Success Business Magazine - Issue 14 | July, August 2014 by Success North Queensland

ISSUE 14 | JULY, AUGUST 2014

DAVID cr safulli

YOURS FREE

Regional resilience

ISSUE 14 | JULY, AUGUST 2014

It's a sweet life

Discover the Burdekin

KEY INGREDIENTS FOR YOUR EVENT Curtis Stone and Lyndey Milan www.successbusinessmag.com.au

Phil RuthVen

TECH ZONE

Office Love

Like A Boss

NQâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Opportunities pg.62

Discover the Tile pg.60

The ups and downs pg.58

What Industry suits you? pg.46

inside regulars 08 10 53 57 60 69 86 100 106 108 110 111 112 114

Regional Update Advice from Andrew Griffiths Presenting Savour with Success Tech Zone - NEW! Success Top Tips App Review - NEW! Corporate Makeover 15 Minutes With Cheers, Beers & Bubbles Your View Just for Fun Calendar of Events News Desk

ISSUE 14 | JULY, AUGUST 2014

COVER STORY Regional Resilience David Crisafulli

36 contributors

highlights

NQIB The more you travel, the more you save

impress your guests Conferences & Functions

Onboard I.T. Outsourcing your I.T. requirements

40-52

Ray White – Julie Paton The 6 P's

Nixon Build When considering design

The Marketing Factory Understanding your target market

WIN Television Buying local to build business

12-18

creating a future Education & Training

93-99

REAL ESTATE SPECIALISTS Agent profiles

Building Services

Townsville | Cairns

AE SMITH

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

Air Conditioning Refrigeration Solar Plumbing

Electrical Data Cabling & Wiring Gas Fitting

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panel of experts

editors

contributors Paul Glasby

EDITOR

Marissa Candy

Business Development Manager at NQIB.

MEDIA SALES EXECUTIVES

Qualified General Insurance Broker with 25 years' experience in the insurance industry, Paul fills the role of Business Development Manager at North Queensland Insurance Brokers.

JOURNALISTS

TANIA GREENWOOD

SUB-EDITOR

Rachel Licciardello

Lynsee Coleman Sarah Jones

Tracey Lee Gordon Julie Plath Susan Graham-Ryan

Owner/Manager at Onboard I.T.

Owner of Onboard I.T Tania, has been involved in the I.T Industry for over 15 years. She manages her highly experienced team who service the North Queensland region and beyond.

DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY Callan Jones Teigan Guy Amber Burling Megan Bond

SUBSCRIPTIONS & ADMINISTRATION Jocene Abberton

JULIE PATON

Success Business Magazine Pty Ltd PO Box 5660 Townsville QLD 4810 ACN NO. 147 633 814

Sales and Marketing Consultant at Ray White Townsville, Julie (Jools) has a wealth of experience in relationship management over her career.

22 Walker Street, Townsville QLD 4810 P. 07 4771 2669 F. 07 4721 1974 news@successbusinessmag.com.au

Find us on Facebook

Sales and Marketing Consultant at Ray White.

ot only is this a glorious time to live in our region, we are in the midst of the events season, attracting visitors from near and far. You don’t have to look far for an opportunity to leverage from these events and in this edition we explore our neighbouring region, The Burdekin. The town I grew up in and hold many fond memories of. We showcase the broad diversity and service offering from Ayr and Home Hill and hope this encourages you jump in the car and travel an hour south. In this edition we welcome a new contributor, OnBoard IT and look forward to their updates on the technology industry. Also featured is a positive outlook for Townsville and North Queensland, from studies conducted by IBIS World’s Founder and Chairman, Phil Ruthven. Enjoy this edition.

- Marissa Candy

All information and images are subject to copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without the prior permission in writing to the publisher. The views and opinions of authors and advertisers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information at the time of print, the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or subsequent consequences including loss or damage from reliance on information in this publication.

 WANT MORE SUCCESS? Our new website is now LIVE. Your ultimate online resource for Success Business Magazine.

 www.successbusinessmag.com.au

Check it out now www.successbusinessmag.com.au

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

Managing Director at Nixon Build & Design.

Managing Director of Nixon Build, Bret has 25 years' experience in the building industry and has been highly recognised within this industry winning numerous awards.

BREE DWYER Brand Manager at The Marketing Factory.

As Brand Manager for The Marketing Factory, Bree is responsible for developing great marketing campaigns for small and large organisations throughout North Queensland.

benjamin stivala Chief of Staff at WIN News Television.

As Chief of Staff for WIN News Townsville, Benjamin is responsible for leading a team of journalists and camera operators to produce a half hour local new bulletin five nights a week.

Raelene Fewquandie

Bret Nixon

Principal Trainer and Assessor at Learning Partnerships

Raelene holds various Diplomas including, a Diploma of Vocational Education; Training Design and Development; Human Resources and Management.

want to write for our magazine? We are currently seeking a new contributor to join our panel of experts. Contact the office on 07 4771 2669 to find out more.

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REGIONAL UPDATE Cr Jenny Hill

Glenys Schuntner

Mayor of Townsville Townsville City Council

Chief Executive Officer Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland Inc.

Townsville has put forward a strong case to position the city as an economic force in our submission to the federal government’s inquiry into developing northern Australia. To their credit the state and federal governments have talked up their willingness to support the North — but nothing speaks louder than funding and commitment. To realise our potential, we need governments to invest in infrastructure and projects that will support new business, industry and jobs for the future. Locally we’re doing our bit in providing a stimulus for our economy at a time when it’s needed most. That certainly is the case with Townsville’s CBD which will play an important role in the city’s future. The vision in the city’s CBD Master Plan is to create a vibrant, bustling downtown area and doubling the current number of people living, working and visiting the CBD to 30,000 by 2030. It may seem a lofty ambition, but even in the current subdued economic climate construction is on track to reach the 16-year target thanks largely to Townsville’s CBD incentives scheme. The program has provided a major stimulus for local jobs and inner-city living after bringing forward development applications worth hundreds of millions of dollars. A total of 15 qualified projects worth around $270 million have either been completed, are under construction or in the pipeline as a result of incentives from the program which was introduced in 2011. Importantly the qualifying projects will create 302 new residential apartments, 221 short-stay accommodation apartments and in excess of 33,191 metres of commercial and retail space in the CBD.

Regional development planning and implementation regularly focuses on economic infrastructure such as power sources and electricity generation, roads, transport, water access and telecommunications, but there is also a focus on social infrastructure that supports people to work and live in communities. Such infrastructure includes hospitals, schools, kindergartens, cultural, sport and recreation facilities and public spaces. Sadly, there are also needs to address issues in our community that are difficult to discuss and even more difficult to fix. Child abuse and neglect is one of those major issues. However, in order to build stronger, more resilient and sustainable communities, such issues need to be addressed. ACT for Kids is one example of an organisation doing amazing things to prevent and address child abuse and neglect problems. The new ACT for Kids, Child and Family Centre of Excellence opened recently in Townsville with $3.4 million in funding support from the Australian Government through the Regional Development Australia Fund. Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland (RDA) is very proud to be associated with this project through its role in promoting and judging applications in the Regional Development Australian Fund Round 2. James Cook University provided the land on which the centre has been built, the Queensland Government also contributed $600,000 to the project and remaining funds were contributed by ACT for Kids and their generous private sector supporters.

We will see an increasing number of cranes on the CBD skyline in months ahead as more projects come on line.

The opening of the centre, the only one of its kind in Australia, will have a positive long-term impact on not only Townsville but neighbouring regions. Our northern Queensland families and communities will be stronger as a result of the services that can be provided through this new facility and the teaching and learning opportunities for university students with careers in medical and social services areas will be immeasurable.

As well as generating local jobs in the construction industry and flow-on effects for the rest of the community, these new projects are creating new residential units, and the commercial and retail space to bring more people into the CBD to work, live and shop.

The project to develop the centre demonstrated from day one that there is a real need for such a facility and that there was broad community support and partnership funding. Demonstrating these were key elements to the strong application and success in achieving such significant funding.

Clearly the incentives scheme, which was introduced during the time of the previous council, has done its job.

For more information on Australian Government grants for regions, visit: http://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/funding/

Capped off at $7.5 million, the program has provided discounts on council fees and charges for projects exceeding $3 million in value and that would be substantially completed by June, 2015. While the CBD Taskforce’s work to revitalise the CBD is a big part of the city’s future, it’s just part of the story.

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

Stephen Motti

David Kippin

President Townsville Chamber of Commerce

Chief Executive Officer Townsville Enterprise Limited

Happy New Financial Year! The beginning of a new financial year doesn’t carry the same hopes as a new calendar year but it does clarify what the next 12 months will be about. In the lead up to the End of the Financial Year, the Townsville Chamber hosted two headline - making keynote speakers within a week of each other: the Parliamentary Secretary to Federal Treasurer Joe Hockey, The Hon Steven Ciobo MP; and the The Hon Campbell Newman, Premier of Queensland. During the events, I informed the keynote speakers that Townsville had seen employment and projects flatline over the past few months, as reported by our members and as experienced in our own businesses. Both speakers replied with a sobering yet predictable message: economic times will continue to be tough. So, what does it mean for Townsville? Since the beginning of the year, the Chamber has provided representation at a number of forums, and has met with senior staff and elected representatives from all levels of government. We are actively engaged in the Northern Australia and the Queensland Plan discussions and we continue to hold positive dialogues with our counterparts in Papua New Guinea and the office of the Prime Minister. The Chamber represents business and industry on a number of committees including Defence, Asian Engagement, State Economic Development and Digital Technologies, Council’s Planning and Projects, as well as the CBD Taskforce. The purpose of our participation is to ensure the value of our city is clearly recognised and the capacity, skills and services of our members are thoroughly understood. Although our representation doesn’t bear overnight results, it is imperative our members, most of them small to medium enterprises, be represented and informed so that results can be produced in the long run. Townsville recently hosted the largest and most significant summit on the future of Northern Australia held to date. The Northern Development Summit in late June brought together some of the most senior leaders from across Australia to plan the short and medium term development of the northern half of the country. That development will bring unforseen opportunities for local businesses in the years to come.

Being chosen to host The 2014 Northern Development Summit was a major strategic coup for Townsville North Queensland and gave our community the opportunity to be in the face of key political decisions-maker and investors connected with the development of Northern Australia. It was the first time ADC Forum had taken a major event outside of a capital city and the event saw our fantastic city showcased to over 500 key politicians, business people and academics from across Australia and the world. It gives me a great sense of pride to see our region take a leadership role in providing a significant contribution to the agenda and direction of the development of the North. Townsville North Queensland is driven by opportunity with an increasingly diversified and can-do economy. Whilst current trading conditions are tough for many businesses, the region continues to see positive growth indicators, with the April 2014 release of our gross regional product showing a $1.151 billion increase in value, outlined in our recently released State of the Region report. Townsville Enterprise has been involved in a number of major projects and the past few months have been very successful in delivering outcomes for the region. The delivery of the Dalrymple Scheme (formerly known as the North and North West Queensland Feasibility Studies) by the Deputy Prime Minister, Hon Warren Truss MP, confirmed the viability of base-load power generation and large scale irrigated agriculture in the North Queensland region. Townsville Enterprise kicked off the peak season for tourism with a collaborative local marketing campaign, Tourism is Everyone’s Business. Designed to encourage residents to holiday at home by educating the community on what the region offers visitors and locals, the series of Open Days highlighted the importance of supporting the local industry. Townsville North Queensland is now part of the Queensland brand family and I’m sure you are all ‘alive with curiosity’ following the launch of the new brand and subsequent marketing campaign for the region, which provides a platform for consistent communications and broad industry engagement, to drive significant visitation and spend in the region. The recently released Townsville North Queensland Destination Tourism Plan (DTP) developed by Townsville Enterprise in consultation with key industry stakeholders and the government, sets the 2014–2020 vision for our tourism and events sector. The DTP sets the short, medium and long term strategies for the region and will influence the priority projects and activities of governments, Townsville Enterprise Limited and industry to achieve the 2020 tourism expenditure targets as set out by Tourism and Events Queensland and Tourism Australia. Townsville continues to be one of the fastest growing cities in Australia and it is evident the increasing population is generating enthusiasm towards the development of Northern Australia. It’s a very exciting time to be living and working in North Queensland.

successbusinessmag.com.au

Advice from

ANDREW ANDREW GRIFFITHS. AUTHOR. PRESENTER. ADVISOR.

Working with family, friends and lovers. If you own your own business it is only a matter of time until you find yourself working with a family member, a friend or even lover (or two). Whilst there are many upsides, there can also be some very deep and dark pitfalls.

can easily slip into the routine of talking about the business all the time. Make time that is business-free talk time.

Small business has traditionally revolved around this family centric model. Family members were enlisted to work in the family business, simply because they were available, they could be trusted (generally) and they would work for very long hours for very little money. If the business made money they shared the rewards and if times were tough, they tightened their belts and did what they could to help it survive.

The following advice comes from my own experiences as well as the experience of many people I have met and worked with who have family, friends or lovers working in their business:

Set the ground rules and make them clear.

Even if you already have your family business up and running, it is never too late to make the time to set the ground rules so everyone knows what is expected of them. A lack of ground rules or clarity around expectations leads to all kinds of problems and confusion – spell them out and put them in writing to leave no room for confusion.

Good pillow talk versus bad pillow talk.

OK, hopefully we all know what good pillow talk is, but bad pillow talk is an in depth profit and loss discussion in bed. We need to have very clear boundaries between the business and the bedroom so to speak. Couples that work together

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

We need clear roles and responsibilities within the business.

This might sound obvious but a lack of clarity around who does what and who is responsible for what are two of the biggest causes of friction in family-run businesses. So spend some time working this out early in the piece and then let people do their job.

We need to have time apart and outside interests.

From my observations (and experience) when you live and work together you can easily stop having your own life and interests outside of the business and the relationship. Making time just for you and your own interests is vital. It isn’t being selfish it is being smart.

5. Have a way to solve disagreements (ideally before they happen). Having a mechanism to solve conflict is vital in any partnership but often familyrun businesses haven’t figured out how to do this, especially if there are only two people in the business who are equal partners. In the past I have used a third person as an adjudicator – whenever there was a problem that we couldn’t resolve, we went to our adjudicator to cast the deciding vote.

Have a clear vision on where the business is heading and make sure everyone knows about it.

Time needs to be spent ensuring that everyone in the business is clear about where the business is heading. Clarity is not a sign on the wall with some corny mission statement, clarity is sharing dreams, aspirations, goals and expectations. Sometimes it is surprising to see just how aligned your dreams are and sometimes it is scary to see just how misaligned they are. Clearly the latter can lead to big issues so it is better to find out early on.

Accept that we all work, think and act differently – and that is OK.

We have to accept that other members of the team will want to do things their own way, and we need to be able to share our experience, but also give them the room, the space and the respect to do things their own way.

Know your strengths, know your weaknesses and be big enough to admit to both.

individual’s strengths is always going to be more successful than one where the wrong people are doing the wrong jobs.

Never stop having fun, playing and most importantly, celebrating your victories.

One of the upsides of working with family, friends and lovers is that you are working with people you really like (hopefully). It is important that we keep a fun and playful environment happening. Too many businesses become very serious and this seriousness then gets taken into the home environment as well. Celebrate loud and celebrate often.

10. If you leave the business, leave the business. Selling the business to younger family members is a common form of succession planning, but a lot of people struggle to let go once they have taken the leap. By all means you have a lot of experience to offer, but you have to come up with a way to share that experience in a positive way that helps the business to grow but also lets the newer members of the business put their own ideas into practice. After all, one day you won’t be around, and they will be left on their own.

This is a golden rule for success in any business but particularly so in family businesses. We can’t be good at everything and any business that works to an

Recommended

ANDREW

Recommended Website

Recommended Reading

www.huffingtonpost.com

The 12 Week Year – Get more done in 12 weeks than most people do in 12 months

The Huff Post is a very contemporary news site, with a bit of a difference. It has everything from comprehensive business stories through to cheap trashy gossip. The key here is to find the sections of the site that you like and focus on them. Whilst it is very American, there is a lot of information and news about business, specifically doing business better, that is relevant no matter which part of the world you may be in. Business trends, new developments, inventions, ideas and how-to advice is abundant and I always find great articles that I can learn from. Plus there is a nice mix of written articles and video.

Authors – Brian P Moran and Michael Lennington The guide to shortening your execution cycle down from one year to 12 weeks. Most organisations and individuals work in the context of annual goals and plans; a 12 month execution cycle. Instead, The 12 Week Year avoids the pitfalls and low productivity of annualised thinking. This book redefines your "year" to be 12 weeks long. In 12 weeks, there just isn't enough time to get complacent, and urgency increases and intensifies. The 12 Week Year creates focus and clarity on what matters most and a sense of urgency to do it now. In the end more of the important stuff gets done and the impact on results is profound. • Explains how to leverage the power of a 12 week year to drive improved results in any area of your life • Offers a how-to book for both individuals and organisations seeking to improve their execution effectiveness • Authors are leading experts on execution and implementation Turn your organisation's idea of a year on its head, and speed your journey to success. To buy a copy check out Booktopia, Australia’s best online book store – www.booktopia.com.au

Never let the opportunity to make a good decision slip by

”

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IMPRESS Your

GUESTS Conferences & Functions HIGHLIGHT Issue 14 | July/August 2014

Is the thought of planning your next corporate function overwhelming? You’re not alone. Here, we make the hard work a little easier for you, bringing together helpful tips from some of Australia’s best in the hospitality biz and showcasing some of North Queensland’s amazing venues.

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

The BEST Guest Experience Story by Tracey Lee Gordon

s one of Australia’s favourite, and internationally renowned, chefs, Curtis Stone hardly needs an introduction. He’s a big industry name in the States and the UK, and a regular in our lounge rooms making guest appearances on Masterchef and The Biggest Loser. As the Coles Supermarket front-man he’s also in our kitchens, inspiring us with fresh food recipes for healthy, affordable household menus.

But, despite his celebrity status, he’s still more at home in a busy, bustling kitchen than anywhere else — because there is simply nothing that inspires Curtis more than cooking, creating and celebrating food. His Beverly Hills restaurant, Maude, rivals the world’s best, offering a prix fixe menu and a truly intimate chef’s table experience. So when we went looking for the advice on making sure that function offers the best guest experience, we went straight to the best to get it.

“ Food

is the common denominator of any occasion — but it's not the only that makes a lasting impression ”

ingredient

IIf you’re planning to hold a function or event, you’re going to leave a lasting impression — good or bad — on each and every invited guest. As we’re not all closet event planners, we asked homegrown celebrity chef Curtis Stone to step out of the kitchen and give us his top tips on making that function a success.

Curtis on Planning

Curtis on Menu

The guest experience commences from the moment your guests arrive at a venue. So it’s really important to consider where they are coming from and how they are getting there. Will they need to be served beverages on arrival? What type of menu will fit your function – is it seated or more casual. What about music and service? Think about the number of staff that will be required and the necessary preparation involved in the menu that you want served.

Menus are specific to what you, the client, wants these days. Ten to 20 years ago, functions were a lot more formal; these days, even continuous servings of appetisers are common for a full function where the setting can be more casual. You can’t underplay the importance of fresh food ingredients — from where the venue shops, to the menu and meal presentation.

Even though it’s something that we generally don’t like to do, the most important element for ensuring a successful function is careful planning — it runs the gauntlet of thinking around the whole guest experience.

Curtis on Venue

The size of the venue is the most important thing to consider, it shouldn’t be too small but it can be a mistake to go too big as well. Shortlisting a few different venues is a good idea; and when choosing the right one from your shortlist, consider that the overall design will set the ambiance. Of course, music choice will add to, or distract from, the mood you are trying to create. When a venue is courting a client for a function booking, a menu tasting should be offered, and you need to establish from the outset whether they will cater for special dietary requirements. What type of service and staff does the venue offer? Set the ground rules for how you want your guests to be treated and make sure the venue undertakes a staff briefing prior to the event. If you have engaged an event coordinator, it’s important that the venue has no issue working with him or her.

There is definitely a growing need for any venue serving meals to be able to showcase where their ingredients are coming from; people want to know what they are eating and that ingredients are coming from accredited farmers and producers.

The days of the traditionally-set dual menu for larger functions are gradually being surpassed, especially for functions with more than two courses. A venue will always need to cater for the dietary requirements of some guests, but if you are working with a good chef who is confident in their menu and good at what they do then a single set menu should impress everyone.

Curtis on Budget

If you are managing the event-planning yourself, you have to keep a handle on costs. Again it comes back to planning, and a lack of planning can be a real contributor to the final bill coming in over what you anticipated. Don’t underestimate the guest list and make sure that you keep an eye on the little extras that we all want, that perhaps we didn’t initially think about. Document and track what you are asking for and don’t leave yourself in the hands of others too much. Make sure you are across every detail.

successbusinessmag.com.au

Townsville's premier venue, there is no other like The Banquet Centre THE BANQUET CENTRE Did you know that The Banquet Centre accommodates all manner of business functions? From intimate meeting’s of 20 guests to corporate luncheons for up to 200! Set in the heart of the CBD, the moment you enter The Banquet Centre you transcend into the building's sophistication and charm. Built in 1886, The Banquet Centre's rich history is reflected through original fireplaces and exposed brick walls. Refurbished back in 2010, The Banquet Centre is now a state-of-the-art function venue with all modern amenities. Ceiling-mounted data projector, screen, plasmas and premium audio equipment facilitate the function room to meet all technological requirements. Furnished with soft, comfortable chairs and tables covered with premium linen, settings are functional and stylish. With a full onsite commercial kitchen the in-house catering team offer scrumptious morning and afternoon teas to sophisticated corporate lunches, dinners and cocktail parties.

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

The Banquet Centre is the venue of choice for top Townsville and Queensland based businesses, who continue to return year after year to hold corporate lunches, presentations and meetings. For a venue with modern pizzazz and old world charm look no further than The Banquet Centre, for a truly unique experience. For further information please contact Sales and Marketing Manager Janae Branley at sales@townsvillebrewery.com.au or 0400 242 070, or visit us on facebook www.facebook.com/thebanquetcentre.

Thank you to The “Banquet Centre team for an excellent event once again. ” - Offermans Partners

Event & Party PA C K A G E S

Enjoy our sensational food packages starting from $40 with beverage packages from $33. Menus can be tailored to suit your needs and tastes and all of our packages include room hire.

Whatever the occasion, Mercure has got you covered. For a comprehensive list of our event and party packages and to book your function today please email us on stay@mercuretownsville.com.au

Woolcock Street 4812 Townsville Ph: 07 4759 4900 www.mercure.com

Enjoy a Brazilian Food Safari CHICO RIO - Brazilian Churrasco Chico Rio is creating a little Rio in the heart of Townsville City. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian Churrasco (BBQ) all-you-can-eat menu like the locals. Meats marinated and charcoal grilled are carved and served at your table by passadores in a continuous service. Dinner from 5.30pm seven nights a week. Chico Rio now also has a private upstairs venue for your special celebrations, conferences and work events catering from 20 to 80. Private lunch bookings for groups of over 40. Come in and celebrate the food, fun, fiesta with family and friends that is Chico Rio. For more information visit www.chicorio.com.au or phone 07 4772 1073.

successbusinessmag.com.au

Influencing

APPETITES Story by Tracey Lee Gordon

Lyndey Milan is Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most respected authority on all things food, wine, agriculture and lifestyle. At 16 she decided to make cooking her business and 30 years on sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most certainly done that, taking a lead in the food media revolution in the process.

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

one opportunity “ You have to make a first impression ”

he’s an astute businesswoman, entrepreneur, author, writer, presenter, fundraiser, sponsor, teacher, mentor, and the 2014 recipient of the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).

Industry accolades don’t get much higher than an OAM for services to hospitality, particularly to the food and wine industry and to the community; an award which really does define the wide and diverse scope of Lyndey’s contribution to the industry and its media following. In 2014 she’s presenting the 16-episode series Lyndey Milan’s Taste of Australia, Sundays on 7TWO, showcasing the people, places and producers that underpin Australian’s thriving culinary culture. Lyndey Milan stopped by Townsville to give SBM some interesting insights into the industry that fuels our appetites.

Food Talk

“100% of people eat — it’s something that we all do and it’s something that brings people together.”

Lyndey was 16 when she saved her pocket money to buy Margaret Fulton’s cookbook. But, in the ‘70s and ‘80s, there were no media industry peers and none of the interest we have seen escalate in the last decade with the emergence of the ‘celebrity chef’. “Margaret Fulton — whom I’m fortunate to call a very dear friend — was really the very first to promote cooking, and my biggest inspiration,” says Lyndey.

Food Trends

“2014 will see the industry evolve even more, as our options continue to expand with more international influences coming to the fore.”

Lyndey predicts that in 2014, we can expect to see a greater presence of South American and Mexicanstyle food in Australia with food trucks already happening on the streets; and a lot of room for these influences to expand into the casual and fine dining experience. Keep your taste spuds open to Peruvian food, a result of the influence of the Spanish, African, Japanese and Change, or innovation, comes from Chinese migration into the top of the industry and filters down, the Quechua culture. it’s then showcased and reported, the

“

cuisine or style becomes present in restaurants and then the influence filters down further into our homes.

To Lyndey, food is the strongest communication tool available and a valuable one for collaboration. She points out that while we enjoy the accessibility and affordability of eating out in our current era for both business and pleasure, Australia expects a very high standard from their venues and restaurants. “We aren’t removed from the land and are more connected to our food because of our agricultural base. That really goes back to our heritage as a convict settlement,” says Lyndey. “We have always had fresh food and haven’t had anyone telling us how to do it, so we have never been dictated by the traditional cooking rules of international cultures. “I think the Australian personality is the key to the style of food we eat and what we want to eat — we like to do what we want, and we’re very much the same with our wines.”

Evolution of the food media revolution

“I really wanted to be an actor, but became a teacher instead. By working in the media, I’ve been able to become a cooking teacher/entertainer, so it’s satisfied the artist in me. But I have also been honoured to be a part of the change as the food media revolution has evolved into a multi-million dollar industry.”

For North Queensland, with the abundance of seafood available, consider Japanese influences, flavours and presentation. Think raw fish, ceviche-style, with lime juice, potatoes, quinoa, corn and aja amarillo or yellow chilli.

”

Business Success

“Networking is important — I’ve learned from experience that opportunities come from all directions.” Lyndey balances her media commitments with a successful consultancy business, a television production company, Flame Productions, a distribution company, Flame Distribution, and teaching, fundraising and sponsorship commitments, crediting hard work as the key to her success.

Lyndey’s Top Tips for Success 1.

Planning - everything works better when it has been well planned and you’ve paid attention to detail.

Be ambitious - sometimes you need to take a leap to reach your goal.

Don’t take “no” for an answer - find a different approach to get the outcome you want.

Don’t over commit or overextend yourself.

Maintain and nurture broad and varied networks - meet new people, contribute and be seen.

“I have a diverse range of interests and commitments, but I have an ability to work hard and grasp opportunity. To anyone in business or thinking about it, if you want to be successful then don’t underestimate where hard work can get you. Network and if you grasp an opportunity, do it whole heartedly.”

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A Taste of the Mediterranean MAR IONIO Inspired by the simplicity and fresh flavours of the Mediterranean, Mar Ionio is bringing a unique dining experience to Townsville. Serving up the very best of Italian and Greek cuisine, Mar Ionio is helmed by three award-winning European chefs who have created an enticing menu that is guaranteed to get your mouth watering. For a truly authentic experience, the restaurant's handmade gourmet pasta is a must. Also, have your catch cooked up by our chefs for an even greater experience of your adventures. The menu features traditional favourites while also presenting a contemporary culinary experience using fresh produce sourced locally and overseas, accompanied with an extensive Italian, Greek and local wine selection. Located on Palmer Street overlooking Ross Creek and the marina, Mar Ionio sets the tone of the Mediterranean and complimented with its coastal décor inspired by the Ionian Sea, you feel transported to the azure waters of your Ionian destination. Mar Ionio is open for dinner Monday–Sunday from 5pm and for lunch Friday– Sunday from midday and is also available for functions and corporate bookings. For more information visit www.marionio.com.au or phone 07 4724 0051.

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/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

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Story by Julie Plath Photography by Amber Burling and Callan Jones

Regional resilience

The early signs were there for this sports-mad country kid, when in Year 7, david crisafulli presented a speech on why North Queensland does not get its fair share and should become a separate state.

s the youngest of an Italian Catholic cane farming family, David describes his childhood as blessed.

Born and raised in Trebonne, 8km west of Ingham, he reflects on his carefree days of riding motorbikes on the farm and playing cricket in the street. “Mine was a childhood of little change,” recalls David. “One family home, two schools, my family and community – that was my world. I learned about hard work from dad and about compassion from mum – they have always been my moral compass.” The stability of his childhood years however did not prepare him for the daunting thought of moving to the ‘big smoke’ for university.

“Hooked on News”

Having worked at the Herbert River Express for Year 10 work experience, David became hooked on news. “I have always been genuinely curious about other people’s stories, so studying journalism was a natural choice — despite being told it would be difficult to find work in regional media!" When the time came though, it was intimidating for the 17-year-old.“The thought of moving to Townsville was too much so I applied for an apprenticeship as an instrument fitter in Ingham,” David explains. “At the time I was told I would not make a good tradesman,” he laughs, “and it turned out it was not to be.”

Cover Story

" even if

i would do my job i won the lotto

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David also describes these years as his making. “I think taking on full time study and work was when I really grew up,” he reflects. “It was hard work, but hard work was not a novel concept to me. I grew up on a cane farm, the son of an Italian migrant who left school at 13 and worked hard to build a life for his family. “In my career I have worked alongside ministers and successful business people and have had the opportunity to interview my boyhood sporting heroes, but nothing compares to my father,” David says with genuine emotion. “He used to say to me, ‘I don’t care what you do so long as you are the best. If you dig holes for a living, I want you to dig the best holes’. “In fact in my maiden parliamentary speech I told the story of how my grandfather emigrated to Australia in the 1940s and without speaking any English, worked to save enough money to bring his family to Australia. It is through stories such as these that our great nation was built — on hard work and big hearts.”

“

i am here for a cause, and that is

north queensland

”

In 2011, David turned his attention to state politics and was again told he shouldn’t. Words he was used to hearing and words he was by now learning to respectfully heed, but ignore. “People questioned my sanity when I announced my resignation to contest the state election.” Described as a big gamble, David took on the safe Labor seat of Mundingburra, one that had only been held for only two out of 100 years by a member of his side of politics.

“I believed it was make or break time” “I made the decision to run because I believed the next decade for North Queensland was make or break,” David says emphatically.

“If we don’t get the infrastructure projects we need now, we will suffer the same fate as other places such as Brisbane where they are continually playing catch up.” Of the goals he has kicked during his time in office, David credits the major infrastructure projects such as Woolcock/Mather Streets, Blakeys Crossing, Banfield Drive–Dalrymple Road. “We had not had any major state road upgrades for a decade up until 2012,” he says.

“I would do my job even if I won the lotto”

David also cites the turnaround in juvenile crime. “Ours was a city under siege,” he says. “We changed the Juvenile Justice Act and added 60 extra police officers which saw a fall of more than 20% in property and car theft.

“I would choose to do my job even if I was to win the lotto,” says David. “I had a defining moment when I was a journalist at WIN Television,” he reflects. “I had just completed an interview regarding a political situation and had an overwhelming feeling of frustration – why was nobody questioning this? It was probably this moment when I realised my work in journalism had led to a growing interest in politics.”

“In the last 10 months, compared to the previous 10, there have been 500 less homes broken into and 300 less cars.”

It is easy to see the passion David exudes when he talks of his work. From his early days working with the Herbert River Express and then his dream job as the sports reporter with WIN Television, David’s sense of hard work and resilience has been his guiding light.

David’s entry to the political world began when he was offered a role as political media adviser, and it was during that time he was asked to run for Council.

David says his government is also working solidly on big ticket items such as long-term energy and educational needs, a stadium in the city and the next generation of health and road upgrades. “These are all defining projects for North Queensland’s future.”

“You won’t win, but it will be good for you”

David describes his path to politics as accidental in many ways as he was never a career politician.

“You won’t win, but it will be good for you” were the words David heard at the time he announced his intention to run for local council. Next came months of literally walking the streets of 4814 for his campaign. “I was bitten by dogs, yelled at and saw things I shouldn’t have seen,” laughs David. “These experiences aside, it was a great learning opportunity and I was getting good feedback from the people.” He went on to win and as the first non-Labor councillor in half a decade; he was also the youngest person to be elected to the Townsville City Council. David

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

“I did not study politics, I wasn’t involved in student politics and I don’t hang around politicians,” laughs David. “My path was different and I think this is what also makes me a different politician. “I have the same group of friends now as I did back at school – they don’t care about my political life and I think it is this and my family that keeps my balance between public and private life,” David explains.

achievements

David reflects on how from the time he moved to Townsville until now, he has never lived outside of his current electorate, 4814. “I have always lived in Douglas, Mundingburra and Cranbrook — I love the area and don’t plan on leaving!”

explains that he did not run as a Liberal because he felt uncomfortable about running as part of a political party in a local council. He worked as a councillor from 2004 until 2008 when he was elected Deputy Mayor, topping the polls. “The election of Les Tyrell in 2008 ended the longest continual political dynasty in Australian political history – 33 years (of Labor leadership) including Mayors Perc Tucker, Mike Reynolds and Tony Mooney.”

Youngest person ever to be elected to Townsville City Council Topped the polls in 2008 local election Deputy Mayor at 28 years of age State Minister at 32 years of age

Ignoring the warnings about the lack of opportunities in media, he took the plunge and moved to Townsville to live in a “uni house” with mates from Ingham. David describes his university years as “full on”.“I ended up studying journalism and working full time for the Herbert River Express in Ingham, travelling back and forth – it was a seven-day schedule, but I loved every minute of it.”

Cover Story

“One of the best things that I have experienced as a politician is when everyday people tell me they are usually Labor voters, but have voted for me. Or those who tell me they will always be a Labor voter and will never vote for me, but that they see my sincerity.”

David says he will not move to Brisbane, as has been suggested to him many times. “I am passionate about the North,” he says. “If I live in Brisbane and keep an office in Townsville, I lose connection. If I don’t live it, then I have lost it.

“I am here for a cause, and that is North Queensland”

“I am not sure what is next, or when it will be time to move on — I’ll know when the time is right,” he continues. “I will always be involved in community work. I love planning and being strategic.

“I don’t think people want you to be the carbon-copy politician, they want you to be sincere and to work hard,” shares David. “Not everyone will like what I stand for, but I hope people know that I am here for a cause, and that is North Queensland.

“For now though, I have a job that I absolutely love and that’s awesome!”

“Some days I have wins and other days I don’t. But I believe that you can still affect change even in the face of a loss, if you are broad-minded enough.”

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the panel our contributors

In business, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s handy to be a jack-of-all-trades, but essential to be a specialist in your own field. Inside this regular segment, we band together a savvy group of contributors to keep us in-the-know when it comes to their respective industries. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new products, processes, services or just insider advice, these locals know their stuff.

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

contributor

The more you travel, the more you save By Paul Glasby Business Development Manager at NQIB. As a business owner you may be required to travel a number of domestic and/or international business trips each year. There are various ways to insure each trip including automatic cover under your credit card, online, via a travel agent or your insurance advisor. The majority of these individual policies are limited and may be inadequate for business travellers. It is important to read the policy wording. The alternative is a corporate travel policy, which generally provides cover for directors, management and employees for business travel. This is an annual policy where you estimate the number of trips at the start of the policy period. These policies generally contain a number of features including no exclusion for pre-existing illnesses, higher age limits and higher coverage limits. Most corporate travel policies cover incidental private travel but some

If you are a business owner who does regular business and private travel it may be worth considering a corporate travel policy policies provide automatic cover for directors' and senior managers' private travel including accompanying spouses and dependant children. This means that you do not have to purchase separate private travel insurance for your own holidays because they are automatically covered under the corporate travel policy. Therefore if you are a business owner who does regular business and private travel it may be worth considering a

corporate travel policy. Generally, it is more cost effective for an annual policy compared to purchasing individual policies for each trip. In addition to ensuring you have adequate corporate travel cover, and utilising the potential cost savings, good risk management practice is also recommended. This includes reviewing and managing your travel plans, risks and exposures. For example you should consider how many key people are travelling together so if an event occurs the potential impact to the business is limited. Also, ensure you have checked and registered with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade at www.dfat.gov.au. When considering travel insurance and comparing your current cover with a corporate travel policy, it is important to get the right advice. Therefore if you have any queries regarding the policy coverage and what happens in the

event of a claim, seek advice from a qualified insurance advisor. General advice warning. This is general advice. General advice is advice that has been prepared without considering your current objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice having regard to your current objectives, financial situation or needs. If the advice provided relates to the acquisition or possible acquisition of a new insurance policy you should consider the PDS prior to making the decision to purchase this product.

PTY LTD

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contributor

Outsourcing your I.T. requirements By Tania Greenwood. Owner/Manager at OnBoard I.T. We cannot expect to be masters of all trades! In a typical small business environment there is often someone who is handy with computers and unwittingly becomes the ‘IT Guy’. This isn’t the job they were hired to do and nor should it be. Entrusting your business’ foundational platform to anyone unqualified or inexperienced is an often-made mistake. Outsourcing allows you to keep your employees focused on their core skills which in turn allows your business to operate at its very best. When you outsource, you eliminate the costs associated with hiring a dedicated employee for the task, you gain a team of professionals 24/7, 365 days a year, and your IT department will never be sick or on holiday again. Technology changes on a daily basis, keeping up with it can be expensive and time consuming. Because a

dedicated IT company works with multiple clients they typically know what is right and what is not. This kind of knowledge and experience dramatically reduces your risk of implementing a costly wrong decision. Is your IT Support provider Microsoft Certified? Anyone can start an IT company; there are no industry checks or regulations. Ask the questions, what are their qualifications? Are their qualifications constantly being up skilled? Microsoft exams are of the highest industry

Outsourcing allows you to keep your employees focused on their core skills

standard and are required to be updated to maintain certification. Are they insured? An alarming few IT Support companies are appropriately insured. Insist on seeing a certificate of currency; ensure that the insurance offered is in line with your businesses expectations. What is their capacity? There are some terrific one man operations out there and if that services your needs adequately, there’s no issue. But what happens to your urgent support call if they are sick or on holidays? It would be good to understand any limitation from day one. It’s essential to find the right IT outsourcing partner, one who truly understands your businesses needs and one that is bold enough to stop

you from making costly mistakes. OnBoard IT has been servicing the needs of North Queensland business since 1998. We’d be delighted to visit your business and provide a free Network and Systems Audit. You will be provided with a no obligation, comprehensive document, outlining your current system and best practice advice for moving forward. Alternatively, you are welcome to visit our office located at 108 Denham Street, the city.

Computer dramas costing you money? ARE YOU GETTING THE SERVICE YOU DESERVE? Our locally owned and operated business will take care of your IT needs so you have time to take care of your business. Call us now for a free Network and Systems Audit.

Est. 1998

108 Denham St, Townsville City

T 07 4722 1777

E info@onboardit.com.au

W www.onboardit.com.au

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contributor

The 6 P's By Julie Paton. Sales and Marketing Consultant at Ray White. Prior preparation and planning prevents poor performance! This is a mantra which has helped me throughout my life, during schooling, career and personal life. Literature is full of similar approaches to life. If I set a goal for something to happen in the future, prepare a plan on how to reach the goal, organise my life to reflect the goal and I maintain focus, then my performance is great! This mantra applies to real estate and selling your home. I am definitely a glass-half-full kinda gal, so when applying this mantra to selling your biggest asset the 6 Ps equates to: Prior preparation and planning produces a premium price. Sellers' remorse can be tormenting. Did we do enough? Is that price the best price we can get for our property? What if we had done this? Should we have moved this? If only we packed away stuff? Could we have changed the outcome?

The goal is simple: Obtain a premium price for my property. You never want to ‘just sell’ your property. You don’t want to sign the papers on any offer to sell your greatest financial asset. You don’t want to put a sign out the front and pray someone comes to buy the house. Prior preparation and planning

The property market is no different than shopping for a new business suit begins when you form the intention to sell your property. Every property and every seller’s circumstance is different. Some vendors will have limited time, some will have limited budget. To get started, engage an expert agent to

coach you through the planning and preparation phase. Too many times, I have seen vendors spend money on their property believing they are adding value to the sale price, only to discover they missed what buyers are looking for. You want to spend your time and any budget on making your property so competitive, buyers are unable to live anywhere else! It’s about identifying what will make your property the most competitive property on the market. Agents are professionals in this field. Every day the property is on the market un-sold is costing sellers money. Buyers will snap up the best house for them quickly — and they will pay you for it! It doesn’t have to cost a fortune to prepare your home for sale. For an affordable price, you could paint key walls; borrow suitable items (such as a round table instead of your square, to enhance perceived space); pack away crowding furniture; introduce fresh,

bright linen; clean everything; green your grass; change door handles; and freshen tapware. I have worked with people for weeks before their property is listed for sale. I am working for 12 months with a seller to prepare their acreage asset for market. The hardest work is preparing the property for sale — marketing your property to buyers is the last thing to do! An expert agent is the key to your success. Prior Preparation and Planning Produces Premium Price = Very Very Happy Seller.

Julie Paton “ The agent that stands out

from the rest ”

T 0407 352 276 | F 07 4759 3993 | 252 Charters Towers Rd, Hermit Park QLD 4812

www.juliepaton.raywhite.com

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contributor

When considering design

People often enquire whether certain building ideas are possible and the short answer is “anything is possible”

By Bret Nixon. Managing Director at Nixon Build Pty Ltd.

Managing Director of Nixon Build, Bret has 25 years' experience in the building industry and has been highly recognised within this industry winning numerous awards. People often enquire whether certain building ideas are possible and the short answer is “anything is possible”. However, consideration needs to be given to the cost versus benefit and value. As I pointed out in the last edition of Success Business Magazine, the best results will be a product of working backwards from the budget. There are many sensational architectural designs and finishes which lead to overcapitalising the project. In some instances the build is not about the money. There are clients who are more focused on lifestyle than overcapitalising. They have no intention of selling and yielding a masterpiece is the focus. However, for most of us it’s about capitalising on investment and gaining a valuation that exceeds the spend. A builder requires working drawings in order to provide you with a firm price and the more detail provided with the drawings the less likely you are to incur excessive variations. Drawings with minimal detail and documentation often leave the project

open for interpretation resulting in significant price difference between builders. If you know your builder well and have worked together in the past, you will have a sound idea about his process, methods and finishes. Each builder has a different range of experiences and will have his own values in respect of materials, fixtures, fittings and finishing features. There are three standards of drawing services. Firstly, a draftsperson who is trained to provide a drafting service and can provide you with working drawings providing you know what you want. Secondly, a building designer who is well versed in drafting and trained to optimise layout and the best utilisation of space. Thirdly, an architectural service which is tertiary qualified with the capacity to provide fully documented drawings including electrical layout, fittings, fixtures, wall furniture hardware and so on. Architects will often have a project management service which oversees and manages the project on your behalf.

My advice is to minimise the possibility of variations and in this connection it is worth the exercise to obtain a fee proposal and compare the difference between these services; Understanding the less you pay, the more you need capacity to manage. I like to offer a service to manage the bureaucratic component of a construction project including the design, soil testing, engineering and certification. These elements can be very tricky if it’s not a pathway often travelled. Your builder will have a sound relationship with companies that cover all these services and will respond well to his request. Although you will pay a fee for this service it will eliminate the frustration which often accompanies the process. I hope these points provide some clarity for you when thinking about a project and minimise the stress by keeping the process well defined.

Townsville’s Design and Construction Specialist

QBCC Act License: 1107369

House raising, repositioning and renovation on difficult sites

P:1300 731 959 | E: enquiries@nixonbuild.com.au

www.nixonbuild.com.au

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don’t blend in.

make A

BANG

WITH YOUR NEW BUSINESS If you are looking to start a new business call us today so our qualified team can create a brand and awareness campaign to blast you into the market.

marketing design print advertising signage web

p. 07 4721 4640 e. info@themarketingfactory.com.au

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contributor

Understand your target market

Don't just talk the talk, walk the walk... ask yourself, "can I get this from a local business?"

By Bree Dwyer. Brand Manager at The Marketing Factory.

As Brand Manager for The Marketing Factory, Bree is responsible for developing great marketing campaigns for small and large organisations throughout North Queensland.

Today, companies that continue to perform well know their target market. They send the right message to the right people at the right time. If you’ve just started out in business, you’ve obviously made the first step in creating a unique product or service that is ready to be marketed to the world. You’re excited and ready to tell everyone. But before you start trying to get your message across to the entire population, you should start thinking who the most likely users are of your product or service. Often in a cluttered market place, your product or service however unique it is will be compared to similar offerings. Consumers today are spoilt for choice, and not only are you competing locally but internationally with more and more consumers choosing to shop online. What are you doing to make people see your product and say ‘I need that in my life right now!’ Starting your business with clearly defined goals on who you are and who you are talking to will prevent you from trying to be everything to everyone. Along

with a strong business plan, understanding your target market will help you determine exactly what communication channels and key messages to use to best market your product or service offering. Without some idea of who you are targeting you run the risk of alienating potential customers, keeping in mind that the purchaser may be different to the consumer of your product or service. For example, you may own a toy store. Your target market is children as they will be the consumer of your product. However the group purchasing these items would generally be parents or grandparents, so that is who the message needs to target. There are some easy steps to follow that will help you determine your target market. You can choose to engage a marketing professional to can assist identify your typical customer and tailor a marketing plan and budget accordingly to build a solid foundation for your business.

Get started! Check out your competition Who are your competitors targeting? Don’t just be restricted to the same market, discover a market they may be overlooking.

Analyse your product/service offering Write a list of all your products and services, next to each write the feature and benefits they provide. Once your benefits are listed you can then determine who will need that benefit fulfilled.

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contributor

Buying local to build business

As the saying goes, "you must spend money to make money" and nothing comes cheap

By Benjamin Stivala. Chief of Staff at WIN News Townsville.

As Chief of Staff for WIN News Townsville, Benjamin is responsible for leading a team of journalists and camera operators to produce a half hour local new bulletin five nights a week.

If you ask any of the city's civic or political leaders, Townsville is the unofficial capital of North Queensland. But even Townsville is not exempt from the forces of market pressure. Off the back of a tough budget delivered by the Abbott Government, consumer confidence dropped to the lowest point of the year in May. The data published by ANZ-Roy Morgan, indicates households across the country are starting to tighten their belts, and that is being felt across North Queensland. If mums and dads reduce household expenditure, and young singles second-guess a night out, the flow-on effect to small business can be significant. Stephen Motti, President of the Townsville Chamber, says right now business in Townsville remains static. None the less, initiatives such as the Townsville City Council's Draft City Plan are giving investors the tools they need to move up in the marketplace. "Those changes are giving people a platform to make business decisions and to step forward in terms of growing their business." But it does not matter how much help governments give, or how much red tape is slashed, each business is responsible for its own point of

difference. That point of difference could be exactly what convinces everyday mums and dads to spend that little bit extra. Stephen Motti says knowing your clientele and knowing your product will make a world of difference. "How you engage with your customer through advertising and different strategies in terms of marketing or product mix will really keep you a step ahead." ShadeFX is one small family-run business that has been doing just that since its inception in 2011. Despite starting up in a tough economic climate, business is booming. The business owner, Mark Townsend, credited some of the success to advertising, which captured his business' key markets. "We are reaping the benefits with ever increasing turnover during these tough times, we cannot wait for the economy to turn around, and we will have to expand to be able to keep up." However, he cautions businesses not to spend an entire advertising budget on ads that fit in any part of the paper, or filling empty television commercial slots. It is about being smart: "It has been absolutely critical for our business to be advertising across a range of platforms with TV as well as print and radio

and the internet; we have been able to brand our business in a short period of time." As the saying goes, "you must spend money to make money" and nothing comes cheap. When businesses outlay a percentage of their revenue on advertising, it is done so with the hope it will convert into buyers offering their cash in return. "This kind of marketing is quite expensive, but at the end of the day it works and that means money well spent â&#x20AC;&#x201D; it keeps traffic coming through our display centre." Even if advertising is designed as a ploy to lure undecided buyers through the doors of small businesses, then it is a ploy worth executing. In a climate where consumers are saving for potentially tougher times ahead, every little bit helps. If mums and dads splash a little more cash, in return it is helping another family get by and another small business stay afloat. The confidence to spend more money will go a long way to boosting Townsvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy and working towards becoming the undisputed capital of North Queensland.

successbusinessmag.com.au

A long road to

longboard Story by Julie Plath Photogrpahy by Amber Burling

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

Known for its “Sunday sesh”, gre at food and million dollar views, Longbo ard Bar & Grill on the Strand is one of Townsville’s iconic establishment s. Owner Christopher Haddad has certainly travelled the long road to Longboard.

orn and raised outside of Chicago, he served in the US army whilst studying his Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources and Forestry.

“Totally unrelated to where I am today,” laughs Chris, recalling how instead of moving west to work in his qualified field, he moved south, wher e his career in hospitality was born. A chance mee ting with ‘Steve from Australia’ would set the path for his career in hospitality. “Steve convinced me to come to Australia and gave me the phone number of a friend in Sydney. I arrived in 1999 on a working holiday visa — although I knew I was looking for an opportunity,” explains Chris.

During this time he befriended Don Algie, founder of Hog's Breath Cafe, who also estab lished the Jamaica Joe's franchise concept. “In 2007 we sold Armada. Don pers uaded me to come to Townsville by showing me an aerial photograph of this location, whic h was Yotz Restaurant at the time,” explains Chris. After a couple of years, with Jamaica Joe's succ essfully running, Chris informed Don that he want ed to buy him out. Don, however, had other plans, askin g Chris to travel to Saigon to set up a Hog's Brea th-style bar – an opportunity he embraced. “It was harder, given the way of doing business in Vietnam. What would be a five minu te job in Australia would take five hours there. “It was a fantastic experience, my biggest challenge. It was life-changing.”

After time spent in WA, Chris rece ived a call from one of Steve’s friends in Sydney, Duan e, who asked him to work during the Olympics at a “party venue”. “I started working at Sussex Lane , a 150-foot-long bar that became the place.” It was the party of the millennium.

Returning to Townsville in 2011, Chris bought Jamaica Joe's, rebranding and rees tablishing as Longboard Bar & Grill in 2012. As of July this year, one of Chris’ long term staff mem bers, Anthony Armstrong, who he has trained as the venue manager, will become a partner of the business.

For 18 days it continued as one of Sydney’s leading party venues during the Olympics.

“Anthony first came to work at Long board as a uni student,” says Chris. “It is rare in Australia to find hospitality workers who want to make it their career.

“We worked and partied non-stop alongside celebrities, sports stars and famo us DJs.” Airlie Beach then beckoned, with a call from Duane asking Chris to scout locations for a bar in the tourist town. After checking out the market, he called Duane reporting, “You could throw a keg on your front lawn and make it in this town.”

“We had cane farmers drinking capr ioskas like they were rum and cokes,” laughs Chris .

When people come to town, I wan t them to feel as though their experience is not complete without a visit to Longbo ard With his visa expired, Chris retur ned home, knowing that hospitality had become his pass ion. He set about gaining as much experienc e as possible working in hotels, nightclubs and cocktail bars. Almost two years later, Chris, Duan e and Steve opened the Armada Lounge Bar & Restaurant in Airlie Beach. Chris describes the following five years as the best time of his life, as Arma da became an institution. “Armada became known as a ‘little city in Airlie’. We introduced cocktails from the Sydn ey bars that were unknown in the area at the time.

“He is now the face of Longboar d, except perhaps on Sundays after 3pm when I finish working in the kitchen and come out to catch up with guests at the bar. “It has become a bit of a tradition,” laughs Chris. “We have raised the bar with Longboar d — we let the food do the talking,” says Chris. “We also offer modern beers on tap, ocean views and a great vibe.” Like any business, change is inevi

table.

“We are like a family here,” says Chris, “so it’s hard that after seven years, our head chef, Kevin Cameron is leaving us.” Sous chef, Craig Compton, is takin g over. Originally from Belfast, Craig train ed in Michelin star restaurants in the UK and work ed for Chris at Armada. Chris says he plans to keep grow ing the Longboard brand. “My aim is for Longboard to be on Townsville’s to-do list. “When people come to town, I want them to feel as though their experience is not com plete without a visit to Longboard.”

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Comfort Craftsman $410.00

Nutmeg Lipson Coat (JA401) $220.00

Kwinana Sunglasses (PA746) $89.95

Leather Nickol Shoulder Bag (CG290) $415.00

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

Navy Italian Moleskin Pilbara Sports Coat (JA851) $550.00

Saddler’s Leather Briefcase (CG973) $975.00

Rhodium Steer’s Head Cufflinks (CG339) $99.95

for him

Chestnut 1½” 3 Piece Solid Hide Belt (CB439) $69.95

clothing & accessories

Matching Wallet and Keyring Gift Set (CG630) $150.00

Lyell Sunglasses (PA739) $79.95

Blue/Grey/White Seville Shirt (SHC34) $120.00

Available at

230 Charters Towers Rd Hermit Park Qld 4812 Phone: 07 4775 5144 Freecall: 1800 811 189 www.donohues.com.au

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CREATING A

future Education & Training HIGHLIGHT

Issue 14 | July/August 2014 Investing in strong education and training infrastructure can set you, your children or your employees up for a better future â&#x20AC;&#x201D; so having great education and training providers is critical to achieving those individual, business, community and developmental goals. Within this section we hear from some of the region's top education and training providers who are helping to shape our future.

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

CREATING A

future

Talking future today SANDRA HARDING

Few could argue that today’s education system is critical to our ability to compete as a business, region or nation tomorrow. The esteemed Sandra Harding, Chair of Universities Australia, shares her insights.

High-skilled jobs are growing 1.6 times faster than low-skilled jobs in Australia. How do we set up Australia to be a global competitor tomorrow? “We estimate a shortfall of 280,000 higher skilled jobs by 2025. Creating a more highly educated population is of growing importance: we will be a knowledge economy, and we need highly trained individuals to power it.” “Innovation is part of the solution: innovation stemming from research and development is a key driver of per capita income growth, productivity growth and better living standards.”

How do we create a more innovative Australia? “We need people with a broad sweep of education and training, including trade training. Especially, we know we need more people in science technology, engineering and mathematics — or the STEM areas as they’re known — as these areas are key to our development and evolution.” “Universities need appropriate levels of support, particularly from government, to ensure that we graduate students who are earning more, contributing to our nation’s economy and prosperity by paying tax, with the skills and abilities we need to secure our international competitiveness.”

“

We will be a knowledge economy, and we need more highly trained individuals to power it

”

What is the greatest obstacle our universities face today? “The current situation [of government’s proposed higher education reforms including significant funding cuts to universities] has never happened anywhere in the world before, so we can’t look to another country to see the implications.” “Australian university students already pay a lot by global comparison. Right now, Australian students are ranked sixth highest in the OECD [Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development] when it comes to their financial contribution to education.” “We need to work out the details [around debt and loan obligations, as proposed by government], because Australia as a nation receives a significant return from students and education.”

How significant a return is that, outside of the benefits from innovations? “Over their lifetime, university graduates typically pay between $300,000 and $540,000 more in taxes than those who cease study at high school level. Given funding per university student typically costs government between $40,000 and $60,000 per course, the increased taxes received are about eight-fold higher than the upfront investment. It’s good business to invest today.”

How is JCU positioned to weather this uncertainty? “What’s good about JCU is that we are arguably the most distinctive university in Australia. What the government wants to do is drive greater diversification in higher education. Being in a regional centre, we are all working towards a great thing — the advancement of our community, its people and the economy.”

AUSTRALIAN UNIVERSITIES: THE NUMBERS

The strongest nations in our region are investing in their best resource — their minds — by driving skills, research and innovation at universities and we must do the same. • For each extra dollar invested in tertiary education, the economy grows by $26 and tax revenue rises by $8. • High-skilled jobs are growing 1.6 times faster than low-skilled jobs. • By 2025, there could be a shortfall of 280,000 higher skilled jobs needed by industry and the economy. • Public investment in universities and student support has been cut by $3 billion in the last few years alone. • At around $15 billion each year, international education is Australia’s largest export earner after resources and the fourth largest export industry for Australia. • The latest OECD figures show our public investment in tertiary education as a percentage of GDP is ranked just 25th out of 30 advanced economies. • Australian university graduates are worth $188 billion to our economy, annually. • Universities employ over 110,000 staff and directly contribute over $23 billion to our GDP. *Source: Universities Australia

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ore!

ck fo

They

ing ba m o c keep

We must be doing something rightâ&#x20AC;Ś

Diploma BSB51107 TAE50211 TAE50111 BSB51413

Diploma of Management Diploma of Vocational Education and Training Diploma of Training Design and Development Diploma of Project Management

Certificate IV TAE40110 BSB41513 BSB41412 BSB40812 BSB41013 BSB40212 BSB40507

Certificate IV in Training and Assessment Certificate IV in Project Management Practice Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety Certificate IV in Frontline Management Certificate IV in Human Resources Certificate IV in Business Certificate IV in Business Administration

Certificate III BSB30712 Certificate III in Work Health and Safety BSB30112 Certificate III in Business BSB30412 Certificate III in Business Administration

Foundation Skills Literacy and Numeracy P

07 4728 1555

enquiries@learningpartnerships.com.au

W www.learningpartnerships.com.au

Working in partnership with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) LEARNING PARTNERSHIPS

Even when times are tough, it’s important not to underestimate the value that the right training can add to the future success and sustainability of your business. It helps your employees feel motivated and valued, and can maintain a blend of new skills in your business. With the right people, who have the right skills and right attitude in place, your business is poised to take advantage of future opportunities for success. As the sand constantly shifts and the only certainty is that there will be change, it is important that you shape your business to meet the requirements of the new environment, including the skills, behaviours, knowledge and legislation. A powerful way to do this is through training and developing your employees in partnership with quality training providers who can listen, understand and help you to transition your business and employees in order to thrive in the new and future business environment.

Raelene Fewquandie — Principal Trainer and Assessor at Learning Partnerships

You manage things and lead people — new qualifications for leadership and management Vocational Education and Training (VET) is also changing. The future model places your business at the centre. Your needs form the basis for developing training programs, this way your people development is fully integrated with your business goals and direction. One such example is the suite of new leadership and management qualifications, available later in the year. These qualifications also provide a pathway for developing your future leaders. The new suite consists of: • • • •

Certificate IV in Leadership and Management Diploma of Leadership and Management Advanced Diploma of Leadership Graduate Diploma of Strategic Leadership

So how do you choose the best RTO to approach? We suggest applying the following criteria: • • • • • • • • •

“

As the sand constantly shifts and the only certainty is that there will be change, it is important that you shape your business to meet the requirements of the new environment

”

Organisations need their leaders to support and drive productivity, innovation and performance. These traits are essential for success (and even survival) in a dynamic business environment where continuous change is the norm. Business success is, in part, a result of effective, reflective leaders — people who are aware of the situation, in tune with their people and themselves.

How to choose an RTO with which to work An effective RTO is more than a training service provider; it is an adviser, a consultant and a mentor. We suggest you start the relationship by investing your time in a conversation with an RTO and talk about your business, where you want to take it and get them to suggest how they can support your goals and aspirations. This way you can develop realistic choices to develop your staff that best fit your business goals and values – and provide value for money.

•

Relevant, industry-aligned qualifications and courses Proactive follow up Understanding of your business and the relevant industry Flexibility to fit in with your operational requirements and responsive to your changing needs Ability to listen, understand and interpret your needs and provide appropriate development plans and pathways Agility to explore possibilities and focus on quality continuous improvement Ability to value-add Quality reputation Outcomes of observable positive behavioural changes as well as successful completion of qualifications Alignment with your strategic direction and values

A couple of suggestions Build a long-term relationship • forming relationships and a good understanding of your business will lead to well-aligned solutions • pathways to learning can be formed so that employees can progress on to further education as appropriate • continuity and networking Research RTOs as opposed to the qualification • check them out on LinkedIn and visit their website • give them a call to discuss your business and training solutions • make an appointment — go and talk to them if possible Consider the advantages of using a local RTO • costs associated with travel and logistics • ability to be responsive and available • ability to get to know your business, key stakeholders and clients Ask about recognition of what your employees can already do • RTOs can work with your employees to reduce the time taken and cost to achieve a qualification • Employees can receive the qualifications they deserve

successbusinessmag.com.au

BOSS It’s very important to promote and celebrate the fact that success isn’t measured by a title, but by how well we maximise our strengths in order to contribute to the overall success of any organisation we own, manage or work for.

So take our fun quiz and find out if you’re better in the field, greeting customers or running the show — like a boss.

Q1. Presentation: What is your choice of Monday-to-Friday attire? (a) Give me a suit or corporate attire any day (b) I’m actually more comfortable in full PPE (c) I love to glam up on a weekday, it’s important to look good (d) I think uniforms are the best option (e) If I can’t be casual at work, I’d rather stay home

Q2. Numerical Skills: You need to run out some pricing, so you… (a) (b) (c) (d)

Make an appointment with an accountant Delegate the task to the girl in Accounts Payable Have a panic attack and go home sick Immediately open Excel and start building calculators and analysing figures (e) Do the math in your head and write the outcome down on a sticky note

Q3. Environment: Your preferred working environment is… (a) An architecturally designed modern office (b) Out on the road, meeting and greeting lots of people (c) In the muck; if I’m not dirty at the end of the day I don’t feel like I’ve worked hard (d) Anywhere that I’m providing great customer service (e) Out in the fresh air

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

Q4. Customer Service: You have one very unhappy customer, what do you do? (a) Go straight to the supervisor — you don’t like confrontation (b) Calm down the customer, get all the facts and see your supervisor (c) Immediately recognise what the issue is, deal with it and send the customer away smiling (d) Tell the customer that they should calm down, anxiety is bad for their health (e) Pretend you don’t work there

Q5. Public Speaking: You need to make a presentation to your peers, so you… (a) (b) (c) (d) (e)

Put a great PowerPoint together but stumble over your words on the day Practice in front of the mirror, family or friends so that it’s perfect Fall apart and have sleepless nights Don’t think twice about it, you know you’ll wing it Ask for some tips from a colleague who presents regularly

Q6. Networking: You have a corporate golf day to attend, so you… (a) (b) (c) (d) (e)

Take a sick day — you hate being in the sun for hours Take the opportunity to network with the senior managers Hang around the bar all day, you really aren’t the golfing type Volunteer to run the BBQ Spend most of the day talking lawn care with the maintenance manager

CREATING A

future

Q7. Writing Skills: You need to write an article on the business for the local paper, so you… (a) Put some bullet points together and have your daughter/sister word it up for you (b) Ask what time the journalist is coming (c) Write the article and have your colleagues provide feedback (d) Plagiarise the information on your website and hope not much has changed (e) Ask your boss what they’d like to promote most and run with it from there

(a) Create a carefully detailed project plan, assign and drive accountabilities (b) Collate the facts and do an all-nighter to put the whole thing together yourself (c) Hold project meetings to gain buy-in from stakeholders and build a project plan from there (d) Strut around feeling very important, telling everyone what to do (e) Tell your boss that you appreciate the opportunity, but you aren’t the right person for the task Q10. Communication: Which best describes your communication style?

Q8. Detail: What is your interest-level when it comes to detail? (a) (b) (c) (d)

Q9. Planning You have been appointed the lead on a project so you…

I’m an ideas person, I’ll work with the team to flesh out the detail If the detail isn’t right, the impact can be enormous so I’ll delegate Detail. What do you mean? It all comes down to the detail; I’ll consult with the experts to make sure things are perfect (e) I love to dot the Is and cross the Ts; it makes the business and my bosses look good

(a) You love to communicate and interact with others as a part of your job (b) You are friendly, but don’t get bogged down in idle chit chat when there is work to be done (c) Some days you’ll chat, other day you like to keep to yourself (d) You are generally polite, but prefer to focus on work activities (e) You are an engaging communicator and people respect your thoughts and ideas

YOUR SCORE 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

(a) 5, (b) 2, (c) 4, (d) 3, (e) 2 (a) 1, (b) 2, (c) 1, (d) 4, (e) 5 (a) 5, (b) 4, (c) 3, (d) 3, (e) 2 (a) 1, (b) 4, (c) 5, (d) 1, (e) 1 (a) 1, (b) 4, (c) 1, (d) 5, (e) 2 (a) 1, (b) 5, (c) 1, (d) 4, (e) 1 (a) 1, (b) 2, (c) 5, (d) 1, (e) 4 (a) 2, (b) 5, (c) 1, (d) 3, (e) 4 (a) 5, (b) 1, (c) 4, (d) 3, (e) 2 (a) 4, (b) 3, (c) 1, (d) 1, (e) 5

Between 40 and 50 With great leadership, analytical and team skills, if you aren’t running the show already, you are probably on your way there or working in the capacity of business development or operations. Between 30 and 40 Whether you’re in sales or on reception you are born to be the face of the business in some capacity; it’s all about teamwork and getting the job done for you. You understand that it takes a team to operate a successful business.

Between 20 and 30 Four walls are just not for you and you need to be out of the office completely or be mobile in some capacity. Whether it’s delivering your products to clients, working as a consultant or planning civil works. Under 20 You are still not 100% committed to a career path, but once you find the area that you enjoy and suits you most, you’ll focus more and tweak the skills that will make you a success.

successbusinessmag.com.au

Working together to benefit the workplace and the community CHOICE TRAINING At Choice Training, we believe any skills development or training needs to be relevant for the person learning, the workplace and also the community. By working collaboratively to up-skill Queenslanders, we are working together to build a brighter future. By partnering with Choice Training to deliver relevant training on the job site, or in a classroom, we can assist you to turn the technical aspect of training into meaningful results. Rather than just run courses for people to attend, we work collectively with employers, human resource managers, training managers, staff and any other stakeholders or consultants involved to ensure that the up-skilling and development of staff is done in a meaningful way. We believe to truly develop a person you need to develop the whole person. This isn’t just about technical skills training, it’s much more. As an engaged employer, you need to be asking yourself where we want to be in 12 months, or 24 months, and how are we going to get there? And more importantly, what human resources do we have in-house that we can use as a foundation and up-skill to reach these goals, rather than just buying new talent? Once the needs are identified, we work with employers through a range of tailored training, workshops, one-to-one training, short courses and accredited formal programs to pull together a truly unique program that suits your workplace and

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

your staff. If you have in-house trainers and external consultants already in place, we will work with them as a team to reach the desired outcomes. We’re not just about selling courses. They have their place, but they aren’t the answer to everything. By building your capacity as an empowering and engaging employer and together facilitating the up-skilling program of your workforce, we can together see the difference. Our clients comment that the real value of our training is seen after the training is complete, when graduates implement their new skills in the workplace resulting in increased productivity, confidence and positive change. That’s real results. If you’re interested in working collaboratively, call the team at Choice Training to discuss your options. There are plenty of ways to go about it, and you might surprise yourself, it might be just the thing your team wants, they just haven’t known how to ask.

CREATING A

future

Cathedral implements 21st century learning THE CATHEDRAL SCHOOL In 2014 The Cathedral School implemented an iPad program for Year 4 and 7 students. Not to completely replace traditional teaching and learning methods, the iPad program has been introduced to help students prepare for future careers, helps students learn, and most importantly supports a more personalised learning experience. Students will use the iPad as their core technology to support learning at school and at home. Junior School eLearning Coordinator Mr Ben Dallimore says, “Schools are preparing students for jobs that do not yet exist; hence there is a need to focus on 21st century skills, including creativity, critical thinking, collaboration and communication. “iPads are supporting teachers in their delivery of the wonderful education we have provided over many years, allowing them to weave digital literacies across all curriculum areas,” continues Ben. “Students are learning that the iPad is not a passive device, rather a powerful tool that accompanied with great apps and meaningful teaching will transform the way they learn, even the way they think about learning.” After 12 months of research undertaken by the School’s IT Department and eLearning teaching staff, iPads were chosen as the ideal device to deliver

an innovative and varied curriculum. The introduction of the iPads was also supported by many parent consultations, information sessions and workshops and parental response to the notion of the 1 to 1 iPad program has been nothing but positive and supportive. “iPads were chosen to be the most ground breaking, usable, reliable, cost effective and well supported device for education,” Ben explains. The Cathedral School is responding to societal demands and is increasing its focus on digital literacies through the implementation of a 1 to 1 iPad program beginning in Year 4 and Year 7, so that in three years all students from Year 4 through 9 will be using iPads.

successbusinessmag.com.au

presenting

PRESENTING

kYMBO WESTCOTT Photography by Callan Jones

Success Business Magazine talks with Kymbo Westcott, the Owner and Manager of newly opened Paleo Cafe on Flinders Street the City about the new cafe concept and his inspiration.

Who inspires you? This might be seen as a way to remain in the family will, but I'd have to say my parents. When I embarked on this adventure which took me away from managing the family cattle property 150km from Hughenden, I sought advice from my father. He said, "Kym, when I was your age I left the farm to do what I wanted — to find my own way — and I can't stand in your way now." My parents have been my biggest supporters and I have to say that without their guidance and unwavering support, I would not have seen the success in the opening few weeks and I am eternally grateful. Not only have my parents been able to keep their cattle farm afloat through one of the most devastating and long lasting droughts in this country's history, they have also been able to run other businesses to success. If I am half as successful as my parents, I can be satisfied.

going to the gym, crossfit or just general exercise. That time spent by myself, where my thoughts are my own, gives me solace and perspective. Otherwise, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, having a few drinks or a nice dinner — at the Paleo Café of course!

What is Paleo? Essentially, it means eating like a caveman. There are no preservatives, additives, gluten, dairy or legumes in the food that we produce. It is about taking our lifestyles back to basics, so that we try to eat as organically as possible. That might seem like a bit of marketing genius, but it truly works, and will change the way that you view food. It's not just eating a piece of meat and salad, there are so many ways that you can alter your eating habits to reflect the Paleo lifestyle, and in turn, you will have more energy, more vitality and a stronger will to live.

How do you reward your customers? For anyone that has come into Paleo Café, I am sure that they would be surprised at the level of personal service. Making people feel welcome is something that I strongly believe in, and in my experience with the Paleo Café franchise I found out that they too have a similar work ethic. I greet all customers with a smile and make them feel like part of the family. I moved here by myself, and it feels great to be able to relate and connect with my customers.

What do you do to unwind?

373-383 Flinders Street, Townsville Q 4810 Phone: 07 4771 4045 www.paleo-cafe.com.au

Given that I have opened the Paleo Café, it goes hand in hand that I live the lifestyle. That being said, I love to exercise and keep fit, so I spend lots of time

successbusinessmag.com.au

AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY AT THE RACES AT THE

Ladies Day TRACKSIDE

Marquee

SATURDAY 19 JULY 2014 -

GATES OPEN 11AM

Excitement is building for the highly anticipated winter race season. Enjoy one of Townsville’s biggest and most enjoyable days at the track. The day offers an array of food, fun & entertainment. Fully licenced & catered with its own TOTE – there is really no need to leave the tent. Special Guest Richard Wilkins and FREE buses to drop off at Ribs and Rumps, Palmer Street after the races.

FASHION ON THE FIELDS with over $2,500 worth of prizes thanks to Stockland Townsville and international Travel from Escape Travel

FASHION PARADES

GIFT BAGS filled with goodies

TICKETS phone 07 4778 2400 or visit www.townsvilleturfclub.com.au

ARE LIMITED

Special Guest Presenter

Richard Wilkins

will be performing

featuring clothing, footwear and accessories

TO BOOK

WEST TEXAS CRUDE

$10 from each ticket sale goes to this local charity

$185pp

Includes 5 Hour Platinum Beverage Package Tickets can be purchased individually or tables54 of 10. successbusinessmag.com.au

the age of

Rock

There’s a buzz steadily building among Townsville’s over40s. It’s got them moving a little more rhythmically, belting out classic rock unashamedly and passionately convinced that at last it’s better to be 40-plus than 20-something. It’s the anticipation of September’s Townsville Rock Fest. The Townsville Rock Fest, formerly the Not too Old to Dance concert was started by Margie Ryder and her team in 2012 in a bid to give ‘oldies’ a great night out while shattering the idea that once a person hits 40 they’re only interested in seeing lounge-singers at RSL Clubs. “It seemed that there were plenty of long-haul music gigs on for the young ones, but as you reach a certain age you’re expected to retire to your rocking chair or be labelled an old cougar,” says Margie. “That idea just didn’t fly with my friends and me so we decided that when I turned 40, I’d throw a big music festival and invite all of my favourite bands from the '70s, '80s and '90s." The idea rattled around in Margie’s brain for some time until Townsville man Richard Fuller was famously told he was “too old to dance” at a Cold Chisel concert. The incident sparked fierce support for dancing oldies everywhere and gave Margie’s team the ‘light bulb moment’ needed to give their pipe dream a name and bring it to life! This year the Townsville Rock Fest will continue its tradition of drawing iconic Aussie rockers to Townsville, with Baby Animals and Pseudo Echo headlining the eight-hour rock extravaganza. “Suze DeMarchi has got to be one of the most influential women to ever grace Australia’s rock scene and to have her and Baby Animals on this year’s line-up is a dream come true,” says Margie.

Photography by Tayla Beaton & Dani Hansen

“The same goes for Pseudo Echo. These guys have been touring nonstop for almost two decades and with their new album totally crowd-funded, it’s clear that they’re as relevant today as they were in the 1980s. “The Townsville Rock Fest will be great opportunity for over-40s to let down their hair and have fun without feeling like ‘mutton dressed as lamb’,” Margie says. “We work hard to create

a friendly atmosphere and this year those under 40 will only be allowed in if they can show a convincing fake ID, which we’re making available at the gate for a $5 donation to charity.” The Townsville Rock Fest will be held on Saturday, 13 September, 2014 at Tony Ireland Stadium from 2pm. For more information, and tickets, go to www.not2old2dance.com.

Treat your team to the Townsville Rock Fest Corporate Packages are available from $1,320. All packages include a food and beverage package and concert tickets PLUS the chance to win a Back Stage Tour and Meet and Greet with the bands.

Meticulous Marketing Planning Strategic Graphic Design Professional, Commercial Photography & Videography Social Media Content Creation & Management General & Specialist Printing Web Design

Phone 0400043339 hello@studiovivid.com.au www.studiovivid.com.au successbusinessmag.com.au

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

Savour with Success

Fratello Tiramisu

from Food Creator Samantha Coutts

Hazelnut cake: 200g hazelnut meal 100g plain flour 300g sugar 200g egg whites 200g butter, melted Mascarpone mixture: 3 large eggs, separated 3 Tbs castor sugar 250g mascarpone 300mL cream, whipped to stiff peak 2 Tbs Frangelico 1 large Fratello Coffee long black Cocoa powder Bee pollen (found at health food stores)

Method

Ingredients

Tiramisu is Italian for ‘pick me up’ and this dessert is definitely one to get you through a Monday… or Tuesday… or any day of the week. It’s an effortless dessert, and with the cakey hazelnut layers soaked in the Fratello Coffee signature coffee blend and sandwiched between rich clouds of creaminess, you can’t help but scrape at the glass for more. This is a treat for both the eyes and the stomach so either have a go at home or come into Fratello Coffee and try one with a coffee today! To make the cake: Combine all ingredients and spread onto a tray. Cook at 180℃ for 10 minutes or until golden brown. Cool then cut with a biscuit cutter to circles that fit to your jar size. With an electric mixer beat the egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick. When beating the yolks with the sugar feel the mixture in between your fingers to make sure the sugar has dissolved. If it feels grainy it's not ready yet. Keep beating! Add the mascarpone and mix until combined, fold in the whipped cream and set aside. Meanwhile, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until firm. Fold this into your cream mixture.

Tip

To assemble: Mix your coffee with the Frangelico and have it ready in a bowl. Lay out your clean jars and start the layers by dipping the cake pieces into the coffee and pushing them into the bottom of the jar. Spoon the mascarpone mixture on top of the cake. Repeat the process so as to leave room to have the mascarpone mixture as the top layer of the jar. To finish dust with cocoa then dollop a drop of cream and sprinkling of bee pollen. Screw on the lid and leave overnight. The end result is a soft, creamy dessert to be eaten with a spoon. Buon appetito!

This gorgeous Italian dessert is paired perfectly with a flat white coffee. Look for a blend that highlights butterscotch, chocolate and caramel flavours like the new Symmetry blend at Fratello Coffee.

successbusinessmag.com.au

e v o L Office Story by Susan Graham-Ryan

Turns out finding love in the workplace, isn’t really the disaster it’s made out to be in the soapies. It can actually be quite the opposite. Two local couples, Nikki Hammon and Troy Rodgers, and Angela Bogiatzis and Chris Florence let us into their love stories — telling us how meeting at work, gave them the perfect platform to launch their relationships. Nikki, a graphic designer met photographer Troy Rodgers while working in the local media. When they first met in 2006, they were dating other people, and working in separate departments. Working near each other, they had the same friends and were great mates. Time went by, and the relationships with other people ended. The love story didn’t begin for some time, and there was a bit of flirting. Troy, with a cheeky smirk, says Nikki would head outside the office with her friend who smoked, when she knew he was returning from a photo-shoot. He laughed and called her a “stalker”. But what finally brought them together was planning for the office Relay for Life team.

how their colleagues would react, and of course the inevitable office gossip. Nikki laughs saying when the news came out, their friends and workmates told them they’d seen the signs of their blossoming romance, even before they’d had their first date. When asked what the best part of finding love in the workplace was, ex-army rifleman, photographer and cameraman, Troy had a very practical answer. He says he got to know Nikki, without the pressure of being in a relationship, and knew what he was in for. Now seven years on, Nikki’s running a successful business seventy9design, while Troy volunteers with the Veterans’ Support Centre and what he calls being Mr Mum to four-year-old Georgia, two-year-old Addison and three-month-old Quinn. Another local couple tells a similar journey of friendship, before falling in love. Angela and Chris were working part time at a local chemist, whilst studying Pharmacy at JCU. At the time Chris was one year ahead in his studies.

Troy says he sent an email to the team of 15, inviting them for a barbecue at his place. Nikki was the only one who turned up! Troy guarantees us that he did actually send the email to everyone.

Angela says one perk, was being able to have some support in her study, because Chris had been through it all just a year before. She says it was great at work too, because they could relate. Chris says they found they had a lot similar interests.

They got talking into the night, and within days were on their first date — which was “a bit weird” because they’d been friends for so long before. They kept the relationship quiet for about six months. They wanted to make sure it would work, they weren’t too sure

They too say the bond beforehand was a blessing to their relationship, and most of their close friends knew it was meant to be. Years on, it was a bit of a loved-up group at that chemist, with few couples finding love at the same store.

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

“

Things get really awkward if you’ve had an argument — and even tougher if things don’t work out

“

When we launched this article we thought it would be a story of why you shouldn’t chase love at work, and if you do, how to manage it. But with the majority of those we spoke to on the record and off, it seems, well, they think people shouldn't rule it out completely.

Since finishing uni the couple are working as pharmacists for different companies, but say they’d have no qualms about working together in the future. Angela is encouraging people to be a bit gusty. “Don’t be afraid — yes there may be a chance it might not work out, but also it may work out so well that you will never look back. I know we sure haven’t,” she says.

Tips

All the couples we’ve spoken to say they didn’t have set rules for how they’d manage their relationship at work, but say it’s really about keeping it professional, and using common sense. It’s not the only story though; there are some drawbacks. Things get really awkward if you’ve had an argument, and then have to see the person at work – and even tougher if things don’t work out.

Always keep it professional; at work your career comes first.

No public displays of affection, that means not physically or on work computers; keep your cute messages at home or via text. No make out sessions, someone will see, and there are cameras everywhere these days.

Don’t take work home, and don’t bring home to work.

Avoid dating someone at a different rung on the ladder — it can make for perceptions of favouritism.

5. Dating someone from outside your department is easier.

But the shadier side of office romance is when cheating arrives in the workplace. Several people have detailed (but wouldn’t let us use their names) how they found love in the workplace. Despite having relationships away from the office, they made a connection at work, which led to an affair and breakups. Nikki and Troy and Angela and Chris, played down the negatives of finding love in the office, and agree if you’re sensible and professional about it, then it can be a safe, sensible way to find someone who has a similar outlook in life.

Pros

Don’t take breaks with your partner everyday — you’ll exclude your workmates.

Tell people when its time, but don’t rush. Wait til you know it’s something you’re both committed to. (sometimes you’ll need to tell HR.)

8. Have a plan-B — particularly in the early days, in case it doesn’t work.

Cons

Pro You’ll see each other all day every day.

Con You’ll see each other all day every day.

Pro You get to know the person as a friend first — an insight of what they're all about.

Con

Breakups are hard anyway, but does it mean you’ll need to find somewhere new to work?

Con

Blurring the lines between home talk and work talk.

Con

Workplace gossip.

Pro You’ve got similar interests and a better understanding of the demands of the industry you’re in. Pro

Always knowing someone’s got your back.

successbusinessmag.com.au

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

New home for

EXPO is a real WINNER

The popular Townsville Home Show and Caravan Camping Expo will be moving to the Townsville Turf Club grounds at Cluden Park for the much-anticipated 2014 event in September. vent Director, Bob Carroll from Australian Events said the event had outgrown the Entertainment Centre and needed more outdoor space along with a lot more parking for patrons.

“We are now able to offer patrons endless car parking options and be able to greatly expand the caravan and camping areas of the event, which is what both our exhibitors and the patrons of the show were wanting. On top of that, everyone attending the event will be eligible to win a $10,000 holiday package courtesy of the BIG 4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort.” The expo will be expanded from two days to a three-day event opening on Friday 5 September and running over Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It has also undergone a name change to highlight the main part of the event which is all about camping, caravanning, holiday options and motoring.

things like pools, spas, patios, barbeques, solar energy, security and other mainstream interests within the home and for all things found in the backyard like mowers, sheds, tanks and the like.” According to organisers' the area of interest in the event that has grown over recent years is the great desire for people to explore Australia and to do it with a camper trailer, caravan or motorhome. At the new venue they expect to treble the amount of display space which will in turn bring more depth to the event and a much greater variety of products on show. “We promote this event right across North Queensland because people will travel for hours to get to an event like this. They can compare hundreds of products in the one location, talk to a large variety of manufacturers and retailers in the one place. They can then make a decision on the spot, buy the product they have been looking for and often get it at a better price. Also, parking has been a real problem in the city and that problem will be solved at Cluden Park because we can park thousands of cars which is bound to add to the appeal of this already popular event.” Companies interested in exhibiting can contact Australian Events on 1800 671 588 or email them at admin@australianevents.com.au. For information on this event and others in Queensland go to www.australianevents.com.au.

“We will still have a home show component but it will focus mostly on outdoor living and energy savings options. There will be a wide range of displays including

successbusinessmag.com.au

A rather positive outlook By Tracey Lee Gordon

The realities behind the strategy of the 2014 Budget have left many North Queensland families and businesses feeling a little nervous about the economic health of Australia. But when you consider things from the perspective of leading economic strategist Phil Ruthven AM; it’s not all doom and gloom — in fact it’s far from it.

When Founder and Chairman of IBISWorld, Phil Ruthven AM presented in May at Townsville’s JCU School of Business, Business Excellence Series in the Tropics (BEST), he shared valuable insight into Australia’s real position in the global economy; and he just can’t understand why Australians aren’t happy about the outlook.

And for those of us in the top end of Australia, we enjoy the added luxury of space, with only 4% of our population; or one million people, residing on one-and-a-half times the land that 250 million Indonesians call home.

Statistics prove that in comparison to our continental peers, we actually have nothing to be unhappy about. We’re the second lowest taxed country in the world and a part of the world’s fastest growing region, Asia Pacific.

North Queensland’s opportunities

Asia Pacific Economy 2014 Thailand! 2%!

Indonesia! 5%!

Australia! 4%!

Philippines! 2%! Other! Malaysia! 4%! 2%!

Singapore Vietnam NZ Myanmar

1.3% 1.3% 0.5% 0.4%

Cambodia Laos PNG Other

Korea! 7%!

China! 52%!

Japan! 17%!

Taiwan! 4%!

Hong Kong! 1%!

Source: IBISWorld

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

With China’s economy sustaining an 8% growth rate for the last 55 years (China’s economy is set to take over that of the US in the next five) and Boeing’s projection of 112 million outbound Chinese tourists per annum by 2020 — in Phil’s own words, “tourism is a slice of the cherry we want”. Whilst the looming Asian food security issue may not be great news for Asia itself, it is a further opportunity to strengthen our bond across Asia Pacific as well as a tangible win for Queensland agriculture in the coming decade, and for the North itself. Our port access presents logistics as another highly viable and lucrative industry from which the region can leverage.

“

25+ nations $US 30.5 trillion GDP (ppp terms) 62

0.1% 0.1% 0.1% 0.1%

While we may sit on the map as one of Australia’s largest cities, we need to define what Townsville is known for; and although defence and mining account for part of our city’s persona, tourism is without a doubt a strikingly obvious opportunity.

Passive assets such as property, equipment and even gold do nothing. Shares are active investments, they move and they grow and are much smarter assets to have

“

For countries with a population over one million we sit comfortably as one of the top four countries to enjoy the highest standards of living; and surprisingly enough, our national debt is the lowest in the Organsiation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP). While our deficits are chronic, they are still low by OECD comparison.

So while we can relax a little, it’s fair to say there is still much work to be done to secure future economic stability and the best subliminal advice offered to North Queensland, is to start embracing our position in the Asia Pacific demographic and get over our xenophobia.

What the best enterprises are doing

They stick to one business at a time and do not diversify.

They aim to dominate segment(s) of their industry or market.

3 They are forever innovative, valuing the business’ intellectual property.

They outsource non-core activities to enable growth.

They don’t own “hard” assets.

They have good and professional financial management.

They plan from the outside-in, not the inside-out.

7 8

They anticipate any new industry lifecycle changes.

They follow world best practice for their own type of business.

They develop strategic alliances.

They develop unique organisational cultures.

They value leadership first and management second. Source: IBISWorld

Making a city or region unique

Advice worth taking

Large cities, states and nations make themselves unique,highly liveable and prosperous with 25–30% of their economy.

The other 70% is common anyway (infrastructure, retailing, education, government, et al), requiring best practice of course, but not threatened by imports.

The uniqueness centres on focusing on two or three themes at most.

Uniqueness is achieved when non-residents (including foreigners) can identify these differences when the name of the city, state or nation is mentioned.

The uniqueness may have to change from one age of development to another (eg. Agrarian Age to Industrial Age to the current Infotronics Age).

“Businesses and regions can’t always have a lasting format and must change over time to meet the market and its demands. Bathurst made something out of nothing — known for gold first and when the gold ran out they became a rish pastoral centre and major food supplier with Edgell That’s innovation.”

When Phil Ruthven established IBISWorld in 1971, he forecast the rise of the digital revolution. Although he had to wait 18 years for the internet before he could do what he’d actually set out to do, Phil worked with what he had to get the ‘big four’ on his books; and at that point in time IBISWorld was a room full of floppy disks. Today IBISWorld is a world-leading online publisher of business intelligence, specialising in both industry and procurement research, providing valuable data and insights that assist businesses to make educated decisions as quickly as possible. With offices in Los Angeles, New York, Melbourne, Sydney, London and Beijing, IBISWorld has 40,000 clients — amongst them are almost half of Australia’s Top 1000 corporations and government authorities and over 500 major US corporate and institutional clients. The US arm of IBISWorld has just invested $17 million to launch a new procurement product with 2000 major purchase items, soon to be available in Australia as well. Yet, you may be surprised to learn that for a business of this magnitude IBISWorld does not own any of its premises, they’re all leased. Phil does not own a home either; he rents one. He’s a firm believer that investment in big assets is the easiest way to inhibit growth. “Passive assets such as property, equipment and even gold do nothing. Shares are active investments, they move and they grow and are much smarter assets to have,” he explains. Considered our country’s most respected strategist and futurist on business, social and economic matters, and one who certainly walks the talk — Phil Ruthven’s advice is well worth considering..

Source: IBISWorld

successbusinessmag.com.au

With COMPLIMENTS  Story by Susan Graham-Ryan

When was the last time you got a compliment, or gave a compliment, and what was it about?

I can compliment you on a nice dress, it is about intent. Is the subtext that you’re boobs look nice in that dress? That may not be what I mean — but I risk that’s what you perceive I mean.”

Wow, your arse looks great in those pants!

Being cautious can mean working relationships suffer.

happening, it’s just that we’re filtering it,” says Dean. As for how to give a compliment it’s quite the art form. It needs to be as close to the time as possible, genuine and specific.

“ you look great

He says the structure is important. “If I just say ‘nice work’, ‘nice work’, ‘nice work’, it just becomes wallpaper.” Dean says we need to praise the behaviour, explain the impact, and describe how it makes you feel.

in that dress ”

In the fast-paced, PC-world we live in, in many workplaces compliments are a rarity. Sometimes say nothing, because we’re so worried about the consequences.

He says most of us can relate to having given a compliment like, “you look great in that dress” and people will have taken it the wrong way, or read too much into it. Someone will have replied or even just thought to themselves “what, don’t I look great every other day?”

“I think it’s a great shame,” says Dean Tuckey from TP Human Captial.

“People have become hypersensitive. People often are reading way too much into what’s quite innocent.”

Dean says the first thing we should say is “thank you”, even if you disagree with it.

“If you’re like me and you’ve been working for 25 years — you remember what workplaces were and how much fun and banter there was and people do look back and say it’s so sterile now.”

When it comes to work Dean thinks compliments are so important be they from managers to their team, between colleagues, even from staff to managers.

“The best thing is to say thanks then add something – like ‘I’m pleased you noticed that, I’ve put it lots of effort’,” Dean explains. “The worst thing you can say is ‘oh no you’re wrong’ — what I’ve just done without realising, is de-valuing your comment.”

That compliment that is clearly unacceptable in any workplace, ever.

He says work related compliments are the safest place to start, but it will depend on the culture of the workplace. “I can compliment you on your hair or your shoes, and that’s fine. But actually for most people if I compliment you on something about your work practice or the way you got a presentation together — that has a much higher value,” Dean explains. “Often there’s political correctness and I can’t compliment you on your dress — well absolutely

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

“It’s highly important in a leadership role. Often what people complain about in a workplace is either I never get any feedback or the only time I get any feedback is to tell me when I am doing something wrong,” he says. He agrees with John Gottman’s theory – you need feedback in a ratio of three positives to every one negative. “For managers we’re geared to looking for negatives and putting out fires. It’s not that positive stuff isn’t

On the other side — if you’re on the receiving end there’s some dos and don’ts too.

Dean believes everyone loves compliments, even if externally people might play it down, but internally they are enjoying the pat on the back. And if you’re not sold on giving compliments just yet, Dean says the research also indicates, neurologically, giving a compliment is better than receiving one.

successbusinessmag.com.au

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/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

SUCCESS TOP TIPS

Identify exactly what is required, by when and what success will look like.

Allow the person to come back and ask questions as required, but empower them to complete the task their way.

It is critical to pass the task onto someone with the right skills to complete it, rather than the person who has time available.

This will ensure that everyone is aware who is now responsible for the task, so they can direct enquiries to the right person.

To ensure your expectations are met, ask the person you delegated the task to, to repeat what it is you have asked them to do and by when.

On successful completion of a delegated task, saying thank you and recognising the effort will add to the respect you have as a leader. Delegation is not only an individual reward, but it will allow the entire team to progress faster towards business goals.

successbusinessmag.com.au

/ Issue 13 | May/June 2014

Just an hour’s drive south of Townsville is the Burdekin — sugar capital of Australia, fishing mecca and bird watching paradise. ased on the twin towns of Ayr and Home Hill, the district is as famous for its rich, flat farmlands as it is for its amazing waterways and scenic beauty. The Burdekin is also well known for its friendly residents, great specialty stores and laidback lifestyle.

The Burdekin produces the biggest and sweetest sugar cane in the country. It’s also one of the only cane-growing regions left in Australia where cane is burnt before harvest. These magnificent cane fires light up the skies every evening between June and

December and have become a tourist attraction in their own right. The Burdekin is one of the most productive agricultural districts in Australia with the industry worth about $500 million a year to the region. Even in the face of the global financial crisis, the Burdekin remained resilient, strong and prosperous. The abundance of good-quality fresh water makes the region the envy of the nation. Huge water resources which come from the Burdekin River, a massive underground aquifer and the Burdekin Dam, not only make the district drought-proof, but safeguard quality of life. You won’t find any severe water restrictions or timed showers here! Fantastic fishing is on offer in the estuaries and

waterways of the Burdekin Delta. Bring your boat or charter one to catch barramundi, mud crabs, prawns, mangrove jack and a host of other estuary species. The Burdekin’s magnificent wetlands are home to an amazing array of birdlife, some of which is unique to the area. Birdwatchers shouldn’t miss the chance to visit the Cromarty Wetlands, Horseshoe Lagoon or Lilliesmere Lagoon. The Burdekin River Bridge, which links Ayr and Home Hill, is the district’s best-known landmark. Known as the Silver Link, the 1103m crossing is the only bridge in Australia built without a solid footing. Take some time out from city life and sample the sweet life in the Burdekin.

successbusinessmag.com.au

Modern Luxurious Accommodation

yr Travellers Motel is a Quality 4-star motel, with luxuriously appointed rooms and the finest restaurant in the Burdekin, making the Ayr Travellers Motel ideal for the corporate or holiday traveller. Completed in 2009, the Ayr Travellers has 28 air-conditioned modern luxurious rooms that are stylish and superbly appointed. It also boasts the best restaurant dining experience in the Burdekin with friendly service and outstanding food.

Whether your stay is for business or pleasure, or maybe a bit of both, the Ayr Travellers is your ideal “home away from home” while visiting Ayr.

CONTACT PH 07 4783 6666

a. 233 Queen St, Ayr 4807 w. www.ayrtravellersmotel.com.au

RELAX, ESCAPE, RETREAT

BURDEKIN WATER FESTIVAL 72

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

f you are after a quick relaxing weekend away, look no further! Alva Beach Tourist Park is set on five tropical acres amongst coconut palms and hibiscus hedges and only a quick five-minute walk to Alva Beach. As a family owned and managed business we guarantee the best hospitality possible. We have the best fishing on the coast and if you’re after some fresh muddies you won’t be disappointed. There’s a great social barbecue area to meet and greet other travellers, as well as a spectacular pool area for all the family. A camp kitchen is also available for cooking.

We have 60 quiet and secluded powered sites for vans and motor homes with unpowered sites also available, as well as 26 cabins/ dongas with or without ensuites. We have gas re-filling, and sell bait, ice and all your essentials in our shop. For your next weekend away, call us today!

CONTACT ALVA BEACH TOURIST PARK PH 07 4783 3383

a. 36 Braby St, Alva Beach, Ayr 4807 w. www.alvabeachtouristpark1.net.au

Where everything's made with love

here everything's made with love â&#x20AC;&#x201D; is the new slogan adopted by award winning Dal Santo's Deli. After 15 years in business the owners Carla and Laurence Dal Santo are undertaking major renovations to create a modern, fresh and inviting ambience for their customers. Needless to say, this Burdekin business established in 1998 will continue serving their customers with key foundations of strong work ethics, high quality products and excellent customer service. The deli was established as a traditional Italian delicatessen displaying a variety of continental smallgoods, Australian and imported cheeses, olives and other prominent multi-cultural products. With the global trend of coffee consumption increasing, the deli introduced the alfresco dining cafĂŠ based on customer requests. So a strong partnership was formed with Vittoria coffee to deliver their customers an upmarket coffee blend.

Through social media the deli promotes the variety of services and products available to their customers, like the famous antipasto platters, gourmet hampers, coffee loyalty card and hard to source exclusive products advertised on real life cooking shows like Masterchef and My Kitchen Rules. The exposure of high profile chefs around the world is giving people a new appreciation of food. This family owned and operated business was built on a passion, by owner Carla and together with her husband Laurence they instill this passion to their four children Maddison, Jeremy, Elliott and Charlotte, who each actively help out in the deli when needed. Carla and Laurence are currently planning a trip to Europe, in particular Italy, where they can introduce their children to their ancestry heritage and expose them to the Italian products they sell at the deli. Please visit the deli next time you're in Ayr and enjoy one of their popular gourmet panini and a delicious cappuccino. Buon appetito!

CONTACT PH 07 4783 2622

a. Shop 16, East End Centre, Cnr Parker & MacMillan Sts, Ayr 4807 w. www.dalsantosdeli.com.au ď&#x201A;&#x201A; Like us on Facebook

successbusinessmag.com.au

gifts & jewellery

hen you're in the Burdekin make sure you visit the girls at Butterfly Blue in the main street of Ayr. Spend time browsing our beautiful range of sterling silver, fashion jewellery, milinery (fascinators) and accessories. With a huge range of unique gifts and beautiful home wares for all occasions. We also have a great collection of Paper crafts & Scrapbooking supplies. Find that special something at Butterfly Blue. Join us on Facebook, simply search Butterfly Blue – Gifts & Jewellery.

CONTACT PH 07 4783 3595

BURDEKIN FALLS DAM

a. 87 Queen St, Ayr 4807  Like us on Facebook

new name in the burdekin

he organisation that manages and operates the Burdekin Theatre in Ayr and Burdekin Memorial Hall in Home Hill is heading in a new direction and is doing so with a new name. Burdekin Events & Entertainment has recently replaced the cumbersome and rather unwieldy Burdekin Cultural Complex Board Incorporated. Manager Malcolm Calder says the organisation has recently refocused its direction, business model and forward direction. “We see now as the right time to rename and rebrand ourselves. As well as reflecting this, the new logo is a statement of our revitalisation and where we live," says Malcolm.

“Specifically we see our future lying in increasing the number and diversity of small conferences and meetings that we secure and host – including exhibitions, social activities and even weddings. The major focus is to source these from all over North Queensland and we have developed close working ties with Townsville Enterprise Limited and other bodies to help achieve this. We will of course continue striving to be the best little performance venue in regional Australia.” However, Malcolm also stressed that the venue names remain unchanged. Burdekin Events & Entertainment is only the organisation that manages and operates the venues. They remain the Burdekin Theatre and Burdekin Memorial Hall.

CONTACT Malcolm Calder, Manager of Burdekin Events & Entertainment

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

PH 07 4783 9880

a. 161 Queen Street, Ayr 4807 w. www.burdekintheatre.com.au

Introducing Harvey Norman Ayr Franchisees

Meet: Norman Schwarz COMPUTERS

Meet: Matthew Ackery ELECTRICAL

Tell us about your role?

Harvey Norman is Australia’s largest technology retailer. Harvey Norman Ayr uses this to bring the best possible shopping experience and products to the Burdekin. We specialise in computers, tablets, cameras, printers, gaming, connected health and more. Harvey Norman has recently progressed into connected house and wearable technology.

I am the electrical franchisee and have lived in the Burdekin since August 2012. We specialise in home appliances, including laundry, refrigeration and air-conditioning products, kitchen, cooking, small appliances, televisions and home audio equipment.

How long have you worked in the industry? Having graduated university with a Bachelor of Science majoring in Computer Science with a Minor in Chemistry, I moved from Armidale NSW to Newcastle NSW to play soccer and found myself in a computer technician role. I started with Harvey Norman Bennetts Green (Newcastle) in March 2000 as a part time technician. After a few moves between Newcastle and Maitland, and a brief stint out of retail doing web development, a return to retail beckoned. I made my way to Tamworth as a manager and then arrived in Ayr as a first-time franchisee.

What do you enjoy most about working in the region? The people are genuinely warm and friendly, and it doesn’t hurt that barra fishing is available on the door step either. My wife would add proximity to the North Queensland Cowboys.

What are the biggest changes you have seen in technology? Wow. Facebook, smartphones, online sales. The big ones to look forward to are the ‘connected house’ – lighting, door bells and more, all accessible through smart devices. Then there are wearable connected health devices such as Fitbits and Samsung Gear Watches.

Who inspires you? I’m a sport tragic. If I could get Sir Alex Ferguson or Wayne Bennett to give the start of morning meeting, well that’s how I aspire to emulate.

CONTACT

How long have you worked in the industry? I have worked in the retail industry since the beginning of 2001 after completing school in Ingham. I began my career as a delivery offsider in a Harvey Norman store in Western Australia and have been with Harvey Norman ever since, doing almost every job that the company will allow you to progress through.

What do you enjoy most about working in the region? I enjoy the Burdekin because I spent six years schooling in Bowen and I grew up in Ingham, so North Queensland is home for me. The people and weather are fantastic and it is a great place to raise a family. My fiancée and I have two daughters and living in a small community is very important to us.

What are the biggest changes you have seen in technology? Digital television and the boom of HD movies and TV have been the biggest changes over the last five years. We are on the cusp of another technology explosion though with the new OLED curved screen TVs and UHD screens with four times the resolution of your current full HD models.

Who inspires you? My two biggest inspirations are my father who started me out in the business and my former employer who believed in me and gave me great life direction and a solid base to start the next stage of my retail career. My family however, they inspire me to get out of bed every morning and if I can provide the same things for them that my parents provided for me then they should have a solid base to start from as well.

PH 07 4790 4600 a. 101 Queen Street, Ayr 4807 w. www.harveynorman.com.au

successbusinessmag.com.au

Relax and taste the sweet life in the

n i k e d r Bu

a la Clove

ine in a casual a la carte atmosphere with Jo and Chantel who have operated Clove restaurant for almost eight years. With more than 30 years of cooking experience between them, they have bought their cooking flare to Ayr. By day, Clove serves a café style menu for breakfast and lunch. Try our scrumptious eggs benedict or our very popular Clove chicken

nsville w o T f o th u so r u o h 1 only

burger with our own onion confit. By night, Clove transforms for a truly lovely dining experience offering modern Australian cuisine through a delicious menu with something to suit all tastes. We also cater for functions and create menus to suit.

• Great shopping • Free parking • Beautiful beaches • Fantastic ﬁshing • Spectacular wetlands • Incredible birdlife

A popular restaurant, be sure to visit Clove Licensed Restaurant when staying or travelling to the Burdekin.

CONTACT

Go to

www.burdekin.qld.gov.au

PH 07 4783 4051

for things to see and do in the Burdekin

a. Shop 6, 62 Queen St, Ayr 4807  Like us on Facebook

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

L Partners are committed to providing professional, personal and down to earth advice to clients about their financial affairs. Together, company Directors Peter McKaig and John Licciardello have over 40 years' combined experience in the industry and have been actively involved in making a difference to their clients' lives. Both directors have been actively involved in assisting clients start, grow and sell their business, to then look towards retiring successfully.

Peter and John are very proud of their outstanding team and boast an incredible amount of experienced accounting staff across all offices. With offices located in Home Hill, Ayr, Townsville and Cairns, ML Partners are committed to North Queensland.

CONTACT ayr PH 07 4783 3944

a. 54-62 Queen St, Ayr 4807

HOME HILL HARVEST FESTIVAL 76

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

home hill PH 07 4782 2733

a. 96-98 Eighth Av, Home Hill 4807

We listen to You

rasso Financial Services was established in Ayr in August 2006, when principal adviser, John Grasso, decided to open a financial planning office in his home town. John has always had a strong interest and vast knowledge of share trading and venture capital leading to the listing of small companies on the ASX. His conviction to provide individual tailored advice remains a priority to this day. The firm operates under the Securitor banner with offices now in Ayr, Bowen and Townsville to cater for the expanding client base in this northern region. Along with John, Grasso Financial Services has a second qualified financial planner, Tonia Sanderson. Tonia has had many years of experience in the industry in various roles and recently won the coveted Securitor Queensland Rising Star Award for 2014 at the national awards ceremony. This award recognises up and coming advisers who provide quality advice and can demonstrate a commitment to education and business growth. Previous awards received by Grasso Financial Services include the Securitor Queensland Practice of the Year 2012, and John Grasso was named Securitor Queensland Financial Adviser of the Year for 2012 and 2013. John and Tonia provide advice on a diverse range of financial planning areas including:

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

Back Row: Alison Oar, Chace Baulch, John Grasso, Tonia Sanderson, Maria Torrisi, Breanna Ritchie. Front Row: Laura Grasso, Luisa Grasso, Maree-Anne Gorizia, Susan Zamperoni.

• • • • • • • •

Investment Estate Planning Superannuation Small Business Succession Planning Insurance Age Pension/Aged Care Self Managed Super Funds Retirement Planning

Grasso Financial Services' philosophy on financial planning is to focus on a client's needs and to deliver strategies to put them in a better position. Where required, Grasso Financial Services will work together with a clients' other professional advisers including accountants and solicitors. With constantly changing legislation and a challenging investment environment, John and Tonia have found that the personalised investment strategies provided to clients meet their goals and expectations and provides them with peace of mind. As both John and Tonia are self managed superannuation fund (SMSF) specialist advisers with the SMSF Professional's Association of Australia (SPAA) and are able to provide dedicated advice to trustees of SMSFs. With new legislation to commence on 1 July 2014, whereby the ATO will have the power to impose a new list of administrative, monetary and education penalties

on trustees, it is vital that trustees are aware of their obligations. John, Tonia and the team at Grasso Financial Services are able to advise trustees on these obligations along with advising those who are considering opening a SMSF as to whether this is the best option for them.

CONTACT ayr Ph 07 4783 1767

146 Queen St, Ayr TOWNSVILLE Ph 07 4723 0144

577 Ross River Rd, Kirwan bowen Ph 07 4786 2200

c/- Fahey & Ponti, 58 Herbert St, Bowen

COVER FOR THE UNEXPECTED • Can you imagine what would happen to your business if either you or one of your partners were unable to contribute for an extended period of time due to injury, illness or even death? • Will there be a business buyout or transfer of equity? • Would you still be able to cover the running costs of your business or would you fall prey to overwhelming debt? • And what about your family – how would they cope if you were no longer drawing an income?

There are ways you can protect your business against these unfortunate events. We can work with you to help find a solution that is best for you, your circumstances and your business. Remember a successful business plan makes provisions for the unexpected. So to start protecting your business, and in turn your livelihood call us for an appointment today on 4783 1767.

146 Queen St, Ayr | 4783 1767 admin@grassofinancialservices.com.au John Grasso - AFP®, Dip FS (FP), SSA SMSF Specialist Advisor™ Tonia Sanderson - AFP®, Dip FP, SSA SMSF Specialist Advisor™ Corporate Authorised Representative and Corporate Credit Representative of Securitor Financial Group Ltd. ABN 48 009 189 495. AFSL and ACL 240687

L'SHU FOR YOU

’Shu On Queen understands that the need to shop for shoes can strike at any moment, so we’re working hard to provide our customers with the opportunity to buy shoes that follow the latest global trends, innovative designs and prices that customers love! We source the best that Australian fashion has to offer, and bring you your favourite international brands. While there are many online choices for shoe shopping, we strive to provide an in-house, uniquely special experience. Like our Facebook page to view new stock range.

On trend shoes from all over the world, and only a short drive from Townsville, L’Shu on Queen will not disappoint!

CONTACT PH 07 4783 7770

a. 137 Queen St, Ayr 4807  Like us on Facebook

BURDEKIN GROWERS RACE DAY

PTY LTD

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

BURDEKIN gRoWeRs RACE DAY 2014 5

8 1. Chris Truscott, Tim Dick & Terry Brabon 2. Chris & Kady Mitchell 3. Jeremy Martin & Sarah Jones 4. Wilmee Palu-ay, Natasha Cannavan & Bree Falco 5. Krystal Roveglia, Christy Pirrone, Rebecca Horan & Rachel Martin 6. Stephen & Jan Hatherell 7. Jarrod & Bri Rossato 8. Michael Harper, Daniel Ziliotto & Mark Vass 9. Shannon Pegoraro, Elisha Hamilton and Emily Thompson

9 successbusinessmag.com.au

KFSU Ltd is based in the Burdekin and was developed to provide healthy food ingredients from sugar cane by-products to the marketplace. KFSU is the first company to bring a commercial sugar cane dietary fibre to the international market with Kfibre® — the flagship brand. KFSU has invested $4 million in the Burdekin so far with significant plans for expansion which is expected to create up to 60 new jobs. Although the region is best known for growing sugar cane, there is an abundance of other crops that are grown including mangoes, melons, pumpkins, zucchinis, rice, soybeans, mung beans, sweet corn, beans, capsicums, chillies, maize and cotton. The Burdekin also has a number of emerging industries including agave and sorghum. The world’s only commercial producer of the South American Achacha fruit is based near Giru. The Burdekin’s pastoral industry has a long and successful history and continues to thrive today. The farm gate value of the cattle in the shire is more than $7 million. Local graziers service the Stuart meatworks and international live export markets.

building the burdekin Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Bill Lowis gives us the low-down on the shire.

elcome to the Burdekin — the sugar capital of Australia and one of the most prosperous rural communities in the country. It’s also one of the prettiest districts along the Queensland coast with its lush cane fields, spectacular wetlands and unspoilt beaches. Our shire encompasses in excess of 5000 square kilometres and is home to an estimated 17,784 people. Queensland Treasury forecasts the region’s population will reach approximately 19,500 by 2031. Burdekin residents enjoy relaxed coastal country living, a great tropical climate, a wealth of natural resources and an easy pace of life. The main towns of Ayr and Home Hill offer the best of small town living, with their tree-lined streets, ample free parking and good public amenities. There is also a great range of specialty stores, cafés, hotels and good restaurants. Our region is a fisherman’s paradise, with freshwater, estuary, beach and reef fishing on offer which probably explains why the Burdekin has one of the highest rates of boat ownership per capita in Queensland. It’s also a magnet for fishing-mad tourists and grey nomads who gravitate north

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

each winter to enjoy our beautiful weather. Home Hill’s Comfort Stop has proved a wise investment by council with the town economy being boosted by more than $250,000 during the peak tourist season. The Burdekin’s most important asset is its water. The Burdekin River, combined with a massive underground aquifer and the Burdekin Falls Dam, make the district virtually drought-proof. The aquifer is said to be the largest in Australia. It lies just 10 metres below the surface and contains over 20 million megalitres of fresh water. The agricultural industry pumps a large proportion of its total water usage from this water source. The region is home to about 1000 sugar and produce growers and the agricultural industry employs 20% of our population. About 3400 hectares of our region is dedicated to horticultural use and 80,000 hectares is used to grow our main crop — sugar cane. The district produces between 8–9 million tonnes of sugar cane annually, from which 1.3 million tonnes of raw sugar is produced at the region’s four large-scale mills. In addition Austcane Energy is in the process of developing a $220 million ethanol and co-generation plant to process sugar cane.

Currently, Pacific Reef Fisheries is capable of producing up to 900 tonnes of premium Black Tiger Prawns annually. Plans for expansion will see the area of production increase from 68 hectares to 98 hectares, allowing for 30 existing, one-hectare ponds to be used as part of the operations. Even through the Global Financial Crisis the Burdekin economy remained stable, resilient and provided certainty and security for all businesses and industry in the region. In recent months the Burdekin has welcomed a number of large-scale developments in both Ayr and Home Hill including a new multi-purpose travel facility, new service station, the multi-purpose recreational facility/cyclone shelter, expansion of the Burdekin Christian College, construction of the Home Hill IGA and upgrades of $6 million to Inkerman Mill and $3 million to Pioneer Mill. The Burdekin Shire Council takes a proactive approach to planning, and has taken steps to ensure future land demands are met. The Shire has a strategically located industrial estate and a planning scheme that has set aside a massive parcel of land for future industrial and residential needs. Of course, the district’s other key assets are its people and its laidback lifestyle. I’m sure that the warmth of local hospitality, combined with everything else the Burdekin has to offer, will ensure you enjoy your visit to our beautiful shire. Visit our website www.burdekin.qld.gov.au or follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/BurdekinSC.

CONTACT PH 07 4783 3631

a. 2/52 Queen St, Ayr 4807  Like us on Facebook

HE L E N E

Exceptional eye care and exquisite eyewear

ur eyes are precious and our vision is our most valued sense so they deserve professional care and attention. Helene Holmes Optometrists have been providing personal and professional eye care in North Queensland since 1997. They are a totally private and independent practice that is locally-owned, using state-of-the-art equipment and stocking a large range of unique frames. Also keeping up-todate with technology is evident with their recent acquisition of the Optos Ultra-widefield digital retinal imaging device which produces ultra-widefield, high resolution digital images of approximately 82% of the retina, something no other device is capable

HO L M E S

O P T O M E T R I S T S SHOP 2 52 QUEEN STREET AYR QLD 4807 Ph: (07) 4783 3631 Fax: (07) 4783 1502

of doing in any one image. Additionally, they are regularly receiving new frames in stock which are all individually hand-picked to ensure they have an exceptional design, are constructed of quality materials and have head-turning appeal. You are always welcome to visit and browse their ranges to find that special piece that suits just you. There's something for everyone at Helene Holmes Optometrists as they cover all aspects of optometry including eye health checks, contact lenses, prescription glasses and sunglasses for adults and children (including the brand that little Prince George just received when he visited Australia recently).

Consultations are bulk-billed to Medicare and pension/healthcare card holders are eligible for free glasses, so optometric care is affordable for everyone. At Helene Holmes Optometrists they pride themselves on providing comprehensive eye care and personalised service, advice and support. For exceptional eye care and exquisite eyewear, visit Helene Holmes Optometrists, conveniently located at 52 Queen Street, Ayr — call 4783 3631 or email heleneholmesoptical@bigpond.com.

showcasing the best

ampbell's Showcase Jewellery specialises in beautiful and unique jewellery and giftware. Owner Rose Papadimitriou, together with her staff Jane, Giovanna, Rinelle, Thomasina and Erin strive to provide the best service and will assist you in choosing the perfect piece whether it be for yourself or for a gift.

The introduction of new and exciting jewellery, watches and gifts helps us to keep up with changing trends and styles. Our in-store jeweller, Alan, will design, remake or repair your precious pieces and replace watch batteries. Visit us today and view the stunning array of jewellery on display in our Jewellery Galleria.

CONTACT PH 07 4783 2684

a. 113 Queen St, Ayr 4807  Like us on Facebook

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on West Toyota is a family owned business, with the values youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d expect, and the dedication to providing you with the friendly, familiar experience you deserve. We have faith in the product we sell, and our team aim is to make you feel a part of the Don West Toyota family. Several of our dealership team have been at Don West Toyota for two decades, providing continuity of service and an extraordinary level of expertise and customer service. We employ 25 locals, and believe strongly in providing continued training for them in order to maximise their potential, help them achieve their career goals, and ensure you are provided with an outstanding experience no matter which department youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re dealing with.

Driving the Community for over 35 years CONTACT

don west toyota

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

PH 07 4783 1600

a. 282 Queen St, Ayr 4807 w. www.donwesttoyota.com.au

Don West Toyota sponsors a wide range of organisations and sporting events and are heavily invested in the local community throughout the district, these include, rugby league (senior and junior), soccer (senior and junior), lawn bowls, golf, cricket, BMX and Burdekin road runners. Home Hill harvest festival, ayr water festival, PCYC, Burdekin craft spectacular and Burdekin barra rush to name a few. Dealing with us means ongoing support for the lifeblood of the Burdekin district through our community sponsorships. Don West Toyota is an environmentally friendly business; we have recently installed the first of our 120 solar panels (30 KW) to the roof of our dealership to reduce our energy use. Our dealership recycles oil, coolant, batteries, cardboard, metal and plastic to reduce unnecessary waste and carbon emissions, and we have supported national tree day in conjuction with Landcare and Burdekin Shire Council since its inception in 1996.

MODA BLINDS

PLATINUM DEALER

DECOR

ACCESSORIES

INTERIORS & DESIGNER CONCEPTS LIGHTING

ART

CHAIRS

RUGS

urdekin Motorcycles have been servicing the region for almost 10 years under the current ownership. Dave and Alissa Muir have had a lifetime of experience in motorcycles and motor racing, as one of two Yamaha motorcycle dealers in North Queensland to be a platinum dealer, they guarantee quality service and customer satisfaction. As well as being a Yamaha motorcycle and wave runner dealer, they also sell and service the full range of Toro mowers. Their experienced staff can assist you with your next motorcycle or mower purchase, service or just advice.

CONTACT PH 07 4783 3773

a. 266 Queen St, Ayr 4807 w. www.burdekinmotorcycles.com.au

Shop 4 Burdekin Plaza, Ayr | p. 4783 7174 | Like us on Facebook

40 years and still Power-ing on

eville Eathorne first opened Eathornes Sports Village in February 1974 in an 80 square metres store with a staff of one and a first days takings of $24.95. Today Neville’s retail space exceeds 400 square metres and he currently employs over 12 people. Throughout the years as the business grew, opportunities arose to join buying groups; first came

Sportscene and then in 2001 they would merge into the Sportspower group. Neville’s mission statement was written many years ago but still stands to this day: “To supply the best range and quality of sporting goods with superior customer service in a pleasant retail environment, giving the customer an excellent shopping experience.”

CONTACT

SUGAR CANE FIRE

PH 07 4783 5744

a. 138 Queen St, Ayr 4807 w. www.sportspower.com.au

successbusinessmag.com.au

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

Are they really worth the effort? Deciding whether or not responding to a tender is worth the effort really comes down to you — how well you know your market, how well you know the client and how well your strategy will benefit your business in the long run. Many businesspeople fall to pieces when a tender lands on their doorstep — regardless of what it’s worth and regardless of how well-equipped their company is to supply the goods or services needed. Tenders can put a real strain on business operations, particularly ones that don’t have the available manpower to deal with the quick turnaround often required. But the reality is, tenders aren’t the nightmare they appear to be. They may be a pain in the proverbial, but if you have a strong relationship — or are nurturing one — with the client, then no tender worth the business is an insurmountable challenge. Go back to your business basics to decide if it’s opportunity worth pursuing; and if it is, break it down and put your best foot forward. SUITABILITY Make an educated assessment on the suitability of the opportunity for your business. Some people can do this in their head, while some are better to compile a checklist. Some businesses have a suitability-check in place that is so protocol driven that it’s to the detriment of strategy development and the quality of the response. •

If you aren’t equipped to provide the scope of goods/services right now and it’s not a one-off project, log the contract period to a calendar, start or continue courting the client and wait until it’s the right time to throw your hat in the ring.

•

If it’s a standout opportunity but requires partners, don’t discount a consortium offer if it’s allowed under the Conditions of Tender. Capital cities pitching for Townsville’s business won’t think twice about buddying up to win work in NQ, so we shouldn’t either.

• If you have absolutely no relationship with the client then you may choose to respond just to come to their attention. It’s not a bad approach if you can knock out a good document and strategy, but be prepared to court the client through the next contract period and possibly beyond. •

Don’t be scared to offer alternatives — just ensure you follow compliancy guidelines to do so or your carefully-prepared offer may end up in the bin.

Define your point of difference, highlight your input into the region’s economy and substantiate both in your pitch — Townsville’s future growth is a playingfield not only for local businesses, but also for metro players keen to leveragåe our economic future. THE RIGHT TEAM If you decide to respond, have the right people in the right places on your team. Workshop your strategy, break your request documentation down into the three key sections, and assign the right people to take care of each: 1. Response (Q&A) If you don’t have an in-house MS Word guru to set up your response document, outsource and get your template set up so you can just drop in words.

2. Legals Don’t pretend to be a lawyer. You don’t ever want to appear too high maintenance at the tender stage, but clauses such as Force Majeure are must haves. If it’s not a local, state or Commonwealth tender and you aren’t prepared to spend money on the legals, consider whether you should go any further than reading the issued documentation until you can be more prepared. 3. Pricing Make sure your estimator is clear on your strategy across all levels so all costs are covered and again, don’t be afraid to offer alternative options in addition to what’s been requested — especially if alternatives are more current, more viable or present cost efficiencies without reducing quality. Alternatives are a key strategy our metrocounterparts will wield to their advantage to secure NQ work. SUSTAINABLE PRICING Don’t shoot yourself in the foot trying to win the opportunity. While you may want the business, don’t drop your pants. You may think you’ll be able to offset going in at cost or under with more profitable accounts you have in place, or in the pipeline, but can you sustain quality and service if profitable accounts drop off in the long term? Be aware of the impacts to the region and your own business if your pricing decisions drive market pricing down.

For more information about tender preparation contact: Tracey Gordon 0437 649 929 or email traceygordon@y7mail.com

successbusinessmag.com.au

MAXIMISE YOUR

business INVESTMENT Proudly brought to you by the Townsville Business Development Centre, The NQ Business and Franchise Expo is back again for 2014, and is entering an exciting new phase.

roudly brought to you by the Townsville Business Development Centre, The NQ Business and Franchise Expo is back again for 2014, and is entering an exciting new phase.

First launched at the Riverway Performing Arts Centre in 2011, the expo evolved in 2013 with the addition of a dedicated franchising space and increased networking opportunities. Attracting over 100 sponsors and exhibitors from across Australia, including lucrative partnerships with online national digital media outlets and local media, marketing and business agencies, the event showcased the depth and diversity of local industry. This, coupled with high quality speakers and presenters across a broad range of industry topics, led to highly successful and well received event. In Issue 10 of Success Business Magazine, then President of Townsville Chamber of Commerce, Dawson Wilkie wrote; “The Expo is on its way to becoming an iconic event, bringing the Townsville business community under one roof over two days. Crowd numbers were good, but more importantly, visitors came to do business.” The 2014 NQ Business and Franchise Expo will be held 10–12 October, and is expanding again and on the move to an exciting new location at the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre. With larger exhibition space to accommodate everyone in the one room and additional workshop space, the 2014 NQ Business and Franchise Expo is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever.

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

Already billed as the signature business event on the regional calendar, the expo is a unique opportunity for business-to-business networking, promotion and partnering. Typically, sponsors and exhibitors represent a broad cross-section of industry providers, stakeholders, corporate and professional services, as well as business owners, all seeking to expand their market exposure and connect with new networks. Attendees range from professional executives, investors and stakeholders, through to business owners and operators and those interested in learning about the business development life cycle. With additional workshop space available at TECC, the format for presentations is set to be expanded to include traditional workshops, as well as panel discussions and relevant forum presentations on key topics to industry. Professional development will be high on the agenda again this year, with an opportunity to learn from professional and academic leaders in diverse fields of business.

̔̔

The Expo is on its way to becoming an iconic event, bringing the Townsville business community under one roof over two days. Crowd numbers were good, but more importantly, visitors came to do business. - Dawson Wilkie

The Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre provides a unique opportunity to keep the entire event under the one roof, with a formal business lunch scheduled to launch the event on Friday 10 October. Later that evening, following on from the success of last year, there will be a combined networking drinks event open to all expo delegates and members of regional business networks. Based on the feedback from the combined format last year and again from the business Christmas Party of 2013, this is expected to be the largest business networking event of the year so far. Townsville is one of the fastest growing economies in Australia and has overtaken Cairns as the largest regional city in Queensland. With the recent focus on Northern Australia, we are well positioned to lead the economic growth in this area. We benefit from an extremely diverse and largely stable economy,

underpinned by five key industries each with no more than a 17% of GDP. The potential to expand into the resource sector coupled with the scheduled Port facilities expansion plans, as well proposed increased defence capability, signals lucrative future projects and a boost to our local region. It is widely accepted that small business is the key driver to any regional economy and as industry stakeholders seek to attract major capital works projects to Townsville, the opportunity exists for the broader community to benefit from the flow-on effect of this investment. Maybe you're looking to go into business, improve your bottom line, increase your market share opportunities, expand your business or investigate new products and services. The North Queensland Business and Franchise Expo will cater for everything

you need to know about business, under the one roof, over three big days, 10â&#x20AC;&#x201C;12 October. If ever there was a good time to develop, create or innovate your business ideas, it's now! We have a number of lucrative sponsorship packages available, offering you the opportunity to brand yourself at the largest event of its kind in Queensland. We have worked hard to secure attractive benefits in order to maximise your investment opportunity. Alternatively, if you are interested in exhibiting, then we also have a range of options available, designed to best suit your individual business needs. Contact our office on 07 4723 8491, or email to admin@nqbfe.com.au today.

THIS COULD BE YOUR BUSINESS Book your site before 31 July for your chance to win a half page advertisement in Success Business Magazine.

CALL FOR SPONSORS 10-12

OCT AND EXHIBITORS Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre 2014

Contact Sharyn Brown at Townsville Business Development Centre www.nqbfe.com.au | Ph. 07 4723 8491 | E. admin@nqbfe.com.au

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LET MELK illuminate YOUR INTERIOR

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Real Estate

SPECIALISTS Issue 14 | July/August 2014

When it comes to playing the real estate game, a good agent is the best advantage you can have. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave your decisions to a roll of the dice; enlist one of our regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s A-list agents to do the legwork for you.

successbusinessmag.com.au

Ray White 252 Charters Towers Rd, Hermit Park m. 0407 352 276 www.juliepaton.raywhite.com

Julie Paton

Real Estate Agent Best piece of advice you have ever received? Listening to others is a true passion of mine, making it a little tricky to narrow down only one piece of advice. However, to participate in life is great advice. I have never been a sideliner (although this role is important) I have always been in the game playing. When I consciously decided to convert this to all aspects of my life, I started to reap amazing personal rewards. I am consciously making decisions to act from the moment I open my eyes in the morning.

Why do people choose you to sell their home? Participating in life means I am present in the moment enthusiastically. I have made a choice to be here and I give it my all. I am all about helping people, and my business model is founded on this concept. Hard work eliminates the need for luck; I never leave a stone un-turned when hunting to identify buyers to introduce to properties who will pay a premium price for their new home. Transparency and collaboration with property owners to achieve their goals, not mine. There are no hidden agendas — it is all about the owners' goals. Accountability provides a strong trusting relationship with sellers which reduce stress during the selling process.

What are you looking forward to most in the next 12 months? There are many things I am passionate about in life. I recognise I am fortunate and it is important for me to contribute positively to my community. I am launching two events this year which will go on to occur annually. Women’s Choices is a threehour workshop created to empower women to embrace choices and take action. This event launched in June 2014 with over 60 people in attendance. Women (and good ol’ girlfriends) have supported me and held my hand through the highs and challenges in life.

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

I want to create an opportunity to empower women. Delta Dogs comprises amazing volunteers who take their beloved pooches into nursing care facilities, hospitals and schools to share love, joy and companionship. The dogs and their handlers spread so much happiness to those in need and they need financial support. In September, I am launching Donate a Treat 4 Delta Dogs, where the local community can bring a bag of treats to this event to show their support.

Do you have a Mentor? There is a band of people I draw life and business lessons from. There is a treasured saying, everyone brings something to the table. I feel the trick is to not concentrate on your own ‘plate’ but look at what everyone else is enjoying and utilising to bring them success. There is not one ‘meal’ which provides a recipe for achieving goals, you need to try other flavours and get outside your comfort zone. Sometimes you need a sharp knife (strong mentor) to cut through the tough bits and other times you need a butter knife (love and support) to spread the butter. I go looking for positive contributions in everyone.

What do you feel are your biggest strengths? My willingness and desire to overcome the challenges of change; change is inevitable. If I want to be at the top of my game, then I must want to roll with new ideas, concepts, methodologies and practices. I cannot stay with what has worked in the past. I need to evolve the past into today and transform it into the future. It is not without fear of the unknown — but it is so important to be willing to tackle the new!

Harcourts Kingsberry Townsville 108 Charters Towers Road, Hermit Park m. 0428 242 817 e. julie.mahoney@harcourts.com.au

Julie Mahoney Sales Consultant Explain a little about your role?

What do you enjoy most about working in our region?

My role is all encompassing in the marketing and selling of residential real estate in Townsville. Initially, the focus is on making sure the property is prepared for sale and establishing a marketing plan, followed by presentation of the property for open homes and private inspections. Once a prospective buyer is identified then the negotiation process of the price and terms begins. I hold my clients hand right through what can sometimes become an emotional rollercoaster to achieve a great result.

I love Townsville’s diversity. We have some of Australia’s most astute business minds and this is blended with a great family orientated lifestyle.

How long have you worked in real estate? Over 10 years.

Why do people choose you to sell their home? Namely due to my proven results. I take a grounded approach with the skill set to provide accurate market information. I have gained a reputation for my innovative approach to portraying properties in their best light and subsequently hold the highest sale prices in many inner city suburbs; these are result of my hard work and strong belief in the importance of marketing, presentation and working in conjunction with all clients.

What are your biggest achievements? Although I have achieved much industry recognition, including being included in the RP Data Top 100 Australian agents, my biggest achievements come not from awards but rather from incredible moments. I love to allow people who are selling to move forward with their lives and create new exciting pathways. It is simply wonderful what a property transaction allows people to do and when I assist in their journey I feel blessed to be included.

Who or what inspires you? When you have a career you genuinely love, inspiration and energy come with ease.

What are the biggest changes you have seen in real estate in our region? It would most definitely be how the advances in technology have influenced the real estate industry and the information that is now readily available. I’m very grateful to have a brilliant personal assistant that helps me keep on top of and up to date with all of this! I also believe that the industry has become more professional and accountable as a result, which is great to see.

What advice do you have for anyone looking to get into your industry? Success is directly proportional to your true love of our great industry.

What are you looking forward to most in the next 12 months?

Working with the Kingsberry family to make the Harcourts brander stronger than it’s ever been in Townsville.

successbusinessmag.com.au

Harcourts Kingsberry Townsville 108 Charters Towers Road, Hermit Park m. 0478 189 778 e. danielle.ronan@tsvharcourts.com.au

DANIELLE RONAN Sales Consultant Explain a little about your role?

Tell us about your family?

I market and sell property in all areas in Townsville and have great enthusiasm for the Kirwan area. I have excellent knowledge of this suburb and surrounding areas, having been a local resident in Townsville all my life. I have a passion for real estate and helping people achieve their goals, whether it be purchasing their dream home or selling their most valuable asset.

I am married and we have three children all over 18. I also have three small grandchildren whom I love spending time with. Both my parents also live in Townsville and had careers as teachers in the Townsville Catholic schools (Holy Spirit and Ryan Catholic College).

What are the biggest changes you have seen in real estate in our region? How long have you worked in real estate? 14 years.

Why do people choose you to sell their home? Having been in the industry for some time, I understand the importance of vendors having confidence in knowing that I will be there for them and their property. I believe in giving a tailored service and 100% commitment and focus on their property and a successful outcome. I will go above and beyond to ensure that no stone is left unturned and that the maximum sale price is achieved within the shortest possible time.

The biggest change that I have seen in real estate in our region was in the period between 2004 up to the boom in 2007, which I believe was set off by the first home owners grant and zero deposit finance. We were conducting a lot of auctions at this time as we still do today and we were constantly achieving premium prices with very competitive bidding. The price rise in this time was from your average $110,000 dollar property to $310,000 in just a few years. Property sales have been slowly increasing in recent times and I believe we will see prices continually improve over the next two years. However, I do not think we will see anything like the price boom we saw building up to 2007.

What advice do you have for anyone looking to get into your industry?

What are your biggest achievements?

Look for a firm with people that have a lot of experience in the industry.

I had myself set on a long and rewarding journey in real estate and have maintained a professional, ethical and honest reputation.

Do you have a mentor?

What do you enjoy most about working in our region? Townsville is my home. Having been born, raised and educated here, I have experienced first-hand the changing face of our great city. I have always had an interest in property values and trends in our region and love working in this area.

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

The Kingsberryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s including Nev, Rosemary and Ben.

Best piece of advice you have ever received? Be the best you can be.

Harcourts Kingsberry Townsville Beaches Shop 5 Cnr Lionel Turner Drive & Mt Low Parkway, Bushland Beach m. 0421 583 168 e. allison.gough@harcourts.com.au

Allison Gough Sales Consultant Explain a little about your role?

What do you enjoy most about working in our region?

Property Sales Consultant at Harcourts, specialising in coastal and rural properties on Townsville northern beaches. I work from the Bohle River north to Balgal Beach, Rollingstone area.

The beaches for sure. I try to be very grounded and every Friday morning I get up early to do my own letter box drops, I often see the sunrise from the hill at Bushland Beach or on the beach front streets in Saunders Beach. I see a lot of old clients when I am out and about on Friday mornings, it’s a great time to have a casual catch up.

How long have you worked in Real Estate? 10 years.

Why do people choose you to sell their home? Energy and consistency. I am really passionate about Townsville’s northern beaches and I believe that the beach suburbs offers fabulous lifestyle opportunities for the people that choose to live there. I deal with a select group of buyers that are generally keen to live or invest in Townsville’s northern beach suburbs, specialising in this area has allowed me to develop exceptional product knowledge about residential homes sales, acreage properties and ongoing infrastructure investment in the area.

What are your biggest achievements? My biggest achievement in real estate is being able to develop regularity in property sales, one of the hardest elements of being in sales is developing a stable pattern of sales so you to have a regular income. I have watched a lot of sales people come and go over the past few years because their income can be very spasmodic. It takes great momentum and a lot of hard work to have a consistancy in property sales, especially in Townsville’s northern beaches, there is a lot of misconception that the property market along the beach suburbs is a difficult one, it’s great to prove the doubters wrong buy achieving steady sales in the area.

What are the biggest changes you have seen in Real estate in our region? Over the past 10 years northern beaches has changed dramatically. We have seen a world class residential development take shape at Stockland North Shore. The progression of residential construction is amazing and the business and leisure infrastructure has never been seen before at the northern suburbs. There are also other retail and residential estates that have added immensely to the city scape of the beach suburbs. 30% of Townsville’s growth over the next 10 years is expected to take place in the northern corridor.

Do you have a mentor? I have a few, but Julie Mahoney from our city office is one of real estates over achievers and I am blessed to call her a friend and business coach, when I need it! I am fortunate to now have Ben Kingsberry as my principal, he is helping me keep my eye on the numbers, but I have to say I am lucky to have developed a strong relationship with some other high achieving real estate agents and principals in Townsville and I always appreciate their good advice and words of wisdom when I need it. We are fortunate in Townsville to have some of the best real estate businesses and agents in Queensland.

successbusinessmag.com.au

About Town Real Estate 48 Gregory St North Ward t. 07 4772 5252 www.abouttownrealestate.com.au

Terry Godde & Marilyn Griffin Director | Senior Property Consultant Explain a little about your role? Our company was founded almost 20 years ago by Marilyn and from humble beginnings we have developed a client-focussed, property sales and management service. We specialise in all things residential, and pride ourselves on traditional values. Our motto of service, honesty, strength; means that with good service and honesty to all we deal with, strength is the result.

Marilyn: People who give their time to make a difference in our town, contributing to health and wellbeing of all Australians.

What are the biggest changes you have seen in real estate in our region?

Marilyn: I have continuously worked in real estate since 1983.

Marilyn: Life in the real estate industry became very efficient when out went the telex machine and in came the fax machine, followed by mobile phones, internet and emails. About Town had the first real estate website in Townsville. One stalwart proclaimed, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Surely you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think you are going to sell real estate off a website?â&#x20AC;?.

Why do people choose you to sell their home?

What advice do you have for anyone looking to get into your industry?

How long have you worked in real estate?

Our clients enjoy our approach, which is down to earth and results focused.

What are your biggest achievements? Terry: The biggest achievement has been the amount of repeat business we get from our clients; this is the backbone of our business. Marilyn: Having five sales settle contemporaneously in one day, each sale dependant on the other.

What do you enjoy most about working in our region? Marilyn: I love its people. Townsville is a vibrant town with new people coming in and others transferring out.

Who or what inspires you? Terry: There are some key people whom I find very inspirational, they include disability carers and those people who care for the elderly. I also am inspired by my daughter; she is without doubt a real inspiration.

/ Issue 14 | July/August 2014

Terry: If it is your genuine passion, and customer service is your focus, then give it a red hot go! Marilyn: This is a service industry. You must be prepared to meet clients after hours and on weekends. My advice is learn as much as you can. Product knowledge is invaluable.

What are you looking forward to most in the next 12 months? Terry: Each day provides things to look forward to; we have talked about a holiday, a road trip, that would be nice. Marilyn: Letting go of running a business to being a very happy sales person helping others with their property transactions.

Best piece of advice you have ever received? Terry: The one thing you need to learn is that there is nothing you cannot learn. Marilyn: Love what you do.

RE/MAX excellence 90d Bundock Street, Belgian Gardens t. 07 4772 1164 www.lynandrohan.com

Lyn Griffiths & Rohan Banning Licensed Real Estate Agents Explain a little about your role?

Favourite things to do to unwind?

We sell residential property all over Townsville. Houses, land and apartments.

Travelling is our passion, plus we love to take quick trips to Magnetic Island when we manage to get some free time. Oh, and we love to sit down to a meal of freshly cooked mudcrabs and a nice bottle of sauvignon blanc!

How long have you worked in real estate? 10 years.

Why do people choose you to sell their home? We are known as the team to go to if you want the job done.

What are your biggest achievements? In 2013, we sold more properties than any other RE/MAX agent in Townsville. We were recognised as the #1 RE/MAX agent in the country last month. Currently ranked #8 within RE/MAX internationally (which includes 100 countries and 100,000 agents.)

What do you enjoy most about working in our region? The close proximity of everything, so work and play can be easily combined.

Tell us about your family? Lyn, Rohan and Possum (our 19-year-old cat who runs the place!).

Who or what inspires you? We’re both inspired by passionate people who love what they do, and we are driven by a strong desire to retire young and travel the world!

What are the biggest changes you have seen in real estate in our region?

Do you have a mentor? Rohan: Not really, I just pick up bits from different people. Lyn: There are some very solid real estate minds within the RE/MAX network across Australia and beyond. These people are only a phone call away and are very generous with their time and advice.

What advice do you have for anyone looking to get into your industry? Rohan: Just hang in there for 12 months and you will make it through the other side. Lyn: You don’t try real estate, it tries you. It can be very rewarding, but I can say without hesitation that it is the hardest job I have ever done.

Tell us one thing people wouldn’t know about you. Rohan: I have a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Lyn: I was awarded Townsville Business Woman of the Year and Cairns Business Woman of the Year, in the same year!

One thing you can’t live without? Rohan: The seaside. Lyn: My two boys (Rohan and Possum!). Rohan: Oops, I mean my wife, Lyn…

Information is everywhere now, but unfortunately not all of it is correct.

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Corporate

MAKEOVER SMS now and enter to win our corporate makeover with Touch of Utopia. PLUS you receive a jpeg copy of the photo from your new revealed look! This competition is not only for the ladies, so start entering fellas. To enter, email news@successbusinessmag.com.au.

THIS EDITIONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Winner Name Estelle Griessel Business Absolute Dentures Position Owner

I absolutely love the new cut and colour! The makeup was great too. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve received so many compliments.

HOW WE ACHIEVED this look Makeup We created a great base using the Youngblood mineral primer and created a flawless finish with Golden Tan foundation and Warm Beige loose mineral powder mixed to a paste consistency and applied with a flat Kabuki brush. Eyebrows were enhanced using a mineral eyebrow pencil. Golden Beryl crushed eye shadow and Smiink Flashy Lash lashes were applied to accentuate the eyes. Tangier blush used on the cheeks and a plum liner pencil with Bistro lipstick to complete the look. Hair When Estelle came into the salon her hair was a tired-looking red. We decided with her colour to give her a bit of depth and go with a deep copper. We found this suited her skin tone quite well. We also wanted to have a hint of something different, so we placed a panel of a slightly brighter copper to give her a bit of emphasis around her face. Estelle's haircut was already short so we thought piecing it around the face would make it easier for Estelle to style at home. We also took some weight out to give it added texture.

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TODAY

Leading the

way

Story by Rachel Licciardello

This July, Sydney-based Townsville native Emily Haigh will join 700 international young entrepreneurs and world leaders for the G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance Summit. Her goal? To catalyse global action around youth unemployment issues, youth entrepreneurship and innovation.

You are involved with the G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance (G20YEA), a global network working to promote youth entrepreneurship for economic renewal and social change. Tell me about your involvement. I am Communications Chair for the annual G20YEA Summit, which brings together some of the world’s most impressive up-and-coming business owners to meet with government and business leaders. The summit’s goal is to develop an action plan in response to the unprecedented global growth of youth unemployment. Many economies are currently struggling to provide enough employment for youth. Developed economies face extensive challenges including rising deficits, low rates of growth and high levels of unemployment that affect youth. As young entrepreneurs, my fellow delegates and I know the obstacles in business and innovation that our generation faces today. By connecting us with organisations and business leaders who are able to lead the way to change, we can make it easier for youth to not only find employment, but create employment. This is my second year involved, as I attended the 2013 G20YEA Summit in Moscow, Russia.

What will be your focus at the 2014 G20YEA Summit in Sydney, July 18–22? In the lead-up and during the 2014 summit, the global delegates drafted a communiqué. The summit’s objective is to present the communiqué and action plan to key recipients for support and auctioning. This strategy looks to address and manage the global youth employment crisis, and outlines key recommendations for world governments on the value of implementing policy to foster growth of youth-driven entrepreneurship. Recipients include the Australian Prime Minister and Sherpa, the Deputy Prime Minister, Ministers for Small Business and other relevant MPs, leaders of B20, Y20, L20, C20 and Lowy Institute, as well as global sherpas, ambassadors, ministers and other government representatives from all G20 nations. The communiqué will recommend action in each of the countries across the six pillars of entrepreneurship ecosystems: 1. Trade and globalisation 2. Investment and access to funding 3. Government, taxation and regulation 4. Innovation and technology 5. Education and coordinated support 6. Entrepreneurship culture

Emily Haigh (in red), with Impact Leaders co-founder Sonia Lipski.



WANT TO KNOW MORE? The G20YEA Summit 2014 will be held in Sydney, July 18—22; for more info about G20YEA, visit www.g20yea.com. To learn more about Impact Leaders and how your business can become more sustainable, go to www.impactleaders.com.au.

You’re an entrepreneur, co-founding consulting firm Impact Leaders in 2012. Tell me a little about your business. We assist organisations to improve their business value and revenue through the integration of more efficient, sustainable strategies. Essentially, we review the organisation’s existing business model, or a component of the business, and then work with the business to design a fully integrated impact management strategy. What we do is not Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), which is more a marketing activity. Sustainability strategies are generally integrated into the entire business structure. These almost always include improving the existing processes to reduce redundant activities, costs, time-wastage, improve employee engagement and free-up resources. We also do a lot of technical innovation design, customer touch-point structures and process automisation. Sustainable business strategy is moving towards becoming a norm and a business need. Organisations are in an environment where economies of scale, technology and innovation have created high competitiveness; thus, businesses are looking to reduce costs, re-connect with consumers and generate competitive and sustainable advantage. We have a solid pipeline of clients, which includes many leading national and international brands including banking, broadcast media and health. This sort of response showcases the need and relevance for our services.

What are the greatest issues we face if the corporate market continues to operate as it does today? Natural resources are scarce and the projected costs for Australians’ health is completely unsustainable. As a result, the economic and social costs will be extreme. I presented on this topic of socially founded innovation last year at TEDx QUT, detailing how society has ended up where we are today. We can no longer disassociate from society’s problems, as they are now so extensive that they are affecting us directly. In short, it’s smart business to be sustainable. The question isn’t whether businesses should undertake sustainable strategies, the question is when; change is coming.

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an exciting sign for Townsville Story by Dolan Hayes

Digital signs with the ability to deliver updateable messages on a daily basis have been added to some of the city’s most high profile billboard structures.

itch James, CEO of Paradise Outdoor Advertising, says the introduction of the BillboardXTRA pro-banners means clients now have the flexibility to present more timely offers, as well as news and information about their product or service, via select Paradise billboards. According to Mitch digital technology's marriage to billboards gives advertisers a new and flexible edge. “The immediacy and ability to generate a multitude of messages to a huge audience has been the traditional domain of TV and radio, but digital is rapidly opening up that opportunity for Outdoor,” he says. “Our advertisers can now tailor their pitch to the time of day: for example, McDonald's can promote its sausage and egg McMuffin at breakfast time, change to its regular Big Mac fare at lunch and follow that with ads for apple pie and ice cream at dinner.

Mitch says Paradise's digital BillboardXTRA concept is built on the strengths of its strategically positioned static billboards but adds a whole new level of flexibility and impact. “With digital add-ons to our existing billboards we are delivering a digital evolution, not a revolution.” Mitch explains that full-form digital billboards are not a long way off in Townsville as population increases and costs of the large scale technology fall, but BillboardXTRA is a great way to enter and test the local market’s support for digital products. “Advertisers love the clarity and quality offered by new LED technology, both day and night. With digital banners we now have a perfect medium to realise the product benefits at affordable rates.” Marketing Manager for Jupiters Townsville Hotel & Casino, Sarah Butler was very keen to explore the potential of the new technology. “Digital billboards have plenty of appeal for Jupiters given the huge variety and dynamic nature of the entertainment, accommodation, food and beverage options we offer,” comments Sarah.

“And importantly clients have an improved ability to measure campaign results with a more direct and timely link between the sales message and the actual sales uplift.”

“Combining static billboards that promote our brand and generate awareness of major promotions, with a digital messaging capacity opens up many new customer engagement opportunities.

Paradise is a local, family-owned company and last year celebrated 30 years in business. It has grown to become one of the largest regional outdoor advertising companies in Australia, operating more than 1000 billboard faces across Queensland and the Northern Territory.

“We will be utilising the digital billboards as a part of multi-channel campaigns, with the main static billboard advertisement used to reinforce the overarching campaign message and the digital component for special offers, reactive messaging or time-sensitive information”.

BillboardXTRA presents customers with the ability to change their message on their schedule — weekly, daily or hourly. The options include: • Reoccurring — all four banners can be running one after the other every day • Dine time — messages are allocated over four different time slots between 4am–10am, 10am–4pm, 4pm–10pm, 10pm–4am • Five n two — messages are allocated over weekdays and weekends • Week blocks — one ProBanner is presented each week for four weeks Mitch is also excited about the potential for BillboardXTRA to build on the work Paradise is doing with local charities, community groups and the Townsville City Council. “Paradise commits significant support to local charities each year and we look forward to promoting major campaigns and timely fundraising initiatives for charities such as The Cure Starts Now.

“

BillboardXTRA presents customers with the ability to change their message on their schedule

“We would also love to work with the council to utilise the messaging capacity of the signs during cyclones or emergency weather alerts, and to deliver vital public safety messages when necessary.”

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15 minutes with:

michele

MAHONE Story by Tracey Lee Gordon

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She’s known for bringing Australia the latest in celebrity gossip from Hollywood and famous for her ‘How do!’ greeting. But standup comedian, radio personality and presenter Michele Mahone didn’t actually realise she was in the spotlight down under — until she saw it on Facebook.

Q. You commenced your career in media as a makeup artist and are now one of Australia’s favourite international correspondents. How did that career transition occur? When I first moved to LA I was 21 and I really wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. But I met a makeup artist and I loved it — even though until then I really thought makeup artists only worked in funeral homes. So I did that for about 10 years and thought I’d try my hand in makeup for television commercials. I got a hold of a directory called the LA411, which lists everyone who is anyone in Hollywood and I just started phoning producers to see if they were looking for anyone behind the scenes.

I have been to Australia four times so far and I love it. You guys are blunt, you’re down to earth and don’t have any airs or graces. You’re great — but then I think anyone who spells my name right is great!

Q. You are a stand-up comedian as well as a presenter, is there a chance we might get to see you perform at the Melbourne Comedy Festival? I definitely hope so! It’s a bit tricky getting the Visas organised but I hope to make it happen. I love the Aussie comedians and my favourite would have to be Jim Jeffries.

I was on a set one day for an infomercial when I met a guy and he got me into TV sales, which I did for four years and everything has really played out from there.

My all time favourite comedian though was John Pinette. He passed away recently and it’s been very sad for the industry as a whole. He was a great comedian and a true inspiration.

Q. How tough is it to get into the entertainment Industry?

Q. Tell us something that we wouldn’t know about Michele Mahone.

I was hired after only one audition, but it’s not easy to get gigs; and if you’re British, Scottish or an Aussie, you’ve got a better chance in the US than someone like myself with a Southern accent, even though I’m a US native. I would never be selected to read the news for instance and although my accent is a point of difference for me in Australia, it’s definitely made it tougher.

Well I’m actually kind of quiet in real life and definitely not as loud as I am on TV.

I didn’t study to be a presenter, but everything just led me there. I didn’t set out to bring my sense of humour along for the ride, but that kind of just happened as well.

Q. You have a great relationship with Australian media; we certainly can’t seem to get enough of you! How did you reach celebrity status here? Well I actually used to do Richard Wilkins’ makeup when I was a makeup artist for Nine, so it kind of started from that point. As for “celebrity status,” well that’s funny! When I first started working with Weekend Today, I actually thought the show was only shown in Sydney. I only discovered it was broadcast nationally when someone from WA commented on my Facebook page, and I freaked out. I didn’t realise there were a couple of million people tuning in! I’m not a celebrity at all here in LA so it’s a bit like being in the Twilight Zone in Australia. At first, I was like “Are you kidding me? I have to put on makeup every time I go anywhere there!” I actually got ‘papped’ for the first time when I visited Australia in May this year and that was just weird.

My mum was one of 14, so I’ve got a big family and when I’m with them of course I can liven up the room, but outside of that I can err on the side of shy a little. I don’t do any of the Hollywood socialising; I’m really more the quiet-dinner-with-friends type.

michele's... Favourite Aussie place: Q Station in Manly — it just feels familiar and I love it there. Favourite Aussie: Without a doubt Hugh Jackman — he was just so nice to me when I met him. Advice for anyone wanting a career in entertainment: You really have to grow a very thick skin and spend your money wisely — you never know when your next job is going to come along.

 www.facebook.com/michele.mahone -  www.twitter.com/Mmahone -  www.michelemahone.com

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Masterbuilders Business Partners Function & Industry Up-date Jupiters Hotel & Casino

1. Kerrie Edwards, Dorelle Squires & Lili Kilmartin 2. Guy Couchman & Melissa Coulter 3. Adrian Gabrielli & Abhishek Singh 4. Geoff Longwood & Scott Lawton

JCU BEST Luncheon Jupiters Hotel & Casino

1. David Low, Karina Lynch & Trevor Goldstone 2. Davina Guteridge, David McGeachin & Lorna Hempstead 3. Lachlan Heywood & Prof Paul Gader 4. Prof Ian Atkinson & Prof Nola Alloway 5. Tracey Mahony, Dr Murray Prideaux & Dr Riccardo Welters

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cheers, beers & bubbles

JBD Chocolate Diamond Launch Jupiters Hotel & Casino

1. Katrina Appleton, Maree McCahon, Rachel Licciardello & Paula Hays 2. Jared Terkelsen, Rachel Dillon, Emma Dillon & Aaron Petterson 3. Deanne & Jamie McGeachie 4. Justin Ireland & Rachael Clarke 5. Rosie Bragg & Trevor Anderson 6. Sandra & Bevan Hill

Townsville Enterprise Limited Members Function Townsville Yacht Club

2. 1. Kimberly Dennis, Sarah Mathiesen, Margie Ryder, Sam Kimlin & Kate Hammon 2. Kyle Walker, Jo Marks, Jake Adams & Paul Adams 3. Lauren Barclay & Peter Milani 4. Amber Westbury, Dave Stretton & Jenni Mills 5. Amanda Byrne & Isabelle Yates

5. successbusinessmag.com.au

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YOUR

view

Q Which industry do you see playing a pivotal role

in the future growth of Townsville?

DAVID MINUZZO

GREG LESLIE

JENNY TUCKER

The Agricultural industry has always been a key industry for North Queensland and will grow in importance into the future on the back of demand from China but also as we develop better infrastructure to truly leverage the available land in North Queensland. We have seen overseas investment in the sugar industry with several mills changing hands in recent years to foreign ownership, as well as regular and consistent enquiry around cattle properties. Urbanisation of China with people moving from country areas into cities and growing their ability to purchase goods and services will drive an increasing demand on the food supply as China’s ability to meet demand internally reduces. Other projects in the North utilising the gulf country Gilbert River region for more diversified crops will assist in creating a greater ability to supply both for Australia but also export. We are currently working with a number of clients to create opportunities to leverage some of this potential future demand and broaden their ability to grow their businesses in what is a relatively tough market at present.

I don’t see any one particular industry playing a pivotal role in our future as such and nor would I want to see any one big player dominating our local economy to the extent that something like mining has in the past.

I think the health industry will be pivotal in the growth of Townsville. We have wonderful health resources in this town including two tertiary level hospitals, and the only private teaching hospital (The Mater) in a regional centre in the country.

The downturn we are experiencing now as a result of mining is a perfect example of what happens when our economic growth relies predominantly on one industry — if that industry nose dives, it takes the reliant industries along with it.

JCU offers the full gamut of health sciences; medicine, dentistry and allied health services. These fields pour potential employees back into the local area.

Principal – Business Advisory Crowe Horwath

Director Battery World

I would like to see Townsville diversify instead of putting all of its eggs in one basket; I see our future growth in continuing to improve our productivity across every industry and strategising to extract more from our existing assets. At a granular level that includes our systems, our people, our processes and, holistically, the things we take for granted such as our arts and sporting cultures and of course the potential to increase tourism in the region.

Director/ Practice Manager A&I Physio Rehab Clinic

From a health perspective, Townsville services a huge catchment area, an area larger than the size of the UK. There are a variety of opportunities for people to work in this industry, and the regional and rural experience is an exciting option for people in health. A career in the health industry is also fairly stable, tends to retain its staff and is somewhat protected from global financial crises.

EXPERIENCE IT LIVE 2014 Theatre Season

2 ONE ANOTHER

LA BOHÈME

Townsville Civic Theatre Wednesday 23 July, 8pm

Townsville Civic Theatre 30 August, 2pm and 7.30pm

By Sydney Dance Company

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By Opera Q

just for fun

just FUN for

SUDOKU Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9. Visit successbusinessmag.com.au for the solution.

Answers:

CROSS WORD Can you find the correct answers to complete this crossword? Test your knowledge with this head scratcher.

Across 1. Obtained by begging 5. Corpse 7. Stupid (remark) 8. Cable 9. At a distance 10. Improper 11. Hubbub 13. Told falsehood 14. North African desert 18. Available at premises (2-4) 21. Prompts (memory) 22. Phases 24. Fashionable fad 25. Indolent 26. Genuine, ... fide 27. Slithery reptile 28. Contributes 29. Word comparison

riverway

DOWN 1. Scaredy-cats 2. Athenian 3. Numeral 4. Fiery pepper sauce 5. Fab Four group 6. Local lingo 12. Misjudge 15. Kept clear of 16. Pus-filled sore 17. Woolly llama relatives 19. Few, ... many 20. Entrap 22. Genders 23. Photo book

an intimate night of entertainment and food

LIOR Riverway Arts Centre 15 July, 7pm

An Evening with Groucho Riverway Arts Centre 11 July, 7pm

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calendar

4-6

18-19

JULY / AUGUST 2014

3-4 22-24

19-30

JULY 1

3D Printing Workshop CityLibraries Aitkenvale

Gregory Street Up Late Gregory Street, North Ward

Townsville 500 Super Welcome Jezzine Barracks Parade Ground

5-6

Charters Towers

27-29 Charters Towers Show

Graeme Connors — North, 25 years on Townsville Civic Theatre

Hughenden Rugby 7’s Hughenden Town & Country Club

Charters Towers

2014 Tastes of the Burdekin Burdekin Theatre Forecourt

Australian Festival of Chamber Music Townsville Civic Theatre

Townsville 500 V8 Supercars Reid Park

Ian Moss concert Jupiters Townsville

1300SMILES Kids Try Series Townsville Rockpool

75 years of Buddy Holly in Concert Townsville Civic Theatre

19-26 Townsville Winter

Racing Carnival Cluden Race Park

19-30 Paluma Push

Paluma Village

Twilight Golf Package Heatley Parade, Pallarenda Townsville QLD 4810 rowesbaygolfclub.com.au P: 4774 1188

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Engineering Expo Mackay Showgrounds

4-6

Family Fun Day Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

18-19 Heart of the Goldfields Rodeo

Mark Seymour and the UnderTow The Venue

22-24 Queensland Mining &

Townsville NAIDOC Breakfast Townsville RSL Club

From Page to Stage Riverway Arts Centre

The Strand, Townsville

3-5

Percival's Life Drawing Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Herbert River Show, Ingham Ingham Showgrounds

12-13 Townsville Tri-Festival

3-4

Townsville Annual Shell Show Orchid Society Hall, Kirwan

25-27 Queensland Heritage Rally

Ayr Showgrounds

calendar of events 2-3

1-9

13-17

23-24

AUGUST 1-9

2-3

13-17 Townsville Cultural Festival

Jezzine Barracks

North Queensland Cowboys vs Wests Tigers 1300SMILES Stadium

The Ten Sopranos Townsville Civic Theatre

North Queensland Cowboys vs Gold Coast Titans 1300SMILES Stadium

Australia Italian Festival TYTO Wetlands Precinct, Ingham McDonald's Townsville Running Festival The Strand

INCLUDES CART HIRE

8-10 Palmer Street Jazz Festival

Palmer Street, Townsville

8-10 Mount Isa Rodeo

Buchanan Park, Mount Isa

Street Parade Carnival Anzac Park, The Strand

Gregory Street Up Late Gregory Street, North Ward

Chamber Annual Golf Day Rowes Bay Golf Club

Home Hill Kindy Market Day Arch Dunn Memorial Park, Home Hill

Australian Festival of Chamber Music Townsville Civic Theatre

9 -30 Northern Beaches Festival

Opera on the Island Bremner Point, Magnetic Island TAFE Queensland North Open Day Townsville Trade Training Centre

Northern Beaches

23-24 Great Tropical Jazz Party

Townsville Careers Expo Townsville RSL Stadium

23-24 Relay for Life

North Queensland Cowboys vs Cronulla Sharks 1300SMILES Stadium

Townsville Artist Market Pinnacles Gallery

La boheme Townsville Civic Theatre

Rock N Rodz Nostalgia Festival Townsville Civic Theatre

Seniors Week Lifestyle Expo Townsville RSL Stadium

Magnetic Island

Tony Ireland Stadium

You & a mate can enjoy as many holes as you can get in between 3-6pm for just $50 including a cart! Any day of the week, only at Rowes Bay Golf Club. successbusinessmag.com.au

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NEWS DESK

your local news feed.

new appointments. SeaLink Queensland announces the appointment of Chris Briggs as the Head of Operations for SeaLink Queensland and SeaLink Northern Territory. Chris comes to SeaLink as a very accomplished Marine Tourism Executive, with extensive government, industry and tourism experience.

Learning Partnerships is excited to announce that Norma Elliott has joined our team as Foundation Skills Manager. Norma will manage Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) programs throughout Queensland and Townsville.

Roberts Nehmer McKee Lawyers welcomes Christina Evans as an Associate Lawyer working with partner Tim McKee in the commercial services team. Christina returns to Townsville and maintains her officer’s commission in the Army Reserve.

Jupiters Townsville has promoted Mia McIntyre to the role of Assistant Food and Beverage Operations Manager, Kōbe Restauarnt. Mia’s career path to Kōbe has included extensive training as part of Jupiters’ food and beverage management trainee program and operational knowledge of banquet operations, in Aqua restaurant and Spin Café.

Grant Broadcasters is very excited to welcome Russell Hinder the former Townsville Crocs captain as an Account Manager with their sales team. Success Business Magazine recently welcomed Sarah Jones to the position of Media Sales Executive. Sarah brings over 16 years’ experience within the media industry in Townsville to the new role. Megan Bond and Jeremy Martin are welcomed new recruits at Townsville based advertising agency, The Marketing Factory. Megan Bond is a qualified graphic designer with over two years industry experience, specialising in print design. With over 10 years in the sales industry, Jeremy Martin is excited about his new role as Brand Manager to provide business solutions across a diverse range of services. Crowe Horwath has appointed a new Senior Manager to the Audit Team, Reg du Preez. Reg was previously with Deloitte in Sydney and adds more capacity to our senior ranks in order to continue to grow both internal and external audit services to clients. KLP Family Law welcomes three new staff members and a promotion. Amanda Castorina has joined the team on reception working part time. Amanda Egerton has been promoted to Accounts and Office Assistant. Chloe Baldock, who was an admin clerk, is now on contract as a Paralegal. Louise Briggs has joined the team as a graduate solicitor.

announcements. Estate Agent Expansion Leading residential real estate group McGrath Estate Agents continues its expansion into the Queensland market by opening an office in Townsville, its first regional office in North Queensland and ninth in Queensland.

Queensland Country is pleased to announce three new appointments; Terry Kingston as Branch Manager of Magnetic Island, Libby Zollner as Branch Manager of the Townsville Hospital branch and Tenneil Graham as Marketing Manager for Queensland Country Credit Union and Queensland Country Health Fund. Townsville Enterprise is pleased to announce the appointment of Tracey Lines as General Manager Economic Development. Tracey Lines, economist and logistician, will take on the role after spending the past two years operating her own consulting business. Townsville Enterprise welcomes Eleni Millios-Hullick to the team as the Leadership Program Coordinator. Eleni will coordinate the North Queensland Emerging Leaders Program. Paradise Outdoor Advertising welcomes Caroline Smith to the team as a Business Development Representative and Courtney Eckert joins the team as Graphic Designer. Leslie’s Auto Electrical has just appointed new part-owners in the business. Helena Thompson, Dean Archer and Rick Allison each have over 10 years’ experience at Leslie’s and look forward to taking on a leadership role in the company.

awards. Vista Homes and Design Wins State Award Townsville builder, Vista Homes and Design wins the Best Single Level Home, with their North Shore Display Home, at the Stockland Queensland VIBE Builder Awards held in Brisbane.

New training qualifications on scope Learning Partnerships is now delivering the latest Certificate IV in WHS, as well offering Certificate IV and Diploma of Project Management, face to face and online.

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Submit your business news, achievements, staff movements in 30 words (or less) to news@successbusinessmag.com.au