Business News - December 2012

GEELONG | BALLARAT | WERRIBEE FOR BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS

WH AUS Y DO LEA TRALIA DER ’S S TO INS FAIL PIR E?

ISSUE 214 DECEMBER 2012

VIEW ONLINE AT:

www.biznewsmag.com.au

ISSUE 214 DECEMBER 2012

FEATURES 12. Richard Colman 16. W hy do Australia’s Leaders Fail to Inspire?

CONTENTS 4. Editor 5. Biz News 10. New Appointments 20. VECCI 21. Regulation 22. Researcher of the Year 24. Tax 25. Legal 26. Recruitment 30. Small Biz 31. Comment 32. Investment 34. Christmas Messages 36. The Tech Guy 38. Wine 40. Community 42. Arts 46. After Hours 50. What’s On

CELEBRATING OVER 40 YEARS OF QUALITY MOTORING SERVICE

THE DEALER ALTERNATIVE

car servicing & tuning by specialist technicians

• Servicing all makes • 4WD servicing & trip preparation • Roadworthy & pre-purchase • Handbook servicing • Fleet maintenance management

inspections

• Warranty validation • Performance & tuning specialists

36 MERCER STREET GEELONG PH. 5222 1777

BUSINESS NEWS | 3

EDITOR

How do we feel?

From revolution, revelation and retaliation, to recession, rate cuts and reform – it’s been a hell of a year. I was looking back on the big stories from the past year, and found I was asking myself over and over again how I felt about these particular topics.

THE kinds of things that have been attracting in depth comment this year have so often been subjects that incite an emotional response, prominent amongst them has been the continuation of the Arab Spring, most markedly in Syria, and the question of western intervention.

Revolutions have been happening as long as there have been a minority holding power over a majority – be good to the people and the people will be good to you, abuse the power you hold and you invite revolt. But the Arab Spring is different to revolutions of the past because it is a series of political revolutions that followed a technology revolution. Mark Zuckerberg was right to push away claims of the Facebook Revolution in the Middle East, but the role of social media in galvanising resolve amongst a disenfranchised populace is undeniable. Where once it was coded messages and secret symbols that provided the means to the end, now it’s #bringthebastardsdown. It is a pointed lesson in the power of social media to bring about

change. If only Facebook could answer the question of what happens next.

2012 has also been a year of bombshell revelations, from Wikileaks and the flight to asylum by Julian Assange, to the News of the World scandal that captivated water-cooler conversationalists all over the world. Who is right, who is wrong and how do we feel about it?

Closer to home, Australian news has been dominated by retaliations, political ones, that have played out like some sort of vocal totem tennis match where snideness and sarcasm are batted endlessly back and forth. As far as politics are concerned, it’s been an ugly year – so much so that I’m almost surprised we can still feel anything for either party... but more on that in our cover story.

Money – or lack of it – has been the most consistent of the year’s big stories. The Great Global Recession and how Australia is faring in relation has been argued from almost every conceivable angle and time and time again we are asked how we feel about it.

The RBA has seen intense interest in its decision-making this year, with the Reserve being equally lauded and loathed through the course of the year. In total, the cash rate has dropped from 4.25 at the beginning of the year to 3.0 at year’s end. However you feel about their decisions, the Board of the RBA has had a busy year.

Last on my list of Rs is reform, and makes the list because we have heard the word so many times in 2012. Banking reform, tax reform, education reform, TAFE reform, childcare reform, welfare reform, aged care reform, law reform. It’s a long list and raises some of the most important questions our politicians, and all Australians, should be asking.

Unfortunately, the question of how to fund these reforms remains unanswered… well, unless both parties were to commit to rather than cherry pick from the reforms detailed in the Henry Tax Review.

Be safe and joyous this festive season – I hope you feel good about the year ahead.

Davina Montgomery

ISSUE 214 DECEMBER 2012 BUSINESS NEWS, an Adcell Print Group publication, is mailed to more than 6000 businesses across Geelong, Ballarat and Werribee.

If you would like to receive Business News at your business please contact us.

PUBLISHER Maureen Tayler MANAGER Caroline Tayler EDITOR Davina Montgomery davina@adcellgroup.com.au FOR ADVERTISING Vinnie Kerr M 0409 427 473 vinnie@adcellgroup.com.au Tanya Carroll M 0418 302 869 tanya@adcellgroup.com.au Justin Abrams M 0437 981 510 justin@adcellgroup.com.au T (03) 5221 4408 F (03) 5221 2233 203 Malop Street, PO Box 491, Geelong Vic 3220 Shop 4/100 Simpson Street, Ballarat Vic 3350

www.adcellgroup.com.au

RED ONION CREATIVE The ADCELL GROUP is a dedicated, dynamic and energetic agency that delivers outstanding results for its clients...

CREATIVE

4 | BUSINESS NEWS

MARKETING

PUBLISHING

DIGITAL

PRINT

BIZ NEWS

Retailers rejoice over New Executive online shopping report Director for Committee The consistent calls from Australia’s retail industry to reduce the GST threshold on online overseas imports just may be getting some traction in Canberra.

THE Federal Government’s GST Distribution Review Panel’s report recommends cutting the Low Value Imports Threshold (LVIT) from $1000 to $500.

The move, as recommended by former Premiers and tax experts on the panel, could be implemented without the need to change GST law or customs arrangements. A reduction in the threshold would also bring a GST windfall for the states and territories - at the expense of online shoppers.

ARA Executive Director, Russell Zimmerman, said after extensive discussions with federal and state governments on the tax loophole uncovered by an increase in online overseas imports, the recommendation to lower the LVIT is welcome news.

“The recommendations confirm the lowering of the LVIT is an essential part of overall GST review, and positions the proposed change as synonymous with GST reform.

“As the direct line between government and the retail industry, the ARA is committed

to ensuring Australian retailers - whether they operate in store or online - are on a level playing field with their online overseas counterparts marketing products to Australian consumers.

“The ARA also supports overall the recommendations for reform to ensure essential GST revenue is uncovered for state governments to avoid budget deficits and maximise the GST pool and employ state resources.

“Reducing the LVIT is a simple and economically beneficial solution which needs to be implemented without delay and the ARA looks forward to continuing to work alongside the Government to implement a lowering of the threshold, which will help Australian retailers remain globally competitive and ensure the states can make the best use of GST capital,” Mr Zimmerman said.

This approach by the ARA of appealing to the states’ desire for revenue may succeed where appeals for fairness have failed.

Founding Executive Director and stalwart of the Committee for Geelong, Peter Dorling, has announced his retirement, with the Committee now seeking a new Executive Director for 2013.

Michael Betts, Committee for Geelong Chairman, described Mr Dorling as being instrumental in growing the organisation and enhancing Geelong’s profile within Victoria, Australia and internationally.

also want to pursue some new challenges and test myself in other arenas.” he said.

“Peter has made an invaluable contribution to the Committee and the Geelong region over many years,” Mr Betts said.

“Under his stewardship the Committee for Geelong has worked in partnership with members and other key bodies to advocate for a range of projects including the Geelong Ring Road, Regional Rail Link, Vision-II, Avalon and the establishment of Victoria’s third medical school at Deakin University.”

Peter Dorling said that while it is with sadness that he leaves the Committee, he wants to make way for the next phase in the organisation’s growth and development.

“Geelong and the Committee are poised for a new set of challenges and opportunities, I

“Working with Geelong’s first directly elected Mayor and new council is a critical partnership for the Committee, I am eager to ensure there is continuity of management for the organisation over the life of the Mayor’s four-year term.”

Mr Dorling said of his tenure that he was particularly proud of the Committee’s maturity in its intense political lobbying and the establishment of the Leaders for Geelong program.

“Good lobbying is about putting up professional arguments, solutions and then being persistent and patient – which is the art of successful lobbying.”

Peter said the international connections created by the Committee for Geelong with cities around the world including United Kingdom, Europe and USA has ensured that this organisation has kept its head up and looking outward.

We tip the scales when it comes to value. ✘ Expe nsive ✘ Isn’t g over approv nment ed ✘ Costs rise wit hout manual culling

SeLF S

✘ Ma nua & filin l retrieval g of r ecord ✘ No s softw a r e to ma n boxe age s & fil es

torag e

(03) 5274 2000

✓ Gover

nment approv ed

✓ Securit

y/fi protect re ion

✓ Cost e

ffec simple tive, & easy

✓ Boxes

deli to your vered desk

Manag

Call us to find ou day to t h ow w can tip e the in your scales favour .

✓ Softw

are a to revie lerts w boxe s

✓ Files d

elive electron red ically

ed Sto

rage

www.advancerecords.com.au

BUSINESS NEWS | 5

BIZ NEWS

$21.5m tackle to engineering skills shortage A career in engineering may become a reality for more young people in regional Victoria as a result of the federal government’s investment in Deakin University’s Centre for Advanced Design in Engineering Training (CADET) project.

Minister for Tertiary Education, Senator Chris Evans, made the announcement that Deakin University will receive $21.5 million for the CADET project under the Regional Priorities Round of the Gillard Government’s Education Investment Fund (EIF).

The project includes new facilities to host advanced modelling, simulation and prototyping equipment, including virtual reality and digital manufacturing laboratories.

Mr Evans said investments under the EIF are being targeted, ‘to give students in regional Australia access to better quality education and training opportunities, helping to support increased participation and in turn, meeting the skills needs of regional communities’.

Member for Corangamite, Darren Cheeseman, said the CADET project will

provide hands-on, modern engineering education for school, TAFE and university students, and increase the number of engineering students by working with TAFE and high schools. He said a key priority of the project is to encourage more women into engineering careers.

“This investment will help Deakin University build new facilities at its Waurn Ponds campus with specialised equipment needed to teach students from the high school to postgraduate level.

“It will emphasise design, virtual modelling and prototyping – key skills at the heart of 21st century engineering challenges.

Through collaboration with industry, this designfocused approach will make engineering courses more effective, as well as more attractive to students.

VFF backs Graincorp rail investment A major upgrade to Graincorp’s Geelong grain terminal is anticipated to take 20,000 trucks off the road and bring 500 extra grain trains into the port each year.

The Victorian Farmers Federation welcomed the $5.65 million rail upgrade - funded by the State Government, Graincorp, and the Australian Rail Track Corporation, saying improvements would allow trains to carry more grain, which will increase the proportion of grain arriving at the port by rail by up to 50 per cent.

Logistics Taskforce that highlighted the need to increase the capacity of the Geelong grain loop, and VFF President, Peter Tuohey, strongly supported the government’s investment.

“We’d expect the benefits of this upgrade to flow back to grain growers in the form of lower rail freight costs,” VFF Grains president, Andrew Wiedemann, said.

We encourage continued investment by the government in rail services and Graincorp in its upcountry storage and handling system.”

“The upgrade is crucial to maintaining our role as Asia’s food bowl and meeting the Victorian Government’s goal of doubling food and fibre production by 2030.

Automated signalling will allow 24-hour rail operation at Geelong and will improve grain turnaround times by 12 hours.

“The VFF strongly supports investment by the government in rail services, as it’s the most effective and efficient method of moving our bulk commodities to port,” VFF president Peter Tuohey said.

The VFF is part of the government’s Grain Industry

FIT FOR ACTION PACKED INDIANA - T BAR

ATLANTA

GEELONG: Shop 32 Market Square (03) 5229 0334 6 | BUSINESS NEWS

SCHOOL DAYS

INDY LACE UP

GEN-Z

We’re proud to now stock Clarks and Harrison along with our huge range of school shoes including Ascent. Find the perfect fit for handball games to smart school photos.

BIZ NEWS

Target HQ redevelopment unveiled Target Australia’s first Managing Director, Geoffrey Betts AM MBE, and Geelong Mayor, Keith Fagg, officially unveiled the $1.2 million redevelopment of Target’s national store support office in North Geelong on November 28.

THE redevelopment includes a contemporary external facade, a new reception area, state-of-the-art boardroom and meeting rooms, as well as improved visitor facilities and new energy saving measures.

Target Managing Director, Dene Rogers, said the redevelopment would give Target’s offices a new, modern and appealing image, which embodied the strategic direction of the company.

Target has been an integral part of the Geelong community since George Lindsay and Alex McKenzie opened their first store selling dress fabrics, manchester and furnishings in 1926.

Today, Target has 308 stores Australia-wide with the latest store opening in Warrawong, New South Wales. More than 1400 people work in the Geelong, Waurn Ponds and Ocean Grove stores and the national store support office.

Mr Rogers said the reopening was a wonderful opportunity to honour Target’s first Managing Director Geoff Betts, a pivotal figure in Target’s history.

“Geoff can truly be considered one of the architects of the Target story, setting the direction for the business as it expanded from one store to multiple stores across the country.

“Forty years ago, Geoff was instrumental in securing the Target Australia brand for the business and establishing our new national head office in North Geelong.”

Karingal set to expand interstate Local disability service provider, Karingal, is for the first time going beyond the Victorian border and expanding services into Queensland and South Australia.

THE Federal Government’s Disability Employment Services (DES) tender will enable MatchWorks to provide the DES program from 32 new locations. MatchWorks is the employment services division of Karingal.

Karingal CEO, Daryl Starkey, said that during MatchWorks’ 15 years of operation, the organisation had grown very steadily. The new Disability Employment Services contract posed an opportunity for the organisation to support people in locations it has previously not operated in.

Mr Betts said he was humbled to be recognised by Target.

From March 1, 2013 MatchWorks will have a total of 55 locations. Currently the organisation operates from 23 locations. The new offices will be based in Adelaide, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and throughout Melbourne.

“Target has always been synonymous with Geelong in my mind and this redevelopment will continue this strong link providing employment and economic benefits into the future.”

“Profits generated by MatchWorks are channelled directly into essential Karingal services. These funds will enable Karingal to continue to provide a wide range of essential services and choice

to people with a disability, including accommodation support and respite for parents and carers,” said Daryl Starkey.

“It is important for Karingal to diversify our funding sources so that we can continue to provide options for people with a disability, and support them to live the life they choose.”

MatchWorks commenced in 1998 in Geelong and west Melbourne with eight staff, providing services to around 1500 people looking for work.

Today, MatchWorks has 350 staff supporting over 22,000 people looking for work.

MatchWorks is also expected to appoint about 60 new staff.

The Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations Disability Employment Services contract supports people looking for work who have a permanent disability and need longterm regular support in the workplace, as well as individuals with a disability, injury or health condition who are not expected to need longterm support in the workplace.

s Harvest Human Resources

reaping fruitful reward

BUSINESS NEWS | 7

BIZ NEWS

Manufacturing contracts further in November The ongoing decline in new orders and production kept the manufacturing sector in the red in November according to the latest Australian Industry Group Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®).

THE seasonally adjusted index dropped 1.6 points to 43.6 in November, with (readings below 50 indicate a contraction in activity with the distance from 50 indicative of the strength of the decrease).

Food & beverages was the only sub-sector to expand in November.

Australian Industry Group Chief Executive, Innes Willox, said, “In each of the past eight months the production, employment, exports and new orders sub-indices have

all declined. Over the same period, wages and non-wage costs have risen, while there has been downward pressure on selling prices. With the new orders sub-index down once again in November, the pressures on the industry look set to continue.

“The key concerns for manufacturers remain the high dollar, rising energy costs and weak demand in export and local markets. These factors are exacerbated by the ongoing slump in the

residential and commercial construction sectors and have not been offset by the reduction in interest rates to date. Mounting costs are putting manufacturing businesses under relentless pressure, adding to the case for further interest rate cuts,” Mr Willox said before the RBA’s December rate decision.

Key findings for November included the marginal expansion in the Food & beverages subsector,

recording 50.7; while textiles, clothing & footwear; chemical, petroleum and coal products; construction materials; basic metals; and fabricated metals all recorded significant declines in activity. The new orders sub-index contracted for a ninth consecutive month – recording 43.5.

Manufacturing inventories contracted again in November to 44.4.

None of the states recorded increases in manufacturing activity in November.

More than half find their workplace demotivating Every second employee in Australia and New Zealand works in a ‘de-energising’ organisational climate, which is created by their managers failing to provide an environment that drives their employees to succeed, or so the findings of a workplace survey conducted by global management consultancy, Hay Group, suggest.

MORE than 3,100 managers from across Australia and New Zealand and 15,400 employees that report directly to these managers participated in the research, which focused on organisational climate, examining how employees feel when working in their team and organisation.

According to Wendy Montague, Head of Leadership and Talent Practice, Hay Group Pacific, the research results delivered a poor report card on the state of engagement between organisations, its managers and employees.

“An employee’s perception of their organisational climate is fundamentally influenced by the relationship with their boss, which accounts for up to 70 per cent of employee engagement levels. Given the research found only 48 per cent of employees find their work climate energising and engaging, one must conclude that the health of relations between employees and managers is cause for concern.

“Low engagement levels

8 | BUSINESS NEWS

between managers and their employees can have a significant impact on not only the productivity of an organisation, but the overall competitiveness of the ANZ region. We know employee performance has been found to account for a differential in business results of up to 30 per cent, so creating an energising work environment, which encourages employees to put in that little bit extra, can mean the difference between achieving an average or a high-performing organisation.”

On the upside, the research highlighted some key strengths of Australian and New Zealand managers, with 73 per cent of employees reporting they are given the autonomy they need to get on with their work, reflecting a degree of trust for employees to take initiative and use their own judgement.

The research also revealed 62 per cent of employees felt extremely dedicated to their work and their company, which is good news for organisations that have weathered the difficult economy over the past years.

Releasing the study, a Hay Group statement noted that this new ANZ research has proven extremely insightful for the Group, supporting their long term research into the six key dimensions of the work environment that directly contribute to an energised work climate including flexibility, responsibility, standards, rewards, clarity and team commitment.

Of these, in Australia, three were found to be the greatest gaps between the actual and the desired work environment; clarity; standards and rewards.

Clarity: The largest gap between the ‘actual’ and the ‘ideal’ when it comes to the employee’s view of the organisational climate is in the dimension of clarity.

Clarity has two aspects for employees – the first is how well an individual understands how their role relates to ‘the big picture’, the goals and direction of the company; and the second aspect is how well do they know what is expected of them in the role.

If someone is unclear

about what is expected of them in their role, how can they deliver? Only by understanding what their role is and what is expected, can an employee actively drive and achieve the broader company purpose.

Rewards related to performance: It is critical for managers to give consistent, constructive feedback to individuals and the team in order to ensure that all team members know what high performance looks like.

Recent research showed that providing feedback and coaching to employees wasn’t part of the behavioural repertoire of many ANZ leaders, with many managers finding it difficult to address performance, either positive or negative, as well as providing developmental feedback to their staff.

Managers need to start introducing reward engagement practices in to the workplace in order to motivate their employees to deliver stronger performances day in and day out.

NEW APPOINTMENTS REAL ESTATE Sarah Gorell is thrilled to join the team at Release Property Management in Reception/ Administration.

With a background in customer service, Sarah has not only settled into the team environment, but is already actively establishing the skills, knowledge and expertise for a successful career in property management.

SALES

With extensive experience in graphic design and print media she is looking forward to sharing her knowledge and exceptional management skills to achieve success and growth for your business.

MaRKETING Eleanor Woods says of her new role, ‘If Sharyn Johnston (coowner of Tea Cartel, the other half of Coffee Cartel) is Batman, I’m Robin.’

Eleanor has traded her journalism career to take up the journey of tea as marketing manager and sidekick to the powerhouses that founded the business.

A: Fiona Trotter

Glastonbury welcomes new CEO, Sandy Morrison.

Prior to his CEO role at Glastonbury, Sandy held several Executive Director roles with Barwon Health and has also held several senior executive positions at other public and private healthcare services within Victoria delivering acute, sub-acute, aged care, and community health services.

FINANCE

As a highly respected member of the Adcell Team, Tanya now lends her extensive industry experience and expertise to a Sales role incorporating Business News and Ruby magazines.

Q: Looking for another option?

Community Services

Morris Finance is pleased to announce the appointment of Credit Analyst Shankar Somers.

Shankar was recruited after completing an internship program at Morris Finance through Deakin University. After completing his Bachelor of Commerce Degree, majoring in Finance and Economics, and undertaking an overseas internship, Shankar has gained a wealth of knowledge to put into practice in his new role.

FINANCE Megan Clarke joined the team at Morris Finance earlier this year as a New Business Specialist. Megan brings an excellent work ethic and over 12 years of customer service experience to her new role. She is dedicated to providing exceptional service and building long lasting, mutually rewarding relationships with all her clients.

Megan has become an integral part of the team at Morris Finance.

“At Morris Finance our staff have over 290 years of experience in the commercial lending sector.

Fiona brings a wealth of local knowledge to the team and can assist you with all your finance and insurance inquiries. Best of all she will give you superior customer service.”

Motor Vehicle Finance • Tradesman & Commercial Finance • Heavy Equipment & Machinery Finance • Online Applications

10 | BUSINESS NEWS

NEW APPOINTMENTS Community Sector Pip Hunt recently joined Barwon youth in the new role as their Business Development Manager.

Pip looks forward to assisting the agency to implement its Strategic Plan and helping Barwon Youth deliver the best services possible to disadvantaged and vulnerable young people in the Geelong area.

BANKING

BUSINESS AUDIT Ryan Leemon joined WHK/ Crowe Horwath as a Director and provides technical expertise in Audit, Accounting and Taxation advice to both public and privately owned businesses.

A Geelong local, Ryan returns after 13 years working in professional service firms including Melbourne and Vancouver.

EMPLOYMENT & WR

The Geelong Region LLEN is the region’s education, training and employment network targeting young people aged 10-19.

Joanne Nemshich joins the team at the LLEN as their new Administration/Communications Manager. Joanne is currently studying for a Bachelor of Communications (Media Studies) and is passionate about increasing the LLEN’s public profile.

Teresa Grove joined WHK as a Principal providing Employment & Workplace Relations services.

With 20 years experience Teresa previously worked for General Electric Asia Pacific.

She identifies and helps to mitigate legislative and employee risks to support and enhance the business culture.

TRAINING

EDUCATION Jude Walker has joined the Geelong Region LLEN as Project Manager/Partnership Broker. Jude brings a wealth of experience in labour market research and is passionate about achieving better social and economic outcomes for the Geelong region. Co-founder of the ‘Expansive Learning Network’, aimed at bringing together educators, aspiring leaders, community, government and industry partners.

Jasmine Kildea has joined the Geelong Region LLEN as Project Manager/Partnership Broker for the ‘Aboriginal Jobs in Health and Community Services – Dyeemboorrma Lola Booyt – Aim to Health and Wellbeing’ project, aimed to increasing the numbers of Aboriginal people entering the Health and Community Services sector. Jasmine’s background is in Indigenous education and as a TAFE teacher.

GET THE EDGE WITH YOUR NEXT FUNCTION

6-8 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong 3220. (03) 5222 2666 enquiries@edgegeelong.com.au www.edgegeelong.com.au

Edge Geelong

@EdgeBarGeelong

credo.GT.05.12

Edge can cater for every occasion - casual to corporate, extensive or exclusive

BUSINESS NEWS | 11

RICHARD COLMAN Photo Courtesy Australian Paralympic Committee.

The making of a champion Three-time Paralympian, two-time Paralympic gold medallist and holder of six Paralympic medals in total, Richard Colman has witnessed the changing perception of international disabled competition. It is a big change from the 1996 Games, where workmen in Atlanta were dismantling the Olympic village during the Paralymic competition.

BORN with spina bifida, Richard first discovered his interest in competitive sport at all school sports events at Geelong College.

“Every time there was a school sports activity, I was always the first to put my hand up.

Doing athletics through school sports really helped me and I joined up with Little Athletics here in Geelong when I was about ten. It’s been a long journey from there, almost eighteen years.”

The countless laps of Landy Field paid off when Richard got his first shot at international level when he was 14, racing against athletes who were preparing for the Paralympics the following year.

12 | BUSINESS NEWS

“That was my first taste of elite level sport, when I got to race against the future champions of the Sydney Paralympics and I’m still racing those boys today. I’m going to Japan next week and the guy I’ll meet up with there was one of those guys.

The guys from Switzerland and France will be there too and I’ve been racing these guys since 1999 – we’ve known each other a long time,” he said.

“It’s good, because you know them very well, you get to know their families and what they do. It becomes more personal and you become much better friends off the track after a few years. We all go out for dinners together and next week in Japan, the

guy who is one of my main rivals will look after me every night, take me out for local dinners, and when he comes to Australia, I do the same thing for him.”

Having just turned 28, it has already been a long career for Richard who first entered Paralympic competition in 2004.

“When I made the Athens Games, I was a young junior coming through the ranks and my coach thought it would be a good learning experience, so I was just going there to try to take as much out of it as possible. I ended up winning a gold medal there, which was a big shock. I hadn’t been beating the guys at that stage in my career and that was really my first big win.”

Colman claimed both the gold medal and the new Paralympic record in the T53 800m final.

Australia has a long history of punching above its weight in international sporting arenas, and that is certainly true with it comes to athletes with a disability. From Louise Savage, Matthew Cowdry and Michael Milton to Jacqueline Freney with her record-setting

eight gold medals at the 2012 Games, from the track, to the pool, courts, sporting fields, and ski slopes, Australian athletes are amongst the biggest names in elite disabled competition.

Richard believes he has been extremely fortunate to have the example of some of the all-time greats to follow.

“I started to come through the ranks when Louise Sauvage was at the top of the sport and Kurt Fearnley was starting to get to the top as well, so I got to see how hard they trained and how much effort and commitment they put into it. So for me, it was like if they are doing that, then I’ve got to be doing it even better – so I’ve had to do everything harder and faster and be more dedicated. It’s been a tough journey, but it’s been worth it.”

Richard returned home from Europe in September and went straight into training for the next round of big international races. That meant 18 to 20 training sessions a week of up to 30km or 75 laps of the Landy Field track, as well as recovery sessions involving

RICHARD COLMAN a cold bath with two bags of ice in it up to his neck. Add to that weekly physio and hours at the computer handling his own administration and it becomes clear just how dedicated you have to be to make it to the top. Richard is also a fantastic motivational speaker, speaking at schools and corporate events.

“Now that I’m at that elite level, I’ve been getting a lot more invitations to certain races, and if you’re an invited athlete they will usually pay for you. I knew that if I wanted to be the best, I had to do all of these other races. When you’ve done that, you have more confidence when you get to the big championships.

I’d decided that to win in London that I would have to do that, and I’ve been travelling pretty consistently for the past couple of years.

I went overseas I think eight times last year, and two of those trips were two-month trips, so it was a long year, but it paid off.”

But for Richard, there are no Ussain Bolt-esque entourages and travelling means pushing his racing chair loaded with his wheel bag and luggage through airports by himself, and staying in hostels. For some competitions, such as the London Marathon, in which he competes as an invited

athlete, or Diamond League competition, that can mean flying to the other side of the world for two days, competing, then flying home again.

“It’s pretty tough, but you do it. You do everything right; you do all your hydration, you do all your compressions as best you can and you do everything possible to get your body right to perform as best you can, and I’m enjoying it. You get to meet a lot more people when you travel around in Europe and when you say you’re an Aussie, everyone loves you.

“There are guys that I’m competing against in wheelchair races who are in their late 40s and early 50s and they’re still winning, so I could have another twenty years of travelling around the world in these races. That’s a long time. But who knows. I’m trying to delay working fulltime for as long as I can.”

While he isn’t looking to trade his racing chair for a full-time career, Richard said he is now having to look for a part-time accounting role that would still allow him to race. While sponsorship of disabled athletes in Australia is increasing, for most, competing is about juggling their commitment to the sport with the ability to pay their

own way to competitions.

“Sponsorship is better than it was when I first started. Some of the guys now are funded and I’m a VIS [Victorian Institute of Sport] scholarship holder, and that’s been a really big thing for me over the past ten years. They do a really great job of supporting us with physio, with the gym access, with biomechanics, with nutrition and everything up there. We also get access to AIS and we also get a lot of stuff through the Paralympic Committee and through Athletics Australia. And when you get to the top, invitation races around the world really do help – if they pay for you to go to London for the London Marathon then that cuts down the costs for that year or you can spend that money going to another race where you’re not invited. But it’s still over $20,000 I’m spending on sport.”

There remains a big disparity between the current earning capacity, mostly through sponsorships, of an ablebodied athlete and a disabled athlete in Australia.

“One of the guys that I’m racing against next week lives off his sponsorship in Japan, he’s got sponsors everywhere and he’s doing well. He asks me, ‘How come it’s not like that in

Australia,’ and I try to explain that it’s a different culture here, but that it’s slowly changing. Kurt Fearnley [marathon wheelchair racer and dual Paralympic gold medallist who also won three consecutive New York marathon titles] is now doing pretty well out of it.

“Hopefully now, with the way the Paralympics went, people will see that this is professional sport, that all the athletes are professional, that we train hard and we do a good job. Hopefully now a few more sponsors will come on board and treat us equally, like the able-bodied athletes.”

Richard is available for motivational speaking and corporate team building events. In a down-to-earth style, he shares his stories of overcoming challenges and setting and achieving goals.

Book in your motivation session for the new year and get your team on track to achieving success in 2013.

For information and bookings contact Andrew McLeish at Red Management on 0412 865 555.

Davina Montgomery

Looking to invest?

Did you know you can buy property through SMSF? There are potential strategies that may be appropriate for you to purchase residential and/or commercial property through your SMSF. There are also potential capital gains and cash flow benefits.

Speak to Andrew Conlan for advice on superannuation and Chris Humphrey for advice on borrowing to invest and the lending criteria required.

Call 5224 7700 or email geelong@whk.com.au to obtain a flyer on these topics.

Ballarat T: 5304 5700

Geelong T:5224 7700

Ocean Grove T: 5255 5077

Werribee T: 9742 8444

www.whk.com.au

Advice is provided under licence of WHK Financial Planning PtyPty Ltd Ltd ABN 51 060 092092 631631 AFSL 238238 244.

Advice is provided under licence of WHK Financial Planning ABN 51 060 AFSL 244. Lending advice is provided under WHK Pty Ltd Lending advice is provided under WHK Pty Ltd Australian Credit Licence number 389 054.

Australian Credit Licence number 389 054. DEC 2012

BUSINESS NEWS | 13

*

Unrivalled design and construction.

W

hen a Geelong based home building company receives the Housing Industry Association’s highest award – Home Builder of the Year 2012 – and in the same year wins a Master Builders award for Best Custom Home, there is no doubt this business is creating a new blueprint for custom home building. In fact, Derbyshire has won six awards in 2012 from the HIA and Master Builders Association.

Derbyshire has always been known for the ‘wow’ factor in its design and construction.

But the other ‘wow’ factor is its affordability.

Derbyshire has been building high quality, custom designed homes for more than 20 years. As an accredited Green Living Master Builder, Derbyshire has a strong focus on high quality and sustainable building methods. Their attention to detail is second to none.

The company’s reputation rests on a solid foundation of exceptional customer service. Through a genuine desire to work collaboratively with clients, Derbyshire helps them realise their dreams of owning a beautiful home.

The process of creating a new Derbyshire home starts with careful selection from the myriad options of design, materials, features and finishes. Clients’ choices are visually interpreted in professional design sketches, so their homes are architect inspired in form and function.

Winner HIA Home of the Year for all categ But what people are talking about most, is that all this doesn’t cost the earth – beautiful, natural homes, at sustainable prices. Through clever design, Derbyshire engineers ways to incorporate a client’s true desires, without the exorbitant price tag. Whether their budget is $300,000 or more, Derbyshire’s premium design skills apply – as reflected in the Home of the Year award. Right now, Derbyshire’s customers are taking advantage of these design sketches at no cost.

Some of the inspired features of the Home of the Year include polished recycled timber floors, clever use of natural light through angled walls and windows, a 360° open fireplace ‘island’ that also works to divide living space and a natural, seamless flow between the inside and out.

Design, quality, service and sustainability have merged to create a formula for success. Owner, Noel Derbyshire sees the recent awards as testimony to Derbyshire’s superior design and construction standards. “These awards are important to our business because they substantiate what we have said for over 20 years: that quality design and building are integral to everything we do.

“What the awards don’t necessarily convey is our customer service ethic, and our capacity to produce exceptional outcomes for less than you would expect. There is sometimes the perception that our beautiful homes are out of reach from a budgetary perspective. When we meet with prospective clients and discuss the possibilities, they are often surprised at what can be achieved for less.”

Unexpected affordability

ories - from $300,000 Noel Derbyshire and his team’s passion for what they do is reflected in these naturally beautiful custom homes, and reinforced by these impressive recent accolades.

Contact Noel on 5221 8409 to learn more about what makes Derbyshire a natural winner.

98 Pakington Street Geelong West, Victoria 3218 Ph: 03 5221 8409 Fx: 03 5229 7433 Email: info@derbyshire.com.au www.derbyshire.com.au

COVER STORY

16 | BUSINESS NEWS

COVER STORY

Why do Australia’s Leaders Fail to Inspire?

The great leaders – non-conformist thinkers in the main, made the big decisions, empowered and energised people and made people believe. These were the leaders who looked back at the people who looked to them for leadership, who sought to understand the struggles and then try to find ways of easing those struggles. Where have we lost our way?

Mitchell Neems summed the situation at hand perfectly in his ‘Cry Canberra’s year of havoc’ article in the Business Spectator when he wrote: “In getting from the beginning to the end of the parliamentary year, the nation has been treated to nothing short of a carnival of well-intentioned lunacy… As far as the governing goes, the national regard for parliament quickly declined from forced respect, to farce to frustration.”

As a summation it was a joy, but the question remained.

So I turned to Professor Geoffrey Robinson, political historian at Deakin University.

Prof. Robinson, I knew from previous conversations, has an encyclopaedic understanding of the nation’s political past, absorbs current political news like a sponge and has a great knack of putting both in context. If anyone could answer the conundrum of our leadership vacuum, it would be him.

The changing fortunes of the nation’s political leaders have been an ongoing melodrama from the time Kevin Rudd took office.

In the aftermath of the leadership coup that ousted Prime Minister Rudd and elevated Prime Minister Gillard, and scraping together support to form government after the 2010 election, faith in Federal Labor sank to such lows that the 2013 election result seemed inevitable. Tony Abbott was furious at coming so close to the top job only to see it slip through his fingers and he channelled that fury into venomous attacks on anything that could be construed as a weak point in the Gillard Government – and there were many. As a strategy it proved incredibly successful, until the public tired of it. Now the Opposition may yet do the unthinkable – they may lose the unlosable election, unless of course they take the Labor example and knife Abbott in favour of a more popular leader…

“Some people will recall the spectre of 1993 election, when Keating won the apparently unwinnable election. But when you actually look back at 1993, voters were pretty positive about John Hewson, they just didn’t like his policies,” Prof. Robinson said.

“I have a theory that the less argument there is about policy and politics, the more acrimoniously personal it becomes and the more voters develop negative attitudes towards leaders. If you look at current policy, Labor has pretty much fallen into line with Coalition policy on asylum seekers, and the Liberals – apart from the Carbon Tax, which they seem to have partly disengaged from –are not really working that hard to distinguish themselves from particular Labor policy initiatives.”

It is a theory that certainly seems to be playing out in Canberra.

“When you look back at some stats about how people felt about political leaders in Australia, not so much in terms of like or dislike, but whether or not they regarded them as being competent and committed to the national interest, people in 2007 had quite positive opinions about Australian political leaders. Part of that was Ruddmania, but also John Howard was fairly positively thought of as well, and I wonder whether that was because in 2007 there were these clear points of policy divergence.

People could talk about Work Choices; they could talk about signing the Kyoto Protocol.

“I looked back to 1993, which is the first figures I could find, and in 1993, voters didn’t particularly like Paul Keating and were keener on John Hewson as a person, but they tended to agree that both political leaders were competent, had the interests of the nation at heart and seemed to know what they were doing. I just wonder sometimes whether when you have divergences around policy, politics becomes less about this personal attack stuff, which turns people off.”

As Prof. Robinson pointed out, personal can work in a politician’s favour. Bob Hawke, more than any other leader before or since, made politics personal – people liked Bob Hawke the man, Hawkey was a good bloke, the kind you could have a beer with.

It was a cleverly orchestrated perception built on a powerful personality.

“John Howard and Kevin Rudd were both leaders that people liked, while Julia Gillard and Paul Keating always struggled a bit to

strike a chord with the public. But I think it’s interesting that there has been a rapid drop off [in the public appeal of political leaders] since 2007.”

Jeff Kennett was another great example of a polarising political leader – so many people didn’t like him as a person, even loved to hate him, but thought he was doing a good job as Premier.

“I know some Labor people think the same could happen with Julia Gillard, that they believe they can build up a profile of her that even if you don’t like her as a person, she’s smart and competent and seems to know what she’s doing.

But I remember back to 1996 when Labor tried to do that with Keating and it completely failed, so it will be interesting to see if it works this time,” Prof. Robinson said.

“But Tony Abbott’s no John Howard. I think voters always felt pretty positive about John Howard, even when they weren’t that positive about the Liberal Party, whereas Tony Abbott doesn’t seem to have John Howard’s ability to put electors at ease, like he’s a safe pair of hands.”

A Prime Minister needs to be more than the better of two poor options, and polling would suggest that is exactly how many voters see the choice before them in 2013. The role requires a figure with inherent statesmanship – a representative that can be sent on to the global stage and not cause us to blush with embarrassment.

We need a Prime Minister who can manoeuvre the nation into a position of favour with our big economic partners – China and India particularly – as well as keeping close ties with America and western European countries.

We also want a leader who will stand up and fight for Australia and all we hold dear as a nation.

Interestingly, Australians respond better to Julia Gillard when she is on the front foot. The ABC broadcast of her misogyny speech has received over 2 million hits around the world on YouTube. When she is playing the arbiter, conceding way to negotiate a path for legislation between parties, her ratings fall.

The Labor spin-doctors will have taken note of these reactions.

“I think that is something which worked in Keating’s favour and, to a certain degree, worked in John Howard’s favour as well. It’s been said by lots of other people, but I’ve always thought as well, that sometimes Gillard’s problem is that you see her thinking, ‘What should I be saying in this situation?’ The wheels are going and I think you could see that in the fiasco that she entangled herself in over the Israel/Palestine thing. Having a fairly tin ear for what others in the Labor Party were thinking, she seemed to have made up her mind that this was going to be part of her attempt to define herself as a responsible, conservative, proAmerican leader, and really very badly mishandling that in terms of internal party politics.”

Anyone following the commentary around the degradation of political discourse in Canberra this year would have heard the arguments that the decline into acrimony and bitter personal attacks is a response to the 24-hour media cycle – that instant response politics engenders the descent into headline-grabbing grubby politics. Do I believe that the press gallery is to blame for the streams of acrimony spilling from our pollies’ lips? Of course I don’t. Do I believe that reporters grasping for ‘something worth writing about’ feed the comments of Abbott, Gillard and co? Absolutely.

“I think it does, there is that constant desire to dominate a media cycle, to always be producing something sensational and dramatic, and perhaps thinking that it has more of an impact on voters than it actually does. It enables those people that are very interested to really follow it, but of course the broad mass of voters are not particularly interested.

“People used to say that it’s all about getting front page coverage in the right newspapers on the morning, but now I think it’s become a bit more overwhelming and is potentially counterproductive, I think people [in politics] are over-estimating how much voters are interested,” Prof.

Robinson said.

The domination of speech grabs is happening at the expense of real policy discussions, when it is

BUSINESS NEWS | 17

COVER STORY policy debate that animates the voting public.

“People have lots of other things going on in their lives. They will tune into politics when they think it involves policy issues that are important. People felt that about Work Choices, they felt that about Kyoto, they feel that about Asylum Seekers. People will tune in and focus on an argument about issues, they won’t necessarily tune in when it becomes an argument about personalities.”

Julia Gillard’s misogyny speech was a rare moment in recent Australian politics, not because of the subject that inspired it, but because it was an impassioned speech. The art of the speech has all but disappeared from Australian political discourse, with political figures monotonously repeating lines that their PR gurus believe speak to the heart of that party’s position in a given issue. These lines are typically as inspiring as a flat tyre in the rain on a freeway at peak hour.

Half a world away, in the land of rousing speeches, Ann Romney brought a welcome boost to husband Mitt’s presidential campaign with her address at the Republican National Convention, and when Barrack Obama won the day, he delivered a stirring acceptance speech that was watched by countless millions around the world. It was Michelle Obama, however, who delivered the great speech of the presidential race.

The last century was littered with great political speeches: “We will take them on the beaches” … “Ask not what your nation can do for you” … “I have a dream” … “In a country like Australia the class war must always be a false war” … all great speeches from great leaders. And while we hold many overseas leaders in such high regard, Australians haven’t always viewed the nation’s leading pollies with the distaste as we do presently. Robert Menzies remains one of our most admired; most respected leaders - a canonical figure in Australian politics. Bob Hawke was and is the charismatic larrikin leader, a Prime Minister who knew he was speaking to the hearts of Australians when he joined the national celebration of the America’s Cup win and declared, “Any boss who sacks a worker for taking the day off is a bum.”

General faith in democracy and trust in political leaders doesn’t follow a linear trend. We judge them as we find them. In Canberra today we have two leaders of the major parties that

18 | BUSINESS NEWS

are leaders for their party, but not leaders for the people, as both have failed to capture the admiration and respect of the nation. Both are also less popular than their predecessors, with preferred Prime Minister polling having Malcolm Turnbull sitting comfortably above Kevin Rudd, while Tony Abbott and Julia Gillard are perched on equally low preferred PM figures.

“I think it’s a combination of personalities. Aspects of Kevin Rudd’s style did strike a chord with voters; he was the friendly nerd who was going to help. I think a lot of Labor supporters were really grateful to Rudd for being the person who had finally gotten rid of John Howard. He had slain the evil Baldemort and they were somewhat baffled when he was overthrown. What is interesting is that as Gillard defines herself as in opposition to Abbott she is picking up support among Labor voters, with those core Labor voters now more focused on Abbott, that Gillard is taking the fight up to Abbott, and the gender thing helps there as well,” Prof. Robinson said.

“On the other hand, Gillard seems

“It was interesting that climate change came to be seen as an issue of faith by the Coalition and their supporters, when as many people point out, John Howard went to the 2007 election with a proposal for an emission pricing system. Among rank and rile conservatives it became the defining issue for Turnbull’s leadership and he was viewed as being completely unreliable on that,” Prof. Robinson said.

We have spent inordinate amounts of time in the Adcell office discussing whether the knifing of Kevin Rudd might be played out on the other side – would the Coalition really let Abbott remain Prime Minister if they win in 2013? While we can see Malcolm Turnbull striding to the podium as Abbott writhes and Rudd giggles on the sidelines, Geoff Robinson put Joe Hockey forward as a more likely successor.

“He would get the support of Turnbullites, and if you go by the example of Kim Beasley, I think he’s the sort of guy who voters would warm to. I suspect that Turnbull is viewed with too much distrust. But then I had the

“I think a lot of Labor supporters were really grateful to Rudd for being the person who had finally gotten rid of John Howard. He had slain the evil Baldemort and they were somewhat baffled when he was overthrown.” to rub Coalition voters up the wrong way in a manner that Rudd really didn’t do. The fact that she is unmarried and an athiest, and her history of union connections, seem to alienate strong Coalition voters in the same way that John Howard’s image of being the guy from the suburbs who thinks the 1950s were great really alienated a lot of core Labor voters. He was the definition of everything they didn’t like in Conservatism, and Julia Gillard is perhaps the definition of everything that a lot of Coalition voters dislike about the Labor Party.”

Then there is the enigma that is Malcolm Turnbull, a fascinating, polarising figure on both sides of the political divide. There are Labor supporters that seem to love him and Liberal supporters who loathe him for his ‘lefty’ leanings. Seen by the left as a liberal Liberal yet with plenty of business clout that engenders respected on the right. The hard right, however, will always view him with suspicion for his past ties with Labor and (gasp) his vow to cross the floor to support climate change policy.

feeling the other day that Julie Bishop was setting herself up as being the potential successor to Abbott among the Abbott loyalists and would stand up against Hockey.”

It’s interesting that there is an enormous amount of discussion around Tony Abbott’s abilities to win an election, but when it comes to contemplating the next Liberal Prime Minister he is almost swept aside, as if the idea of our nation in his hands something we don’t want to contemplate. In politics, as in cricket, a safe pair of hands can win the day. It worked for John Howard, who was that safe pair of hands (it also didn’t hurt that he was a cricket devotee) that ended the Labor Party’s long period of government in 1996 – something a succession of Coalition leaders were incapable of doing, as they were viewed as poor leaders.

“Labor had the advantage of Bob Hawke during that period, whose genuine charismatic appeal helped them to win in 1990 against Andrew Peacock – and then Labor had

the advantage because the Coalition tied itself to a series of unpopular policies, and had a leader who was so policyfocussed and so divisive in Hewson, that they lost support on that basis. People will also remember Alexander Downer’s rather disastrous term as Liberal leader, but once he was pushed out of the way and John Howard was brought back, voters were ready to make a change,” Prof.

Robinson said.

I wonder whether the great Australian cynicism, so different from the seeming devotion that is poured onto American leaders, means we have left no space in which another visionary Australian leader could emerge? Could we see another Hawkey, another Gough or another Menzies emerge from the rubble of reactionary politics in Canberra? Could we have our own Obama?

“I think you could, but I think it would be a product of there being a greater degree of political conflict in the vision for Australia. One example of why Americans tend to have these charismatic leaders is not just about Obama’s personality, it’s because American politics really is divided. People have quite competing attitudes and it does seem that which party is in power actually does make a substantial difference towards policy outcomes.

When you have that sort of policy divergence, people tend to feel more positive about their leaders – they’re actually arguing about something rather than just throwing stuff back and forth in the kind of performances that we’ve seen in Federal Parliament over the past few months,” Prof.

Robinson said.

So here is my Christmas wish for a really interesting 2013 election: Julia Gillard and Tony Abbott both retire citing stress and a desire to actually do some good; in a fit of peak, following the storm of recrimination directed at them over their abject failure to represent the best interests of the nation (as the people have reminded them often and loudly that this is actually what they are being paid considerable sums to do), both the Labor and Liberal caucuses put their powerbrokers into a welldeserved time out and give the people what they want – Malcolm Turnbull versus Kevin Rudd.

Davina Montgomery

VECCI

Regional business outlook shows signs of improvement Regional businesses have painted a slightly rosier picture of the Victorian economic outlook, according to a new report released by VECCI recently.

THE VECCI – Bank of Melbourne Survey of Business Trends and Prospects shows that while there is still concern over the near-term prospects for the Australian and Victorian economies, fewer businesses expect weaker economic activity over the year ahead.

While just 14 per cent of respondents anticipate stronger national economic growth over the year ahead, the number expecting weaker conditions – 39 per cent – was well down on the 51 per cent who held this view when surveyed in June. A similar move was reported for views on the outlook for the Victorian economy, highlighting a welcome shift in expectations towards more stable conditions ahead.

Delving deeper into the figures, the survey demonstrates the mixed performance of the economy. Retailers and those in the construction industry were more likely to have experienced difficult conditions in the September quarter, while those in the recreational and personal services sector, and the education and health sector reported a more positive performance.

In the September quarter, employers saw declines in sales and profitability, although employment numbers remained fairly stable. This may be due to the more positive expectations for performance in the December quarter, where increased sales and selling prices are anticipated in line with favourable seasonal conditions.

Respondents were also asked if the strong Australian dollar

20 | BUSINESS NEWS

was having an impact on their profitability. Sixty-two per cent said the dollar had no impact either way on profitability, 24 per cent said it had an adverse impact, while 14 per cent reported a positive impact.

Overall, regional respondents to the survey were more likely to expect a weaker national outlook over the year ahead than their metropolitan counterparts, but the number of respondents who felt this way was considerably less than reported three months ago.

This reflects the determination of our regional centres to capitalise on their great potential for further economic growth. At the recent VECCI Regional Business Convention, regional business leaders highlighted what it will take for further improvements to be achieved in regional employment, investment and living standards.

Different regional industries reported markedly different performances over the September quarter. Those in the education, health and community service sectors, and the recreation, personal and other services sectors reported much stronger conditions than the average, while the building and construction industry, and the wholesale and retail trade sector were much more likely to report declines in general business conditions, sales, selling prices and profitability.

The results of the VECCI Bank of Melbourne Survey of Business Trends and Prospects highlight the challenges faced by Victorian businesses, and the need for policies and practices

that focus on productivityenhancing infrastructure and investment, encouraging innovation and building a culture of business excellence, collaboration and leadership.

It is too early to tell if this improvement is sustainable, but hopefully this could be the beginning of more stable conditions that businesses are hoping for.

Bank of Melbourne Chief Executive, Scott Tanner, says it is very encouraging to see an improved business outlook as stronger confidence is a key factor for driving economic growth for the state.

“It’s positive to see business confidence improving. While the economic data for Victoria is mixed, some sectors

are tracking well relative to the rest of the nation and globally, Australia’s economic performance rates positively,” says Mr Tanner.

For more information about the VECCI - Bank of Melbourne Survey of Business Trends and Prospects, visit vecci.org.au.

JAMES GULLI VECCI Regional Manager, Geelong & South West Region.

VECCI offers a range of workplace relations services, from a telephone helpline to one-on-one consulting. For more information, visit vecci.org.au.

REGULATION is a contract between you and your franchisor. Once you sign the agreement, you will be legally bound to its terms and conditions so it’s important that you read the agreement carefully and ensure you understand the legal effect of what you are agreeing to.

Get advice By law you are required to sign a statement that you have sought independent legal, business and accounting advice, or that you have been told that you should seek such advice and have decided not to.

Franchising: where to start Buying a franchise can be a big investment. It usually involves a substantial upfront payment, followed by ongoing fees, royalties and other expenses. If you’re thinking of buying a franchise, doing your research can go a long way to help you make an informed decision and minimise the chances of making a poor investment.

THE checklist below will help you to research the opportunity thoroughly, before you sign a franchise agreement.

Do a pre-entry course A pre-entry education course will give you a much better understanding of how franchising works, before you start looking seriously at the various franchised businesses that are on offer.

The ACCC has collaborated with Griffith University to offer a free online education program for prospective franchisees. The course provides users with valuable information and tools to help make an informed decision when buying a franchise business. It comprises five 45-minute modules.

For more information, visit franchise.edu.au/pre-entryfranchise-education.

Read the disclosure document and agreement Under the Franchising Code of Conduct, franchisors are required to provide prospective franchisees with current information about the franchise operation in writing – this is known as a ‘disclosure document’.

The disclosure document includes financial information and details such as whether you will have an exclusive territory and what will happen when your agreement comes to an end.

You must be provided with the disclosure document, along with a copy of the franchise agreement (in its final the form) and a copy of the Code, at least 14 days before signing an agreement or handing over a nonrefundable payment.

Your franchise agreement

The value of obtaining advice – especially if it prevents you from entering into a bad agreement – is immeasurable. A lawyer can help identify warning signs in the franchise agreement, including terms that unfairly favour the franchisor. An accountant can help work out whether the business is financially viable, whether the estimated revenue is reasonable and whether you can recover your investment and make a reasonable return within the term of the agreement.

Speak to other franchisees Talking to current and previous franchisees within the network can give you some valuable insight into how the franchise system works and the relationship that the franchisees have with their franchisor.

The disclosure document must include a list of current franchisees and their contact details, along with any previous franchisees that have exited their contract in the last three years. Speak to as many franchisees as possible.

You should take this opportunity to verify any representations the franchisor has made to you to date. Ask previous franchisees why they are no longer in the system.

More information The ACCC has produced several franchising publications containing useful information for prospective franchisees, including a Franchisee Manual and a DVD about the Franchising Code.

These are available online at accc.gov.au/franchising or by calling the ACCC’s Small Business Helpline on 1300 302 021.

Questions to ask current franchisees : - Has the franchisor stuck to their contractual obligations?

unwilling to confirm verbal statements in writing;

- Are they satisfied with the level of training and support provided?

- Are reluctant to give contact details of other franchisees within their system;

- Are they earning what the franchisor said they would earn?

- Require full up-front payment for the business before any information is released; or who

- If they could go back in time, would they buy again?

This collective feedback should give you a clear picture of how the franchise system and franchisor operate.

Be cautious!

Most franchisors are likely to be open and honest with you.

However you should be wary of franchisors who: - Are reluctant to provide any written information or

- Claim you can make large amounts of money quickly and with little effort – that is, the business looks too good to be true.

If you are not provided with adequate information, it is strongly recommended that you seriously consider turning away from a particular business opportunity.

Remember, if a business opportunity looks too good to be true, it probably is.

BUSINESS NEWS | 21

RESEARCHER OF THE YEAR

New understanding through research

prizes. This year there were 76 posters submitted and eight judges from a variety of disciplines from both Barwon Health and Deakin University.

Research is a cornerstone of the modern world. Human research especially serves an important function in many levels of society; generating knowledge that leads to new understandings, which, in turn, improve wellbeing.

Currently there are around 500 research projects involving Barwon Health, with a further 60 in various stages of submission. Since the beginning of 2012, 165 new projects have been submitted to Barwon Health’s Research Office for review.

AS a major health service Barwon Health has a strong pedigree in research; employing staff that are recognised world-wide for their research. The Smart Geelong Network’s researcher of the year awards provides both a vehicle to recognise the research being conducted locally and serve to raise awareness in our community of the work that is being done to improve the health of our community and beyond.

Set up some 10 years ago the Smart Geelong Network came up with the concept of an expo and awards ceremony to promote research and recognise our regions brightest minds. The resulting event has now been running for eight years and its title has since been expanded to the Research & Learning Expo, encompassing a week of events that celebrate research excellence and recognises talent in the region.

Held this year from 22 – 26 October, the aim of the

22 | BUSINESS NEWS

Research & Learning Expo is to raise awareness of research underway in the Barwon region.

At Barwon Health, research is also celebrated during this week. A highlight of the week for Barwon Health researchers is the annual ‘poster’ competition which highlights the diversity of research being undertaken.

The poster competition showcases the outstanding work of Barwon Health/Deakin University researchers, and provides researchers with the opportunity to share some of their findings.

It is also about showcasing the journey in research, because research doesn’t end. One project leads to another; a publication may lead to an idea for someone else.

The poster competition is open to all Barwon Health researchers, with entrants competing for Best Scientific Poster and the Audience Choice plus a series of merit

In past years Barwon Health has provided several award winners and overall Researcher of the Year winners and this year again saw success. Of the 13 finalists in the Researcher of the Year Awards three were from Barwon Health.

Researchers this year came from a variety of backgrounds including health medicine, animal health, textile design and environmental studies with all in contention as finalists for the $40,000 Researcher of the Year awards prize pool.

For those who won, their award provides funding for continued research.

Barwon Health commends each of the winners and looks forward to next year’s event and the ongoing profile and success of research in our region.

Researcher of th 2012 Researcher of the Year and CSIRO AAHL One Health Award Johanna Dups, CSIRO AAHL Development of a mouse model of infection to improve our understanding of the mechanisms by which henipaviruses cause disease City of Greater Geelong Save the Planet Award Peter Stapleton Shell Geelong Refinery & Barwon Water Partnership Northern Water Plant Barwon Health Population Health & Lifestyle Award Eileen Moore, Barwon Health, Department of Surgery / Deakin University / Department of Psychiatry Melbourne University Increased risk of cognitive impairment in patient s with diabetes is associated with Metformin use Deakin University Early Researcher Award Dr Sharon Brennan, Barwon Health / Deakin University School of Medicine

RESEARCHER OF THE YEAR

he Year Awards Northern Water Plant nearing completion The influence of social and psychosocial factors upon musculoskeletal disease onset, progression and health care utilisation Geelong Chamber of Commerce Smart Technology Award Professor Svetha Venkatesh, Deakin University Accelerated learning for children with Autism: TOBY Playpad Finalist: Shell Geelong Refinery Biotechnology Award Meagan Gillespie, CSIRO AAHL & Deakin University Transcriptomic characterisation of pigeon milk production and its effect on young Highly Commended in 2012 Researcher of the Year Award & Finalist in Karingal Living with a Disability Award Helen Larkin, Deakin University School of Health & Development Design for diversity: enhancing interprofessional learning for architecture and occupational therapy students

The $94 million Northern Water Plant – the region’s first Class A recycled water plant – is nearing completion.

THE leading-edge plant will treat sewage and trade waste from Geelong’s northern suburbs and produce Class A recycled water for Shell. It will save about 2,000 million litres of drinking water a year, or 5 per cent of Geelong’s current consumption.

The plant is expected to be fully operational early next year.

Barwon Water Chairman Michael King said commissioning the plant was a major milestone.

“The plant will herald a new era for Barwon Water with the production of the highest quality recycled water now only a month or two away,” Dr King said.

“Replacing drinking water with Class A water in Shell’s operations will result in significant water savings and is a showcase for sustainable water management.”

All of the plant’s systems, including pump stations and biological treatment processes, ultra-filtration, reverse osmosis and odour

treatment components, have been rigorously tested during commissioning.

Extensive performance trials will ensure the plant meets the requirements of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and Department of Health for class A water quality, noise and odour limits.

The Northern Water Plant is unique in Australia in that it combines several functions into one facility, including: •D omestic and industrial wastewater treatment •A dvanced treatment to generate the highest class of recycled water •S upply to industry •S upply to the community (for irrigation).

There are several other advanced water treatment plants in Australia. However, the Northern Water Plant is the only facility that generates the highest class of recycled water from sewage containing such a high proportion of industrial wastewater.

Barwon Water Project Manager Peter Stapleton recently received a major award on behalf of the project delivery team from the Smart Geelong Network for the Northern Water Plant.

The team won the Researchers of the Year Save the Planet category at the network’s gala awards night. The awards recognise excellence in research and innovation.

“The Northern Water Plant represents a showcase partnership between the corporation and Shell’s Geelong refinery and provides a shared solution to issues that were confronting both organisations,” Dr King said.

He said Barwon Water launched a major investigation into managing increasing sewage flows from northern Geelong in 2003. At the same time, Shell was investigating ways to improve the quality of its wastewater and introduce recycled water to reduce drinking water use.

“The Northern Water Plant concept was a natural fit to meet the needs of both organisations,” he said.

The Australian Government has contributed $20 million toward the cost, the Victorian Government $9.2 million, Shell $47.5 million and Barwon Water $17.5 million.

SUPPORTING INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE Shell is renowned for its development of innovative technology solutions.

It is also proud to support local researchers in their pursuit of excellence through sponsorship of the Smart Geelong Researcher of the Year Awards.

Shell was delighted when Barwon Water’s Northern Water Plant won the Save the Planet award. Situated next to the refinery, the plant will process sewage and trade waste to supply Shell with recycled water – saving 5% of Geelong’s fresh water! www.shell.com.au/geelong

Our future together

BUSINESS NEWS | 23

TAX paid? No worries. On the train and wondering what bills you have outstanding? Too easy.

Cloud Accounting allows you to access and edit your financial data from anywhere at anytime on any device with an internet connection. Xero’s integration with iPhones and iPads has proved extremely popular with users.

REAL TIME DATA Business is all about timing.

Opportunities do not wait for your accounting software.

To be able to make optimum business decisions, you need the best possible information.

Cloud Accounting improves information quality through timeliness.

REAL TIME ADVICE

Accounting for your future Until the recent introduction of Cloud Accounting, it was a rare thing to hear the words ‘dynamic’ and ‘innovative’ in the same sentence as ‘accounting’. Now, they go hand in hand. The future of small business accounting and advisory is here; are you on board?

What is Cloud Accounting?

Since the 1990s, accounting software has been sold off the shelf in boxes and loaded onto a single computer via CD-ROM. Transferring data to another computer was a timely exercise, requiring a separate media device. Like dial up modems, non-smart phones and Buddha Hocking’s mullet, some things are best left in the 90s.

Cloud Accounting allows multiple users to access accounting data in a risk free environment through an internet browser in real time. It can be accessed by you, and your accountant, from any location, at any time.

A dynamic new software company called Xero is leading the charge, while the

24 | BUSINESS NEWS

accounting software veterans MYOB and Quickbooks have also recently released Cloud versions. With accredited staff, we have already assisted hundreds of clients to gain a competitive advantage by implementing the software.

Why would you change?

IMPROVED EFFICIENCY Cloud accounting software integrates directly with your bank, importing transactions on a daily basis. Through the correct implementation of data matching and transaction memorisation, the software can do the work for you!

ACCESS Onsite and want to review your profit and loss as of today?

Just log in. At the beach and want to know if a debtor has

Everyone’s favourite time of year, tax time! Time to back up your accounting package on USB, bundle it together with your shoebox of receipts and put it in the snail mail for your accountant. At best, it arrives in one piece. At worst (assuming it makes it at all) your accountant will ring and say the disk is corrupted, or you backed up an incorrect version, delaying the process. Then, by the time you receive the information back, it seems completely irrelevant.

Sound familiar? If so, it is time to demand better service!

Cloud Accounting allows you and your advisor to view the exact same data at the exact same time. Any bookkeeping issues you have can be solved in minutes over the phone. No travelling between locations.

No hit and miss USBs. No unanswered questions. No delays. No more excuses for your accountant!

stance is on security; his answer was simple ‘Our brand is built around security. If one user’s data was deemed unsecured, our company, worth hundreds of millions of dollars, would be out of business overnight. Believe me, we take security very seriously’.

Although there are always risks when it comes to the internet, you have to consider, how secure are your current accounting records? Are they only stored on one computer?

What if that one computer was to unexpectedly breakdown, stolen or come to another unforeseen harm? Are your current records safely backed up off-site on a regular basis?

As with many Cloud applications, users have found that data is actually safer in the Cloud than sitting on a single hard drive.

How can you find out more?

Have a good look through Xero, Quicken Online and MYOB Online’s websites, as they are jam packed with videos showing demonstrations of how the software works and how people are using it to improve their business.

Have a chat to a business advisory accountant for personal advice for your business and stay tuned next February WHK will be conducting a series of FREE Cloud Accounting Information Workshops.

EASY IMPLEMENTATION AND MAINTENANCE There is no installation of software, IT maintenance or upgrades required. Transitions to Cloud Accounting can take place anytime you please.

But is the data secure?

This is the number one question we are asked. Of course, we can’t guarantee your information. However, do you trust internet banking? If so, cloud accounting is no different.

At a recent seminar, I asked a Xero executive what their

JEREMY SUTTON Senior Accountant, Accounting and Business Advisory WHK Geelong (Certified Xero Partner)

LEGAL

What happens when the party goes wrong?

private life. The circumstances in which an employee may be validly terminated because of their conduct outside of work are limited.”

As we approach the season to be jolly, most employers will have planned a work end of year function. In hosting such functions, employers want to reward their employees for another year of valuable contribution to the business, as well as joining in the celebrations of the festive season with their employees.

In another case, a flight attendant for Qantas was terminated for fighting at a New Year’s Eve function. Qantas had arranged to make a function room available in a hotel for the private use of flight crew to celebrate the New Year and also made a contribution towards the cost of drinks. The flight attendant punched a co-worker in the face, which resulted in the co-worker being hospitalised for several weeks.

SUCH celebrations often involve alcohol, which can occasionally result in poor behaviour by one or two employees. Employers do not want to ban Christmas functions, but want to know what liability they have if employees behave badly. They also want to know what action can be taken to discipline an employee who engages in bad behaviour at or after a Christmas function.

Whether an employer can discipline or dismiss an employee in relation to conduct out of hours is a controversial issue.

Generally, employers only have a limited scope to control or regulate the employees out of hours conduct. However, an employer has a legitimate interest in out of hours conduct of an employee if there is a sufficient connection between the conduct and the employment. All of the circumstances surrounding the particular conduct must be considered when determining

whether disciplinary measures are justifiable.

There have been many cases in the Australian Industrial Relations Commission, and Fair Work Australia, which have dealt with out of hours conduct.

In one case, two Telstra employees were on an assignment in country NSW. While in a hotel room after work, the two employees started fighting and one employee was stabbed with a glass and received 12 stiches.

Neither employee was in a Telstra uniform nor were they on call. Telstra terminated the employees. One of the employees challenged the termination. The Industrial Relations Commission reinstated the employee and stated: “Employers do not have an unfettered right to sit in judgement on out of work behaviour of their employees.

An employee is entitled to a

The termination was upheld by the Industrial Relations Commission because there was a clear connection between the flight attendant’s conduct and the employment relationship, because the conduct was committed in the hotel paid for

by Qantas, in a room paid for

by Qantas and at a function in which Qantas made a per head contribution towards party drinks.

An employee owes his or her employer an implied duty of good faith and fidelity, as well as a general obligation of mutual trust and confidence. Out of hours conduct that breaches these duties can justify termination of employment where the conduct. viewed objectively

i s likely to cause serious damage to the relationship between the employer and the employee; or damages the employer’s interest; or is incompatible with the employee’s duty as an employee.

An employer can be liable for injury suffered by an employee as a result of out of hours bad behaviour by a co-worker.

The injured employee would need to establish a connection between the circumstances, giving rise to the injury and the employment. In order to minimise liability, an employer ought have in place a code of conduct policy, as well as a bullying and harassment policy. The code of conduct policy could have protocols about the excessive consumption of alcohol at work functions. Employers should also consider giving employees information about the start and finish time of work functions and consider putting in place transport arrangements to assist employees getting home after a work function where alcohol is provided.

Jim Rutherford, SARRY MURRAY

BUSINESS NEWS | 25

RECRUITMENT

Wage pressure indicates continuing skills shortages Wage pressure continues to mount in Australia, particularly in specific high-skill industries, indicating that some organisations face difficulties in recruitment and retention due to a shortage of qualified workers.

THIS is one of the findings of a major report published by recruiting experts Hays in conjunction with Oxford Economics. The Hays Global Skills Index represents a unique and insightful barometer of the market dynamics and availability of professional skills in 27 key economies around the world, including Australia.

The Index creates a score for each country between 0 and 10 on the constraints and frictions faced by its market for skilled labour.

This is calculated through an analysis of seven components, covering areas such as education levels, labour market flexibility, and high-skill wage pressures.

A score above 5.0 suggests that employers are witnessing difficulties finding the key skills they need and are suffering market friction, whilst a score below 5.0 indicates a lax labour market in which there are no major constraints on the supply of skilled labour. Within these overall scores, however, the scores attributed to each of the seven components can vary significantly, highlighting the different dynamics and pressures faced.

Overall, Australia rates 5.9 on the Hays Global Skills Index, compared to the average of 5.1. However, Australia also scores 8.0 in terms of both wage pressures in the overall economy and in high-skill industries.

“Labour market tightness in Australia is driven by demand for high-skilled professionals in specific industries, including engineering, energy, and oil and gas,” says Nick Deligiannis, Managing Director of Hays in Australia.

26 | BUSINESS NEWS

“These shortages are also evident in our latest Quarterly Report, covering October to December 2012, which found there is a demand for highskilled professionals such as Structural Engineers, Line Engineers, and Geologists.

“The job market varies on a quarterly basis, but in the long term we will continue to feel the skills shortages as they will still be evident and a major feature of Australia’s job market in the future. We expect shortages to continue across industries such as healthcare, due to our ageing population. Moving forward, there will also be a need for candidates with the correct skills required to drive major projects in the construction sector. Climate change will also lead to job creation in the development of green energy sources and in occupations needed to mitigate the impacts of global warming.”

According to the Index, while high-skill shortages are also found in the operational and technical areas associated with the extractive industries in Australia, there is also demand for qualified staff in accountancy and finance and other professional services for these industries.

“There is still a need for mining engineers and surveyors in the resources and mining sector along with senior processing candidates and candidates in fixed-plant maintenance and planning,” says Nick.

Meanwhile, the Index shows that each country surveyed faces specific issues in its skilled labour force. Sixteen of the twenty-seven countries are currently suffering some degree of labour market tightness, despite the global

economic slowdown – an economic paradox. To combat the mismatch of skills availability and demand around the world, the Hays report proposes a long-term three-point action plan for policymakers.

“First, governments should focus on the skills their economies lack and take appropriate measures to attract the relevant people through targeted immigration.

This would in many cases require an overhaul of existing work visa arrangements,” says Nick.

“Second, employers should be offered fiscal incentives to increase their provision of relevant training. Third, governments should work with employers and educational authorities to implement a series of measures and incentives to persuade young people to acquire the skills that are most needed on both a country and international level.”

According to the Index, Australia scores well on labour market flexibility, with 3.8 against a global average of 5.4, based on its openness to immigration and flexible labour laws. Australia’s points-based

migration system went through a major review in July 2012 that adopted occupationspecific caps in the hope that the country will better be able to respond to the needs of the economy, the report says.

The Index also has Australia at 4.3 for education flexibility – better than the global average of 4.8, this is due to the fact Australia has a well-educated workforce.

Meanwhile, Australia scores 5.4 when it comes to fragility of economy. According to the Index, Australia’s government finances and exports appear sustainable, indicating that the economy is not overly vulnerable to external shocks.

Although GDP growth has eased as a result of lower demand from emerging markets, the rate of inflation remains moderate, which puts Australia at a score of 7.3 when it comes to the health of the economy.

To see the full Hays Global Skills Index and report, please go to www.hays-index.com

Hays, the world’s leading recruiting experts in qualified, professional and skilled people.

LEGAL

Personal liability broadened for company directors The importance of proper corporate governance is not new, however, recent amendments to taxation legislation have been made to prevent company directors hiding behind the corporate veil when it comes to paying workers their outstanding pay and entitlements.

THE purpose of the Tax Laws Amendment (2012 Measures No. 2) Act 2012 (Cth) is to curb Company phoenix activities, to ensure taxation compliance and protect workers entitlements.

Where a Company has unpaid Pay-As-You-Go obligations or unpaid Superannuation Guarantee Charge amounts, the Australian Taxation Office now has the ability to hold a Company and its Directors jointly and severally liable for such debts.

There are a number of significant amendments to taxation legislation arising from the Act that company directors need to make themselves aware of.

Newly appointed Company Directors will only have a

30-day grace period to realise the Company’s true financial situation, potentially discovering unpaid PAYG and SCC liabilities. After this 30-day period, if the Director remains in office, they face the risk of becoming personally liable for the Company’s outstanding PAYG and SGC liabilities with retrospective application.

Where PAYG and SGC debts are outstanding for three months or more, the ATO may, twenty-one days after serving all Directors of the Company with a Penalty Notice, initiate proceedings for the recovery of those debts. The Company has an opportunity to pay the outstanding debts within this 21-day period.

Former Company Directors will

not escape the risk of personal liability for outstanding PAYG and SCG amounts that were owed by the Company at the time they held office of Director. They too may be served with a Penalty Notice.

Directors no longer have the ability to wind up a Company to absolve any unpaid PAYG and SGC amounts. Rather, the ATO will have the ability to apply a PAYG Withholding Non-Compliance Tax (NCT).

The NCT shall be payable

by Directors and any of their Associates (‘Associates’ include a partner and other relatives of the Director).

Where a Director (and/or their Associates) has personal PAYG withholding credits in their personal tax return, these credits will be applied to pay the Company’s debts.

The Act addresses the importance for a new Director of a Company to perform comprehensive due diligence assessments of that Company prior to their appointment.

Additionally, current Directors must ensure that the Company has paid all PAYG and SGC amounts in full by their due date to avoid the ATO issuing a Directors’ Penalty Notice.

Failure to do so may result in the lifting of the corporate veil and holding the Company’s Directors personally liable for such debts.

TOM WHITE Principal - Head of Commercial

Disclaimer: This article contains general comments only. Specific legal advice should be obtained in relation to any matters associated with the topic discussed.

A pro-active and fresh approach to your business OUR VISION FOR YOU: Less stress n More time n Improved cash flow n Achievable targets and goals n Our fee quoted upfront n

03 5278 9500 10 Station Street Norlane Victoria 3214 accounting@sjcanny.com.au www.sjcanny.com.au

Business Advisory | Accounting | Self-Managed Super Funds | Financial Planning | Tax

BUSINESS NEWS | 27

St Laurence thanks you for your

2.

Bl ue &

W hit eB all

1. MyPATH launch

1.

2012 saw the launch of ‘MyPATH’ – a revolutionary new service offering learning and vocational pathways for people with disability.

2.

The ‘All That Jazz – 1920’s New York Glamour’ fundraising ball hosted by St Laurence was held on 6 July 2012 at The Pier Geelong. And oh, what a night! Just wait to see what we’ve got in store for you all for 2013!

Please consider continuing to give so we can continue to provide to those most in need during this festive season. www.stlaurence.org.au

generous support over the year.

5. Golf fundraiser

4. September Tea Parties

3. Colac redevelopment

3.

St Laurence this year invested $1.2m to undertake a comprehensive renovation of our Queen Street, Colac property, expanding our scope and services available to people with disability.

4.

Businesses and individuals alike all over Geelong and Colac got together to throw a Tea Party in September to raise funds for a state of the art learning facility for people with disability. What a great excuse to put the computers away and socialise with your work colleagues for a good cause!

5.

St Laurence corporate golf fundraiser raised over $4000 for disability services. “Community fundraising events such as these truly show Geelong’s sense of community spirit and willingness to give to community service initiatives” Toby oConnor, CEO.

" Please detach, complete and return this form to St Laurence, P.O. Box 110, Lara, Victoria 3212 Name: ________________________ Company: ________________

Cheque

Money order

Visa

Mastercard

Mobile: __________________ Email: _________________________

(Please make payable to ‘St Laurence Community Services Inc.’)

Please accept my one off donation of:

Credit card number: _______________________________________

$50

$100

$150

$200

$250

or my nominated amount: __________________________________

Name on card: ___________________________________________ Expiry date: ____________________ CCV: ____________________

I authorise St Laurence to debit a monthly gift of $ ________ from the credit card specified (minimum of $10) until I notify otherwise.

Signature: ______________________________________________

SMALL BIZ like. A few days in the office are a welcome interruption to my new and very busy schedule. My retirement project is to build a factory, which is, as I’ve discovered, not a typical retirement project.

Now, back to business. For some reason I believe that success in small business is a learnable activity. Chuck out the business plans and most of what you learned in project management class and people have a good shot. By combining an attitude that treats the business as an experiment with a super rapid learning curve, there is a good chance that the owner will find a suitable niche. But this year has seen us reach our limit with three businesses.

For obvious reasons I have used a different name for this business.

Attitude determines altitude This is the time of year for most businesses when the flow of clients diminishes and you have time to reflect on the past 12 months and the year ahead. As always, there are highs and lows, and even after 25 years of business development, I am surprised by the diversity of businesses and the performance of the owners.

THE highlight of this year has been a blindly positive level of customer service from a handful of retail shops. These are the tiny shops that for ever seem to be in jeopardy from the marketing pressure from large retail chains, but somehow these shops thrive.

It didn’t take too long into my investigation to find that it was outstanding customer service that carried these businesses. It is easy to identify these businesses by their vitality.

In one retail outlet, I went in for a small special order expecting to get the generally helpful, “I think we can order those” – but from AutoPro Drysdale, the response was that we can get it to you by 2 o’clock; do you want it delivered”. Yep! Positive and outstanding, and by the

30 | BUSINESS NEWS

way, it was delivered at 1.45.

While I give one example, I did search far and wide and could have selected examples from the pharmacy in Buninyong to George Taylor hardware store in Camperdown.

I am equally sure that some businesses are still behind the scene in service.

What separated these top performers was the SERVICE not just the smile and good greetings. As I walked out of each of these stores, I was thinking that I had received brilliant value, rather than that I had bought what I needed.

Top marks guys – well done.

Before I go into the low side of this equation I just wanted to add that I have moved to semi-retirement - in that I work 8 days per week now, or at least that is what it feels

We met Linda when she was employed at a local fashion retail business, and she expressed her desire to get into design and manufacture of dress garments. Fashion retail is a tough gig and it has one of the highest bankruptcy rates of any business category, but as we have learnt from Schumpter, the most fertile area to start a business is in the tumultuous high churn areas. Creative destruction is one of those odd business phenomena that is neither obvious nor based on common sense, but it is evident. In the beginning, we slowly supported Linda to develop her concept, and it became quickly apparent that Linda was highly intelligent, and in many ways gifted, but for one flaw – for Linda, everything that went wrong was someone else’s fault.

In my mind, this is one of the few flaws that make business impossible. How can you learn if you blame others? We attempted to draw examples of great adaptations that could occur from things that had gone awry, but she was every content to call the suppliers d**heads. Nine hard months down the track and every

meeting is a spray of blame and little responsibility. She is surviving, but having to run so hard to keep in the one place.

I am reminded of one of those American aphorisms, that attitude almost always determines the altitude, and this is one of the clearest examples.

But the approach of a new year always brings the hope of better days ahead. So, what am I hoping 2013 will bring?

From recent reading of science journals we can only hope that some wise decisions are made about the environment, Victoria is missing the boat on many climatic business opportunities, but one bird posture comes to mind (imagine where an emu can get its beak with that long tensile neck).

There are many new opportunities in manufacture that are becoming evident, so I would hope to see some resurgence in our technologies.

We will need to continue learning about how to treat China as an opportunity and not as a threat.

Lastly, I would hope that some sense is returned to education and training, so that businesses can rely on training as a strategic advantage rather than administrative sludge and a certificate to pin on the back of the toilet door.

However, despite my optimism I think that we will have to wait a little longer until the up and coming generation of business people start making new rules and change the economics of our region from underneath. Wow! Are these young kids smart? Until then I will keep my Facebook vigil burning or whatever it is you are supposed to do with Facebook…

CLINT JENNINGS Australian Business Development Centre www.abdc.com.au

COMMENT

Don’t raise the super guarantee rate

Lights Off

The Gillard government should abandon plans to increase the superannuation guarantee’s compulsory contribution rate from 9% to 12%, according to a new report from The Centre for Independent Studies.

In the past 12 months, a time of falling wages and flat inflation, the average Australian power bill has gone up 17%, from $1,582.90 to $1,867.00 per year, according the latest research from CoreData.

“THERE are much better policy options for improving retirement saving and reducing future demands on the federal budget from an ageing population,” argues the report’s author, CIS Research Fellow, Dr Stephen Kirchner.

Treasury projects that when the superannuation system reaches maturity in 2040, it will lead to only a small reduction in future rates of age pension eligibility.

“Increasing the compulsory contribution rate will not address the many problems with the current system, such as double-dipping – where lump-sum superannuation benefits are dissipated to maintain age pension eligibility.”

Dr Kirchner recommends reforming the taxation of super to conform to international best practice, so that only superannuation benefits are taxed, not contributions or earnings.

“This would place the taxation

of super on a similar basis to the taxation of saving via housing, making it a more attractive vehicle for voluntary saving and reducing the need for compulsory contributions,” says Dr Kirchner.

“Superannuation benefits receiving this tax treatment should be subject to compulsory income streams rather than being taken as lump-sums to solve the double-dipping problem.”

Dr Kirchner proposes that reforms such as these would improve retirement incomes, reduce future demands on the federal budget, and make superannuation saving less vulnerable to future government tinkering with the existing taxation arrangements.

Dr Stephen Kirchner is a Research Fellow at The Centre for Independent Studies and a Senior Lecturer in Economics at the University of Technology Sydney Business School.

WHEN we set out to conduct this research in November we wanted understand whether prices had gone up, and if so by how much, and who Australian consumers blamed for the price rise.

The answers are clear – the prices have gone up (most markedly so in the otherwise boom state of South Australia), the consumers blame profiteering retailers, badly managed state governments and the Carbon Tax, in that order, for the price hikes.

Most telling of all is that the price hike is hitting the Australians that can least afford it, with one third of the 1100 households surveyed stating that they were already under financial pressure to pay their bills.

Notable changes in behaviour include cutting spending on holidays, eating out and even basics like groceries.

Environmentalists will appreciate that Australians

are more conscious about the energy they use by turning off electrical appliances when not in use or switching to energy saving devices, but this behavioural change is mainly driven by financial concerns rather than any increased regard for the environment.

With almost three in ten likely to switch in the next 12 months, the bargain hunting is open.

Indeed, with discounts and good deals the main factors Aussies take into account while deciding to stay or switch to another energy provider, companies needs to review their offer and the way they communicate it.

Especially as only one in ten believe the offers advertised are real.

This has been another article from the insightful minds at Burning Pants. Burning Pants is a product of CoreData. www.burningpants.com BURNING PANTS

Release Property Management celebrates five years in business Celebrating five years in business, Renee Reynolds, Director and Licensed Estate Agent, is Geelong’s Property Manager of the Year, 2011 and 2012.

As the specialists in Leasing and Management we are well regarded as leaders in our field. We provide expert advice and guidance to both new and experienced property investors, focusing strongly on sourcing quality tenants, optimising your rental income, and eliminating rental vacancies.

Servicing Geelong, Surf Coast, Colac and Inner Melbourne, your property asset is not simply a priority, it is our first and only priority We treat your property as if it were our own.

To receive our monthly E-newsletter outlining all the latest property news and trends, contact Allison via allison@releasepm.com.au.

246 Ryrie Street, Geelong

5222 7325

www.releasepm.com.au

BUSINESS NEWS | 31

INVESTMENT

Making cents of monetary policy Market shifts and economic expectations have been a solid talking point throughout 2012, and that is unlikely to change in the year ahead. RBS Morgans looks ahead to what 2013 may bring.

Economic update USA The major issue facing the US economy in this post-election period will be the ‘fiscal cliff.

If nothing is done before January 2013, the Bush Tax Cuts will expire, which will increase US taxes by 3% of US GDP. As well, spending cuts will immediately reduce the flow of funds available to the military and other programs. The effect of these combined spending cuts and tax increases will be to reduce US GDP by around 2.6% in 2013. If nothing is done, we believe a recession is near certain.

What is certain is that with the November election is over, the legislature will have to act to extend the time period for decision making at least until the middle of 2013. This will be done by extending the Bush Tax Cuts until that time, as well as extending the start date for spending cuts; then both the

House of Representatives and Senate will have the first half of the year to decide upon the mix of the final solution to this problem.

China It is not commonly understood that China has an inflation targeting Central Bank. This is the Peoples Bank of China, or PBOC, which has achieved an average rate of inflation in China this century of 2.3% this would be a good result for a Central Bank like the RBA or the European Central Bank or the Bank of England. Where these other central banks achieve their long-term average result by keeping inflation within a relatively small band, China has to target inflation in an economy that is growing much faster than the other central banks have to contend with.

Where the RBA has to manage inflation within the band between 2% and 3%, the

PBOC has to manage inflation within a band between 0% and 6%. The last time we got to the low end of this inflation band was back in 2005. At that time inflation finished at the level slightly below zero.

In 2011, inflation in China peaked at 6.5%. The PBOC reacted to this by increasing the Required Reserve Ratio (the proportion of commercial bank reserves lodged with the central bank) to its highest level since 1948 (when the modern Chinese state was founded).

Since that time, Chinese inflation has fallen to 1.9%.

The RRR has already fallen by 2%, but inflation is so low it could fall another 3%. The question is, why hasn’t that happened? The answer is that the PBOC is waiting for inflation to fall down further towards the bottom of its historical band, near zero.

We expect this to happen in coming quarters and further cuts in the RRR to be announced. These cuts should be followed in turn by a higher Chinese economic growth rate.

Australia Treasurer Wayne Swan, in his midyear economic estimates, has reduced the growth estimate for next year to 3%, which we believe is too low.

The reason is that the positive

effects of interest rate cuts will have a significant effect on increasing housing activity in the Australian economy in 2013. We think that growth will be higher than anticipated at 3.4%, which should produce a better environment in the second half of calendar 2013.

Investment Update As we head towards the end of the year, our investment strategy continues to focus on maintaining a balanced exposure to defensive and growth assets. With cash rates falling in Australia and global bond yields at unsustainably low levels, reliable dividend payers should remain an investment focus.

As uncertainty diminishes, we take the view that investors should be prudent in positioning themselves in quality resources equities as we look for further signs of recovery in China and indeed Europe in 2013.

Charles Baulch Director - Geelong RBS Morgans Geelong assists clients with wealth creation and protection through direct investment and strategic planning solutions.

Visit rbsmorgans.com/branches/ vic/geelong.

Disclaimer: This is information only and readers should not rely or act on the information provided without first obtaining professional advice on these issues.

Elevate

your wedding celebrations...

With stunning views over Simonds Stadium & surrounding parkland, a Club Cats wedding function will leave your guests with an everlasting impression.

Floor to ceiling glass in rooms hold breathtaking views over the ground Seating up to 240 guests comfortably Exceptional food and service Secure parking for more information call our functions department today on 5225 2367 or email functions@gfc.com.au GEELONG CATS PO Box 461 Geelong 3220 gfc.com.au

32 | BUSINESS NEWS

club

LEADERS

Good culture the key to business success Geelong is unique amongst regional cities in Australia in providing outstanding opportunities for future leaders. The Leaders for Geelong program makes a major contribution to this by developing future leaders of our region who are inspired and well-connected visionaries.

Instigated by the Committee for Geelong eight years ago, the program develops people with the knowledge, connections and skills to step up to leadership roles in the community.

A milestone event on the Leaders for Geelong calendar is the Annual Leadership Breakfast. On Thursday 1st of November over 230 guests attended this year’s Annual Leaders for Geelong Leadership breakfast with special guest speaker, Michael Henderson.

Mr Henderson, a Corporate Anthropologist and guru on transforming company culture captured the audience immediately with confronting questions about their leadership, “Are you a leader worth following? ” Mr Henderson brought with him some challenging statistics, such as 6% of employees have been bullied by their boss and 37.5%

of us have been asked to do something unethical or dishonest.

He advised leaders in the room that, “Culture matters to human beings. Without culture, we are simply left with genetics. Culture is about replacing fear with confidence and great leaders focus on building cultures, rather than just teams.”

Leaders for Geelong Program Director, Jean Paul, said she was thrilled to have Mr Henderson involved in the program and that the breakfast event provided a great opportunity for Geelong’s business community to gain insights into workplace culture concepts.

“Michael Henderson is an international expert on developing successful business culture. He has studied traditional tribes and organisational cultures

in over 40 countries. He understands what culture is, what causes culture to change and how to integrate good culture into business. I believe there was much our region’s business leaders could learn from him,” she said.

“This kind of event is exactly the kind of benefit that comes to people involved in the Leaders for Geelong program.”

Applications are now open for the 2013 – 2015 Leaders for Geelong program.

Positions in the program are limited to just 28 and places are highly sought after by emerging business and community leaders and their employers.

Jean Paul says the program provides participants with the tools to assess their current leadership capabilities, to improve upon them and to create new ones. The program is a twoyear experiential learning program. Each month, the Leaders gather for 1 to 2 program events where they hear from business and community leaders, and experts in a range of fields.

“Participants use self-review and accredited measurement tools to devise a personal leadership development plan, which they revisit

regularly throughout the program.”

Jean Paul explains that the Leaders for Geelong Program is highly regarded by business leaders and employers in our region, participants are chosen on merit as well as their fit with the overall demographic balance of each intake group.

“The success of the program depends on the diversity of the group, so we achieve balance by ensuring there is representation from local government areas, community sectors, professions, age and gender.”

“People become passionate and more involved when a group is diverse, they want to contribute with their own experiences and make sure they are being heard,” she said.

If you think that the Leaders for Geelong program is something you are interested in, please contact Jean Paul at the Committee for Geelong on (03) 5227 8073 or if you would like further information on the program please visit the website www.committeeforgeelong. com.au/leaders-for-geelong

Magical scenery, low traffic roads on a totally unique course, challenging climbs and thriling descents; catering for all riders from professionals to families.

A ‘participation ride’ in support of Give Where You Live - alleviating disadvantaged inn our community.

Naming Rights Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

Silver Sponsors

In Kind Sponsors

A Fundraising Event For

BUSINESS NEWS | 33

CHRISTMAS WISHES

Merry Christmas

From all the staff and management at Byars Flexible Packaging

Merry Christmas and Thank You for your support throughout the year.

We are closing December 21st at 5pm and reopening 9.00am January 2nd 2013. To ensure pre-Christmas delivery all orders will be required 2 weeks prior to Christmas.

135 Fyans Street, South Geelong 3220.

P.O BOX 44, Geelong 3220 Phone: (03) 5229 9998 Email: admin@byars.com.au

34 | BUSINESS NEWS

Please note: Many suppliers will be closed up to the end of January so consider extra ordering now.

Byars Packaging look forward to continuing our services in 2013.

CHRISTMAS WISHES

Happy New Year Solve.Develop.Deliver Aus Pits will shut down at close of business on Thursday the 20th December 2012 and re-open on Monday the 7th January 2013.

We would like to wish all our valued clients a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Safe New Year.

‘Your trusted partners in Pre-Cast’

1300 408 883 info@auspits.com.au www.auspits.com.au

Season’s Greetings The Principals and staff at Coulter Roache Lawyers would like to wish our clients and local businesses a wonderful Christmas and prosperous New Year.

Our office will be closed on the following days: • From 1pm on Friday 21 December 2012 • Monday 24, Tuesday 25 & Wednesday 26 December 2012 • Monday 31 December 2012 & Tuesday 1 January 2013

Tel: 03 5273 5273

www.coulterroache.com.au

BUSINESS NEWS | 35

THE TECH GUY Watch it

The Tech Guy Every month, our Tech Guy, Jon Mamonski, brings us the wildest, most mind-blowing gadgets he can find...

It’s been a while since I indulged my watch fetish, so here it goes.

Tokyoflash has launched yet another one of its charming, barely-decipherable timepieces.

Available in black and silver, the sienna variant with its reddish-brown casing goes hand-in-hand with the bracelet’s chunky style.

Tokyo Flash is selling the timepiece for $US149.

But for once, the face is exceedingly readable, with just one addition - a ring that joins the minute and hour hands.

Protect yourself

McAfee has announced significant enhancements to McAfee All Access, the anti-everything integrated cross-device protection for PCs, Macs, smartphones and tablets.

instantly access free premium technical support.

The new consolidated dashboard enables you to quickly and easily monitor how devices are protected, invite family members to install protection on their devices and

McAfee All Access 2013 is available for purchase for AU$149.95 for an individual and AU$199.95 for a household. Worth every penny!

36 | BUSINESS NEWS

McAfee All Access safeguards all facets of your digital life and enables you to enjoy a safe online experience regardless of device or location.

Not life as we know it

There’s a new life for you… out there. As we reduce the Earth to an uninhabitable wasteland, we’ll need to shift digs.

A new Earth is now a strong possibility, just 44 light years hence. It’s called orbiting dwarf star HD 40307.

Our new super-Earth orbits its host star right at the edge of the so-called habitable zone,

where a stable atmosphere and liquid water are possible.

Whilst it’s not yet known if our new home can in fact support life, there’s a good chance it will. The best part is that it’s almost seven-times the mass of Earth, so our exploding population will fit in.

No, Richard Branson is not taking bookings just yet.

THE TECH GUY True Carbon Solar at last

Solar power needs to be highly efficient and affordable, and it’s neither at present, but that is about to change.

Researchers from Stanford University have made a breakthrough by producing relatively inexpensive photovoltaic cells using nothing but carbon.

The team selected a trio of carbon types to use in their

cell: a mixture of nanotubes and ‘buckyballs’ make up the light-absorbing layer, while graphene is being utilized for the electrodes.

The carbon amalgam can be applied from solution using simple methods, meaning the flexible cells could be used to coat surfaces, although you won’t be seeing it smeared over anything too soon.

Open wide

While “ultrawidescreen” 21:9 aspect ratio HDTVs haven’t set the world on fire despite several attempts, LG is bringing it to the desktop with its new EA93 UltraWide LCD monitor.

Measuring at 29-inches with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,080, it uses the extra horizontal space to display not just cinema-style movies, but also side by side video from

Ahhh sleep

Trouble sleeping lately? A new wearable device, tagged ReTimer, promises to be of help by mimicking sunlight and resetting the body clock.

The result of 25 years of sleep research at Flinders University, it’s worn like a pair of glasses and emits soft green light, fooling the part of the brain that regulates your circadian rhythms.

When used at different times of the day for specified durations, it claims to advance or delay the clock as desired, countering the effects of frequent air travel and improving alertness levels.

The rechargeable, portable device is safer and more effective than medication, according to its chief inventor, Professor Leon Lack.

different sources or up to four different views at once thanks to its built-in software. For connections, it has DVI Dual Link, DisplayPort or HDMI with MHL support.

It’s now available under Melbourne’s Kogan brand for $399. www.kogan.com.au

Window spying

If you feel like you’re being watched when you’re windowshopping, you may well have been.

Some stores have set up EyeSee mannequins that have a camera embedded into one eye.

The cameras feed data into facial-recognition software and log age, gender and race of the people it sees.

The original rationale of such technology was to identify criminals in places like airports, but retailers are apparently now using it to personalize store offerings.

Future mannequins might even have the ability to eavesdrop on passers-by, allowing storeowners to hear what they have to say about the mannequin’s outfit.

BUSINESS NEWS | 37

WINE

A sweet escape from a past pest In the 1870s, grape phylloxera was first discovered in Victoria in Geelong vineyards. All vines throughout the region had to be destroyed in order to contain the spread of the insect pests that cause vines to weaken and even die.

It took a staggering 100 years for the industry to restart.

OF course, Geelong wine growers were not the only ones affected and various wine growing regions throughout the state have remained classified as Phylloxera Risk Zones, which restricts the moving of equipment across state borders.

But now, after the completion of a six-year survey of Phylloxera Risk Zones across the state, a new Victorian Phylloxera Exclusion Zone, or PEZ, has been announced.

While the acronym bears no reference to the iconic candy dispensers, the news couldn’t be sweeter for growers across regions including Greater Geelong, Ballarat, Macedon Ranges, Sunbury and a large northern area extending from Cobram to Horsham.

Geelong Winegrowers Association (GWA) Viticultural Executive, Hugh Hull said

that being classified as phylloxera-free was a big deal for the Geelong Wine region, given the impact the vine pest had on viticulture across Geelong. Mr Hull also said that the project has brought additional benefits for the local industry, including an accurate database of growers in the region.

DPI Fruit Biosecurity Officer, Greg King, said the surveyed areas revealed no detections of phylloxera, which has enabled them to be re-zoned from Phylloxera Risk Zones (PRZs) to the highest health status of PEZ. “PEZ status eases restrictions on the movement of machinery and equipment within Victoria and interstate,” said Mr King.

“South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland recently recognised Victoria’s re-zoning commitment by harmonising a number of

their regulations, so it is now much easier and cheaper for growers to move some products and machinery from Victoria to those states.”

A total of 386 vineyards were surveyed and 1,865 hectares have been added to Victoria’s Western PEZ. In the Geelong region, 153 vineyards totaling 780 hectares were surveyed over three years and completed in March 2012.

Damien Sheehan, Chairman of the Victorian Viticulture Biosecurity Committee, said the re-zoning project had been a worthwhile investment.

“As well as strengthening local biosecurity against the

impacts of phylloxera on vine health, the expansion of the PEZ provides wider pest-free status and improved access to interstate and international markets,” said Mr Sheehan.

“In addition, growers who are now in the PEZ no longer need to pay survey costs of over $100 per hectare every time they want to move products or machinery interstate or into the Victorian PEZ, which will mean a significant saving over time.

“However, to maintain these benefits, the industry must remain vigilant and ensure biosecurity is a routine part of vineyard management.”

Anything You Want Door to Door Discount Stationers are renowned for their prompt and efficient service and for their ability to find those hard to get items...

Discount Stationers 81 Separation Street, North Geelong

Ph:(03) (03)5272 5272 2266 2266 Ph: Fax: Fax:(03) (03)5278 52786282 6282

E: discountstationers@ncable.net.au

Copy Paper - Fax Rolls - Toner Cartridges - Inkjet Cartridges - Electronic Media - Storage - Laminating Supplies - Computer Paper

38 | BUSINESS NEWS

Been to the

Black Sheep

for dinner lately?

If not, then you’re missing out! Our food is sensaƟonal, generous and great value....book your next dinner with us and taste for yourself, you won’t be disappointed.

Book your Christmas func on now. We’re offering corporate bookings in any of our four amazing areas, or join us for a special family Christmas gathering in our beau ful restaurant.

Call us to make your reserva on today.

To make your reserva on: Black Sheep Restaurant, Na onal Wool Museum, Cnr Moorabool and Brougham Streets, Geelong manager@blacksheeprestaurant.com.au | 5223 2536 Black Sheep Cafe & Restaurant

@LambysGeelong

‘Meet’ in Geelong’s most spectacular conference & events venue

Call our Events Sales Team now to arrange a site inspection, you’ll be surprised what The Pier has to offer

Conferences & seminars • Exhibitions • Cocktail parties • Product launches • Major events • Private functions Voted #1 Best Regional Venue in Victoria.

Cunningham Pier, 10 Western Beach Foreshore Rd, Geelong (03) 5222 6444 enquiries@thepiergeelong.com.au www.thepiergeelong.com.au

Cunningham Pier

@CunninghamPier

eVeRY FRIDaY FROM 5pM

Complimentary wine tasting, entertainment, finger food for members. Sign up free on the night!

GrapeCrushers is the ideal post-work get together.

7 December – Showcase of the Bellerine and Surfcoast wines New and popular wines from our local region

Entertainment: Andy Pobjoy

14 December – Sweet vs Dry A tasting of sweet vs dry Riesling Entertainment: Warm Sands GrapeCrushers returns Friday 11 January.

21 December – End of year and Christmas break up Join us for the last GrapeCrushers of the year, with a selection of Brandy and Fortified wines Entertainment: Chic

credo.GBN.09.12

Voted by readers of Spice News.

COMMUNITY NEWS

So many reasons to celebrate This year has seen BacLinks, an initiative of Karingal, celebrate its 10th year of operation, while Karingal has been celebrating its 60th Anniversary as a community service organisation.

FROM a small group of employees committed to bringing business and community together for mutual benefit, BacLinks has grown over the years, significant increasing its business membership, networks and ability to meet a large range of community need.

As we come to the close of 2012, BacLinks would like to thank all the many businesses who have generously contributed to their community through events and projects we have coordinated – you have helped us to make a real difference.

“In this tough financial environment many community organisations are struggling to adequately provide their important services to community members in need,” said Sheree Holdsworth, BacLinks Manager. “Businesses are also doing it tough, but are still digging deep to support their community through various contributions such as employee volunteering, donations of goods and services or by sharing their knowledge and resources with the community. All these things can and do make a difference.”

BacLinks would like to thank our Premier Partners: Alcoa and GMHBA Health Insurance; Premier Supporters: KRock/Bay FM and GPAC; and all our many business members and supporters who have contributed to our community and assisted us with the work we do.

Highlights this year have included events such as the Girls’ Big Day Out, where

40 | BUSINESS NEWS

young girls were given an opportunity to try trade for a day; the ‘Y’Chef Cooking Challenge for VET in Schools Hospitality students; the Journey to Work and WorkIT projects that assisted a number of young men and women to better prepare for employment; the ‘Big Boys Don’t Cry’ Mental Health Forum for Men; and two Workplace Big Day Out events, which provided an opportunity for people with disabilities to have a fun, challenging day out in the company of employee volunteers from local businesses.

These events were made possible through the generous support and/or sponsorship of Adecco Trades; Alcoa and the Alcoa Foundation; Barefoot Media; Barwon Medicare Local; BTS Business Technology Solutions; City of Greater Geelong; Coulter Roache Lawyers; Geelong Manufacturing Council; Gforce Employment Solutions; GMHBA Health Insurance; Harwood Andrews Lawyers; KABLE; Karingal Training; Kommercial; Life Again; McManus Consulting Services; MatchWorks; Mentor; Mercure Geelong; Myer; Nardi Produce; Powercor Australia; Rotary Club of Highton; SecondBite; St John of God Pathology/ Pathcare; Target; The Gordon; Telstra Country Wide; Vicwest Community Telco; and WJM Lawyers.

Our 730 Breakfasts brought our business members together in support of the BacLinks program and to learn how businesses manage their community engagement strategies with guest speakers

Stephanie Beard, HR Manager, Harwood Andrews Lawyers and Cynthia Crowe, CRO, Alcoa sharing their insights. The Breakfast Club also provided Leonie Saundry, Coordinator, Northern Extended Schools Hub, with an opportunity to inform business members about the significant impacts to the community resulting from the merging of the schools in the area and the needs arising out of these circumstances.

We thank them all for taking the time to share their stories.

We also thank Lisa Kingman, Kingman Consulting, for emceeing the event in her fabulously warm and funny style, as well as Roxie Bennett, Plan.it Roxie, for filling in when Lisa was unavailable.

The following BacLinks business members have all supported the program to continue its work in the community and many have made significant contributions to the 29 projects and events completed this calendar year: Adcell Group; Adroit Insurance Group; Adventure Park; Alcoa; Associated Cold Tread Tyres; Barefoot Media; Barwon Water; Bell Potter Securities; Bendigo Bank; BTS; Buxton Real Estate; Chapman Welsh Financial Services; Commonwealth Bank; Community Veracity; Corio Shopping Centre; Costa Group; Coulter Roache

Lawyers; CSIRO - AAHL; Dzign Diezel Group; Ford; Francis Fabrics; Gartland Real Estate; Geelong Manufacturing Council; Gforce Employment Solutions; GMHBA; GPAC; Harrison Place; Harwood Andrews Lawyers; Karingal Training; Kingman Consulting; K Rock/Bay FM; L.Bisinella Development P/L; LBW Accountants; MatchWorks; Mercure Hotel; Morton Dunn Architects; Patrick Rowan & Associates; Planwell; Powercor; ProAdvice; Rotary Club of Highton; Select Architects; Shell; Southern Cross Business Machines Pty Ltd; St John of God Pathology; St Quentin Consulting; Stratel Pty Ltd; Target; TAC; Telstra Country Wide; Tuckers; WelshKline Financial Group; Westpac Bank; WHK; Whyte Just & Moore Lawyers; and Wightons Lawyers.

On behalf of BacLinks, Karingal and our community, we sincerely thank each and every one of you for your support and wish you and your families a very happy, safe Christmas and New Year.

To find out how you can get involved contact BacLinks on 5249 8989 or visit our website www.baclinks.org.au

COMMUNITY NEWS life, and could be at a local, national or international level.

In recognition of the role women play in the Geelong Region, BPW Geelong will be holding its International Women’s Day conference again next year. Following on from this year’s leadership focus, their theme for next year’s conference is No Limits.

BayFM Bethany Giving Tree Appeal. Photos: Ferne Millen, Ferne Millen Photography.

Bringing Christmas Cheer Now in its 11th year, the BayFM Bethany Giving Tree Appeal brightens the Christmas of Geelong region families. More than 60 Christmas trees are decorating businesses across the region where staff, clients and customers are encouraged to play Santa and place new, unwrapped gifts under the tree.

Since it began, the appeal has distributed more than 15,000 gifts and we aim to collect around 2,000 more gifts this year.

For more information visit bethany.org.au

Show of support for the NDIS Karingal hosted the successful DisabiliTEA with the City Of Greater Geelong on Friday 26 October in support of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

The morning tea was held in the Fred Flanagan Room at Kardinia Park in celebration of the Barwon region becoming one of only five launch sites around the country for the NDIS. The NDIS will make it possible for people with significant and permanent disability living in the first stage locations to receive personalised care and support with greater flexibility and choice.

At least 35,000 people turned out at more than 1700 DisabiliTEA events around

the nation, helping to send a strong message of community support to Australia’s political leaders.

While the NDIS is closer to becoming a reality, the morning tea highlighted that the campaign is far from over and the incredible support from the people of the Barwon region will need to continue.

21st Annual E&S Trading Golf Classic Previous records were smashed as the 2012 E&S Trading Golf Classic raised over $100,000 for the Give Where You Live charitable organisation.

The hugely successful golf day was held at The Sands, Torquay, on Monday 12 November. Give Where You Live is dedicated to reducing disadvantage in the areas of education, income and health in the Geelong region.

A star-studded field, including sporting legends such as the Geelong Cats coach Chris Scott and star player Steve Johnson, Melbourne Vixen Tegan Caldwell, along with Channel 7 personality Geoff ‘Coxy’ Cox celebrated the prestigious event.

A gourmet luncheon followed the golf, with entertainment hosted by the Coodabeen Champion Ian Cover with a Live Auction, Raffle and Golf Winners Presentation.

E&S Trading is one of Victoria’s oldest family-owned specialist kitchen, bathroom and laundry

retailers. During the luncheon, Give Where You Live CEO, Bill Mithen, recognised the significant contribution the Sinclair family through E&S Trading has made to the event and Give Where You Live over the years.

Give Where You Live would also like to thank other sponsors of the event, Paddy and Helen Handbury, and The Sands, Torquay, for making the day possible.

Courtney Buchanan-Huhn

International Women’s Day Sometimes the biggest barrier to achieving goals is what people believe is possible. This International Women’s Day, people have the opportunity to see and hear what’s really possible from women who have set no limits.

International Women’s Day is celebrated across the world on 8 March each year. The day recognises the role women play in enhancing economic security for their families, communities and countries, while acknowledging that significant barriers still exist for women to achieve economic security and equality.

In Geelong, International Women’s Day is celebrated with a number of events that connect women of the region with each other and with other women who have achieved beyond even their expectations. These achievements could be in family, business or community

“Speakers such as Glenyce Johnson, CEO of Peregrine Adventures, will once again share her journey, and provide some tips on how to overcome the kinds of challenges we can all identify with,” said Jenny Gretgrix, President of BPW Geelong. “We wanted the day to also be practical, so participants will be encouraged to workshop their take-outs from each speaker as they go,” added Jen. The conference will be held at the Pier from 8.30am (registration) to 5.30pm. These times encourage participants to also attend other IWD events, such as UN Women’s evening function at the Geelong Football Club. Early Bird tickets are available until 26 January and are $125 for BPW Geelong members and $175 for non-members. The conference package includes morning and afternoon teas and buffet lunch. Tickets can be purchased from TryBooking at trybooking.com/CDTW. Starting at 7pm, UN Women Australia Geelong Committee will host an International Women’s Day celebration at the Captain’s Room, Geelong Football Club. Because busy women always need a chance to relax, we start the evening with a welcome drink and keep the celebration going with live music, dance floor, two guest speakers and a fork and talk menu all under the $50 ticket price. You can support the inspiring work of UN Women in Australia and around the world, and have a good time while you’re doing it. Look out for the return of our lolly shop too!

Tickets can be purchased from TryBooking at trybooking.com/ CEWM or contact geelong@ unwomen.org.au

BUSINESS NEWS | 41

ARTS

A season of award winners and hits GPAC has revealed an outstanding lineup of theatre performances for 2013, showing off international hits and award winning Australian theatre productions.

Broadcaster and theatre lover, Derek Guille, hosted the launch of GPAC’s 2013 Deakin University Theatre Season in The Playhouse on Thursday December 6.

imagined in a new version of Frankenstein by international playwright Nick Dear. This astonishing adaption was a huge hit for the National Theatre, London, in 2011.

According to GPAC’s General Manager Jill Smith, the season features an exceptional lineup of productions, bringing the best of all worlds to Geelong.

The fast and funny Midsummer - a play with songs, is a quirky love story by one of Scotland’s leading playwrights David Greig and songwriter Gordon McIntyre.

“The season will take us on a journey to new places, provide fresh insights, challenge our thinking, entertain and inspire us,” Ms Smith said.

The season will open in February with Geelong’s own Back to Back Theatre returning home from its American tour of Ganesh Versus The Third Reich. This critically acclaimed production won the 2012 Helpmann Award for best play.

Internationally acclaimed Bangarra Dance Theatre will return to GPAC with an original and breathtaking theatrical experience Kinship - Fire, Brolga and ID. In this production, award-winning choreographer Stephen Page explores questions of identity, cultural ownership and links the traditional and contemporary worlds.

Canada’s Ronnie Burkett will also make a welcome return to Geelong, bringing his fascinating world of marionettes in the new work Penny Plain. Burkett has been credited with creating some of the world’s most elaborate and provocative puppetry.

Mary Shelly’s classic tale is re-

The best new Australian writing is also featured with Daniel Keene’s moving play Boxman, and the delicious Food by Steve Rogers.

And there’s even something for families when Melbourne’s Arena Theatre presents Cautionary Tales for Children, an absurd lyrical satirical cabaret for audiences of all ages.

The season finale will feature performances by much loved Australian actors Samuel Johnson and Max Gillies in The Haunting of Daniel Gartrell.

Ms Smith said GPAC was able to offer such a high standard of theatre productions due largely to the generous support of corporate sponsors. GPAC has recently announced that Deakin University is the naming rights sponsor of the theatre season for the next two years.

“It is exciting to see the worlds of theatre and education come together. This exceptional lineup of productions really does bring the best of all worlds,” she said.

BUSINESS NEWS | 43

ARTS DECEMBER Metropolis Christmas Show 1 – 24 December The first hint of Christmas has come to Metropolis Gallery with the arrival of new consignments of art and glass for the Metropolis Christmas Show. Original works of art make impressive gifts and the focus now is on stunning collections of smaller, affordable paintings, collectable edition prints and drawings, together with exquisite jewellery and art glass.

Geelong CBD. metropolisgallery.com.au James Whitley Sayer 1847–1914 08 December – 28 January This exhibition celebrates the artistic talents of James W Sayer, one of the founders of the Geelong Art Gallery and a notable figure of the local community in the late 19th century. Works from the Gallery’s permanent collection are complemented by rarelyseen examples on loan from private and public collections in this exhibition of paintings, drawings, book illustrations and a rare illuminated address.

Geelong Gallery. geelongallery.org.au 44th Ballarat National Photographic Exhibition 08 December – 20 January A selection of 160 prints have been selected by a team of seven judges from more than 800 photographs submitted for the Ballarat National Photographic Competition.

The photographers represented come from across Australia and genre on display range from standard studio portrait shots to wildly creative images involving hours of work post camera, with the quality of the images maintaining the high standard of previous years.

This exhibition has been organised by the Ballarat Camera Club, with assistance from the YMCA Camera Group.

Timken Gallery, Ballarat. artgalleryofballarat.com.au

44 | BUSINESS NEWS

Denis Walter’s World of Christmas 12 – 13 December

Wyndham Art Gallery, Wyndham. wyncc.com.au

Geelong’s own Denis Walter makes a welcome return to the stage with his brand new Christmas show. Denis has been entertaining audiences since the early 70s and remains as popular as ever, spreading his time between radio, television and musical and corporate commitments.

Featuring a wonderful mix of traditional Christmas carols and contemporary songs, this show will be just the ticket to wind up another highly successful Musical Mornings season. With his rich bass baritone voice and commanding stage presence, Denis Walter’s World of Christmas is not to be missed.

Pirates: The Search for Christmas Treasure (A Christmas Musical) 15 – 16 December

Geelong Performing Arts Centre, Geelong. gpac.org.au Woodbin Theatre presents Closer by Patrick Marber 12 – 15 December “Marber writes like a master.

On the surface Closer is brisk, urbane, witty, obscene, modern, quotable, slick, beneath the skin, it is deeply felt, painful, sad and wise. It is about sexual jealousy and sexual desire, and it is keenly alert to human isolation even within intense relationships.

Marber seems to me to have the most assured sense of dramatic rhythm of any English playwright to emerge since Pinter.” - Financial Times Woodbin Theatre, Geelong West. gpac.org.au Tree- Wyndham Art Gallery 12 December – 13 January Tree will follow last year’s exhibition where artists used traditional pine trees and decorated them in the Christmas spirit. This year artists will be creating Christmas trees from nontraditional objects. We will see all kinds of things being used to bring in the Christmas cheer from pushbikes to kitchen chairs. The artist’s imagination knows no bounds so come and delight in how inventive minds can make the traditional tree redundant.

St Patrick’s Cathedral, Ballarat. ballarat.co​m /organs So Frenchy So Chic in the Park 20 January

Pirates: the Search for Christmas Treasure is a comedic and exciting adventure across the high seas on board the Vengeance and the Redemption in search for the lost Christmas Treasure. Join Captain Jesse and Captain Bluebeard and their crews through song and dance as they fight for the right to the treasure.

So Frenchy So Chic in the Park is set to return with another handcrafted festival of joie de vivre. Bring a picnic rug, pick up a gourmet hamper, stretch out under the shade of the trees and enjoy a cool drink.

The fine tunes floating through the summer air are from the best acts of the current French music scene and are sure to please.

Werribee Park, Werribee South. cartellmusic.com.au/sfsc

Hoppers Crossing, VIC. swcc.org.au/pirates

Les Miserables 25 January – 9 February

Geelong Harmony Christmas 16 December

Despite the best efforts of philosophers, literacists and even theatre critics, no one has been able to eloquently put into words the power of Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables.

An epic tale of human endurance, Les Miserables has been etched in history as one of the greatest novels ever written, and subsequently transformed into one of the most powerful stage musicals of the modern era.

Set in 19th century France, Les Miserables follows the stories of many characters as they struggle for redemption and revolution. The portrayal of their lives and their ultimate quest for freedom is beautifully told through the stirring musical score, featuring well known numbers including Do You Hear The People Sing, One Day More, I Dreamed A Dream and On My Own.

Geelong Harmony Christmas, featuring Geelong’s only women’s a capella chorus specialising in barbershop harmony style singing.

Get into the Christmas spirit with all your favourites and enjoy a vibrant entertainment package under the musical direction of the fabulous Alex Morris.

Guest artists include “Something Else!” and the “Bay City Conchords”.

Geelong Harmony Christmas has something for everybody.

Get all Christmassy with some of Geelong’s best singers at Geelong Harmony Christmas!

Courthouse ARTS theatre, Geelong CBD. facebook.com/ geelongharmonychorus

JANUARY Organs of the Ballarat Goldfields FESTIVAL 2012 11 – 20 January Organs of the Ballarat Goldfields presents an annual 23 recital Festival of Fine Music in heritage buildings of the Central Highland Goldfields region. Festival 2012 will feature many prominent Australian and visiting musicians including the Interpreti Veneziani (Italy) and Dr Barbara Baird (USA).

Festival, day and weekend passes and single tickets available.

Audiences have embraced Les Miserables since it opened on stage at the Barbican Theatre London in 1985 and to this day it remains as the longest running musical on the West End. The winner of 8 Tony Awards and countless other accolades, this stage triumph continues to empower audiences around the world.

Les Miserables returns to the Geelong stage in January 2013 for a limited season. Tickets are now on sale and patrons are advised to book early.

GPAC, Geelong CBD. gpac.org.au

AFTER HOURS Photos: Bianca White, biancawhitephotography.com

Golden Glory for State and Plate Winners Last month’s spectacular Golden Plate Gala Dinner saw a sell out packed house of the Region’s top culinary achievers out in full finery at Geelong’s newest functions centre, Terindah Estate on the Bellarine, to celebrate the success of Geelong Otway and the State of Victoria’s regional food and wine scene.

THE Awards set the party atmosphere early in the night with canapés and Terindah Estate Sparkling to watch the glorious sunset over Port Phillip Bay. This Year saw the Golden Plates inaugural State Awards where winners across Central and Western Victoria vied for the Regional State Title.

Geelong’s Own Winters Cafe took out the tile of Regional Victoria’s best Cafe while Matt Dempsey from Gladioli took out the title of Regional

Matt and Kate Dempsey.

46 | BUSINESS NEWS

Victoria’s Best Chef. The State Golden Plate went to Masons of Bendgo, a new comer to the Bendigo scene, but owners Nick and Sonia Anthony are no new comers to the hospitality game formerly running the “ Age Hatted” Bridge Hotel Final scores from the Geelong Otway 2012 Golden Plate Awards revealed Gladioli in Inverleigh taking out the overall prestigious culinary Golden Plate award.

Lavish - Mathew Skelton,Shayne Goodall, Adele Goodall, and Kylie McPherson

Fishermens Pier - Daniel Man, George Katos, Tom Luxton.

AFTER HOURS Photos: Elisha Lindsay, elphotography.com.au

David Koch MP (Member for Western Victoria Region Government Whip (Council)), Janet Dore (TAC), Ian Murray (Morris Finance).

On track for Masters Games The XIV Australian Masters Games returns to Geelong in 2013, and the local business community gathered for a preview of Australia’s largest multisport festival.

Olympic Gold Medallist and 2012 Australian Olympic Team Chef de Mission, Nick Green was the guest speaker at the event, with other guests including the Minister for Sport and Recreation

Hugh Delahunty, the Chair of the XIV Australian Masters Games Kean Selway and Games Patrons, Frank Costa, Bob Spurling and veteran of all but one previous Masters Games, Ross Synott.

Dale Wood (Ernst and Young), Maria Endacott (Australian Masters Games Advisory Board).

Kate Miles (Fox Personnel), Jacqueline Armitage (GMHBA), Julie Hope (Deakin University), Di Nelson (Geelong Chamber Deakin University).

The Hon. Hugh Delahunty MP (Minister for Sport and Recreation)

www.elphotography.com.au

elisha lindsay elisha@elphotography.com.au 0439 353 958

BUSINESS BUSINESSNEWS NEWS|| 47

AFTER HOURS Photos: Ferne Millen, Ferne Millen Photography, fernemillen.com

A Toast to The Hill Geelong’s business and tourism community toasted its newest venue, The Hill, in Waurn Ponds at an official opening in November.

THE Browne family of Scotchmans Hill Wines who operate The Hill, and Peter Rowland Catering, which manages functions, events and the Winery Café at The Hill, proudly showcased the venue which has undergone a complete refurbishment

by Rowland Projects since its former days as Pettavel Winery.

The Hon Bruce Billson MP, Shadow Minister for Small Business, Deregulation,

Competition Policy and Sustainable Cities officially raised a toast to The Hill, welcoming the partnership between two of Victoria’s most respected brands and a wonderful venue for the Geelong region that will be popular for tourists and locals.

In addition to functions, the café and cellar door, The Hill will also host a series of A Day on the Green music concerts in 2013.

Brett Walker –CEO Peter Rowland Catering.

48 | BUSINESS NEWS

Ross Ebbels, Jane Crulci, John Neilsen.

AFTER HOURS

Above: Andrew Browne, Matthew Browne, Vivienne Browne, Senator the Hon. Bruce Billson (MP Small Business), Senator the Hon. Michael Ronaldson.

John Fitzgerald and Susan Harris.

Ross Ebbels and Felicity McKenzie.

BUSINESSNEWS NEWS|| 49 BUSINESS

WHAT’S ON 07 DECEMBER City of Ballarat Christmas Street Party Grab a spot on the grass at Alfred Deakin Place and enjoy the spirited line up of stage entertainment, including the Mik Maks and of course Santa! Children can enjoy free activities.

Enjoy the opportunity to do some Christmas shopping with quality designer and art gifts available at the Pop Up Shop Ballarat, located in the Backspace Gallery. Children are encouraged to dress up in their best festive outfits to win spot prizes!

Alfred Deakin Place, Ballarat ballarat.vi​c.gov.au

09 DECEMBER

11 DECEMBER Outdoor Christmas Feast To celebrate the beginning of summer and the festive season, Bart will demonstrate how to create a stunning Christmas Feast that can be cooked outside using both the BBQ and wood fired oven.

Werribee. essencefoodstudio.com

12 DECEMBER Surfers in Suits Surfers in Suits is being launched as an exclusive brand created by Surfing Victoria to represent business people, professionals, entrepreneurs and the corporate community who all have an interest in Surfing.

Discovery Walk - Ferns, Flowers and Fountains: The Raddenberry legacy

Surfers in Suits will act as a platform to join the corporate world and the sport of surfing.

The Raddenberry shade house dominated the Geelong Botanic Gardens (GBG) for over 60 years, but what now remains of Raddenberry’s legacy in the GBG?

The City Quarter Cunningham Pier, Geelong RSVP to lizzie.burdge@ essentiallygroup.com

More than you might think!

Join your guide and find out for yourself just how much our second curator influence the GBG we see today.

Geelong Botanic Gardens. friends.org.au

16 DECEMBER Werribee Cup The Werribee Cup has a long tradition and rich history. Over the last few years the date has varied but it has now found its new home in the month of December. The event is

one of the major country racing events on the Victorian horse racing calendar. With a Christmas Theme to boot, the day comprises of the Werribee Cup, Fashions on the Field, Kid’s activities, entertainment, corporate packages, event hospitality and more. Located just 20 minutes from the Melbourne CBD, the Werribee Cup is an ideal event for those wanting to experience the excitement and atmosphere of country racing just out of the city.

Werribee. werribeeracingclub.com.au

21 DECEMBER Twilight Street Market Food stalls, craft, plants, novelty and unique attractions fill the Piazza under the Grand Old Gum Tree” while free live music and roving entertainment delights visitors.

Find a bargain, something unusual, enjoy coffee with friends or just have fun at Twilight Street Market in Werribee, a market not to be missed. Future market dates: 18 January, 15 February, 15 March, 2013.

Werribee CBD. twilightstreetmarket. wordpress.com

24 DECEMBER Geelong Carols

by Candlelight The Geelong Carols by Candlelight is a great evening for the whole family, staged in the natural amphitheatre of the historic Johnstone Park.

A traditional carols programme with Geelong’s best artists, choirs, concert band and carol singing!

Johnstone Park, Geelong.

30 DECEMBER Rip to River A 10 km surf beach run from “The Rip” Point Lonsdale to Ocean Grove by the Barwon River. 10km Run and Walk, 5km Run, and 1.4km Kids Run. Point Lonsdale to Ocean Grove Beaches. riptoriver.oceangroveslsc.asn.au

31 DECEMBER Dawnbusters Fun Run Kick off your New Year’s celebrations with a 5km Fun Run around the beautiful Geelong Waterfront. All ages, abilities, fitness levels are welcome to participate.

The Carousel, Geelong Waterfront. givewhereyoulive.com.au/ events

The Pier Festival Geelong, New Years Eve Fireworks show.

50 | BUSINESS NEWS

WHAT’S ON 31 DECEMBER The Pier Festival Geelong Held New Year’s Eve on the Waterfront Geelong, comprises 3 components: the festival, dusk fireworks, and midnight fireworks.

Geelong Waterfront. thepierfestival.com.au

01 JANUARY Let Them Eat Cake Let Them Eat Cake is a unique New Year’s Day offering catering for the discerning patron with a boutique, electronic music festival. Set in the majestic grounds of Werribee Park, this event will feature international acts providing a first class experience. Cost $ 95.00 per person Werribee Park, Werribee South. letthemeatcakenyd.com.au

05 – 06 JANUARY St James Church Huge Second hand Book sale This is a wonderful opportunity to buy your holiday reading or a whole year’s worth of books and magazines at bargain prices.

Thousands of good quality second hand books (hard back and paperbacks), special interest magazines, comics, and some sheet music, all categorized and individually priced.

Special children’s section with low seating.

Drysdale Community Activity Centre, Drysdale. bellarineparish.org

09 – 13 JANUARY Cycling Australia Road National Championships Be in Ballarat between Wednesday 9 to Sunday 13 January 2013 to witness a world-class field of Australia’s greatest cycling starts battle it out for the green and gold Australian jersey at the 2013 Cycling Australia Road National Championships.

The year will also feature a mass participation ride for all to get involved, as the iconic Amy’s Ride, will take place on Sunday 13 January prior to the Road Race kicking off.

Whether you are a cycling enthusiast or just someone who enjoys a day out, the Cycling Australia Road National Championships in Ballarat this January will offer something for everyone.

Ballarat and Buninyong roadnationa​ls.org.au

12 JANUARY Portarlington Mussel Festival Not only does the festival promote mussels but also the Bellarine Peninsula’s fabulous food and wine industry.

As a local festival produced by the local community, it is about showcasing the growing number of talented locals who cover the wide spectrum of performing arts, which include musicians, dance, choral groups, artists from a variety of mediums, photographers and the local school community.

Portarlington portmusselfestival.com

19 JANUARY Reclink Charity Paddle National Series 2012/13 Charity Paddle event raising money for Reclink Australia.

Kayaks, Canoes, Stand Up Paddle Boards, Outriggers, etc.

Any age, any ability! Both a short and long course will be offered. Paddle demonstrations, interactive displays and beach BBQ! Geelong Waterfront. everydayhero.com.au

25 JANUARY Royal Melbourne Horse Show The Royal Melbourne Horse Show is Australia’s biggest horse show with more than 1200 horses and ponies representing over 40 breeds on display including the popular Arabians, Shetland Ponies and Clydesdales to the unique Fjords, Gypsy Cobs and Fell Ponies. See the impressive lineup when all the breeds come together for the judging of the Best of Show Championship on Sunday 17 January 2013.

Werribee Park, Werribee South. rasv.com.au

26 JANUARY Suicide Awareness Walk The Suicide Prevention Awareness Network’s (SPAN) annual walk aims to create suicide awareness. The 2013 walk will be held on Australia Day, January 26, beginning at 9am with a short memorial service. The walk then begins at 10am and will be followed by music, a barbecue; giveaways and SPAN merchandise can be purchased on the day.

Johnstone Park, Geelong. spangeelong.com

26 JANUARY Discovery Walk Australia Day Enjoy seeing the historic Australian plants that the first curators planted as well as the more recent ones in the 21st Century Garden. Wander through the shady and cooler sections of the older 20th and 19th century gardens and note the green mulch plants in the flag bed on the site of the old fernery. These green plants are perfect for Australian gardens and save on water.

Meet your Guide on the front steps of the Geelong Botanic Gardens.

Gold coin donation.

Botanic Gardens, Geelong. friendsgbg.org.au

26 JANUARY Australia Day Children’s Free Fun Day and Entertainment Celebrate Australia Day at Rippleside Park with over 40 free activities and displays for families and children to enjoy.

There will be stage entertainment all day long with roving entertainers including Dame Edna Average with give-away’s and Dazzling Dan with his magic show.

Rippleside Park, Geelong.

25 – 28 JANUARY Festival of Sails The Festival of Sails annually attracts around 300 yachts and 4,500 sailing competitors to Melbourne and Geelong over the Australia Day holiday period.

First held in 1844, the Festival of Sails is Victoria’s oldest ongoing sporting event, and the largest annual keel boat regatta in the Southern Hemisphere.

Australia Day (Saturday 26 January) will see the skies light up with the 93.9 Bay FM Fireworks Spectacular at approximately 9:20pm.

Waterfront Geelong festivalofsails.com.au

02 FEBRUARY Great Australian Beer Festival The Great Australian Beer Festival (GABF) will see the Geelong racecourse transformed into a beer & cider lover’s paradise.

Featuring the very best brews from 25 of the most interesting brewers from around Victoria and interstate, it’s going to look like a rather large beer garden celebrating the craft beer revolution sweeping Australia. All local brewers will be there, Prickly Moses, Bellarine Brewing Company, Southern Bay, Flying Brick Cider, Forrest, new guys in town; Little Creatures. There will also be a handful of wineries for those that prefer a tipple.

Geelong Racecourse gabfgeelong.com.au

02 – 24 FEBRUARY Rhythm of Africa, Werribee Open Range Zoo Werribee Open Range Zoo’s twilight concert series, Rhythm of Africa, runs each Saturday and Sunday in February.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Werribee Open Range Zoo, visitors can groove to African beats ranging from vibrant Pan African contemporary dance to traditional Ghanaian rhythms, or just relax and soak up the setting sun.

A wide variety of African inspired food and drinks will be available for purchase, or there’s plenty of space for a picnic.

Werribee Open Range Zoo, Werribee South. zoo.org.au/ WerribeeOpenRangeZoo

BUSINESS NEWS | 51

Article Heading Subheading, Subheading, Subheading, Subheading, Subheading, Subheading, Subheading, Subheading, Subheading, Subheading, Subheading, Subheading.

Commercial and Corporate Asset Protection and Business Succession Tax, Superannuation and Trusts Estate and Succession Planning Intellectual Property and Franchising Workplace Relations and Employment Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution Local Government and Public Sector Building and Construction Property, Land Development and Leasing Planning and Environment Family Law Wills and Probate

Dedicated / Reliable / Talented / Community Connected (03) 5225 NEWS 70 Gheringhap Street, Geelong 52 5225 | BUSINESS

harwoodandrews.com.au