http:// 2013-06-19T08:43:47Z 2013-06-19T08:43:47Z developer-warns-mandurah-real-estate-prices-cannot-stay-this-low-much-longer

Mandurah, WA, June 19, 2013 - 4Land Property Group, based in Perth, is responsible for developing the highly successful Natures Walk Estate in Erskine, Mandurah. In a recent blog post on their website, they offered research regarding the amenities and economic prospects of Mandurah--now and in the future.In 1976, Mandurah was a sleepy little fishing village with a population of 12,700. It was Australia's 60th most populous “urban” area. By the 2011 Census, the population of Mandurah had reached 83,300. Mandurah is now the second-largest city in Western Australia, and the 22nd most populous urban area as of 2012.Many factors are cited for Mandurah's growth. It is known as a popular “sea change” destination, and the railway built between Mandurah and Perth has made the area even more attractive to Perth residents.The mining boom, which has benefited WA greatly, has provided a huge influx of residents to Mandurah who work in the mining and resource industries within the  numerous mines that our located two hours’ drive or less from Mandurah. Many fly-in fly-out or drive-in-drive-out workers have bought homes in Mandurah.In addition, Mandurah is a popular destination for day-trippers, thanks to numerous new restaurants, shops and amenities such as zoos, whale-/ dolphin-watching tours and world-class fishing and crabbing.This influx of residents and visitors has created numerous jobs in the tourist and service industries and has created a need for larger infrastructure, and so more and more facilities are being built to provide services and goods to the fast-growing population.Besides “sea change” residents, Mandurah is very popular with downsizers and retirees, with 21.2% of its citizens aged 65 or older. This gives Mandurah WA's largest ratio of those aged 65 and over.Mandurah's population is projected by many to double in size, possibly as early as 2031, and the local Council is busy planning projects to take Mandurah into the future by developing numerous economic opportunities designed to “keep up” with the current growth pattern.Among these projects is the Mandurah Traffic Bridge which is slated to be replaced. In fact. Mandurah’s entire infrastructure of roads and highways is subject to ongoing review with many discussions on how to keep traffic flowing in, out, and through Mandurah as the population continues to grow.In addition, the Peel Health Campus is currently undergoing a $75 million expansion. Peel Health Campus is the Peel Region's second-largest employer, and the expansion is slated to nearly double the amount of jobs provided to the community.Dave Gillon, Sales Manager for Natures Walk Estate, agrees with the overall assessment of Mandurah's prospects for growth: “Mandurah is the fastest-growing regional city in WA, and for good reason. People move here to be closer to the water, to parks, and numerous amenities, without the hectic large city lifestyle.”Gillon continued, “Our planned community is perfect for downsizers and retirees. The houses are sized perfectly for couples and boast a modern, spacious design. Natures Walk is quiet and serene yet is within 10 minutes of shopping centres, medical care, entertainment, and every amenity residents could need.”Gillon concluded: “If you are even thinking of moving here, now is the time to make the move. Mandurah properties are priced far below similar properties in other markets, but it can't last forever.”Natures Walk Estate has currently eight house and land packages remaining for sale in Mandurah. For more information, call (08) 9301 4445 or visit their website: http://www.natureswalk.com.au/.

2013-06-19T05:02:51Z calling-for-an-end-to-noisy-aussie-restaurants

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Knauf, a manufacturer of acoustic design products is calling on Australian foodies, consumers, architects and designers to help improve the sound quality in Australian restaurants.    Knauf, a world leader in acoustic ceiling tiles and plasterboard, has launched a campaign to highlight the importance of great restaurant acoustics.   The Dine Hear campaign is encouraging restaurant-goers to nominate a favourite restaurant that, despite its great food and service, can sometimes be just that little bit too noisy.   “Imagine having to yell at your date across the table because it’s the only way they can hear you, or ordering the vegetarian risotto and they bring you out the beef instead?” says Stephanie Olsen, Knauf’s Senior Product Manager.   “With that in mind, the Dine Hear campaign is about improving the acoustics of great Australian restaurants. Does great sound matter? Yes!” Olsen says.   Backed by a series of short videos – see them at dinehear.com.au – the campaign aims to involve multiple sectors of the Australian foodie and design community to help make the case for great restaurant acoustics.   Consumers are encouraged to nominate a great restaurant that could be improved with better acoustics and be in with the chance to win one of three iPad minis. www.dinehear.com.au   Designers and architects who nominate a restaurant that would be improved with better acoustics; could receive one of 50 complimentary $200 dinners for two. http://www.dinehear.com.au/architects/   Design professionals who submit sketches on how the acoustics could be improved could be awarded the Knauf Dine Hear Acoustic Designer 2013, $5,000 prize.   “Great sound matters,” Olsen says. “And Knauf is on a mission to prove it.”    All details at www.dinehear.com.auAbout Knauf Plasterboard:   Knauf is a major supplier of plasterboard and associated products to the light weight construction industry. A quality range of products and systems designed for performance provide solutions for fire, water, impact, acoustic and decorative applications for all construction projects – commercial and residential. Knauf products can be purchased from PlastaMasta stores and distributors. For more information, visit knaufplasterboard.com.au

2013-06-19T04:58:18Z 6-councils-innovate-in-urban-renewal

Despite outdated planning legislation that continues to stymie council innovation, six Australian councils have managed to create innovative – and sometimes radical – place design change for their local communities.   Coffs Harbour City Council, for example, shaved $5 million off its parking requirements by lobbying state government about parking standards and creating a citywide green travel plan. That $5 million was then reinvested into tourism and cultural programs.   Gold Coast Council turned a vacant “unsalable” lot into a new artistic hub for the region’s burgeoning media and arts scene – and is now using it as a draw card for Chinese investors.    And Waverley Council is testing ideas for turning the streets of Bondi Junction from a car-based traffic jam into a pedestrian-friendly shopping mecca – through simple and inexpensive tactile interventions.   “Urban renewal is one of the key evolving opportunities for Australian councils today,” says Mike Day, RobertsDay cofounder. “And great places are about so much more than buildings.”   However, it doesn’t always need a big investment. “Often, councils already have all they need for a renewal project – it’s just about seeing their place in a different light,” says Day.   “We worked with one suburb that only had one children’s playground – and it belonged to McDonald’s,” says Day. “Yet the town had all this underused space. So our urban planning solution was to transform vacant sites into playgrounds, have car parks double as civic spaces, redeploy road reserves as skate parks.”   The story of the town with only a McDonald’s playground, as well as the development that was once a bus depot and the suburb that was once a sports stadium – along with other stories of urban renewal innovation – are all covered in Great Places Renew, available free online.   Great Places Renew is one of a series of rich-media, digital magazines that uses words, images and video to tell the stories of great places around the country.   Access the free Great Places Renew magazine here.     Ends

2013-06-19T04:52:33Z kas-cushions-great-deals-on-winter-warmers

As the cold weather close in there is nothing more alluring then curling up at home with a glass of wine and relaxing on your sofa surrounded by comfort and luxury. For those homeowners who enjoy creating a soft and welcoming environment when it comes to their personal space, Pillows online are offering wonderful deals on winter warmers, including their range of stunning Kas cushions. Kas cushions are renowned for being simply beautiful and made from the highest quality materials, whether customers are looking for something bright with a bit of chintz or something soft and elegant, Pillows online have all the very best designs on offer from Kas cushions. As Pillows online are Australia’s leading company when it comes to bedding down and making a house a home, it’s no wonder that Kas cushions have offered them an exclusive new look at their beautiful winter range of soft furnishings. With Kas cushions coming in all shapes and sizes, patterns and prints – lucky homeowners can enjoy filling their bedrooms with beauty and sinking back into something soft. When buying Kas cushions from Pillows online, every customer can feel safe and secure in the knowledge that this is business with over fifty years of experience of providing luxury items. Pillows online strive to only stock the best brand names at the most competitive prices so everyone can have a little piece of heaven in their home. The staff at Pillows online are so passionate about pillows and Kas cushions that they continually work to be the best online retailer and deliver exceptionally high standards of customer service at all times. Kas cushions can bring an element of beauty to any home and Pillows Online is the top choice for buyers who want the mark of quality.    

2013-06-19T04:44:40Z travel-industry-professionals-launch-new-media-amp-marketing-tourism-amp-lifestyle-agency

Creative Planet Media is a boutique media, marketing and social media agency promoting travel, tourism and lifestyle brands. It is also the brand new business launched this week by experienced travel industry professionals, Suzanne Cavanagh and Peter Watson.  Cavanagh and Watson last worked together in senior roles at Jetset in the 80’s and 90’s, during the heady days of market leadership that the company then enjoyed.  They have since developed separate careers in the travel and tourism spectrum, working in senior marketing, business development, strategic planning and management consulting roles, both in Australia and overseas. They have however maintained contact with each other, and with their passion for the travel and tourism business in which they have spent most of their working lives.  For them, the social environment of the industry today is one of the industry’s most exciting times.  A regular coffee and chat session early this year led to an extended discussion and the eventual creation of Creative Planet Media! “Peter and I started Creative Planet Media because of our strong cultural and business connections to the tourism, food and media industries and our understanding of how, through social media, all of those avenues can be brought together in an evocative way”, said Cavanagh.  “Between us, we have over 70 years in tourism management and marketing, so our experience runs deeply” she said. Creative Planet Media provides services in media, marketing and tourism management, specialising in the social media space.  It fashions inbound strategies and campaigns to enable companies to communicate, promote and engage in order to compete in this new business context, growing both brand reputations and sales. The company works with a range of talented and trusted professionals across a wide range of disciplines on projects as required.  “For us travel, food, wine, books and lifestyle strongly interconnect” said Cavanagh. “Whilst some companies specialise in one of those industries, our approach is to help companies bring destinations and experiences alive by connecting all five” Cavanagh went on to say that travel and tourism companies tended to be more transactional than relational in the way they do business, so there is often a gap with the consumer seeking authentic experiences and aspirations and the companies focussing solely on product delivery. “This is such a missed opportunity” said Cavanagh.  “We help companies reveal the essential soul of tourism and leisure experiences and in doing that help them build better customer relationships” Creative Planet Media can be found on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/CreativePlanetMedia  or on Twitter @CreativePlanetM

2013-06-19T03:32:55Z perth-property-developer-warns-land-buyers

Perth, Western Australia, June 19, 2013 - Recently, 4Land Property Group provided readers of their blog with a six-step blueprint for selecting land on which to build a home.4Land Property Group is a successful Perth property developer, offering both lots and house and land packages.  They have helped downsizers, first-home buyers, families, and investors buy new properties for well below the median value for established homes in their property markets.In response to some common questions from potential buyers, 4Land Property Group compiled a list of what they consider to be the six important factors when choosing the correct land block. LocationPreferred locations are close to amenities, such as shopping and parks, with schools being important for those with children. Public transport is another consideration for many. For those in the workforce, it is important to choose a location with an easy commute to work.Size and ShapeThe size and shape of a property block determines the price. It also determines what kind of house can be built there. The most common mistake made by first-home buyers is buying too large a lot and over-stretching their budget. In many cases, 4Land Property Group recommends that first-home buyers purchase a smaller lot and use one of the space-efficient home designs currently offered by many builders.Survey Strata Titled or Green TitledGreen titled land is very straightforward; the owner has full ownership and control of everything within their boundaries. However, survey strata titled land forces the owner to share part of their land with their neighbour or neighbours. Besides the potential for dissension between neighbours, survey strata titled land can also generate hidden maintenance fees, thus raising the monthly cost of the property.SetbacksSetbacks determine the distance between the road and the front of the house. Many titles and estates are rigid, where some are flexible. 4Land Property Group recommends that buyers always know their setback distance and use it to determine whether or not they can have the house design and the backyard they want before purchasing.IncentivesMany developers offer incentives, such as free landscaping or free fencing. This can save buyers a lot of money. 4Land Property Group recommends always asking the sales agent whether the developer is offering incentives.Building guidelines and covenantsVirtually every land estate has rules that must be followed and are not subject to negotiation. These can be as simple as what paint colours can be used on the house and its peripherals, or how long the buyer has to finish building a home after buying the land.It is mandatory that any buyer fully understands the rules in any estate before purchasing land there.Lauren O'Connor, Marketing Manager of 4Land Property Group, compiled the information and was happy to offer it to potential buyers: “We offer many different options in the Perth and WA markets, but what's right for one may not be right for another.”O'Connor continued, “Buying a home and choosing the right block of land is the most important decision many people will ever make; we want them to make the right choice.”Uniqueness and affordability are what 4Land Property Group, a successful developer of land estates, specialises on.  Their communities across Western Australia are carefully planned to accommodate varying lifestyles and budgets. Call Lauren O'Connor on (08) 9301 4445 for more information.

2013-06-19T02:38:11Z marketing-company-blazes-trails-at-mudding-competitions

Perth, Western Australia, June 19, 2013 - Mudding is a sport for the strong of mind, body, and heart, where teams of four compete in a race through a treacherous obstacle course littered with traps, pitfalls, and of course, muddy terrain.In the near future, two of the biggest mudding events of the year in Western Australia will take place. The Western Mudd Rush will take place in August of this year, only a few months away in the Perth area. It is a good example of a mudding event and will feature a number of difficult and tedious obstacles for runners to endure and overcome.The Tough Mudder Perth event will take place at the end of October in the town of Copley. This is a seriously challenging event that only the strongest will be able to take on, especially considering that its course was designed by the Britain Special Forces.Both of these competitions are sure to challenge even an experienced team of competitors. For this reason, preparations must be made well in advance, including training and team selecting. Team uniforms also must be picked out--and that is where ImagePak Marketing comes in.Scott Eaton, owner of the corporation, offers his reasons why a custom uniform would be a smart choice for the upcoming events. Eaton feels that specially-designed uniforms have great advertising potential: “When it comes to standing out from a crowd, few things do it better than an outfit with your organisation’s name and company logo on it. Think about it:  If your team does well, that name not only gets remembered by all those involved in the competition, but it has a certain ring of glory to it when it is remembered.”He continues by making the assertion that by having a team, company, or organisation name on a uniform means that the people who gathered for the event will have exposure to your business or organisation. “Even if your team doesn’t necessarily place well, the fact that your name is on your clothing means that everyone at the competition will know who you stand for and that means something in the face of marketing your business,” he says.He adds with a note that having a team uniform has potential to do more than just increase your public exposure: “Plus it just plain looks great to have an entire team in matching uniforms. What would a professional sports team look like without a common outfit and logo? It increases good teamwork, boosts morale, and makes everyone look that much better.”While to some it may seem to be an unnecessary expense, Eaton reminds us otherwise: “Custom uniforms are definitely very affordable and well worth the minor investment that they do take. It’s easy, too: Just place an order with us with exactly what you’d like in your uniforms and let us do all the work. When you see how they look and you wear them with pride in your event, you will realise that they were well worth whatever you paid for them.”Eaton concludes with words about his company’s uniforms and how they fit into the upcoming events, “It’s a win-win situation either way: you look good, consumers remember you, and everyone has a great time at an intense sporting event.”ImagePak Marketing is a company that creates customised items, uniforms and embroidery for the Perth area and beyond. For more information about their different options, please call (08) 92444 111 or visit their website at http://www.imagepak.com.au/.

2013-06-19T02:29:38Z kitchenaid-enters-home-soda-category-in-collaboration-with-sodastream

·  Brands collaborate on KitchenAid Soda Maker “Powered by SodaStream”·  Combine best in class technology and stylish design·  Available in 2014Melbourne, Australia - 19 June, 2013: KitchenAid, a leading maker of premium kitchen appliances and culinary tools and a brand of Whirlpool Corporation, and SodaStream, the world’s leading manufacturer and distributor of home beverage carbonation systems, has announced a collaboration that will introduce a jointly developed home carbonation system to the KitchenAid portfolio. “We are excited to expand our KitchenAid family of products and enter the growing category of home carbonation,” said David Elliott, general manager of KitchenAid small appliances. “Working with SodaStream brings together their best-in-class technology with our stylish design signature to offer a premium product for our consumers worldwide.” “KitchenAid is an iconic global brand and we welcome them to the SodaStream revolution,” said Daniel Birnbaum, CEO of SodaStream. “Our unique platform will enable KitchenAid to provide its large and loyal consumer base with the many benefits of home carbonation.  We look forward to leveraging the combined strengths of our two brands to advance the category and reach an even broader global audience.” The soda maker is expected to be available in 2014. -ENDS- For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:Sam PearsonAccess PRE: sam@accesspr.com.auT: 02 9292 7005M: 0415 271 911About SodaStreamSodaStream International Ltd is the world’s leading manufacturer and distributor of home beverage carbonation systems which enable consumers to easily transform ordinary tap water into carbonated soft drinks and sparkling water in seconds. SodaStream Drinks Makers offer a highly differentiated and innovative solution to consumers of bottled and canned carbonated soft drinks and sparkling water. Our products are environmentally friendly, cost-effective, promote health and wellness, customisability and fun. In addition, our products offer convenience by eliminating the need to carry bottles home from the supermarket, to store bottles at home or to regularly dispose of empty bottles. Our products are available at more than 60,000 retail stores in 45 countries around the world. Key stockists in Australia include Myer, Woolworths, Big W, Good Guys, Harvey Norman, KMart and Target. For more information, visit http://www.sodastream.com.au About KitchenAid:  Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has built on the legacy of these icons to create a complete line of products designed for cooks.  Today, the KitchenAid brand offers virtually every essential for the well-equipped kitchen with a collection that includes everything from countertop appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators, and whisks to wine cellars.  To learn why chefs choose KitchenAid for their homes more than any other brand*, visit KitchenAid.com or join us at Facebook.com/KitchenAid and Twitter.com/KitchenAidUSA. * Based on a 2012 survey, KitchenAid was found to be the home kitchen appliance brand chosen most often by members of the International Association of Culinary Professionals      

2013-06-19T00:47:17Z sold-out-blind-tasting-performance-and-wine-tasting-announces-new-sydney-date

  SOLD OUT ‘Blind Tasting’ performance and wine tasting Announces New Sydney Date   Due to the enormous popularity from wine lovers, theatre goers and thespians alike, ‘Blind Tasting’, the unique ‘part performance/part wine-tasting’ has added a new date, Tuesday 30th July. Having quickly sold out tickets to the first Sydney performance on Tuesday 25th June, this new Sydney date will similarly be held at The Ensemble Theatre, Kirribilli.   ‘Blind Tasting’ is a quirky one-woman contemporary show, thoughtfully written and directed by Paul Gilchrist and features accomplished Australian actress Sylvia Keays. Sylvia, in an acclaimed portrayal, introduces us to her character Sophie – who talks wine, sells wine and she has every reason to drink it. Join her hilarious razor-sharp discovery of the unexpected truth hidden in each glass.   With already a sold-out season at the 2012 Adelaide Fringe and the 2012 Melbourne Fringe festivals, as well as performances in Los Angeles, ‘Blind Tasting’ conveys wit, whimsy and heartbreak – all centered around wine. TimeOut Melbourne raved that "Sylvia Keays slips snugly into her character. So snug that I initially thought this might have been her own story. The show has a very smooth tone, sitting happily between wistfully melancholic narrative and a stand-up routine."   Suitably accompanying this performance is the equally acclaimed wines from Shaw Vineyard Estate, available for you to try before the show, with wine tasting and nibblies commencing from 6.30pm, followed by a 7.30pm performance. Shaw Vineyard Estate is a family owned and operated wine producer who has been producing Canberra’s finest wines for over a decade. As a keen supporter of young Australian talent, Shaw saw this collaboration as a rich opportunity to showcase their performance in wine to a discerning audience.   Also supporting the ‘Blind Tasting’ show is online drinks site Sip Your Style. Katrina Holden, editor and founder of the site says audiences should prepare for moments of true humour, drama and introspection with Sylvia’s raw delivery.   “From the moment Sylvia begins the act wearing a red blindfold, the audience is captivated. There’s an honesty and purity in her portrayal of Sophie – and her tale of workplace woes, trying to find love and more importantly, trying to find herself – themes we can all relate to. Through the metaphor of wine (and better yet, the tasting of it), we’re taken on an emotional journey involving humour, wit, frailty and self-awareness. Sylvia is a poised, vibrant, approachable yet intriguing performer who connects with her audience and whom herself mirrors many of the attributes of a good wine. In Blind Tasting it’s just her, us and the wine, with no trickery – the show’s very simplicity makes for a very authentic and pleasurable experience,” said Katrina.   Book your tickets today to ensure that you don’t miss out on this unique tasting and hilarious performance. Tickets are available for purchase now, Adult ($35*) and Concession ($30*) ticket price includes tasting and the show.                                                                                                                                                                         *Booking fee applies   Tickets sales, please contact: The Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall Street, Kirribilli www.ensemble.com.au  or call (02) 9929 0644   For media enquiries, please contact: White Ink, info@whiteink.com.au       About Sylvia Keays   Sylvia Keays is an Australian actress theatrically trained at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Hollywood. Since graduation, she has performed professionally in TV, independent film, presenting, and her main love theatre, both in the USA and Australia. She has performed in plays produced by NIDA, Steam Productions, Billie Blonde, Shakespeare by the Sea, Complex Theatre LA, AADA (Hollywood). In television, she has featured in ‘Deadly Women’ in the US; and in Stupid Stupid Man, supporting Deborah Mailman in Australia. Her body of commercial work includes productions for TAB, ANZ, New Idea and McDonald’s.   Critical Acclaim for ‘Blind Tasting’   "Part performance, part wine tasting, this witty, insightful performance was well crafted by Paul Gilchrist and delivered with confidence and a delightful balance of light and shade by Sylvia Keays. This performance was a delight; intimate, funny, sad, and thoughtful” - Stage Whispers Melbourne   This is "a classy sensory experience...a passionate and considered performance" - Adelaide Theatre Guide   The story moves with playful audience interaction, two mid show wine tastings, and "has a very smooth tone, sitting happily between wistfully melancholic narrative and a stand-up routine." - ArtsHub Melbourne   "A punchy, whimsical tale of lovelorn Sophie - executed exceptionally by actor Sylvia Keays" - Theatre Junkies Melbourne   “Sylvia Keays is a brilliant performer ….a moving, consistent and quality performance that is a joy to watch…. The script is playful, witty and poetic …..a captivating personal account of a woman’s experience of love, loss and finding pleasure in unexpected places. Keays was thoroughly entertaining” -  FringeReview UK

2013-06-18T05:48:29Z western-australia-s-newest-business-networking-team

The face of business networking in Western Australia is set to change with the establishment of Business Network International (BNI®) Team WA.BNI is a business referral organisation whose primary purpose is to assist its members to find and exchange qualified business referrals. There are currently 25 BNI chapters in the State with more than 600 member businesses.Frederick Marcoux, the Director of Asian and Australian Affairs for BNI ’s Global operations and the owner of BNI Australia, announced that the leaders of BNI Team WA will be BNI Executive Directors John Williamson and Mark Graber.Mr Marcoux said Mr Williamson will oversee the development of BNI in the South West and south of Perth, and Mr Graber will oversee the development of Regional WA and BNI operations north of Perth.Mr Graber is the instructional design expert behind www.BNIlearning.com.au and was previously a lecturer at Curtin Business School. Previous to taking on this position, Mr Graber was a member of BNI for 9 years, and was the Director of National Learning Operations for BNI in Australia. Mr Williamson has 25 years experience in business ownership, human resources management and labour relations and holds a number of prestigious BNI International Chapter Hall of Fame Awards. Before taking on this role, Mr Williamson was an Executive Director of BNI in South Africa.BNI Team WA will also be supported by a team of BNI Directors and Ambassadors, as well as the Director of Franchise Development for Western Australia - 12 times best-selling author and the #1 BNI Executive Director in the world – Ms Hazel Walker.“This strategic move is all about WA leading the nation in terms of business earned by the members of BNI in Australia,” Mr Marcoux said.“At the moment, BNI members in WA are making $25 million per annum. That a great start - the goal is to increase that to more than $100 million within two years and to more than $300 million within five years," he said.“This is an exciting development for BNI in Western Australia. I think it will change the face of business networking in this State."According to Mr Marcoux, Mr Graber and Mr Williamson will be responsible for rolling out world’s best BNI practices to Chapters in WA.“BNI’s proven track record means that rolling out this approach will multiply the income of members in WA through BNI by four to five times,” he said.BNI provides its members with a professional structure that enables members to network in a deliberate manner for the sole purpose of generating more business."The way we network in BNI attracts busy, no nonsense and successful business people who appreciate the power of relationships and business networking,” Mr Marcoux said.“The philosophy underpinning BNI is 'Givers Gain®' and members are empowered by the understanding that by giving to others they will receive considerably more in return business. This in effect is what we mean by 'Changing the Way the World does Business™'."

2013-06-18T03:22:53Z acs-distance-education-training-handbook-released

The new course handbook has been released for ACS Distance Education for 2013. The handbook introduces our comprehensive range of courses. With over 400 distance education courses covering such a wide array of topics, this handbook is an essential compendium for anyone interested in further studying. Some of the areas that ACS Distance Education courses include are gardening, horticulture, environmental studies, agriculture, psychology, health, leisure and fitness, animal care, science and business. Our distance courses are flexible to suit our students’ busy lifestyles, and our courses can be taken online, via correspondence or e-learning.  To download your free electronic copy of the course handbook, please visit our website: http://www.acs.edu.au/uploads/AUS%20HANDBOOK_JUNE_2013_r2.pdf Our courses are the result of continuous input from tutors, students and industry over a period of more than 25 years. The input has come from formal channels (e.g. advisory committees, industry reports, student and employer surveys, etc), and informally, by alterations/improvements being made to course notes whenever an improvement is required.

2013-06-18T02:46:39Z cost-pressures-force-strategic-rethink-for-independent-retailers

Having dished up some of the best curries in Perth, Western Australia, the hugely popular café and kitchen store Latasha’s Kitchen in Leederville, Western Australia, closed its doors to customers last month.Latasha’s Kitchen joins a slew of recent closures of independent retailers in Leederville and Mt Lawley.According to business owner Latasha Menon, a massive hike in rent as a result of property development and weekend labour cost pressures forced a strategic rethink of her business model.For 10 years Ms Menon motivated many through her café food, popular cooking classes and selection of hand-made curry pastes and condiments made from her kitchen. As her lease was drawing to an end, Ms Menon felt it was a time to reassess the future.“The rise in rent, labour cost pressures and changes in the local demographics influenced my decision to take a change in course,” Ms Menon said.“We operated a pantry of gift items and the surge and attractiveness of the online industry made us rethink that aspect of the business,” Ms Menon said.“We were not licensed and thus our income was predominantly on food, cooking classes and our curry pastes and condiments. However, the café/studio kitchen was not the ideal place for us to use as a manufacturing outlet,” she said.“There was also the added pressure of our drink culture which is somewhat pervasive in Leederville, and other nights spots in Perth, which made it difficult for us to stay open till late as our customers tended to avoid trouble spots, especially those with young families.”After extensive research and development, Ms Menon was unable to find the perfect commercial kitchen to partner in WA. She now manufactures a range of take-home curry pastes, sauces and chutneys in NSW and travels there to cook her products personally with a team of professionals ready to help her make it to her exacting standards without any compromise to her unique formulations.These hand-made products are now being sold at local Farmers Markets, selected retailers and through her online store. Thus firmly closing the door on bricks and mortar as a sales model.With her background in marketing, Latasha came up with a plan to transition her business from bricks and mortar to the manufacture of products for online, wholesale, and at specialist stores.“I did a lot of research into how I wanted my products to be manufactured. I had to find a company that would adhere to my exacting standards because I wanted only the freshest and most authentic ingredients for my products,” Ms Menon said.“Importantly, I wanted to be sure that my products were going to be gluten free, 100 per cent pure and natural with no preservatives, fillers or flavour enhancers. I believe in making my products just as if they are made at home. I was not interested in opening my own factory and facing the same issues I faced in having a restaurant such as electricity costs rise, staff shortages, wage hikes, equipment breakdown etc.With a commercial kitchen in place, Latasha’s Kitchen take-home products are being produced in small batches bimonthly by Ms Menon. Initially, six products were launched but this has already been increased to 15.According to Ms Menon, the most difficult aspect of changing her business model has been the loss of regular contact with her customers and having to explain why she manufactures in Sydney.“However, with most customers, they’re happy with a local producer manufacturing in Australia,” she said.As Ms Menon is now holding in-store cooking demonstrations, she is still in contact with familiar faces, as well as introducing her cuisine to a whole new generation.“This provides me with an opportunity to explain the reasons behind my decisions. WA doesn’t have the kind of contract manufacturing scene for small manufacturers like me who make high quality spice blends,” she said.“Most of my blends contain between 20-35 ingredients! Most of which are herbs and spices which are hand roasted, before grinding and blending.”At these demonstrations Ms Menon takes every opportunity to explain why the manufacturing is not done in WA anymore.“I am one of the lucky ones who have managed to combine their passion with a business, and I don’t take this lightly. It has been a huge learning curve but already we are finding success. Taking this step has definitely been a positive one – we feel confident we can grow our business in this new direction,” she said.For more information go to www.latashaskitchen.com.au

2013-06-17T23:54:15Z more-australian-mums-going-online-for-me-time

Since its launch in February 2013, TheFamilyKitchen.com.au has experienced rapid growth amongwomen aged 25-541, who are increasingly going online for information, support and entertainment.With 98.9% of mums using Facebook2 and 73% reading blogs3, the internet is fast becoming theirleading source of “me-time”. And now Australian mums are discovering TheFamilyKitchen.com.au, an exciting new free onlinefood and lifestyle blog-style magazine, featuring everything mums need to create happier, healthier family kitchens: simple recipes, practical nutrition advice, style inspiration, celebrity interviews and great competitions, which are all delivered daily in delicious bite-size morsels. TheFamilyKitchen.com.au founder and editor Samantha Brennan, with 10 years’ experience as awriter and editor for some of the best-known Australian magazines including Australian Good Food,Australian House & Garden and CLEO, now dedicates her time to curating food and lifestyle contentfor families across Australia, delivering glossy-quality recipes and features designed to educate and entertain busy mums. Although there are plenty of online recipe databases, Samantha noticed a space was missing where women could come together to share and learn about family food and nutrition, as well as fun things like new kitchenware and tableware, and famous foodies’ kitchens. “I saw that while there are lots of big players in the online food media market, there was perhaps space for a more intimate and friendlier blog-style magazine that offers connection with the editorial team and among our readers,” she said. The response from women has been overwhelming. TheFamilyKitchen.com.au now has more than1,400 Facebook followers, and monthly visitors to the website has grown from 1,400 at launch to close to 6,000 (+328%), just four months later. TheFamilyKitchen.com.au is a free Australian online food and lifestyle magazine. All recipes fromthe editorial team are developed and tested especially for TheFamilyKitchen.com.au. With simplerecipes, easy ideas and everyday inspiration for happy, healthy family kitchens, women who love cooking and family food should log on to TheFamilyKitchen.com.au.ENDS Contact: Mary-Anne Amies, Wise Up Marketing Solutionsmaryanne@wiseupmarketing.com.au 0402 248 930 ### 1Facebook Page Insights2MumsNow “Mums in 2012” Survey3MumsNow “Mums in 2012” Survey

2013-06-17T02:26:20Z acclaimed-barossa-chef-mark-mcnamara-launches-his-food-luddite-enterprise

Acclaimed chef Mark McNamara is forging an exciting new path with the launch of his Food Luddite enterprise. Widely acclaimed as Executive Chef and partner in Appellation restaurant from 2005 to 2012, Mark’s philosophy on regional provenance and focus on true seasonality saw the elegant eatery rise to be one of Australia’s leading regional restaurants. A stalwart of the Barossa food scene, he has long been in the forefront of the imperative to preserve its food heritage with the establishment of Food Barossa and the Barossa Farmers Market. Now Mark’s focus is on giving people food experiences that are genuine and fun, real and shared, based on the traditions of cuisines around the world. “After more than 30 years as a professional chef, I have come to understand that the basic elements of good food and the ability to cook well do not always require years of training, exotic ingredients and expensive equipment.  For me cooking is instinctive, and mostly common sense once the mystique is removed.” His exciting new concept is a Cooking School Without Walls.  Here he seeks to mentor and empower, pass on time-honoured skills and demonstrate simple, delicious, rustic cooking.  Creating the Long Table is an immersion experience for a small group who work alongside Mark to create a multi-course lunch, then sit down with him to enjoy it.  A wide variety of other classes are listed and available for bookings on the Food Luddite website. Mark says simply, “My aim is to share what it takes to cook simple, uncomplicated and delicious food.” The weekly Sunday Long Table Lunches at Artisans of Barossa are themed on the season. Shared at one long table, with a winemaker in attendance, this is lunch as it is meant to be. The Food Luddite program also includes a series of one-off culinary events at farms, gardens and wineries. Check out his website www.foodluddite.com or follow @chefmarkmc on twitter.    

2013-06-16T23:25:48Z qualified-carers-brings-businesses-families-amp-caregivers-together

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the unemployment rate has increased by 0.1 percent - now up to 5.6% as of May 2013. Those who do not have full-time employment, in many cases, are working multiple part-time jobs to make ends meet. Trying to balance work and personal life has been a struggle for decades. It is even more trying today, especially for those having to work multiple jobs in order to stay ahead financially. Oftentimes, family obligations come in second next to work related commitments. One company is looking to aid families, businesses and employees in this struggle, while helping to improve the local unemployment rate. Qualified Carers (www.qualifiedcarers.com.au) is the only Australian company dedicated to introducing professional caregivers providing a wide range of services to employers and families, all on one website. They are not a staffing agency, but rather in the “introduction services” industry - meaning businesses and families can connect with specific Carers through their website, check references, and schedule interviews with Carers that match their individual qualification needs. Qualified Carers have a variety of Care Services to choose from. Whether your business or family needs a babysitter, nanny, childcare worker, disability carer, aged carer, in-home nurse, housekeeper, cleaner, tutor, personal home assistant, or a house or pet sitter, Qualified Carers will be able to help you find who you are looking for within your local area. If your business is in need of new staff members, Qualified Carers takes all of the hard work out of searching for qualified staff members.The Carer’s qualifications and expertise range from college students looking for work experience to highly qualified Caregivers with over 20 years’ experience in their field. Many of the Carers working with children, the disabled, or the elderly obtain a First Aid Certificate, a police check or Working with Children Check, and are registered with the Family Assistance Office. If there are specific qualifications you seek prior to employment and the Carer does not have them, employers may request the Carer to obtain these certifications prior to the start of employment. In addition to the services offered for families and businesses, Qualified Carer also has opportunities open for new Carers to search for jobs. Whether you are looking for a full-time or part-time job, you can sign up for a free subscription on the Qualified Carer website and create your profile by uploading a photo or record a short video introducing yourself and what services you can offer. Employers can then search for you based on your Care qualifications and services, and contact you through the website. Additionally, you can search the Job Notice Boards available on the website to see what job opportunities are available within your local area. Subscription Information To subscribe as a Care Service Provider, please visit the website at: www.qualifiedcarers.com.au – Registration is free.   To subscribe for a family subscription, please visit the website. Subscription rates start as low as $29/mo. For a Business subscription, rates start as low as $99/mo.   About Qualified Carers Qualified Carers is an online introduction service for businesses and families to find local Caregivers in a variety of care industries across Australia. With quality Babysitters, Nannies, Child Care Workers, Disability Carers, Aged Carers, In-Home Nurses, Life Skills Educators, Tutors, Housekeepers, Cleaners, Personal Home Assistants, Pet Sitters, House Sitters and more, you can find the Care that suits your needs at the price that fits your budget.