M I H T

R R G J E X P K W Q L H W S Y B L U E B E R R Y H G

T R A K Y R R E B N A R C

R R G J E X P K W Q L H W

A E O Y R R E B K C A L B

W B O P A Z L J G R A P E

T R A K Y R R E B N A R C B R S L O G A N B E R R Y

E E E I Y R R E B L U M O

R D B K S Z K D Q M K W R

R L E R A S P B E R R Y W

Y E R E L P P A Y A M O A

S Y B L U E B E R R Y H G

T

O D R B D Y R R E B R A B

U W Y R R E B F L O W R R

P Y R R E B E L B M I H T

E

AusBiz.

RASPBERRY STRAWBERRY THIMBLEBERRY WOLFBERRY

Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters.

They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally. Theme: BERRIES

C

32

GOOSEBERRY GRAPE LOGANBERRY MAY APPLE MULBERRY

WORD SEARCH

M

BARBERRY BLACKBERRY BLUEBERRY CRANBERRY ELDERBERRY

DOWN 1. For each grade, journalist put on an act (9) 2. Beat a retreat, initially, to pub (3) 3. Weird spade adapted for use by many people (10) 4. One who carries grizzly animal and queen (6) 5. Lord’s wife seen with Chatterley’s lover! (4) 6. Do they break in to steal mice? (3,8) 7. Insert a leader in Russia (5) 13. Anna kissed Dick, said to be anti-government (11) 15. Horse-drawn transport for a theatre instructor (10) 16. Sole position in the way (9) 20. Foil what’s often on the rocks (6) 21. Come before tea to see a heavenly body! (5) 23. Raised cattle, branded, and went (4) 25. Young chap started like a dream (3)

D O

ACROSS 8. Give lawful permission to call on league allies (8) 9. You can count on it (6) 10. Raft no longer right behind (3) 11. Be salver or be disloyal (6) 12. Temptation changed a bit (4) 14. I leave train games for ships (10) 17. Longed for Ned after 12 months (7) 18. Complaining bitterly about fence (7) 19. Depress some prudish ear? Tenacious! (10) 22. Dashes off other half of code (4) 23. Mistake made by Yogi’s partner (3-3) 24. Cancelled producing child before spring (3) 26. Hope deer is let loose (6) 27. Cook taco mix for parrot (8)

D

26

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