Business West - March 2012

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TALKING TECHNOLOGY FIRING FORMALITIES HAMPERS THAT PAY MAKING JOBS A BUSiNESS ISSN 1837-9869

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STRIKING

SUCCESS HOW WYNCITY IS MOVING WITH THE TIMES

ISSUE 16 MARCH 2012

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CONTENTS 4-5

WYNCITY The business of growth

10-11 ENVIRO Rocks in his brain

10

STRETCHING TO SUCCESS Franchises and physiotherapy

12-13 TALKING TECHNOLOGY Home to global distribution

MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Linnell stephen.linnell@starnewsgroup.com.au

14-15 THE CHALLENGE AHEAD A look at the manufacturing industry

16-17 GIFT KEEPS ON GIVING Home-based hamper business

18-19 CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH JOBS Employment company expands

20-21 HOPPERS TO THE WORLD Travel business booms

22-23 RECEPTIONIST

20

“

Gateway to an organisation

24-25 PIXIES

You’re fired, Positively negative

31

Q&A Blackbird Cruises Peter Somerville

32-35 OUT OF HOURS 36-37 BUSiNESS WEST NETWORK 39 CALENDAR

The process of dismissal is just as important as the reason for the dismissal...

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REGULARS 6 FROM THE EDITOR 7 NEWS 26-27 SMALL TALK 28-29 STRATEGIES

EDITORIAL Charlene Gatt charlene.gatt@starnewsgroup.com.au

VECCI’S WAYNE JAMESON

An eye on the books

Working couples

EDITOR Tim Doutré tim.doutre@starnewsgroup.com.au

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ADVERTISING Charles Ferraro charles.ferraro@starnewsgroup.com.au Mobile: 0421 555 404 DESIGN Mark Dinnie mark.dinnie@starnewsgroup.com.au BUSINESS WEST Cnr Keilor Park Dve & Thomsons Rd Keilor Park 3042 Phone: 9933 4800 Fax: 9933 4844 Business West is a division of Star News Group Pty. Ltd. Celebrating our 102nd year as a family-run business. Proudly Australianowned and independent.

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Cover DORIANA PORTO Picture DAMJAN JANEVSKI

BUSINESS WEST

3

COVER STORY

BY CHARLENE GATT EDI De Pellegrin and her sisters know how to bowl a strike when it comes to running a business.

Since opening in the mid-1980s, Wyncity Bowl and Entertainment Centre has gone from strength to strength, and will remain on the ball thanks to a $10.5 million relocation and expansion.

The complex will move to a bigger, purpose-built premises in Point Cook which will include all the same offerings plus new activities and facilities, including laser tag, remote control cars, and new arcade games.

The move is expected to take place between Christmas 2012 and February 2013.

The relocation, Ms De Pellegrin explained, was in response to the changing demographics of Wyndham.

“Werribee has grown and grown and grown, but it has grown away from our present location. We’ve got our same customer base, but we want to get bigger and better at what we do.

“It will be set up very similar (to this), but instead of having to go to a separate area for ten-pin bowling, everything will be in one area.

“Our new location is going to be fabulous, there’s a train station right across the road, a bus interchange.

We’re really excited, we’re just waiting for town planning and building permits.

A STRIKING

SUCCESS 4

BUSINESS WEST

“It’s a big investment for our family.

My dad is 80 now and he’s doing all the building, and he said ‘ I never thought at 80 I’d be taking on this size debt’… but he loves Werribee and he’s quite well-known in the old part of Werribee and he’s been part of the community for a long, long time, so it’s almost like he’ss leaving a legacy. he legacy.”

The relocation is the brainchild of

“We thought ‘it couldn’t be too

COVER STORY appeals to the whole family without gambling.”

“So we gave it a go, and from there, we’ve learned something every single day of our lives, surrounded ourselves with experts in all areas, and just taken in so much information that we’re probably now one of the premier centres in Australia.

Ms De Pellegrin said she and her sisters had an excellent working relationship.

“We are so chalk and cheese in personality, and my sisters have such a trust in me and my judgement,” she said.

“Being new to the industry, we didn’t have any preconceived ideas, which was a real benefit.”

“They know if I’ve made a decision, it’s not because it’s good for me, it’s because I know that my family as a huge entity will prosper.

The change of hands led to the centre’s biggest expansion yet in the late 2000s, when the centre expanded to include a restaurant, bumper cars and other attractions.

“We have dinner once a week, and there’s 20 of us – mum and dad, the kids, the grandkids.

We don’t always talk about business, but my sisters always know I’ve got my finger on the pulse.”

“What I could see, was if we just stayed as a bowling centre, our life was going to be very, very limited, because people were coming here, spending an hour, and then just leaving.

“We had a café, but really, the bowling experience was over after that.

“So we thought, how can we give the customer the biggest bang for their buck? We have children ourselves and we knew what it was like when you have little kids saying to you ‘mum, I’m bored’, and if the kids are bored, the parents just want to get out of there.

“We wanted a venue where the whole family could come to, no-one would get bored, everybody could be entertained.

“You can have grandma, mum and dad, the

Sister act Edi De Pellegrin and Doriana Porto.

Picture: DAMJAN JANEVSKI kids, all together bowling on the same lane, all interacting and talking, and everybody’s happy.

“Then mum and dad can have a glass of wine or coffee, the kids can go play in the playground or go and do mini-golf or some of the other activities. It’s really something that

So much so that Ms De Pellegrin has a commercial builder’s licence and recently completed a Melbourne Tourism Industry program, which taught her to take the emotion out of business decisions and applying business principles instead.

“It’s really difficult with a family business, sometimes you base things too much on emotion, and not on the practicality of the business.

“We don’t slow down. In terms of business, I find it really, really important to keep educating myself on how to work with staff, what the latest gadgets and gizmos and techniques are.” [BW]

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FROM THE EDITOR Promote your business or service in BUSiNESS WEST… BUSiNESS WEST offers your business the opportunity to be seen by your target market; key business decision makers in the West!

Stay tuned for the next edition of BUSiNESS WEST: coming out in April.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to promote your business or service to the business world of the West, call Charles Ferraro now on 9933 4800 to reserve your space.

Advertising for the April edition of BUSiNESS WEST is now open.

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TALKING TECHNOLOGY FIRING FORMALITIES HAMPERS THAT PAY MAKING JOBS A BUSiNES S ISSN 1837-9869

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ESS OF THE YEAR

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111 011 2011 ER 201 ISSUE 14 DECEMBBER

STRIKING

SUCCESS

HOW WYNCITY IS MOVING

WITH THE TIMES

ISSUE 16 MARCH 2012

VOLATILE SiTUATION WHAT is going on out there? Jobs are being cut, banks are raising rates, the dollar keeps rising and families are feeling the pinch.

These are interesting times, and on the business side of things, the manufacturing industry has a battle on its hands.

It’s a volatile situation - export demand wanes under the high Aussie dollar, while the cost cutters consult the books and do not like what they see. And it’s the people on the factory floor feeling the brunt.

Last edition I hinted that the best advice I had received when it came to business leadership was possibly gained from a romantic comedy.

Well, the manufacturing industry is, to borrow a phrase from an (insert your own adjective here) Hugh Grant movie; like a boy standing in front of a girl asking her to love him.

The ‘girl’ is played by the global markets, as opposed to Julia Roberts, when the manufacturing industry romance will once again blossom with foreign buyers. Of course unlike the movie, we know real life stories don’t always have happy endings. Businesses do fail and jobs do disappear.

When Business West decided to tackle the manufacturing industry issue, Toyota had just announced hundreds of job cuts at its Altona plant. As Charlene Gatt’s piece continued to take shape, things went from bad to worse as Holden, Alcoa, ANZ and Qantas forecast more job losses.

Unfortunately, the problems facing the manufacturing industry seem to raise more questions than answers – at least for those of us on the outside.

If the desire for the product is no longer there what happens to all those jobs?

If a product is available cheaper overseas why would anyone buy it here?

What happens to someone who has spent their whole life dedicated to an industry which may now turf them at a moment’s notice?

Of course, these are not new questions and definitely not new problems but in this economic climate they are more apropos than ever.

Meanwhile, in our strategies section we look at the (unfortunately) timely issue of dismissals, with Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Wayne Jameson walking us through the delicate area.

Time will tell how businesses in the manufacturing industry adapt to the current economic climate. My two cents, for what it’s worth (around 2.14 US cents - and rising), I say if you aren’t looking towards the future there is a chance you will be left in the past. It may be time to change your way of thinking. [BW]

Tim Doutré Business West Editor tim.doutre@starnewsgroup.com.au

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BUSINESS WEST

NEWS

A FAMILY AFFAIR

BY CHARLENE GATT FOR Eddie Borg, business has always been a family affair.

Starting out his career in his parents’ cake shop, Mr Borg spent 20 years dealing with family politics, managing a business, and liaising with stressed-out brides picking their wedding cakes.

The practice came in handy when Mr Borg decided to go out on his own and buy into his own franchise more than a decade ago.

After looking into similar businesses like Baker’s Delight and the Cheesecake Shop, Mr Borg discovered a listing for Mortgage Choice, and before he knew it he had taken over the Hoppers Crossing franchise and worked as a mortgage broker from home.

“I was very busy from day one,” he said.

“I just found that it was more about customer service, and I was used to that from the cake shop dealing with people buying wedding cakes.

“The first home owner’s grant was fairly

new then, so it was very busy in this area.”

After 18 months, Mr Borg went into partnership with one of his mentors, Vince Camilleri, and the pair took on Mr Camilleri’s two sons straight away as well as admin and another broker.

The business grew very quickly, jumping from six staff to 22 in about two years as they continued to expand their reach with more franchises.

Then the Global Financial Crisis hit. Banks reduced commissions and Mortgage Choice changed their payment system, so Mr Borg once again went out on his own, retaining franchises in Hoppers Crossing, Moonee Ponds and Darebin.

Today, he still runs Hoppers Crossing and Darebin, but has replaced Moonee Ponds with Williamstown.

Among his five brokers and four support staff is his wife Michelle, who is a joint director, brother Pat, nephew Jye and niece Tabitha.

“In this sort of business, you need great

Eddie Borg runs three Mortgage Choice franchises with the help of his family.

Picture: DAMJAN JANEVSKI support from your wife and your family,” Eddie said.

“It can be good and it can be bad in a way.

“I think you generally get loyalty with your family… the other side of it is sometimes it’s hard to tell them what to do if they’ve done something incorrect.

“I’ve also given them the carrot to take over the business one day if I want to retire.” [BW]

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What’s new in the business community?

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The Council has two business workshops coming up in March.

Marketing for Growth is all about taking your marketing to the next level. Learn to improve your communication, identify new ways to promote your business and tips on how to build relationships with your customers to keep them coming back.

If you are thinking of starting your own small business, it’s important to make sure you have all the facts before you embark on your journey.

Starting Your Business is a comprehensive workshop that will help you consider whether starting a business is right for you and will provide the essentials for turning your dream into a successful business.

Held on Wednesday, 21st March and Monday, 26th March at the Altona Civic Centre. For more information, or to register, contact Sally Curtis on 9932 1000.

Calling all business operators!

If you run a business in Hobsons Bay, then why not list your business for free on the Council’s online business directory.

Visit www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/businessdirectory to register your business today.

If you want to stay across current issues and network with fellow business colleagues, join a local business group. There are four recognised traders’ associations in Hobsons Bay and many business networks in the area. These groups are all like-minded business people whose focus is on marketing your area and addressing local issues affecting your business and the region. Why not join one today?

And don’t forget Williamstown Chamber of Commerce is holding their next two networking nights on Thursday, 15th March and Friday, 16th March, for more information visit www.visitwilliamstown.com.au

Newsletter/e-Update The Council publishes a free quarterly business newsletter titled Business Works. You can register to receive this and our regular electronic e-Update by simply sending an email to the address below, and if you have an idea for an article, we’d also love to hear from you. Subscribe today!

For more information please call Sally Curtis, Business and Tourism Officer on 9932 1000 or email business@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

BUSINESS WEST

7

?? BUSiNESS PROFILE

STRETCHING TO SUCCESS TAKING the leap from an owner business to a franchise has paid off in spades for physiotherapist Ian Tran.

Mr Tran, who ran Transform Sports and Spinal in Footscray’s CBD for six years, is now a Back In Motion franchisee with a new and much larger premises at Braybrook’s Central West Plaza.

Mr Tran launched the business in style in January, using an Asian dragon and firecrackers to celebrate the new practice and the Chinese/Vietnamese New Year.

The purpose built clinic boasts four consulting suites, a clinical Pilates studio with reformers, Pilates specific mat area, a fully equipped rehabilitation gymnasium and a highly specialised whole body vibration treatment unit.

The clinic also includes a satellite practice at the Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre, including dedicated use of their hydrotherapy pool.

“For me, joining Back In Motion and joining a national group feels like an evolution. Their values and my values are very much aligned by way of customer service and focus on the clients as people,” Mr Tran said.

“We needed some growth, we needed bigger premises, we needed more exposure, and central Footscray is very hard for parking, and for some of my clients, it was really hard for them. Now we’re here at Central West Plaza, it really ticks all those boxes for us.”

Mr Tran’s career choice and philosophy stems from his childhood.

His parents were refugees from Vietnam.

Both were doctors overseas and had to retrain when they came to Australia. They were among the first doctors in Footscray.

“Living in that family, I’ve always felt a calling to help people out,” Mr Tran said.

“I worked overseas in America and the UK, I’ve worked with some sports teams like Melbourne Storm and the Hawthorn Football Club, but I always wanted to come back to the West, where I grew up, and contribute to the local community.

“I’d worked for a large physiotherapy group and helped them set up a couple of clinics and I was very disillusioned with the processes in which they ran their business and the way they treated their clients. “(There was a) lack of personal service, and seeing the clients more as sales figures as opposed to people with their own different personalities.

Mr Tran said he found running his own business challenging, particularly because his university course focused on becoming a physiotherapist, not an entrepreneur.

Now, as a Back In Motion franchisee, Mr Tran wants to increase business by 50 per cent over the next year, and by at least 200 per cent over the next five years.

The Braybrook clinic, which employs nine people, currently treats about 200 clients a week. [BW]

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BY CHARLENE GATT Back in Motion’s Ian Tran with a client.

Picture: NICOLE SULTANA

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BUSiNESS NESS PPROFILE ROFILE

THE

SCIENCE OF BUSiiNESS BUS

Above: Phil Mulvey believes the best thing he has done is appoint good managers.

Right: Environmental engineer, Jarrod, left, with CEO Phil Mulvey discussing their findings.

BY CHARLENE GATT HE’S the self-proclaimed mad geoscientist who has taken a lifetime to conclude that business and science can mix.

Phil Mulvey started out Environmental Earth Sciences International more than 28 years ago with a pen and a desk and an idea that soil scientists could make a big difference in landscape.

Unfortunately, he found the hardest person to convince was himself.

As the business started to grow around him, Mr Mulvey’s entrepreneurial brain saw him start up and run many other businesses at the same time, including a contracting business in East Timor, real estate and even racehorses.

“The company got too big for me to manage and I actually ran away for a while. My other businesses were my way of running away,” he said.

“I tried to walk away from the aspects of this company several times, because I never

Pictures: NICOLE SULTANA saw that there was a business in my science.

“Although I’ve tried to walk away from this, it’s kept pulling me back. It’s grown no matter how many bad things I’ve done to it, or how often I’ve ignored this business.

“This has been the only constant.

“The others have been quite successful, but I haven’t taken them any further. This is like a family and you don’t sell a member of family.

“This is what I started with, and this is what I’m trained to do. I’ve always been able to see

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BBUSiNESS U PROFILE an opportunity in business, but I wasn’t trained to do that, whereas I was trained in science; I have several science degrees. Ever since I was very young, I was always interested in rocks and landscape and soil. I call it my destiny.”

Today, the business has grown to incorporate four businesses – consulting firm Environmental Earth Sciences, EESI Contracting, GreenPlus Property Services and the Centre for Contaminant Geosciences.

The four arms of the company complete hundreds of job across Australia and internationally each year, working with businesses like Exxon Mobil, Orica, Harvey Norman, Masters and Bunnings to remediate land.

There are also another two businesses in the pipeline.

3D Ag is an emerging business concerned with improving agricultural performance of land via drawing upon the knowledge resources within the aforementioned companies, and Mining Service, which is currently offered as part of the consulting business but will be a separate brand by mid 2012.

Mr Mulvey makes a point of having no more than 50 employees in each of his offices across the country, and also makes sure 50 per cent of employees – including management – are female.

“The only things we discriminate against is poor science.

“Science, for us, underpins the whole company. For most of our competitors it’s more about engineering, and it’s more broad.

We’ll only do things that interface with the landscape.”

At their 25th birthday in 2009, staff put their heads together to form the vision for the next 25 years, and are keen to rehabilitate 10 per cent of the world’s degraded land by 2029.

“I have said it’s a tough vision from the start, and I was more comfortable with making it by our 50th year reunion, but the staff chose this,” Mr Mulvey said.

“We do have various divisions to help us do

this; we are growing, and we’ve already gone to the Middle East with some of our technology.”

The business also has a number of patents for cleaning up degraded land which are now being used in the UK. For all of Mr Mulvey’s mistakes over the life of the business, he believes the best thing he’s done is appoint good managers.

“It took me a while to realise leadership and management are different things,” he said.

“People are quite happy to be led by me, but I’m a lousy manager. I had to learn to differentiate between the two and appoint good managers. Now I provide the direction, the goal, the leadership, the passion.” [BW]

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BUSiNESS PROFILE

TALKING

TECHNOLOGY

BY CHARLENE GATT IT’S the business bucking the global trend.

In just five short years, Tullamarine technology business TechnoSource has gone from a home-based, low-key operation to an Asia-Pacific premium partner and distributor for award-winning US brand, Wasp Barcode Technologies.

Established in 2007 by husband and wife team Prakash and Seema Gupta in their home study, TechnoSource has quickly gained a reputation for providing clients with complete hardware and software technology solutions from installation right through to after-sales support.

Partnering with global brands, including HP, IBM, Motorola, Datalogic, Epson, Posiflex, Zebra and MYOB, TechnoSource has expanded its capabilities to provide point of sale (POS) systems, barcoding, mobile computing and wireless infrastructure.

The business also provides network related,

web hosting and development consultancy.

The Gupta family finished 2011 on a high note, announcing their latest partnership with WASP Barcode Technologies and moving into its new 430 square metre Tullamarine warehouse.

Wasp’s Director of Sales, Bryan Keepers, and Sales Manager, Dylan Schafer, flew in from Texas to attend the official opening and cement the partnership.

“We’re really excited about partnering with TechnoSource,” Mr Keepers said.

“Prakash has a great understanding of our products and has the ability to develop longstanding business relationships.”

Focusing on small to medium businesses, Wasp’s extensive barcode device and software range provides an out-of-the-box solution to track inventory and assets.

The partnership ties in with TechnoSource’s varied clientele, which includes businesses in retail, hospitality, warehouse and distribution,

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Our aim is to support our customers, provide them with information and guidance, and achieve milestones together year after year...

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The Gupta family prides itself on its extensive stock and access to distribution warehouses in most of Australia’s capital cities, which means as a brand, TechnoSource can process and dispatch the majority of their orders within 48 hours.

“The technology business is ever-changing,” Mr Gupta said.

“There are lots more challenges to come. Our aim is to support our customers, provide them with information and guidance, and achieve milestones together year after year.” [BW]

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TechnoSource’s Prakash and Seema Gupta.

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COVER STORY

THE CHALLENGE AHEAD BIG redundancies and employment cuts have been the flavour of the month recently, with the likes of Toyota, Qantas, ANZ Bank and the Department of Human Services announcing or forecasting job losses. Arguably, none have hit the West as hard as the Toyota cuts. But how will the effects be felt throughout the West, and what does the future hold? Business West talked to key stakeholders and businesses across the West to find out.

Workers at Toyota’s Altona plant.

Pictures: KRISTIAN SCOTT, DAMJAN JANEVSKI, VANESSA CHIRCOP

THE FIRST BLOW MANUFACTURING is the West’s bread and butter, so it came as a big blow last month when Toyota announced it would axe 350 jobs in the first quarter of 2012.

The company employs 4683 employees Australia-wide.

Toyota Australia president and CEO Max Yasuda said the company’s vehicle manufacturing production levels had reduced from 149,000 in 2007 to 94,000 in 2011.

It is expected that they will make 95,000 cars in 2012.

“In consideration of current and anticipated market conditions this action is necessary. It is not possible to maintain our workforce at its current size,” he said.

Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union Assistant State Secretary Leigh Diehm described the cuts as unacceptable.

“The auto-industry is a cornerstone to the manufacturing

industry. You have the autoindustry disappear off the shores of Australia, you have the autoindustry disappear off the shores of Altona – the ramifications and follow-on effects to that are going to be absolutely huge.”

But Mr Yasuda said the strong Australian currency, reduced cost competitiveness and volume decline, especially in export markets had hit hard.

“The reality is that our volumes are down. What we assumed was a temporary circumstance has turned into a permanent situation. This drop of 36 per cent in just four years shows the scale of our challenges.”

THE RIPPLE EFFECT KATHLEEN Hurley from Victoria University’s Centre for Strategic Economic Studies said the job cuts would likely cause a ripple effect across the manufacturing industry – but not for another year.

“That’s what we figured out when there were redundancies at Ford in Broadmeadows,”

Ms Hurley said.

“People get their money and they can’t sign on for unemployment benefits as a result… so I wouldn’t anticipate an immediate impact, but it’s a slow burn. Twelve months is when the local economy will really feel it.

“If a big company (like Toyota) reduces production, the smaller companies can’t survive.”

Ms Hurley said job cuts in the manufacturing industry also spelt doom for redundant workers in another way, with many finding it harder to get work elsewhere.

“Most manufacturing jobs are full-time jobs, whereas in a lot of other industries there’s a lot of part-time and casual work.

“So when they (Toyota) say they’re cutting staff, that’s mainly full-time, and that means that all these households are not getting a full-time income coming into their household.

“That’s the killer. Secondly, manufacturing workers tend not to be as well-qualified as other workers and they are at a

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DEALING WITH THE DOLLAR THE rise of the Australian dollar has had a significant impact on the manufacturing industry, but over at Qenos’ Altona plant, CEO Jonathan Clancy is in the midst of a bumper year for the company.

Qenos is Australia’s sole manufacturer and leading supplier of world class polyethylene and polymers.

“I think, not surprisingly, the high Australian dollar is an issue for us. It has a dual impact on us; the first impact it has is that polymer is a commodity and its traded globally, and the polymer

price for Australia is actually set in South-East Asia in US dollars.

“As the Australian dollar goes up, the imported product gets cheaper. So we’ve got that very real threat because of the high dollar.

Qenos CEO Jonathan Clancy.

“The second impact that we have on our business is that our end customers in things such as packaging are being affected and what we’re seeing now with the sustained high dollar is that, in some sectors of the economy, we’re seeing a substitution of finished goods being imported into Australia.”

Times are tough, but the business is ploughing ahead with a $195 million expansion and a further capital investment of $35 million into one of their plants, including a co-generation unit that will supply all of their electricity and one-third of their steam and will reduce their carbon footprint by 100,000 tonnes.

“It’s a challenging year for

us, because of the response to those economic circumstances and secondly, we’ve taken on a significant expansion. We’re one of the very few manufacturers that’s expanding in the current environment.”

Mr Clancy said job cuts could prove to be a short-term decision that could ultimately damage a business, and believes a more measured response was needed in this economic climate.

“It’s important to understand each business’ key drivers and the rationale for those changes.

INDUSTRY-WIDE WOES? STEADY rainfall means a steady agriculture industry, which means good business for Nufarm.

The company, which manufactures crop protection products, is on the Australian Stock Exchange and is the only manufacturer of crop protection products in Australia with an extensive network of Regional Service Centres.

Nufarm’s head of Australian operations Michael O’Donnell said Nufarm faced similar problems to Toyota but was not in the same situation.

“Theirs are different issues to us, different industry, different pressures,” he said.

“The only real parallels for most manufacturers, of which we are one, and certainly the car manufacturers are that it’s a global business these days, we’re not insulated from the rest of the world.

“So as a local manufacturer supplying products into agriculture in Australia, a key

challenge for us is the cheap product from overseas.

“In a competitive market, that’s a challenge for us, and we have needed to get more efficient in the way we do things to be able to continue to compete in that market globally.”

Looking forward Nufarm has a positive future, according to Mr O’Donnell.

“We’re optimistic and Nufarm is looking very positively to how we’re running at the moment,” Mr O’Donnell said.

“In the last few years, since we’ve come out of the drought period, agriculture across Australia is quite strong.

“It still has its challenges, such as floods in northern New South Wales at the moment, that aside, in general terms, water and rain in agriculture means good times. The last couple of years… have been a pretty strong time.” [BW]

Nufarm’s head of Australian operations Michael O’Donnell.

1023805-MD12-12

disadvantage in the open labour market.

“In the West, manufacturing is the bread and butter of the area, there’s not many other jobs, or proportionately there’s less jobs in other industries out there for these people to find. So, it’s a bit of a triple-whammy.”

LeadWest CEO Anton Mayer concurred with Ms Hurley’s comments, adding that a manufacturing council based in the West was needed.

“I think the Victorian Government should have a few of these manufacturing bodies in key areas, including the western suburbs of Melbourne, the south-east suburbs, and the northern suburbs, where the manufacturers can have a direct say in government policy,” Mr Mayer said.

“We’d be calling on both State and Federal Government to support manufacturing and the families whose livelihood depends on continued employment in manufacturing.

BUSINESS WEST

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BUSiNESS PROFILE

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GIFTS KEEP ON GiVING without even advertising, imagine what we could be when we’re fully operational.”

To date, the business still has not paid for advertising, but has thrived on work created through their website, word of mouth, and their business profiles on Facebook, Twitter and Linked In.

“I remember ordering hampers for clients (when I worked in the corporate world) and they’d pull out all this stuff to get a bottle and a couple of chocolates – it was more stuffing than anything else.

“We do use packaging to stop breakage, but we don’t use anywhere near as much as other hamper companies.

To date, the business still has not paid for advertising, but has thrived on work created through their website, word of mouth, and their business profiles on Facebook, Twitter and Linked In.

“We’ve had clients that have actually picked up the hampers to hand deliver them to their clients, and there was one from a concrete company that said ‘the hamper’s so heavy’.”

Box Full provides hampers for corporate and individual purposes Australia-wide and has expanded their range to include hampers for all occasions – Valentine’s Day, Australia Day, Easter, and just general his or hers packages.

“Sonia’s really, really good with creating the hampers and coming up with ideas, I’m more on the operations side, doing the networking and looking after the website and accounts.

Box Full also tailor-makes hampers and adds in a client’s products for a personal touch.

But one thing remains the same – when they say Box Full, they mean box full.

“We called it Box Full because we make sure all our hampers are full of products and not stuffing, and that’s what distinguishes us from other hamper companies,” Ms Xerri said.

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Ms Xerri said she loved working from home.

“I don’t need to leave the house,” she said.

“All my suppliers deliver to my house, and all my deliveries leave from my house, so being a mother of two young boys, it’s really good.

“If I need to duck off to school, I can. If I need to do something around the house, like make a batch of cupcakes, I can do that and go back and make some more hampers. The business works around the family.”

Mr Xerri added: “For me, it’s about the segregation of duties.

“I think that works really, really well. If Sonia’s got an idea about something that’s in my area, she’ll let me know and vice-versa, and we’ll make a decision from there.

“It works well. Nothing’s difficult for us, and we just take it as it comes.”

Mr Xerri hopes to join the business full-time in the next 18 months, so the pair can focus on getting into the corporate events area. [BW]

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BY CHARLENE GATT IT’S the business that started with the most unlikely of things – a nappy cake.

Sonia Xerri went to a baby shower five years ago, bringing along a self-made nappy cake for the mum-to-be that caught the eye of more than one party-goer.

“A couple of girls asked if I’d made it and I said ‘yes’, so they asked me to make one for them,” Ms Xerri recalled.

“Next thing you know, I was doing one or two a week just for friends, and I said to (my husband) Darren ‘there’s got to be something in this, a business in this’.

“So, we looked into it and I looked at buying the products wholesale.”

And so Box Full Gifts and Hampers was born.

It was the perfect business model for the Xerri family – with two young sons, Ms Xerri was more than happy to work from home and make the most out of her creative side.

Meanwhile Mr Xerri, who worked for an accounting firm, worked part-time on the business looking after the accounts and the operational side of things.

What they didn’t expect was for the business to take off so quickly.

“It started with nappy cakes and then Christmas was coming up, so Darren suggested we do gourmet hampers,” Ms Xerri said.

“Being in the corporate business before I had kids, I always gave corporate hampers.

In our first year, we got one company that ordered 100 hampers.

“We enlisted my mother, my mother-in-law – all these hands on, even just for babysitting… from there we thought, if we could do that

17

BUSiNESS PROFILE

“

Currently we have an average requirement of an additional 350 ongoing casual roles per month at the Altona office...

NICK GABRIELIDIS

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BUSiNESS PROFILE

CONNECTiNG PEOPLE

WITH JOBS

BY CHARLENE GATT IT’S the business finding the right employees for the right jobs.

Chandler Macleod has spent the past 53 years unleashing the potential of job seekers across the country – now they’ve turned the tables and unleashed their potential with a new, much bigger office in Altona.

The $750,000 move to Slough Rd includes 16 dedicated computers for job seekers to access on-line training and testing as well as two purpose built training rooms, each able to cater for 30 candidates.

General Manager Nick Gabrielidis said the move had made their Altona office a major hub for Victorian job seekers, with staff interviewing more than 1000 local job seekers in the first couple of weeks at the new location.

“The new premises has given us more space and greatly improved facilities for our clients,” Mr Gabrielidis said.

“We are now able to provide more Certificate II and III training to ensure our candidates have the best possible chance of getting a job.”

“Currently we have an average requirement of an additional 350 ongoing casual roles per

month at the Altona office.

“For job seekers in the North West we are predominantly looking for people to work in warehousing, forklift drivers, labourers, medium and heavy ridged licensed drivers, chefs and food production process workers.”

National Chief Operating Officer Cameron Judson added: “Our business in that area has been growing dramatically, so we needed bigger premises.”

Mr Judson said Altona was one of Chandler Macleod’s biggest hubs both in Victoria and Australia-wide, and attributed its success to their focus on the transport, logistics, manufacturing and fast-moving consumer goods sectors.

“Most of that western part of Melbourne is all aligned in those sectors, so it’s about focusing on the sectors and focusing on the clients in those sectors,” he said.

Founded in 1959, Chandler Macleod was built on the psychological testing of employees and candidates, to ensure the best possible people were employed.

Now more than 50 years on, Chandler Macleod has diversified to provide recruitment,

consulting and workforce management services to some of the largest companies and organisations in the region.

The business, which has 1300 full-time employees across 60 offices in Australia and New Zealand, is listed on the Australian Stock Exchange and boasts $1.4 billion in revenue.

Each year, Chandler Macleod finds jobs for more than 40,000 job seekers.

True to form, this business is currently working with more than 60 per cent of the ASX’s Top 100 companies.

“At Chandler Macleod we pride ourselves on providing the best fit both for candidates and employers,” Mr Gabrielidis said.

“This requires us to spend a great deal of time screening potential candidates and providing training where required.

“Of the 2000 plus temporary workers we placed in the past 12 months, almost 30 per cent of them have already been offered permanent jobs within those workplaces.

“This is evidence of the high quality of workers Chandler Macleod puts into the marketplace.” [BW]

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BUSiNESS PROFILE

Travel consultant Natalie Freeman.

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BUSiNESS PROFILE

BY CHARLENE GATT NATALIE Freeman sends her clients jet setting across the globe all from the comfort of her own Hoppers Crossing home.

Ms Freeman, 32, has run her own travel business with the support of award winning travel company Travel Counsellors for the past three years after giving birth to her first child Abbie and is relishing the work-life balance the role allows her.

Ms Freeman, has been in the travel industry for nearly a decade. She was a manager at a major travel company, putting in up to 16 hours a day when she fell pregnant with Abbie.

“

The company operates in the UK, Australia, Ireland, the Netherlands, South Africa and Canada.

“It was scary to make the leap, because I’d come from working on a salary, where I would have regular money coming in, and so for the first six or seven months it was all just starting off from scratch, with nothing – no client base, or anything like that,” Ms Freeman remembered.

“It is really a good company to work for and to have that franchise, because you know you have that backing – you’re not just out on your own.

book his flights on the internet… then he got stranded and had to wait, so he called me and now he always books with me.”

Ms Freeman admitted that her prices were slightly higher than online fares, but said her 24/7 support and expertise was invaluable.

She said many people who booked their own flights online made a lot of rookie errors.

“There’s so many people that come to me and have booked the wrong cities, or the wrong times – with me, they don’t have to spend hours on the internet looking through all the websites and the hotels and booking them all randomly and then showing up and there’s no booking for them.

It was about getting my name out there and it was rough at the start because there was no money coming in, but I knew it was short-term pain for long-term gain...

NATALIE FREEMAN

Almost immediately, she knew the long hours would not suit her growing family.

“When I had Abbie, that didn’t really work for me, so I thought I might see if there was somewhere else where I could work from home,” she said.

“Back then, the company didn’t do that, so I left and through word of mouth found Travel Counsellors and found out it was a franchise.

“I spoke to some of the Travel Counsellors that were already working there about how the model worked and it’s something that really appealed to me because I could work from home, I don’t have to keep Abbie and my son in child care for days, and it’s the whole worklife balance thing.”

Travel Counsellors is a leading independent travel company with a turnover at the end of the last financial year of $519 million.

Founded in 1994, it currently has more than 1200 travel consultants who work from home with the support of over 200 head office staff worldwide.

“It was about getting my name out there and it was rough at the start because there was no money coming in, but I knew it was short-term pain for long-term gain.”

Ms Freeman started putting the word out among family, friends and the community, and soon grew a dedicated client list with her 24 hours a day, seven days a week approach.

“I don’t really have set hours, I just work all the time, I go off with the kids and do things during the day and clients know they can always reach me.”

That peace of mind has come in handy more than once for Ms Freeman’s clients, with events such as the 2010 ash cloud from a volcano in Iceland or the decision by Qantas CEO Alan Joyce to ground the entire fleet.

“I’ve had clients that were stuck and stranded, but I even got calls from people who booked elsewhere and on the internet and couldn’t get in touch with their travel agency,” she said.

“I have a corporate client now that would

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Three years in, Ms Freeman said the business allowed her to spend time with her clients without being interrupted by colleagues or rushing to tend to other people waiting in a queue.

“I like it (working from home), because even though I have the kids around there’s 100 per cent concentration and I’m not distracted by people coming in,” she said.

“Sometimes you wake up in the morning and you might want to hang out in your PJs for the whole day, but you really have to make sure that you get dressed and you’re ready to go.

“You can’t let putting the washing out or something else distract you from your day.”

Ms Freeman said Bali, Croatia and Vietnam were the must-see holiday destinations for 2012. [BW]

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THE RECEPTiONIST RECEPTIONISTS can be the most underappreciated people in a business, but their impact on an organisation is much bigger than most realise. CHARLENE GATT reports…

“

I’m probably a good boss to myself, because I’m a lot harder on myself than I would be on anyone else...

JOSEPHINE RULLO

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BUSINESS WEST

A RECEPTIONIST is the gateway to an organisation – the first face a potential client sees when they walk into a business.

But Australian research shows that one in five receptionists fail in important everyday tasks, such as noting a caller’s name and phone number before re-directing an enquiry.

It’s small errors like these that Josephine Rullo knows make all the difference in how an organisation runs their business.

“I think you get one extreme to the other (with receptionists),” she said.

“You have someone who is very experienced and knows how to handle calls and people arriving and is the face for the business, very professional and obliging.

“Then you’ll have another receptionist where you’ll walk into their premises, they don’t make any eye contact and they’re there because they need to earn an income and when five o’clock comes it just can’t be soon enough.

“That’s not good enough. You’re going to lose business, and losing business is losing money. If you don’t have the right receptionist for your job, you don’t have a business.”

Ms Rullo started out her career as a receptionist and now runs her own business, Extraordinary Receptionist Training, to train the front of house staff.

The business idea took off in 2008 after the Moonee Ponds resident was called upon to train receptionists wherever she worked.

“I have trained people that have started on the job and one of the comments over the years has been ‘you’re a brilliant trainer’,” she said.

“I don’t like stressing people out, because I stress out, so the first thing is to make sure the person you’re training is relaxed, and the second thing I say to them is ‘you can ask me the same question a thousand times – you’re not stupid, I’m not going to judge you.’

“We all learn at a different rate and in a different way. I believe if you can tap into that, the person will eventually get it.”

After a while, Ms Rullo decided she wanted to train receptionists in a particular way, and realised the only way she would be able to do that would be to go out on her own.

She updated her qualifications and gave herself a deadline of Christmas 2008 to get started.

“When I did that, oddly everything fell into place.

“I needed to find someone that would type up my manual. I needed to find a business name.

I went to one of those business breakfasts and one of the questions was: Do you have a business name?

“I was sitting there at half past seven in the morning and thinking ‘Oh My God, I don’t have a business name’.

“People were going around the table saying what their business names were, and I had to invent one quickly. For some reason, out of the blue, Extraordinary Receptionist Training came to mind.

“The more I did, the more committed I was to the success of it.”

Today, Ms Rullo provides on-board training for new receptionists, up-skilling for existing receptionists, and training to other staff for when the full-time receptionist is on leave.

She provides workshops for groups of 10 and under and also does one-on-one work.

Ms Rullo said she networked relentlessly to get the business name out there and advertised across a range of magazines and newspapers when starting out.

She also, albeit reluctantly, set up her own website.

But the hard yards have paid off, and Ms Rullo said she loved being her own boss.

“I’m a good boss,” she laughed.

“I’m probably a good boss to myself, because I’m a lot harder on myself than I would be on anyone else.

“I don’t know how good a boss I’d be with others. I don’t particularly want to have staff, I believe I can run my business on my own and I have high expectations and high standards.

I’d rather have those pressures than put them on other people.”

She said stamina, a good sense of humour and a day job until you get on your feet were the three qualities every new business owner needed. [BW]

BUSiNESS PROFILE

Picture: KRISTIAN SCOTT

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BUSINESS WEST

BUSiNESS PROFILE

THE PAPER

PIXiE

BY CHARLENE GATT BALANCED books make for a balanced business.

It seems like a pretty basic rule for any business, but Naomi Waring knows that many are way behind when it comes to keeping their bookkeeping and accounts up to date.

The Tarneit resident first came across the problem when she started working as an account bookkeeper for one particular company.

“I’d seen the situation that they were in and thought there had to be others like them,” Ms Waring said.

It turns out she was right.

Her home based business Paperwork Pixies has thrived since she started in 2010, so much so that she is outgrowing the home office and looking to employ pixies of her own.

“Pretty much every client I have had has been in the same situation, they only come when they’re desperate and need help with their bookkeeping.

“Either they’re really behind, or the Australian Tax Office is questioning things.

“Three of them in particular have had a massive growth period, so they just got too far behind, too quick and they didn’t know what to do.”

Ms Waring also offers marketing and organising services to her clients. As her

business name suggests, the 28-year-old is much like a pixie, working quietly behind the scenes to make sure a business is running in perfect order.

“I started off working on client’s books and then I got an idea of being in their business and what they needed improving on, so I was giving a few ideas.

“A lot of small businesses don’t really try advertising or they’re not aware of how to do marketing. There’s potential there, I just give them a nudge in the right direction.

“People assume advertising and marketing is too expensive and they’re not going to get any results.”

Ms Waring said the biggest marketing mistake she has encountered was businesses not having their own websites.

“A lot don’t… pretty much every customer that I’ve got does not have a website.

“Considering how cheap it is to get one built and to run it, it’s a lot of exposure. Most had never thought of it, or it seems too hard, too much of a challenge.

“Really, they don’t have to do anything, because I do all the research on what their product is and give them ideas.”

Paperwork Pixies services local small businesses in Tarneit, Hoppers Crossing, Altona, Werribee, Point Cook, Laverton and Williamstown.

“The West needs encouragement. I’m from the West, I’ve always lived in the West, so I’m happy to stay local,” she said.

She had previously run another business, Wink Moments, which organised wedding proposals for men. She has since sold the business.

Her current challenge is to manage the growth of Paperwork Pixies.

“It’s growing, and it’s very scary. It’s come to a point where I’ve gone from working an average week to doing anywhere from 50 to 70 hours in the last six months.

“I just thought it would be a full-time job for me. At the moment, I can’t take on any new clients. I can do the odd website here and there, but not anything ongoing.

“Clients know that you work from home, so they think you’re reachable at nine o’clock at night, or on a Saturday or a Sunday.

“I would struggle with handing over clients, but in saying that I think I really need to.

“I know from places I’ve worked that it’s hard to find people that are willing to put in everything. Really, I need another me.

I definitely want to grow, but I don’t want to grow too much, because I do enjoy being in touch with clients and seeing how they grow and getting feedback from them.

“I’ve actually had a very nice job offer to go and work for a client. But I’ve worked too hard for this.” [BW]

BUSINESS WEST

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SMALL TALK

BINKS SITE REZONED

LIGHTING GRANTS

GROCERY APP

STATE Planning Minister Matthew Guy has rezoned the former Binks Ford site in Footscray to ensure the site’s redevelopment will integrate with the Footscray train station precinct.

The 0.9 hectare site is located at 34 Cowper Street and abuts the eastern edge of the Melbourne to Footscray rail corridor and is directly north-east of Footscray train station.

“The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring urban renewal in places that can accommodate population growth and a mix of housing as well as being well-connected and serviced locations,” Mr Guy said.

“Places Victoria, which owns the site, is well placed to maximise development and land use opportunities that can integrate with Footscray Station, one of Melbourne’s major metropolitan and regional transport hubs.

“The amendment will stimulate and promote further investment within the station precinct and broader Footscray Activities Area.”

A masterplan is currently being developed by Places Victoria and will soon be placed on formal public exhibition.

THE State Government has announced a $250,000 grant for a company to develop new technology that could help businesses reduce the amount of electricity they use on lighting by as much as 80 per cent.

The funding is being provided to Daintree Networks for their ControlScope lighting control system under the Victorian Government’s Energy Technology Innovation Strategy (ETIS).

Minister for Energy and Resources Michael O’Brien said the introduction of lighting control systems into commercial buildings had the potential to deliver significant reductions in electricity consumption and reduce business energy bills.

Daintree Networks have lighting control systems that have the potential to save as much as 70 per cent on a commercial building. They want to increase the energy savings by up to another 10 per cent by providing energy efficiency enhancements to existing lighting control techniques.

IN AN Australian first, Woolworths is revolutionising grocery shopping by giving customers the power to shop the supermarket aisles and purchase groceries from their mobile phone.

Customers can download or update the Woolworths App for free and shop virtually anywhere with purchases delivered to their home or work at a time convenient for them.

DEER PARK REZONE ORICA is planning to redevelop and rezone part of its 150 hectare site at Deer Park.

The company’s long term plan for the Deer Park site is to encourage business and commercial activity as part of an overall business and industrial estate.

It has identified the need to request a planning scheme amendment to rezone the site.

This request has not formally been received yet by Brimbank City Council.

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BUSINESS WEST

NEW PREMISES TRAINING and job placement consultants Set Solutions has leased a new warehouse in Brooklyn.

The Geelong Rd premises includes a 710 square metre office and warehouse facility including three operating bays and 1500 square metres of hardstand and modern office facilities.

The three-year, $110,000 per annum deal was handled by Savills.

“

Mobile shopping will transform the way our customers shop...

“Mobile shopping will transform the way our customers shop. We are proud and excited to be the first supermarket in Australia to offer our customers mobile shopping,” Woolworths Director of Supermarkets Tjeerd Jegen said.

“The update to the Woolworths App will enable customers to browse the supermarket aisles, order and pay on their mobile phone. They will also be able to scan items to build their shopping list and then convert it to an online order.”

Since its launch in August last year, the Woolworths App has been downloaded by 1.5 million Australians.

The new App includes an aisle ordered shopping list, a barcode scanner, hundreds of recipes, exclusive Everyday Rewards member offers, weekly catalogue specials and mobile shopping.

SMALL TALK BACK PAY FOR WORKERS

ON THE MARKET

JOB MARKET MOVES

WORKERS in Melbourne’s West have been back-paid $163,800 following a recent intervention by the Fair Work Ombudsman.

The largest recovery was $42,000 for two truck drivers in Derrimut.

The two workers lodged complaints with the Fair Work Ombudsman after they were not paid redundancy entitlements or wages in lieu of notice on termination.

The workers had been employed for 18 and five years respectively.

Other recent recoveries include: ■ $21,700 for a clerk in Sunshine underpaid penalty rates and annual leave entitlements; ■ $13,600 for an Altona childcare worker not paid annual leave and long service leave entitlements on termination of her employment; and ■ $13,400 for an education industry worker in Rockbank underpaid annual leave entitlements.

The Fair Work Ombudsman recovered a total of $7.573 million in back-pay for 3556 underpaid workers in Victoria last financial year.

KEILOR Downs Plaza is on the market.

An Expressions of Interest campaign is being run by Savills, with the Centro shopping centre tipped to boast a $70 million price tag.

The 19,000 square metre centre is anchored

by Kmart, Coles, ALDI and two mini majors together with approximately 57 specialty tenancies, seven ATMs, 10 kiosks and two fast food pad sites.

The centre has a net passing income of $5.9 million and the agents believe rental income could be significantly increased with the development of an additional five hectares of vacant land on the site.

Constructed in 1990 on a 13.97 hectare site, the centre was extended in 2004 to include ALDI, the Reject Shop and a number of specialty stores.

Offers for the centre must be lodged with Savills by 29 March.

A NEW independent study commissioned

by SEEK, Australia’s leading job website, has found that 75 per cent of the Australian workforce are either actively seeking new roles or monitoring the market for future job opportunities .

The remaining quarter of the workforce are quite settled in their current roles and do not plan on moving in the short-term.

This group includes the self-employed, older generations and those that have recently changed roles.

Call Centre and Customer Service workers showed the highest propensity to move roles, with 59 per cent applying for new jobs since the middle of last year.

Other sectors with high levels of job seeking activity include Community Services and Development (52 per cent), Sales and Business Development (47 per cent) and Design and Architecture (41 per cent).

The SEEK Job Market Update also revealed that 41 per cent of the labour force expect to change roles in the next 12 months and almost half of the workforce have been in their current role for less than two years.

DATA CENTRE MOVES WEST LEADING US data centre provider Digital Realty is making the West home.

Minister for Technology Gordon Rich-Phillips has announced that the global leader in data centre solutions is planning to invest in and develop two new data centres in the West, including one in Deer Park.

The move will bring an estimated economic benefit of around $365 million to the region.

Digital Realty focuses on delivering customerdriven data centre solutions by providing secure, reliable and cost-effective facilities that meet each customer’s unique needs.

Digital Realty’s customers include many Fortune 500 and high-profile multinational corporations across multiple industries, including ICT, cloud service providers, manufacturing and financial services.

Each Digital Realty facility is physically secure and features state-of-the-art power and cooling architecture that has been optimised for green operation.

Each facility has a centralised software system which monitors and manages the data centre power consumption, energy efficiency and load analysis.

Formed in 2004 and headquartered in San Francisco, Digital Realty currently employs more than 500 people and operates more than 100 data centres worldwide.

ONLINE CAMPAIGN MAURICE Blackburn Lawyers has started an online campaign featuring a petition and Facebook page to stop the State Government from cutting back WorkCover funding by $471.5 million over four years.

The Government plans to strip $471.5m over four years from the WorkCover Authority, known as WorkSafe, to help balance its books.

Maurice Blackburn workplace law expert John Cain said the State Government’s plan is seriously flawed.

“It is a raid on employer WorkCover contributions, and could drive up premiums and threaten injured workers’ compensation entitlements. It’s unfair for all Victorians and needs to be stopped,” he said.

There are more than 2.5 million people working in Victoria, and this year about eight workers in every thousand will be injured at work to a level requiring at least a week off work, medical attention and compensation.

“These injured workers are entitled to fair compensation,” Mr Cain said.

“We need to invest more in preventing workplace injury, not put more pressure on premiums and benefits paid to injured workers.”

“

It is a raid on employer WorkCover contributions, and could drive up premiums and threaten injured workers’ compensation entitlements...

BUSINESS WEST

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STRATEGIES

YOU’RE

FIRED MANAGING DISMISSALS CORRECTLY TERMINATING somebody’s employment is often the most difficult task of all for an employer or manager, but it’s sometimes necessary in order to improve the operations of the business.

Getting the termination process right is absolutely essential, otherwise employers face the risk of paying monetary compensation or even reinstating the employee to their position, which is one of the remedies under the Fair Work Act 2009.

There are many areas employers must address before they tell an employee their services are no longer required. The Fair Work Act covers these areas in some detail, and they are areas all employers need to be aware of before making their final decision.

WHAT CONSTITUTES DISMISSAL? Dismissal is not only defined as being terminated at the employer’s initiative – Fair Work Australia can uphold an unfair dismissal claim if it finds an employee resigned because of conduct or a course of conduct by the employer. This prevents employers from ‘forcing out’ employees and making them leave on their own ‘initiative’.

VALID REASON FOR DISMISSAL Employers must have what is defined as a ‘valid reason’ for dismissal of an employee – this could take the form of serious misconduct such as breaches of internal alcohol/drug policies or occupational health and safety procedures that put other employees at risk, or threatening employees or customers. It could also constitute unsatisfactory performance for a period of time.

“

The process of dismissal is just as important as the reason for the dismissal…

NOTIFYING THE EMPLOYEE Before officially issuing termination, an employer must provide the employee with their valid reason for dismissal. This may include giving the employee a chance to respond to any allegations, either in person or in writing.

Employees should also be afforded the chance to have a support person at any discussions relating to dismissal – a support person could include a legal representative, a union member or a friend or family member.

EVIDENCE AND CONSISTENCY If the dismissal relates to unsatisfactory performance in the employee’s role, it’s vital to have a documentary record of previous interactions and warnings to indicate efforts were made to improve the employee’s output before the decision to terminate was made. Following internal policies relating to performance management is essential – if your company rules that employees must be given two warnings for unsatisfactory performance before being dismissed, that policy must be strictly adhered to.

Some employers in the past 12 months who had dismissals challenged at Fair Work Australia were found to have a valid reason, but did not afford procedural fairness to the employee and were duly ordered to either compensate or reinstate. These included:

■ A company that sacked an employee for failing two random alcohol tests was ordered to reinstate the employee and criticised for having an ambiguous policy that it did not clearly communicate to employees and failing to discuss the ramifications of a positive test with the employee ■ A logistics company that accused a parcel sorter of stealing a package containing expensive jewellery lost an unfair dismissal case after failing to warn the employee his answers could be used against him in the investigation as well as being refused a support person ■ A weighbridge operator who was habitually late for work was awarded $5000 compensation after a Fair Work Australia commissioner found the nature of previous warnings were inconsistent and indications of seriousness were not conveyed.

The above examples illustrate how the process of dismissal is just as important as the reason for the dismissal. If employers don’t get both correct, they could face some major financial consequences.

WA WAYNE JAMESON was born and bred in the North West, Wayne commenced his working career

as a p plumbing apprentice and spent the next 14 years in the trade before choosing a different career path and moving into recruitment. He spent the next 15 years in multiple positions within the recruitment space before recently movin comm commencing with Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) in Broadmeadows as the Business Manager for the North West. VECCI - Broadmeadows Suite 18, 11-17 Pearcedale Pde, Broadmeadows VIC Manag 3047 Phone 5227 7998 www.vecci.org.au VECCI is not liable for the advice in this column. For more information on how to manage dismissals correctly, VECCI members can call our Workplace Relations Helpline on 8662 5333.

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STRATEGIES

POSITIVELY NEGATIVE NEGATIVE GEARING IF YOU have been looking for an investment strategy that will generate wealth for your future, it is likely that you have considered purchasing an investment property.

Negative gearing is a tool used to produce high investment returns in a tax effective way. In terms of property investment, negative gearing occurs when you borrow money to acquire an investment and the expenses to maintain the property exceed the rental income.

The aim of negative gearing is for your property to generate profits through capital gains, in the hope that your capital gain will exceed the total losses incurred over the course of the holding period.

SO HOW DOES NEGATIVE GEARING REALLY WORK? Suppose you purchase a property for $450,000 in your name and borrow $400,000 to finance the investment. The money is borrowed at an interest rate of 7 per cent and the weekly rent is $500 ($26,000 p.a.). The ongoing costs are summarised as such: PROFIT & LOSS STATEMENT Rental Income

$26,000

Less: Interest $400,000 @ 7%

$28,000

Water Rates

1012

Council Rates

1,315

Insurance

950

Repairs & Maintenance

700

Agents Commission

1,820

Bank Charges

15

Body Corporate Fees

1,100

Net Profit (Loss)

$34,912 (8,912)

As you can see your taxable income will be reduced by $8,912, being the loss on the investment property, therefore reducing the amount of tax payable.

For example, if in the 2012 financial year you had a taxable income greater than $180,000 (hence you were on the highest marginal tax rate of 46.5 per cent), the loss of $8,912 would reduce your tax payable by $4,144.08.

Is negative gearing the right investment strategy for you?

Before you dive straight in, it’s important to consider the following points to determine whether negative gearing is the right investment strategy for you: ■ You must be in the right financial position to start with. Whilst negative gearing lowers your tax liability, the tax implications are reliant upon your financial situation and the investment type you choose. You need to be able to fund the negative cash flow you are generating from other sources.

■ Your investment should not be an emotional one. Your family home will have been purchased on emotional and personal factors, whereas your investment property needs to be purchased purely from a financial perspective. Think with your head, not your heart.

■ Research and plan for your investment.

Investing in property requires lots of planning and extra concern should be taken when a property is anticipated to create a negative cash flow.

■ Remember negative gearing isn’t a foolproof strategy. There are limitations and risks involved. It may be wiser to choose a different investment vehicle depending on your circumstances.

■ Capital gains need to exceed the total losses incurred over the holding period.

Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that the value of the property you purchase will appreciate enough to cover your losses.

■ Be prepared for a long-term investment strategy. Make sure you are willing to accept wealth in the form on non-spendable capital gains in the short to medium term.

It is a big commitment and you will need to review at least annually your investment, deductions, tax position and financing.

What strategies can you use to maximise your investment through negative gearing?

Whilst ‘location, location, location’ is still a widely used adage in the property market, the following fundamental strategies should be considered to minimise your risk and maximise your investment: Take full advantage of the tax-deductible depreciation allowances. Ensure correct tax depreciation schedules are in place and checked by a Quantity Surveyor.

Invest wisely. Invest in areas of good capital growth potential and choose a property in the middle price range for the location, avoiding bottom and top end risks.

Seek advice from experienced, credible specialists. This includes conveyancers, solicitors and accountants who specialise in property investment.

Buy a new or fully refurbished property to maximise your tax benefit.

Thoroughly research your finance options.

Too often this is the downfall in maximising your investment. Avoid cheap entry and expensive exit.

Get insurance. Without it you won’t be covered for you mortgage, buildings/fixtures and landlord insurances.

Remember, the benefit of negative gearing is realised when you match the correct tax and financial advice with the most suitable property, and fund it using the most appropriate loan.

Having the right advisors to support you in your investment decision is crucial.

MICHAEL HOLLOWOOD Michael Hollowood is the Managing Partner at Collins & Co. Having joined Collins & Co in 1983, he has more than 35 years experience in public practice advising tax and business advice to small to medium sized businesses.

Michael has extensive experience advising clients ranging in turnover from $200k to $60m in many industries including the following: Transport, Real Estate, Childcare, Manufacturing & Trade Services.

Michael is a Fellow of CPA Australia, a Registered Tax Agent, has completed a Diploma of Business Studies, is a Life Member of The Yarraville Club and an Accredited Advisor of Family Business Australia.

BUSINESS WEST

29

Fringe Benefits Tax

10

FRINGE BENEFITS

TAX TIPS YOU CAN’T IGNORE It’s only a couple of months until the end of the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) year on 31 March 2012.

WHK Werribee Tax director Alex Duonis offers 10 FBT Tips you shouldn’t ignore before lodging the 2012 FBT return.

1. CHECK LAST YEAR’S FBT RETURN The good news is that there have been no significant legislative changes to FBT over the past year, so you can use your 2011 FBT return as a guide. However, you should be mindful of court and ATO decisions made during the last 12 months.

2. CROSS REFERENCE YOUR COMPANY TAX RETURN The ATO scrutinises both the FBT and Company Tax Return for discrepancies. Areas to watch for are car expenses and employee contributions.

For instance, if your company tax return includes a claim for car expenses at Item 6 Label Y, your FBT return must also show the business’ car-related fringe benefits.

If there is a difference between Item 6 Label I in your company tax return for fringe benefit employee contributions and the amount shown in your 2012 FBT return, you may receive a ‘please explain’ letter from the ATO. 3. NO NEED TO LODGE The ATO now accepts that employers with no FBT liability do not need to lodge a FBT return, even if they provide fringe benefits to their employees.

However, if you choose not to lodge, you may need to have evidence to support your ‘nil’ FBT payable position in the event of an ATO audit.

A BUSiNESS WEST PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

4. CHANGES TO OTHER TAXES Under changes to income tax rules, company assets used by employees who are shareholders or associates of shareholders can be deemed dividends.

It’s critical to be aware of these provisions as they often result in a large tax bill for the employee/ shareholder.

5. CHECK CAR RECEIPTS Many employees who salary sacrifice cars make after-tax contributions in order to reduce or eliminate FBT, often in the form of a cash payment and unreimbursed petrol costs. Yet employees frequently ignore the non-car expenses on their receipts.

6. COST OF A CAR The ATO has finalised the Taxation Ruling on how certain arrangements affect the ‘cost’ of a car.

The Ruling deals with issues such as employee trade-ins and fleet discounts.

7. CAR ODOMETER READINGS When using the km method for calculating the taxable value of a car, it’s very important to have both opening and closing odometer readings.

You can substantiate these readings with sales or repair invoices, or charge card records.

However, where no information is available, the ATO has indicated it will impose the maximum 26 per

cent statutory fraction in working out the taxable value of the car.

8. USE OF UTES Many businesses believe they can provide an FBT-free ute to their employees because it is a workstyle vehicle. It is only FBT free if it is used for business purposes, home to work travel, and for other minor and infrequent private use.

9. GST If employees make after-tax contributions in respect of their car benefits, GST is payable and must be remitted to the ATO by their employer.

There is no GST payable on unreimbursed petrol costs.

10. LIVING AWAY FROM HOME ALLOWANCES The ATO has been undertaking review activity in relation to employers providing Living Away From Home Allowances to employees for some time and this is an ever changing issue with new legislation currently being drafted in relation to the taxation of these benefits.

It’s important that employers are able to demonstrate that the employees are actually living away from their usual place of residence, that the work contract supports this conclusion and that a copy of the Living away from usual place of residence declaration is readily available.

For more information, contact your local WHK adviser.

better advice for a better life

L1, 18 Synnot Street Werribee Vic 3030 T: 9742 8444 werribee@whk.com.au

Businesses and investors should discuss tax planning issues with their accountant before 30 June 2012 to achieve maximum results and minimise tax.

www.whk.com.au

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BUSINESS WEST

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Q&A BLACKBIRD Cruises captain and tireless volunteer Peter Somerville can now add three letters after his name after receiving a Medal of the Order of Australia as part of this year’s Australia Day Awards. Mr Somerville, who “saw the light and crossed the river” and moved to Footscray in the mid-1980s, has run the Blackbird Cruises along the Maribyrnong River for more than 30 years with son Warwick. The now-Seddon resident is a staunch campaigner for preserving the vegetation and wildlife surrounding the stretch. Mr Somerville is a member of the Friends of Sandy group and was a founding member and driving force behind the development of the Living Museum of the West. He has also been involved as an honorary waterways keeper, a contributor in Parks Victoria’s Two River Project, and a member of the Moonee Valley Integrated Waterways Advisory Committee.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB, AND WHAT SKILLS DID IT GIVE YOU TO GET YOU WHERE YOU ARE TODAY? I was an aircraft sheet-metal worker apprenticeship with T.A.A. and stayed 32 years. It taught me to question doubtful and controversial points; lead by example; and do not ask anyone to do something that you would not do yourself.

YOU RECENTLY RECEIVED A MEDAL OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA AS PART OF THE 2012 AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS. WHAT DOES THE AWARD MEAN TO YOU? The OAM is recognition for a job well done for my contribution to the community development and awareness of the Maribyrnong River Valley and the inner West of Melbourne.

“

We must get all levels of government and communities working together, not talkfests...

WHAT WAS THE LIGHT BULB MOMENT BEHIND BLACKBIRD CRUISES? From celebrating the Grimes exploration of the Maribyrnong and Yarra River, in conducting tours in 1978 and 1979 in someone else’s boat.

WHAT HAS RUNNING THE BUSINESS TAUGHT YOU? Patience, harmony, peace and appreciating the moment in what you are doing.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEMORABLE CRUISE AND WHY? In 1988 on a tall ship out at Station Pier. It was the last cruise at night and a storm hit us so a two hour cruise became three hours.

WHO INSPIRES YOU AND WHY? The inner self and family and friends – they keep you humble.

YOU WORK WITH YOUR SON WARWICK. WHAT IS YOUR WORKING RELATIONSHIP LIKE, AND IS IT HARD TO BE BOTH THE BOSS AND THE DAD? The relationship is great, no dad or boss because it is a partnership.

HOW WOULD YOU SELL THE WEST TO A POTENTIAL INVESTOR? Location – air, sea, rail, road connection for industries and a variety of lifestyles can be selected. Many new initiatives and projects have encouraged residential commercial and industrial developments.

YOU HAVE WORKED TIRELESSLY TO PRESERVE AND PROMOTE THE MARIBYRNONG RIVER VALLEY. WHAT WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO SEE HAPPEN TO THE AREA? Increase recreational community pursuits in all developments and enhance what is in the Valley now. We must get all levels of government and communities working together, not talkfests.

IF YOU HAD TO INVITE FIVE PEOPLE TO A BUSINESS LUNCHEON, WHO WOULD IT BE? I’ve found business luncheons non-productive and would rather have a luncheon with family and friends.

Blackbird Cruises captain Peter Somerville.

Picture: DAMJAN JANEVSKI

BUSINESS WEST

31

OUT OF HOURS

Business leaders and keen golfers teed off at the Greater Melton Chamber of Commerce’s golf day held at Eynesbury Golf Club last month. It was a unique morning, with guest speaker Jenni McFaull from Premier One Training addressing the audience and a golf professional providing some one-on-one training.

1 Above: Marlene Cassar from Tracy The Placement People lined up a chip shot under some watchful eyes.

2 1. Downer Australia’s Joe Fiala lines up a shot.

2. John Leckie and Leanne Taylor-Leckie from Wyndham City Massage and Sports Injury clinic.

3. Sports Ready’s Eloise Southby-Halbish and Matchworks’ Helen Hucker.

4. Genesis Fitness Club’s Sean Callahan and Lane Koski.

GREATER MELTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S GOLF DAY 32

BUSINESS WEST

3

4

OUT OF HOURS

WESTGATE CALDER BUSiNESS FORUM BLACK Caviar part-owner Gary Wilkie was all smiles at a recent Westgate Calder Business Forum event, and it’s not too hard to see why. Black Caviar stretched her unbeaten winning sequence to 19 recently when she captured the $750,000 Group 1 Lightning Stakes at Flemington.

Picture: DAMJAN JANEVSKI BUSINESS WEST

33

OUT OF HOURS

1. John Micallef, Principal at Will & Estate Lawyers, left, with Kris Wolanski fromUnited Surface Technologies Pty Ltd. 2. Catherine Duncan, General Manager at Matthews Steer Chartered Accountants, with Frank Bannan.

1

2

3. Mario Nastri, owner/ manager at Class Plastics, left, with Rob Bouquet, middle, owner of Bouquet Creative, and Ben Viceconte, right, manager at Viscount Agricultural.

4. From left, Dr Colin McLeod, Senior Fellow, Department of Management and Marketing at University of Melbourne, Ken Matthews, CEO/Founding Partner, Matthews Steer Chartered Accountants, Trudy Alcoe, Executive Officer VIC/TAS, Family Business Australia, Richard Moore, CEO, United Surface Technologies Pty Ltd and Dan Nihan, General Manager of Sales, Australia, ADP Employment Services.

3

5

4

5. Geoff Steer, Partner, Matthews Steer Chartered Accountants, left, with Chris Sikavitsas, Managing Director of Tullamarine Bus Lines.

6. Anthony Flapper, Partner, Matthews Steer Chartered Accountants, left, with Ray Reynoldson, Owner, Duplex Surface Treatment.

7. Peter Bell, Director at Techno Phobia, left, with Liz Joldeski, Business Development Manager (Western Metro region), Department of Business Innovation.

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BUSINESS WEST

6

7

OUT OF HOURS

STEERiNG

Richard Moore

SUCCESS BUSINESS owners in the West enjoyed an early morning tale of business success at the recent Matthews Steers Chartered Accountants business breakfast at Ascot House.

Entrepreneur Richard Moore told a rapt audience how United Surface Technologies went from a family start-up in his father’s garage to a business winning significant defence, mining and manufacturing contracts over the past 25 years.

Pictures: NICOLE SULTANA

MATTHEWS STEERS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS BUSiNESS BREAKFAST

BUSINESS WEST

35

BW NETWORK Business West Network – a growing directory of local businesses ready to do business with you.

You can join the Business West Network by registering online at www.businesswest.com.au to make sure you receive your personal copy of Business West AND receive a free onetime 30-word listing for your business in a future edition.

ADVERTISING REWARDS PO Box 82, South Melbourne, Victoria 9016 0123 www.advertisingrewards.com.au Advertising Rewards is a free service for businesses who want more value from their advertising spend.

AP MARKETING WORKS PO Box 471, Yarraville, Victoria 0419 546 159 www.apmarketingworks.com.au Marketing company providing marketing strategies, plans, implementation, training, workshops and coaching to service industries, education and small business. Headed by professional marketer and speaker Ailsa Page.

ART TEACHERS EXPIRED 6 St Patricks Pl, Tarneit, Victoria 0405 186 582 www.myartroomonline.com.au Online art education and photography programs and art products.

AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS 34 Bentley St, Williamstown North, Victoria 9397 3066 www.aqueoussolutions.com.au Desalination and Water Treatment equipment designed, manufactured and commissioned.

Suitable for agri-business, mining, and industry.

High quality drinking water from salty bores and sea water.

AUSTAB LABELS PTY LTD 70-74 Westgate Dve, Altona North, Victoria 8369 9777 www.austab.com.au With more than 50 years experience manufacturing labels, Austab can assist with both off the shelf or specially produced custom labels.

BACK IN MOTION BRAYBROOK Shop 3, Central West Plaza, 67 Ashley St, Braybrook, Victoria 9687 2700 www.backinmotion.com.au Preferred provider of physiotherapy, Pilates, massage and personal training in Australia. Our group has over 30 clinics across Australia and has been listed in the fastest growing franchises in Australia.

BALANCED LIFESTYLE MATTERS 19 Mirls St, Newport, Victoria 0409 831 002 www.balancedlifestylematters.com.au Body Detox - The technology used is the unique BodyCleanse Ionator System and a Magnetic Resonance Analyser to determine the electric frequency of major organs and devise a program for optimum health.

BERRY FAMILY LAW 162 Ferguson St, Williamstown, Victoria 9397 2488 www.berryfamilylaw.com.au We are a specialist Family Law firm that cater to any legal difficulties or issues arising from relationships.

We have offices in Williamstown and the CBD.

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BUSINESS WEST

BEST PRACTICE CERTIFICATION 2/23 Marriot Rd, Keilor Downs, Victoria 0419 161 668 www.bestpracticecertification.com.au Third Party Certification of quality, safety and environmental management systems to ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and AS 4801. Training and internal audit services.

BRIMBANK/MELTON LOCAL LEARNING & EMPLOYMENT NETWORK L 1, 13-15 Lake St, Caroline Springs, Victoria 9361 9324 www.bmllen.com.au The BMLLEN is a non-profit organisation working as Partnership Brokers in the Brimbank/Melton area of Melbourne. Working to improve education, employment and training outcomes for young people.

BUREAU VERITAS AUSTRALIA 3/435 Williamstown Rd, Pt Melbourne, Victoria 9922 0700 We are in the testing, inspection and certification business servicing a broad spectrum of customers all across Pacific region.

CHANDLER MACLEOD 1 Slough Rd, Altona, Victoria 8331 6020 Division of the Chandler Macleod Group.

CHILD ONLINE 38 Morcambe Cres, Keilor Downs, Victoria 9367 6462 www.childonline.org Online Publication.

COMPLETE HIRE EQUIPMENT PTY LTD 185 Fairbairn Rd, Sunshine, Victoria 9312 5444 www.che.net.au Complete Hire Equipment is open Mon-Frid 7am5pm and Sat 7am-12pm. We supply for hire: tools, boom lifts, cherry pickers, scissor lifts, plant and equipment for the construction, maintenance and DIY. COSTA LOGISTICS 275 Robinsons Rd, Ravenhall, Victoria 8363 9130 www.costalogistics.com.au Costa Logistics is a leading provider of third party warehousing and distribution services with leading presence in the temperature controlled sector. We provide cost efficient solutions in warehousing and distribution.

DE BRINCAT CLEANING SERVICES 9 Holly Dve, Point Cook, Victoria 0415 737 516 Looking to expand business, preferably in business hours. Would love to receive ideas on best advertising strategies and how to expand on a minimum dollar. Have cleaned for same company for 11 years.

ENVIRONMENTAL EARTH SCIENCES INTERNATIONAL L 1/98 Maribyrnong St, Footscray, Victoria 8398 4415 www.environmentalearthsciences.com Utilising its philosophy of Innovative Science, Environmental Earth Sciences develops strategies to sustainably unlock land such that it can become an economic asset available to sustain the community it serves.

FARREN GROUP PTY LTD 73 Maribyrnong St, Footscray, Victoria 9689 1000 www.farrengroup.com.au We are Licensed Land Surveyors and Development Consultants and Town Planners. We handle all types of land and Building Subdivisions.

FAZ GRAPHIC DESIGNS 15 Sunnyside Way, Cairnlea, Victoria 0411 413 169 www.fazgraphicdesigns.com.au Faz Graphic Designs is your single stop for all your business design needs! Faz Graphic Designs specialises in results-driven marketing including graphic design, branding and advertising solutions.

FLUX DESIGN STUDIO 4 Bunbury St, Footscray, Victoria 9687 3744 www.fluxdesignstudio.com.au FLUX Design Studio believes good design is honest and unobtrusive – drawing attention not to itself, but to the message. On time… on budget.

GET ME SORTED 41 Central Ave, Altona Meadows, Victoria 1300 788 192 www.getmesorted.com.au I save business owners time and money by organising office makeovers, setting up systems and helping business owners develop leadership and management strategies to move their business forward.

GATES AUSTRALIA PTY LTD 1-15 Hydrive Cl, South Dandenong, Victoria 9797 9666 Gates Australia is a wholly owned subsidiary of Gates Corporation (USA), one of the world’s largest manufacturers of Industrial and Automotive belts and hoses, plus a host of related products.

HEINEJONES 26 Murray St, Yarraville, Victoria 9689 2720 www.heinejones.com.au HeineJones is a visual communications consultancy specialising in branding business for success.

Based on experience spanning 25 years, HeineJones can tailor a brand strategy to suit your needs.

HOPPERS CROSSING PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTRE 171 Heaths Rd, Hoppers Crossing, Victoria 97495110 www.hoppersphysio.com Quality Physiotherapy and Women’s Health Services.

BW NETWORK HOBSONS BAY CITY COUNCIL 115 Civic Pde, Altona, Victoria 0428 165 298 Hobsons Bay was created on 22nd June 1994 following the amalgamation of the former Cities of Williamstown and Altona with parts of Laverton and South Kingsville. Situated on Port Phillip Bay around 10km west of central Melbourne, it covers an area of approximately 66 square kilometres. It has over 20kms of bay frontage, quality residential areas, a huge expanse of environmentally significant open space and a range of major industrial complexes, which contribute significantly to the economy of Victoria. These features contribute to the City’s culture, which is strongly linked to its maritime heritage, environment, industry and lifestyle.

HOMESTEAD FINANCIAL GROUP PTY LTD 6 Synnot St, Werribee, Victoria 9741 8566 Financial Planning and Finance business, including Insurance, Investment, Superannuation and Retirement advice, both personal and commercial.

Strong community engagement philosophy evidenced by viewing our year books in our customer reception room.

INDUSTRIAL ART SIGN CO 7/59 Hudsons Rd, Spotswood, Victoria 9398 0752 www.industrialart.net.au We are a sign company based in Spotswood specialising in signage that attracts attention.

We have a design orientated business creating signage for a wide range of clients.

MORTGAGE HOUSE HOPPERS CROSSING 8 Francisco Bay Point, Point Cook, Victoria 0439 439 019 www.mortgagehouse.com.au Mortgage House Hoppers Crossing is your complete mortgage solutions provider. Our service commitment is to walk you through the loan application process from start to settlement and even post-settlement.

MARISA BERTON DESIGN Unit 5, 49-55 Riverside Ave, Werribee, Victoria 0414 427 489 Large or small we design buildings including residential, commercial, apartments and mixed use developments. Town Planning and Building Permit applications. Urban Design approach on large sites and colour consultant. Twenty years experience.

METRO WEST Unit 307-277-287 Barkly St (Barkly Theatre), Footscray, Victoria 0417 014 308 DHS department responsible for social housing/ placements.

ORANGES AND LIME PO BOX 3540, Caroline Springs, Victoria 9307 7681 www.orangesandlime.com Oranges and Lime works with individuals and small to medium businesses in web design, web development, SEO, SEM, social networking, email marketing, content-creation, graphic design and more.

PROVEN RESUME RESULTS PO Box 81, Werribee, Victoria 0408 807 466 Experienced Human Resources consultant/manager and Professional Resume writer able to assist with free resume assessment, recruiting, interview coaching, key selection criteria and business Proposals. Mobile service - money back guarantee

PROBIOTEC LIMITED 83 Cherry Lane, Laverton North, Victoria 8278 7570 Manufacturer of complementary medicine and weight loss products.

Q-SAFE ELECTRICAL TESTING AND TAGGING 25 Neerim St, Melton South, Victoria 0427 873 989 www.q-safe.com.au We test and tag single and 3-phase equipment to AS/NZS 3760 to help you comply with the new OH&S legislation. Free log book reports.

Competitive rates with no hidden charges.

TRACY THE PLACEMENT PEOPLE Suites 11 & 13, 5 Duncans Rd, Werribee 0417 486 099 Job services and private recruitment.

THE MALKA GROUP 62 Lady Penryhn Dve, Wyndham Vale 0408 851 199 www.tmg.edu.au Government funded/Government recognised certificates and diploma courses in Childcare, Aged Care, Business, Finance, Hospitality, Retail, TAE, Disability, Transport and Logistics, and Community Services Work.

RAUNIK DEVELOPMENTS PTY LTD 5 Westwood Dve, Deer Park, Victoria 0418 558 681 www.raunikdevelopments.com Raunik Developments: We build and construct Industrial and Commercial properties. We also specialise in the Sales and Leasing of all our properties. No agents involved. Call Steve 0418558681. Competitive prices!

THE NINJA REPORT 40 Tournament Dve, Point Cook, Victoria 0407 874 229 www.ninjarep.com.au Implementation and compliance of Operational Excellence Systems (specialising in Quality, Health and Safety, Environmental, Security and Business Continuity management), Document management, Continuous Improvement and Knowledge management.

REGIONAL RAIL LINK AUTHORITY 80 Collins St, Melbourne, Victoria 8688 1191 www.regionalrailink.vic.gov.au Regional Rail Link is the largest rail infrastructure project underway in Australia and will separate metropolitan and regional train services in the west of Melbourne for the first time.

TRAVEL COUNSELLORS 10 Rottnest Crt, Hoppers Crossing, Victoria 0422 974 152 www.travelcounsellors.com.au Home based travel agency which means that I am available at a time and place to suit you.

SKILLS VICTORIA Level 1, 67 Ashley St, Tottenham, Victoria 0418 559375 www.skills.vic.gov.au Promote workforce development and vocational training to businesses in the western metropolitan region of Melbourne.

SMALLPRINT OUTER NORTH WEST MELBOURNE 22 Kingston Dve, Taylors Hill, Victoria 0407 206 966 Handmade pure silver jewellery using loved one’s fingerprints, hand and foot prints, drawings and handwriting.

STATESIDE CONVEYANCING PTY LTD Suite 28B, 80 Keilor Rd, Essendon North, Victoria 9374 2080 www.statesideconveyancing.com.au Stateside Conveyancing is a small boutique firm which conducts your transaction with all due diligence, care, skill and responsibility and also with an extremely friendly personal approach.

TELCOPLUS Suite 226, 189 Queen St, Melbourne, Victoria 1300 728 657 www.telcoplus.com.au Telcoplus is your one stop shop for phone, mobile and internet backed up by our unique personalised customer service.

THE BRANDING FACTORY 70 McNabs Rd, Keilor, Victoria 8336 1395 www.thebrandingfactory.com.au The Branding Factory is a one stop shop for promotional gifts, all printing and uniform needs.

We work with our clients to supply a full range of promotional gifts, such as pens, key tags, stubby holders, etc. We also offer the full range of printed business cards letter heads brochures, etc.

Embroidered shirts and caps with screen printed tops such as tee shirts and Hi Vis workwear.

VISUAL EXPOSURE 6/102-110 North View Dve, Sunshine West 9311 5722 www.visualexposure.com.au Visual Exposure is one of Melbourne’s leading Sign Companies, providing the full range of signage services from creation to installation.

TRACY THE PLACEMENT PEOPLE 17 Hall st, Newport, Victoria 0409 780 284 Employment, training and social opportunities for job seekers in receipt of Centrelink benefits.

VANOPA ANTIQUES & FINE ART 54 Willmott Dve, Hoppers Crossing, Victoria 9734 7995 Dealing in early English porcelain 1750-1830 Georgian glass 1700-1850, Post Modern Art Glass, Australian pottery, Australian art, including aboriginal art, selected reference books.

WAURN PONDS HEARING CLINIC 409 Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre, 173-199 Pioneer Rd, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 5245 7940 www.waurnpondshearing.com.au Providing quality hearing care for people of Greater Geelong.

WESTTEC SERVICES 3 Lazor St, Truganina, Victoria 0432 073 540 www.westtec.com.au IT support to produce functional, effective and secure computer systems and infrastructure. Also delivering pleasing and professional digital artwork and promotional material and web design.

YOU PACK REMOVALS PTY LTD 3/188 Dohertys Rd, Laverton North, Victoria 1300 882 112 www.youpack.com.au Australia’s number 1 Self Pack Interstate removalists. Container removals and transport Australia wide

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Find me online

www.capturerecruitment.com.au

TEMPORARY STAFFING AND PERMANENT PLACEMENTS, priding ourselves on our ability to understand and meet the expectations of our clients, working with and recruiting for Warehousing/Logistics, Trades/Construction, Manufacturing/Process and Clerical/Administration.

Our name reflects what we are here to do, and that is to Capture our customer’s needs and candidate knowledge. Only by listening and asking those “VITAL” questions of you, can we ensure your service needs are Captured. With locations in Point Cook Somerton and Geelong open 7am-5pm, with 24 hour after hours service. Inquiries: 9369 4459 email info @capturerecruitment.com.au

Mangosteen Fruit

1018392-MD6-12

Capture Recruitment

A BUSiNESS WEST PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

www.thequeenofthefruits.com

Known as “The Queen of the Fruits” is the only mangosteen product to market that contains the “whole fruit puree”. This delicious product is all natural, no added sugar, no artificial colour, & contains a natural source of Xanthones and Antioxidants to address multiple body systems. Free Sample available. After experiencing the benefits of Mangosteen Juice - You may want to share these benefits with family, friends & others. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY. For more information on this incredible home-based business opportunity Please contact Annie & Alex Jesaulenko Mobile: 0418142 116 Email: thequeenofthefruits@yahoo.com.au 531566-JM36-11

web.d3

www.webd3.com.au

web.d3 is a website development and design agency that specialises in helping small and medium businesses maximise their online presence and generate real results for their business. Whether you are looking for a brand new website, are building one that just never seems to get finished or are simply looking to freshen up your existing website, we have the right solution that will help boost your online presence and your business. Contact us today to discuss your needs & mention this ad for a 10% discount.

531557-JM36-11

BGT

www.bgt.org.au

BGT are the apprentice and trainee experts located in Melton providing apprentices and trainees to local business. BGT pride themselves in providing an employment solution for people in the West Melbourne area whilst assisting employers to find the right apprentice or trainee for their business. As a registered training organisation BGT also provide customised training services across the community. Like us on or follow us on @BGT01 531555-JM34-11

BUSiNESS SERVICES DESIGN SOLUTIONS

BUSINESS SUPPORT

LEGAL

CORPORATE TEAM BUILDING VENUE

FINANCIAL CONTROLLER SERVICES

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BUSINESS WEST

523189-MD30-11

Melbourne’s Raw Materials – The Studio is a state of the art demonstration kitchen studio and events space that can be used for corporate functions, team building, filming, cooking classes, product launches or intimate special events for up to 120 people.

For more details, please see the website on www.studiorawmaterials.com.au or contact the studio manager Robert Monteau on 0410 618 165

For a reliable, professional and flexible part time Financial Controller service that adds value to your business call Peter McLean at Prominens on Ph 8618 6820 “In 26 years this is the most detailed reporting we have had and it has helped improve our business” – Bruce Robertson, Kingfisher International

PROMINENS www.prominens.com.au

Business Wills | Wills & Probate Estate Adminstration | Home Visits www.legalessentials.com.au 9326 2627

To advertise your services to the business community phone: 1300 666 808

523182-MD30-11

Keeping organisations healthy – specialising in business process we can work with you to resolve an immediate organisational issue or to assist in forward planning and strategy to add value.

Ph 1300 602 880 www.complianceessentials.com.au Essential Compliance and best practice for every business

C418042-JM36-11

531585-SH41-11

CONTACT US FOR A COMPLIMENTARY NO-OBLIGATION DISCUSSION.

FFOR OR YOUR DIARY

APRIL Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

30

Sunday

1 End of daylight savings.

Move clock back one hour.

2 9

3

Property Investment Information Evening.

Suite 1/58 Old Geelong Rd, Hoppers Crossing.

7pm. Contact Melissa 9748 7999 for more information.

4

5

6

7

8 Easter Sunday.

10 11 12 13 14 15 Westgate Referral Network Meeting.

Mosaic Restaurant, 48 Pier St, Altona.

7am-8.30am. Call 1300 553 976 to book.

Starting a Business workshop.

Wyndham City Civic Centre, 45 Princes Hwy, Werribee. 6pm-9pm. Free.

Email business@wyndham. vic.gov.au for more information.

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 Wyndham BizNet Meeting.

Werribee Racing Club Rooms, Bulban Rd, Werribee. 6.30pm9.30pm. $40 members, $50 non-members.

Marketing for Growth workshop.

Melton Civic Centre, 232 High St, Melton.

6pm-9.30pm. $30. Call 9747 7200 for more information.

Small business mentoring sessions.

Email business@mvcc. vic.gov.au Melbourne’s Service Business Networkers event. Email msbn@ mailhousedirect.com.au

en Get Connected Green Business Breakfast..

Visit mvcc.vic.gov.au// businessevents Melton Business Excellence Awards. gov.

Visit www.melton.vic.gov. au/businessevents

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 MARCH

21 Marketing for Growth workshop. Hobsons Bay Civic Centre. 6pm. To book call Sally Curtis on 9932 1115 or email business@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au 22 Women in Business Networking and Ghost Tour event. Customs House Hotel, 161 Nelson Place, Williamstown. 7pm-10pm. $30 WIB members, $40 non-members. Email sandra@outsourceva.com.au for more information. 26 Starting Your Business workshop. Hobsons Bay Civic Centre, 115 Civic Parade, Altona. 6pm-9.30pm. $30. Call 9932 1115 to book. 28 Green Your Business, Grow Your Business seminar. Melton Civic Centre, 232 High St, Melton. 6pm-8pm. $20. Call 9747 7200 for more information. 29 Melbourne’s Service Business Networkers event. 1 Thomas Holmes St, Maribyrnong, Level 3, Suite 314. 6.45pm-9pm. $8. Email msbn@mailhousedirect.com.au for more information.

www.leadwest.com.au

The Calendar is brought to you by... info@leadwest.com.au 523181-MD30-11

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You don’t have to look far for a better car service!

Get great service in 2 locations.

FOOTSCRAY AND DEER PARK WE OFFER

9Pick up & delivery service 9Fleet service NATIONAL DEALER OF THE YEAR! AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST INTEGRATED SHOWROOM

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448 Geelong Road

766 Ballarat Road

Phone: 9998 2196

1023766-SH11-12

Footscray Deer Park