http:// 2013-05-23T00:44:49Z 2013-05-23T00:44:49Z gimrs-launches-exclusive-premium-corporate-advertising-promotion

MAY 22, 2013 GIMRS launches exclusive corporate promotion to win one month's premium advertising worth $4,000 (AUD). This promotion presents an excellent opportunity to expand market visibility by show casing corporate brands and services to over 350 publicly listed companies and their key decision makers. Entries commence from the 16 May 2013 and close the 2 June 2013. In order to enter please email GIMRS your contact details and outline the reason why our executive members would benefit from your brand or service and what places your brand or service in front of market competitors. Prize details can be located here. The winning entry will be drawn Monday 3 June 2013 and the winner will be notified by email. Entries can be submitted via this link.      

2013-05-22T17:04:51Z jen-marks-australian-latte-art-champion-2013-headline-barista-at-mice

Melbourne, Australia, May 2013 –  Jen Marks, Australian Latte Art Champion 2013 and one of Melbourne’s favourite baristas, will pour up some Chemex filter brews in the morning and appear behind the espresso machine in the afternoon MICE visitors may be lucky enough to see some of her beautiful latte art creations, on Thursday May 23 on Veneziano’s stand. Also a roaster, Jen is currently preparing to compete as Australia’s representative in Nice, France, at the World Latte Art Championships next month. Any spare time she has is put towards practicing on the Dalla Corte competition specified machine, kindly on loan to Jen by Zarraffas, in a gesture that demonstrates the true spirit of Australia’s coffee community supporting their own.Jen’s personal preference in latte art is the classic, simple look of a free pour pattern. However, she has been known to do some etchings for her friends from time to time, although more for the fun and enjoyment of it. If combining the two methods, Jen’s says it’s best to complement the free pour art with etching.In choosing a design, it’s particularly challenging to come up with something new to use in a competition. It seems as though everything in terms of patterns and designs has already been attempted, but of course it hasn’t!  Jen’s advice for selecting patterns is that it’s important to be confident whilst practicing the design so that when the time comes to perform it under pressure you are less likely to make any errors.  “When trying to come up with something really creative I look for inspiration in everyday shapes and images, looking for things that incorporate either round, tulip, heart or rosetta shapes because these are the foundation patterns you are more or less limited to,” says Jen. For example, she used a stylised rosetta to create a flowing mane on a unicorn in one of her patterns.In her World Latte Art Championship 2013 campaign, Jen would like to thank and acknowledge the generous support from:-Zarraffas for supplying a Dalla Corte (official World Latte Art machine)-David and Greg from Appliance Maintenance Co (NSW) for the loan of Mahlkonig grinder-D’Ancap cups provided by Antony de Fina of Casa Espresso-Peter from Cafetto for the cleaning clothsContact: Ana Pipunic ana@harvestideas.com.au or Fiona Dickson fiona@harvestideas.com.au for further information, photo opportunities, tours or interviews. Additional information:Veneziano Coffee Roasters - Specialty roasters; supporters of direct trade with producers and cooperatives; on site quality coffee training and education by professional baristas; First Pour café espresso bars and coffee showrooms; home of Australian barista, latte art, brewing, cupping and roasting champions; licensed Q cuppers and World certified coffee judge; professional espresso machines, grinders and equipment for cafe and home; recipient of countless awards and proud supplier to over 500 of Australia’s best cafes.  The First Pours are located at:SA - 111 Melbourne Road, AdelaideQLD - 369 Montague Road, West End BrisbaneVIC - 26 Bond Street, Abbotsford, VICwww.venezianocoffee.com.auwww.facebook.com/venezianoCoffeeRoasterswww.twitter.com/VenezCoffeeRstr

2013-05-22T00:29:02Z veneziano-s-chemex-brew-bar-and-espresso-bar-at-mice-featured-microlots

Melbourne, Australia, May 2013 –  Veneziano Coffee Roasters aim to impress visitors to Melbourne’s International Coffee Expo (MICE) with the chance to try out some exclusive single origins sourced from Ethiopia, El Salvador and Costa Rica.Here’s what you can expect:On the Chemex brew bar - the Chemex brew bar will showcase the exquisite Ethiopa Nekisse and El Manzano microlot coffees, roasted for a stand out filter brew profile.Ethiopia Nekisse - a microlot coffee from Ninety Plus, has consistently scored 93 points. The team has travelled to Melbourne for MICE and can be contacted at Think Tank, stand no. xTasting Notes: lingering berry fruit notes accompanied with citrus bordering on grapefruit, a vibrant acidity and caramelised mouth feel, with a distinct floral aroma.El Salvador El Manzano 2013 – a microlot coffee by producer Emilio Lopez, one of our valued direct trade partners. Come and meet Emilio on Veneziano’s stand (no. 60) on Saturday May 23, from 2.30pm.Tasting notes: sweet, aromatic and complex with prominent notes of cherry and coffee fruit and a clean, velvety mouthfeel. On the espresso bar - the Costa Rica COE 2012 El Roble and Craig Simon’s Ethiopia Hachira competition blend are outstanding through the espresso machine.The Costa Rica COE El Roble microlot offers a dark chocolate, spice and passionfruit  flavour profile with a creamy mouthfeel and is long and well balanced on the palate.Craig Simon’s competition coffee - Craig narrowly placed runner up with this coffee at the 2013 Australian Barista Championship. This Ethiopia Hachira comes from Ninety Plus displays notes of pineapple and mango and has a long sweet finish. Natural processed, it’s scored 95 and above on cupping tables around the world.Additional information:Veneziano Coffee Roasters - Specialty roasters; supporters of direct trade with producers and cooperatives; on site quality coffee training and education by professional baristas; First Pour café espresso bars and coffee showrooms; home of Australian barista, latte art, brewing, cupping and roasting champions; licensed Q cuppers and World certified coffee judge; professional espresso machines, grinders and equipment for cafe and home; recipient of countless awards and proud supplier to over 500 of Australia’s best cafes.  The First Pours are located at:SA - 111 Melbourne Road, AdelaideQLD - 369 Montague Road, West End BrisbaneVIC - 26 Bond Street, Abbotsford, VICwww.venezianocoffee.com.auwww.facebook.com/venezianoCoffeeRoasterswww.twitter.com/VenezCoffeeRstr

2013-05-21T02:15:02Z multiple-apartment-sales-a-new-trend

A wave of cashed up, savvy buyers have snapped up multiple apartments at FKP's $210 The Milton, on the back of the start of construction of the groundbreaking mixed-use development. Six buyers have purchased multiple properties in the 30-level tower in recent weeks, some planning to amalgamate the units into larger three and four-bedroom apartments, signifying strong pent up demand for larger stock. Marketing agent Bryce O’Connor, of 360 Project Marketing, says there is a revival occurring in the luxury apartment market in Brisbane, along with increased demand for larger apartments and The Milton caters for this shortage in the market.   "There is an undersupply of spacious new apartments in inner Brisbane," he said.   "Many new apartment projects cater for investors, with a focus on increasing yield, and hence apartment size is sacrificed.   "We have seen a steady increase in the number of buyers who want the benefits of apartment living yet do no wish to compromise on all the comforts of a spacious home."   Designed by award-winning architects and interior designers DBI Design,  The Milton Residences are open-plan and all have floor-to-ceiling glass in the living area and bedrooms, providing abundant natural light.   "The cutting edge development features contemporary design with well thought out spaces and liveable apartments with generous balconies," Mr O'Connor said.   "Three separate buyers, who have opted to take advantage of the stunning architectural design and lifestyle opportunities on offer at The Milton, have decided to maximise the potential of these properties by purchasing more than one, with plans to create larger apartments with sweeping views.   "These people are customising the apartments to create the ultimate homes by drawing on the best of both worlds - low maintenance apartment living in a dynamic lifestyle hub, with plenty of space to relax and unwind."   Mr O'Connor says The Milton has appealed to a diverse range of buyers including retirees looking down downsize, young families and couples seeking low maintenance living in an areas surrounded by an array of lifestyle amenities.   "Older property purchasers are becoming a force in the market, with the first group of baby boomers preparing for retirement and looking to downsize from their family home," he said.   "While some retirees may be on the lookout for more modest dwellings, there are many looking to enjoy their retirement in style, with the convenience of having quality dining and retail outlets at the doorstep.   "Likewise, young families and professional couples that want to be close to the city centre, without the congestion, with easy access to public transport have gravitated towards The Milton, particularly since FKP announced the management rights."   The Milton, which will feature 298 one and two bedroom apartments, will be Australia's first five-star Minor International (MINT) managed residences. MINT, synonymous with  style, elegance and exemplary service, operates across 22 countries as a residential manager, hotel owner, operator and investor, has a portfolio of over 8,500 rooms globally including under the Anantara and St Regis brands. FKP Director of Development Mark Jewell says there is a lot of pent-up demand for quality high-end apartments and The Milton is meeting the mark with buyers. "We are seeing a  resurgence in the prestige property market, and MINT seems to have struck a chord with an array of prospective purchasers," he said.   "The concept of a five-star managed residential building with reception, is extremely popular in progressive, cosmopolitan cities like New York and London, and has been some time, but this is new to Brisbane.   "It's an exciting concept, that buyers are embracing. It takes the convenience of apartment living to a whole new level."   Designed in-line with the principles of a Transit Oriented Development (TOD) The Milton, which is located nearby Milton Railway Station, integrates transport with residential living in the heart of Milton's famous lifestyle precinct. The 30-level tower has been designed to attract owner-occupiers and investors alike and Mr Jewell says local and interstate buyers continue to select projects that meet the mark in terms of location, price, quality and the developer behind it.   Mr Jewell says there has been a sales rush since the start of construction, with the highest level of enquiries since the project was launched to the market. "We have definitely seen a spike in interest since construction commenced, with an unparalleled level of enquiries on the back of the start of construction." "We received more than 50 enquiries in one week, following the start of construction, which suggests prospective buyers were waiting to see construction activity on the site before jumping in. More than 65 per cent of apartments have already sold off-the-plan for a total of $110 million. One and two-bedroom apartments are now selling off-the-plan, priced from just $410,000, with completion expected in 2015.   Resort style facilities, including a roof top observation deck and leisure deck featuring pools,  gymnasium and landscaped barbeque retreats and a street level retail promenade, will complement Milton’s modern style living. For further information, visit The Milton Sales Centre, featuring a display apartment, at 50 Railway Terrace, Milton.  The centre is open between 10am and 4pm daily, visit www.themilton.com.au or call 1800 247 119.       END   For further information contact: Holly Small, Public Relations Consultant  p 07 55932 0011 Nina Lesnanska, Manager Corporate Communications p 02 9270 6168   FKP With more than 30 years experience in the Australian property industry, FKP Property Group (FKP) is one of Australia’s leading diversified property and investment companies. FKP successfully operates an integrated business model which includes retirement, property investment and funds management, land development, property development (incorporating residential, retail, industrial and commercial) and construction across Australia and New Zealand. FKP is an ASX top 200 company.Issued by FKP Property Group (ASX: FKP) comprising FKP Limited ABN 28 010 729 950 and FKP Funds Management Limited ABN 17 089 800 082, AFSL No. 222273 as Responsible Entity for the FKP Property Trust ARSN 099 648 754. www.fkp.com.au 

2013-05-17T04:39:00Z sydney-airport-lands-australia-s-first-la-perla

Friday, 17 May 2013NEWS RELEASESydney Airport’s strong stable of luxury brands will be boosted in August, with iconic Italian lingerie and fashion brand La Perla to launch its first Australian store at the airport’s T1 International Terminal . La Perla, creator of exclusive and luxurious lingerie, swimwear, nightwear and loungewear for women, has signed a five-year lease and will be brought to the Australian market exclusively through travel retail group King Power International. Sydney Airport retail general manager Andrew Gardiner said: “The Australian-first La Perla store at Sydney Airport highlights our continued retail growth. Combined with other Australian-firsts such as Victoria’s Secret, and world-firsts such as the Lonely Planet concept store, La Perla at Sydney Airport will strengthen our considerable specialty fashion retail offering.” The 60 square metre boutique will stock a product range including La Perla’s coveted underwear, beachwear and nightwear, alongside the Nero Perla menswear range. Its key target market for the store will be Australian and international travellers seeking premium brands and exclusive product, who will benefit from Sydney Airport’s tax and duty free pricing. Mr Gardiner added: “Some 37 million passengers pass through Sydney Airport annually and we are committed to increasing the range and variety of retailers, particularly in T1. Our retail offering is centred around providing value to our customers, while being innovative and fresh, and bringing sought-after international brands, such as La Perla, to the Australian market demonstrates this.” Sydney Airport has created significantly more retail space in T1 in recent years following the 2010 refurbishment of the terminal, which enabled the airport to increase its range and variety of retailers in response to demand and extensive customer research. Almost 70 new tenancies are set to become available in 2013-2014. “We are currently in conversations with a number of other international and domestic brands about opportunities to enhance our existing mix. The airport is a world-class retail destination, and retailers see the opportunities it presents as a unique location, along with the highest sales per square metre in the country,” Mr Gardiner said. “We experienced international passenger growth of 5.6 per cent last year, boosted by strong numbers of Chinese, Singaporeans and Malaysians and we will continue to provide retail experiences that resonate with these markets. La Perla’s Sydney Airport footprint is set to be the company’s 130th store worldwide and will continue the brand’s strong retail development in emerging markets, including Asia and the Middle East, where over 40 boutiques have been opened directly or through exclusive distributors. Founded in Bologna, Italy in 1954, La Perla is revered for its use of the finest fabrics in its creations, which are highly sought after by women around the world. Managing director of La Perla Asia, Andrea Bonardi, said: “Australians have until now had to travel overseas to experience the prestige and Italian tradition of La Perla. We’ve been attracted to the Australian market for some time, but wanted to wait for the right platform to introduce our brand. Sydney Airport offers us a perfect opportunity to introduce the brand; given the Airport’s strong retail performance and the fact that there is nothing like La Perla in the Australian market, we are confident the store will do well.” The flagship boutique in Australia – designed by architects Buratti + Battison, who are responsible for La Perla stores worldwide – will embody the brand’s core values of femininity and elegance with soft lighting, laced glass panels and luxurious carpets to provide a romantic and intimate environment for customers. For more information about Sydney Airport, visit www.sydneyairport.com.au. ENDS Editors NotesFor more information please contact DEC Public Relations, on behalf of Sydney Airport:Joanne McIntosh/Natalie Cameron/Anna Frilingos02 8014 5033sydairport@decpr.com.au

2013-05-17T00:56:46Z inker-cups-presented-at-mice-by-veneziano-coffee-roasters

Melbourne, Australia, May 2013 –  Veneziano Coffee Roasters are pleased to bring the New Mocha, the newest range of Inker Cups, delivered to our shores from Europe to feature just in time for the Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE), May 23 - 26.The Croatian-made, high quality porcelain cups and saucers are available in sets of half a dozen in a beautiful range of colours and various sizes; black, white, grey, blue, green, orange and red, in espresso (80ml), flat white (150ml), cappuccino (210ml) and mug (280ml, available only in grey and white). Sets of half a dozen saucers are also available separately.Veneziano, Australia’s largest distributor of Inker Cups, offer the porcelain cups and saucers to the home and cafe market via their retail online store. They are also taking wholesale enquiries and custom orders, so just name you colour and size and they’ll source it for you.“The Inker Cups are a really beautiful porcelain, with a lovely feel to them, and the colours are so vibrant,” says Craig Dickson, Veneziano managing director. “In addition to that, they are extremely well priced to suit the Australian cafe and restaurant market and provide a quality alternative to some of the more expensive Italian brands out there”.http://www.venezianocoffee.com.au/shop/categories/Inker-Crockery-Cups-and-Saucers/Additional information:Veneziano Coffee Roasters - specialty roasters, supporter of direct trade and with producers and cooperatives, onsite quality coffee training and education, First Pour cafés espresso bars and coffee showrooms, home of Australian barista, latte art, cupping and roasting champions, WBC qualified judge and licenced Q cuppers, Australia’s largest distributor of Chemex Coffeemakers, recipient of countless awards and proud supplier to over 500 of Australia’s best cafes. The First Pours are located at:SA - 111 Melbourne Road, AdelaideQLD - 369 Montague Road, West End BrisbaneVIC - 26 Bond Street, Abbotsford, VICwww.venezianocoffee.com.auwww.facebook.com/venezianoCoffeeRoasterswww.twitter.com/VenezCoffeeRstr About Inker Cups - Inker Cups are a high quality porcelain crockery made in Zagreb, Croatia, supplying cups and saucers to the coffee and cafe industry, with parent company based in Spain specialising in its own range of porcelain hospitality-ware. The Zagreb manufacturing facility is able to produce 12,000 pieces per day and the porcelain is fired at 1200 degrees to ensure colour fastness that will not fade or wear. The high quality raw ingredients are sourced from Germany, England, Czech Republic and Italy with the balance being sourced locally. Inker Cups exports 70 percent of its production output.

2013-05-16T22:31:40Z neolane-brings-conversational-marketing-to-australia

Sydney, NSW  -- 17 May 2013 -- Neolane, the international conversational marketing technology provider, officially opened its Australian office last night and gave away a trip to Paris as part of celebrations. Australian marketers now have access to Neolane’s award-winning, cloud-based conversational platform with local infrastructure, local support and the same cross-channel capabilities that has seen Neolane rocket to over 400 clients, US$58M in revenue and 40 percent year on year growth over just eleven years. Royal Automobile Association of South Australia Direct Marketing Coordinator, Michelle Kalsan, was especially glad of Neolane’s entry to the Australian market, winning a trip to Paris to rub shoulders with Neolane clients at the Neolane Evolution Event under the Glass Pyramid at the Louvre Museum in Paris.  ‘This is a great opportunity to learn how brands like L’Occitane,  Allianz, Accor and Barnes & Noble are building connections with customers,’ said Kalsan. ‘I imagine Paris in spring won’t be too bad either!’ Speaking at the Australian launch, Benoit Gourdon, Neolane Co-Founder, reflected on the exponential growth of digital marketing and the need for marketers to create deeper connections with customers and prospects. ‘With the explosion of communication channels and consumers expecting a consistent brand experience regardless of channel, marketers need their technology partners to help them create more intelligent, more agile customer conversations. Neolane’s marketing technology seamlessly links all channels into a single, personalised brand conversation stream for each customer,’ said Benoit Gourdon. Neolane recently added new features to enable brands to exploit new marketing opportunities such as: SoLoMo: Driving higher levels of cross-channel engagement, Neolane Mobile App Channel allows organisations to facilitate one-to-one personalised messages and offers in mobile push notifications and in-app content.  Facebook’s Open Graph: Neolane Social Marketing now allows marketers to take advantage of Facebook’s Open Graph to obtain real-time consumer information and integrate it directly into their marketing database. This provides marketers greater insight into customer interests, allowing them to provide more personalised experiences across the full range of marketing channels.Big Data: With the enhanced version of Neolane Marketing Analytics, marketers can now gain an even better understanding of their customers’ behaviours across channels. This enables them to execute fine-tuned marketing actions based on this knowledge and monitor the efficiency of marketing campaigns.Real-Time Marketing: Neolane Interaction, the company’s application for fusing inbound and outbound offers, now allows marketers to interact with anonymous prospects online who are not in their database and to dynamically generate real-time tailored offers with unprecedented scalability and performance.The Neolane Australian office is located at 100 Walker Street, North Sydney, 2060. ENDS  Photography of the launch and the Paris trip winner in available at http://www.lucidity.com.au/neolane-photography/ About Neolane Neolane provides the only conversational marketing technology that empowers organizations to build and sustain one-to-one lifetime dialogues, dramatically increasing revenue and marketing efficiency. Born digital, with best-in-class email and inbound-outbound channel fusion capabilities architected into a single code-based platform, marketers achieve results in record time. Neolane is easy to use for both power and casual users, but powerful enough to drive the most sophisticated marketing strategies. Future proof, Neolane has a track record of enabling its customers to adapt to new customer engagement challenges and exploit opportunities more quickly than their competition. Neolane is used by more than 400 of the world’s leading companies including Alcatel Lucent, barnesandnoble.com, Sears Canada, Sephora Europe and Sony Music. Visit www.neolane.com and read our blog The Cross-Channel Conversation.  

2013-05-15T23:17:00Z 25-years-on-the-banksia-awards-innovates-again

When the Banksia Awards first commenced in 1988, recognising environmental excellence was a unique concept. After 25 years it has become mainstream and Australia no longer sees environmental matters in isolation. “Today, it is important to reflect the interdependency between environment, society and the economy and the resulting excellence that comes from meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” says Graz van Egmond Chief Executive Officer, Banksia Foundation. “So to mark its 25 Anniversary, the Banksia Awards (now known as the Banksia Sustainability Awards) has acknowledged this vital step forward and the Awards in 2013 will reflect a sustainability approach throughout the various category awards”. To demonstrate this expansive area there will be 21 Awards in total. New awards added in 2013 to the portfolio are: 1.       The Banksia CEO Award - recognising an individual executive's contribution towards the economic, social or environmental sustainability achievements of the organisation or company they work for and which has collateral benefits for the globe. 2.       The Banksia Technical Awards including:a)      Waste Minimisation Soil Remediation & Improvementb)      Energy Efficiency and Carbon Managementc)       Transportationd)      Climate Adaptation 3.       The Banksia Business and Not-for-Profit Award – recognising leadership in implementing projects, strategies and initiatives that demonstrate capacity building, measurably enhancing the long-term social, economic and environmental state of the community and implementation of relevant solutions. This is seen through the full application of shared sustainability principles and practices throughout joint activities, demonstrating societal value add. 4.       The Banksia Local Government - Sustainable Procurement Award 5.       The Banksia Local Government - Sustainability Award To cater for this array, the awards presentation program format needed to be changed. This has allowed for specific awards and areas to be spotlighted. The Banksia CEO Award will be presented at the inaugural Banksia CEO's Corroboree. A breakfast gathering of Non-Executive Directors, CEOs and Senior Bureaucrats designed to provide the opportunity to discuss where their respective sector will be under the sustainability umbrella in 10-15 years. Providing an opportunity to focus on the technical aspects of sustainability, the Banksia Technical Awards will be presented at a lunch. The traditional Category Awards, the GPT Group Community Grant, the Banksia International Award and the Banksia Gold Award will be bestowed at the evening awards function.The Banksia Foundation acknowledges that the Awards are not just for the recipients but should be made accessible to as many as possible to learn and be inspired by the amazing examples of excellence. To enable this accessibility, the Awards Presentation program will be associated with the Australian Sustainability Conference and Exhibition, in Melbourne (9 – 10 October 2013). The Banksia Foundation is pleased to be working with Sustainability Business Australia (SBA) to reach Australian businesses and assist them in these challenging times. Entries are now open for the 2013 Banksia Sustainability Awards, providing Australians a great opportunity to showcase our innovation and leadership in the various areas of sustainability. – ends –

2013-05-15T06:05:41Z record-crowds-expected-at-hampton

As the days count down to this weekend’s event, organisers of the Hampton Food & Arts Festival are expecting record numbers to attend. Enquiries relating to this Sunday’s Festival, which features a strong entertainment program including appearances by Poh Ling Yeow of Masterchef fame, have been strong with Saturday’s Farm Trail and Long Lunch already sold out.Festival organiser, Kerri Seccombe, advised she is eagerly keeping an eye on the weather forecast. She said,  “This year’s event is definitely shaping up to be our biggest with an increased venue size and a really impressive program of events - let’s hope that Mother Nature is kind to us over the weekend!” “We know Poh’s appearances at 10am, 12pm and 2pm will be popular but we are also expecting a great response to our Artists In Residence Program and live entertainment acts.” Kerri also advised that patrons wouldn’t be disappointed with the quality and range of food and produce on offer at this Sunday’s event. “The Festival has a great atmosphere and really aims to showcase the high quality produce that’s on offer around Hampton. The scent of fresh dishes being cooked and the sweet smell of regional fruits and produce has definitely become synonymous with our event.  “From cupcakes and preserves to pastas, cheeses, wines and oils – this year’s menu is truly mouth watering,” she added. The Hampton Food & Arts Festival commences at 9.30am and will continue until 4.00pm on Sunday 19 May at Chapman Park, Hampton.  Tickets available at the gate. Patrons are encouraged to take advantage of the Festival’s free bus service, which will operate from Toowoomba, Highfields and Crows Nest. Download the Festival’s full event program and find out further information regarding the free bus service by visiting www.hamptonfestival.com

2013-05-10T04:10:40Z unleash-the-power-of-inspiration-with-the-new-inspire-me-quotes-app-available-now-on-the-apple-app-store

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – May 10, 2013 – Formally launching on Mother’s Day, Inspire Me Quotes presents iPhone iOS users with an opportunity to enjoy a selection of inspirational quotes from some of the world’s greatest minds. Each inspirational quote has been specifically designed to combine design, typography and inspirational words of wisdom to motivate, encourage and enliven users. “There are days when we all need a little inspiration,” says Brian Tanedo, Co-Founder of Happy Planet Apps and spokesperson for Inspire Me Quotes. “Whether it’s an uninspiring job, a goal gone wrong or just a plain bad day, everybody needs somewhere they can go for a quick boost of happiness and inspiration. Inspire Me Quotes was developed so that users could experience that sensation with just a flick of a quotes page.” Inspire Me Quotes offers users the chance to browse through a variety of inspirational quotes to reveal wisdom from great minds such as Albert Einstein, Martin Luther King, Mark Twain, Steve Jobs, Coco Chanel, Audrey Hepburn, Abraham Lincoln and many, many more. “Research has shown that cultivating positive thinking promotes health, happiness and wellbeing,” Tanedo continues. “Inspire Me Quotes encourages users to foster vital positive thinking habits and to feel more motivated to go out and achieve their dreams.” What’s different about this app is that users can choose from a selection of inspirational bundle packs, each containing 50 inspirational quotes. The current selection includes Life, Goals, Dreams and a New Year’s 2013 bundle. Bundles that will be released shortly include love, friendship and health. Inspire Me Quotes also provides users with a chance to favorite quotes within the app and share quotes via Facebook, text messaging and email. There is also a camera roll function that allows users to save inspirational quotes as their phone backgrounds. “The overarching goal for Inspire Me Quotes is that users enjoy the app wherever they are, whenever they need to, in order to bring some light, happiness and inspiration into their day.” Tanedo says. Inspire Me Quotes is available to download for free from the Apple App Store and for a limited time comes with 50 inspirational quote pages complimentary. Subsequent inspiration bundles are available at a price of 99c per bundle (each bundle contains 50 inspirational quotes pages). Please feel free to visit www.inspiremetheapp.com for more information. Inspire Me Quotes is also available on twitter @InspireMeQuotes and on Facebook at facebook.com/InspireMeQuotesApp   To download Inspire Me Quotes, please visit: https://itun.es/au/oOVgJ.i   About Happy Planet Apps: Inspire Me Quotes was created by Happy Planet Apps, a boutique Australian company. Founded in 2012, Happy Planet Apps develop apps to inspire, motivate and promote happiness. Inspire Me Quotes is their first release.   Media Contact: Cassandra Lane Director, Happy Planet Apps Phone: + (61) 449 908 850 Email: happyprpeople@happyplanetapps.com Website: www.inspiremetheapp.com

2013-05-08T20:43:04Z hisense-re-designs-affordable-luxury-with-its-stunning-xt780-smart-100hz-full-hd-3dtv

MELBOURNE, Australia – May 9, 2013 – Hisense today announced the introduction of the XT780, a 65 inch 100Hz Full High Definition 3D Smart TV with a newly designed TV stand and clear edge frame. The 65 inch XT780 combines large screen performance, leading quality and advanced functionality to be an iconic centre point of any entertainment hub. Using the latest Hisense Smart TV user interface, with built in WiFi for Web browsing, Skype for video chat, and online access to TV shows, music and more.With a few presses of a button, checking weather or accessing your own entertainment via the is as simple as turning on your TV. In addition, the XT780 turns ordinary photos, movies and live TV into a totally new experience with the 2D to 3D converter (3D glasses sold separately). 4 x HDMI inputs allows for the addition of multiple gaming devices and Blu-ray™ players to satisfy all members of the family. As with our entire TV range for 2013, MHL is integrated in this mid-range Hisense TV, allowing users to screen share exactly what’s on the screen of their compatible device. “Consumers expect solid performance and quality — when it comes to the XT780, we are delivering that along with style and great design. A true combination of style and substance,” said Andre Iannuzzi, head of Marketing, Hisense Australia. The XT780 series is available at JB Hi-Fi, The Good Guys, and BSR from end of May 2013 onward. For more information about Hisense’s range of innovative products and accessories visit www.hisense.com.au. About Hisense Australia Pty LtdHisense is a global television and refrigeration manufacturer active in more than 130 countries worldwide. More than 40 million people buy and enjoy Hisense products globally every year. Since arriving in Australia in 2006, Hisense has grown to be one of the fastest emerging TV and Home Appliance brands in Australia, distributed through more than 1,000 leading retail stores nationally. Established in 2006, Hisense Australia Pty Ltd is an Australian based subsidiary of Hisense Company Ltd.Hisense televisions and home appliances are available at Australia’s leading national electronics retailers including JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, The Good Guys and BSR.Find Hisense Australia at the following social media sites: Twitter: www.twitter.com/Hisense_AustFacebook: www.facebook.com/HisenseAUInstagram: www.instagram.com/HisenseAUPinterest: www.pinterest.com/HisenseAU

2013-05-06T05:33:04Z new-australian-aviation-record

Tim Howes, who took his first flight at age 13 years old, has smashed the Australian record for the most number of take offs and landings in a day. He achieved 122 – exceeding the previous record of 102. The record was achieved on Saturday, 4 May at a private air strip near Lismore using an open cockpit ultra-light aircraft called a Drifter. "The day was destined for success from 6:16am, the first take-off time. The conditions were perfect. ‘Lil Popsy’, the aircraft, hummed away all day with no issues, the dogs were angels, and the Friends of the Hound support staff were amazing. We couldn’t have asked for more!" said Tim. Tim dedicated circuit number 103 (the record breaking circuit) to Wayne Fisher who passed away while completing a test flight at Lismore Airport on 24 March 2013. Wayne, “Mr Drifter”, was an extraordinary man and aviator. Wayne was also instrumental in preparing Tim for the record attempt. By breaking this record, Tim also hopes to raise awareness of the plight of Greyhounds and how great they are as pets. As a proud owner of a Greyhound adopted from ‘Friends of the Hound’ six years ago, raising awareness about these dogs is close to Tim’s heart. Friends of the Hound Inc. is a non-profit, volunteer based group whose aim is to promote the breed’s suitability as family pets and companions and raise awareness and educate the public about Greyhound welfare. Money raised from the event will help Friends of the Hound to continue its work to save the lives of Greyhounds. “It is a record that I have wanted to crack for some time now. I also wanted some way of letting people know about Greyhounds as pets. So this was a perfect opportunity to do both”, explained Tim. “Greyhounds are gentle, friendly and really affectionate. They are quiet, great with kids and other animals, and surprisingly lazy,” Tim said. Lisa White, President of Friends of the Hound said, “There are still misconceptions about the breed and we are extremely grateful for Tim’s help in promoting Greyhounds as pets and changing the perception of them as ‘just a racing dog’.” Tim hopes his achievement will help raise funds for Friends of the Hound. For more information or to donate, go to fly.friendsofthehound.org.au. Contacts 0416 194 864 – Lisa White, President, Friends of the Hound Inc. 0401 099 163 – Tim Howes, record breaking pilot enquiries@friendsofthehound.org.aufly.friendsofthehound.org.au facebook.com/friendsofthehound twitter.com/fothrescue   About Friends of the Hound Inc. ·         Non-profit, volunteer based group. ·         Rescue, rehome, and promote greyhounds as pets. ·         Rehomes over 100 greyhounds a year. ·         Aim to raise awareness and educate the public about greyhound welfare and the breed’s suitability as family pets and companions. ·         More than 40 volunteers across NSW and QLD.

2013-05-03T22:37:56Z 2103-the-age-of-the-customer

Great work wins business, a great relationship keeps it. Customer centric is the backbone of MacInnis marketing. Being customer centric is centring on the needs and wants of your customer. Focusing on understanding their problems, concerns and wants, not yours! Customer centric marketing is the result of building a solid a relationship built on listening not forcing, manipulating someone to buy.In January 2013, Forrester published 2013 B2B CMO Imperatives – Driving Growth With Customer Insights, Marketing Automation, and Content Marketing by Sheryl Waksman-Pattek. The report states that we are in the “Age of the Customer” in which 60% of B2B buying decisions are made before buyers engage with a vendor’s sales team. Buyers are online, they are using mobile devices at all hours of the day and they want relevant content that helps them select products and services that meet their needs.The report had a couple of key recommendations:“Map the buyer’s journey and embed personas in their 2013 marketing plans. Business buyer personas that encapsulate buyer preferences and attitudes will help marketers move their strategies from a product feature/benefit focus to a customer value focus.”“… think of social and content as one and the same” and “map their content strategies to personas to effectively drive pipeline growth.”The report also states “creating a thriving content marketing program within B2B organizations is a journey that requires the right organization skills, a firm strategy, discipline, and ongoing management and optimization.”MyMarketingDept has a great diagram that illustrates the importance of the right message and medium.It makes sense that we need to focus more on our customers. Yet it seems so difficult for some reason.This customer centric mindset requires a us to change our lens to that of how our customers think. Some businesses are so far removed from this that it is difficult. Others feel that they know what their customers need and think but fail to ask them or test their assumptions. When you get this wrong, it can make a huge impact. When you get it right your prospect should say: ”I feel as if I already know you and want to meet you as soon as possible”. The better your alignment of your marketing and sales strategy to your ideal customers the greater chance of building a brand that your customers and employees will love.It is not surprising that the customer journey is the focus of so many leading companies. According to Gartner:89% were lost to after a negative experience86% said they would pay for a better customer experience.58% said that they would recommend companies who delivered customer experiences that were superior to others.So the customer journey is critical.It delivers:A deeper bond between you and your customersIt can deliver just the right information or insight needed at the right timeIt can provide a continual stream of amazing insights and analytics to your internal teams that  can help them learn and innovate faster than the competitionIf you don’t invest in a customer centric approach:The trust developed between a buyer and a seller can be broken easily with misalignmentInformation can be disjoined creating conflict, irrelevant and out of date informationIt can leave your organisation relying on opinions and guesses Because the touch points of a customers world is always changing, the journey is too. This is not a one off process but a continual process. This approach that I call call customer centric marketing is based on a methodology of Strategic Service Design. It is designing an engagement with your ideal customers and it is a competitive advantage.

2013-05-01T22:58:24Z penfolds-grange-release-could-make-you-pour

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA – Wednesday 2nd May, 2013 – Auctioneer Mark Wickman’s latest wine investment review has given only 2 stars out of a possible 5 to famed Penfolds Grange latest 2008 vintage release. Wickman expects it to sell between $620 and $785 on the day of release with no way of getting the initial investment back over time. “The secondary market is skewed towards domestic trading only and is decades away from any investor achieving even their initial outlay”, Wickman said. It may be possible to capitalise on the supply shortage in Australia for a short time but you need to draw a lesson from the history of the 1998 vintage, another hyped Grange, which achieved good results at auction for some time after release until a flood of exported bottles found their way back to Australia, like a flock of homing pigeons, and collapsed the price, it then makes the long term view less appealing.Average trading prices over the last year for earlier vintages adds weight to the review. Grange that was purchased 10 years ago to the day, when sold at auction, barely covers the cost of storing and insuring it for that time. Penfolds Grange is certainly undervalued on the world stage, but until there is a long term sustainable demand from the likes of either China or the USA, real Grange prices on the Australian secondary market will continue to rise on par with inflation rather than the speculative yields often quoted by those hoping to turn a quick dollar. Mark Wickman is the auctioneer at online wine auction house Wickman’s Fine Wine Auctions. The full wine review is available at:http://www.wickman.net.au/wineauction/wine-investment/wine-investment-reviews.aspx  A reference of all vintages of Penfolds Grange prices in list form is available at:http://www.wickman.net.au/wineauction/Grange_prices.aspx   ### Visit Wickman’s online at www.wickman.net.au  Notes for Editors: About Wickman Fine Wine Auctions; Wickman’s have been providing independent market intelligence and advice on the wine auction sector since 2003. It is the only company in Australia with a wealth of proprietary software resources that aggregates key data published by the leading Australian auction houses.  Distinguished by innovation and driven by passion, Wickman’s Fine Wine Auctions has been a lively and profitable meeting ground for wine buyers and sellers since 2003. A family business based in South Australia, Wickman’s prides itself on its position as a reliable resource with a well-spring of extraordinary values and opportunities.  Over the years, Wickman’s has continued to launch unique initiatives in an attempt to set the company apart from traditional online wine auction websites, introducing guaranteed provenance into Australian wine auctions and holding regular wine tasting events and dinners for its members. 

2013-04-26T05:30:15Z sunset-strip-to-permiere-at-revelation-perth-international-film-festival

Regency Film Distribution are proud to announce the premiere of Sunset Strip at the Revelation Perth International Film Festival 4 – 14 July 2013   With its unconventional mix of storytelling, original concerts, live performances, animation, and rare archival films, we dive into the mystique and hidden history of this curvy mile-and-a-half stretch of road that has steered world culture for nearly a century.   The Strip itself was born in the roaring ’20s as a dirt road connecting Hollywood studios to a new development called Beverly Hills. This “strip” between two cities fell just outside Los Angeles city limits, a no man’s land outside the reach of the LAPD, which gave free reign to both creative and dark forces. Generations of great artists were inspired here and great art was created here, right along side notorious speakeasies, nightclubs, casinos, brothels, and opium dens. It is truly a mix of light and dark, sunshine and noir, that is uniquely L.A.   Today, huge tectonic shifts in the music industry have energized live music and music venues, so a new generation of idealistic artists, fans, and club owners are using that energy to make Sunset Strip their own, forging their own history, just like all the generations before them. Something fresh and cool is brewing!   Johnny Depp, Keanu Reeves, Mickey Rourke, Ozzy Osbourne, Courtney Love, Sharon Stone, Pamela Des Barres, Alice Cooper, Hugh Hefner, Perry Farrell, Peter Fonda, Sofia Coppola, Tom Arnold, Slash, Richard Lewis, Paul Mooney, Dita Von Teese, Paris Hilton, Lou Adler, Tommy Lee, Billy Corgan, and Lemmy, along with historians, authors, former mobsters, kids who call it their playground, and families who call it home… all come together to take us way beyond a rock doc and down the rabbit hole into a fascinating world called SUNSET STRIP.