http:// 2013-04-30T01:09:22Z 2013-04-30T01:09:22Z video-production-firm-shares-tips-for-maximising-online-video-marketing

Perth, WA, April 30, 2013 - Video marketing is rapidly becoming one of the most popular strategies for attracting visitors to business websites. According to generally accepted industry numbers, over 100 million videos are viewed online everyday. In addition, visitors to retail sites with videos stay an average of 2 minutes longer, and industry numbers indicate that videos make a visitor 64% more likely to purchase products from website. Small businesses that include videos in their profiles report 18% more calls, 30% more profile clicks, and 24% more sales.However, simply producing a video and putting it on YouTube is no guarantee of results. Due to the success of video marketing, the competition is fierce, and those who wish to succeed must execute a solid marketing campaign.Tip number one is to always have a plan before producing a video. Every second of every video should have a reason behind it, and be part of an organised, targeted marketing campaign.Tip number two is to have a concrete goal in mind. Video production costs money, and requires time and effort. Having a goal before shooting the video increases the likelihood of a strong ROI.Tip number three is to always provide compelling content for those who will be viewing the video. If the video does not either entertain them or give them the information they were looking for when they clicked on to the video, they will simply abandon the video and go someplace else.Tip number four is to focus on quality over speed or quantity. Your online video is a company’s “best foot forward”. It will often be the viewer’s first impression of a company; a positive impression is a must and a negative impression can lose a potential customer forever.Tip number five is to make sure that the video can be viewed anywhere. If a viewer has to click somewhere else to watch a video, they are likely to not return to the original website.Tip number six is to take advantage of multiple distribution channels. These should at least include a website, email, YouTube, and a Facebook page.Tip number seven is to always leave the viewer wanting more. In the opinion of many Internet marketers, 60 to 90 seconds is the ideal length for a promotional video. In an era of reduced attention span, where people have multiple people, places, and things competing for their attention, they are unlikely to spend longer than 2 minutes watching a promotional video. Also, while it is crucial to give the viewers some of what they want, it is also crucial that the viewer doesn’t get everything they want. If they do, there’s no motivation for them to complete the next desired action, whether it is to purchase a product or join an information list.Tip number eight is to make the video engaging to the desired audience. The more interesting and engaging a video is, the more likely it is for the visitor to stay and watch the entire video, and to move on to the next desired action.Tip number nine is to always include a call to action. If there is no call to action, the viewer usually won’t take the desired action.Video Labs is a video marketing and production company in the Gold Coast and Brisbane areas. They specialise in well-produced campaigns, attention to detail, and great results. For more information or to start a video campaign today, call 1300 881 783 or check out their website: http://videolabs.com.au/

2013-04-23T01:55:16Z four-death-moves-guaranteed-to-sabotage-your-video-marketing-campaign

Perth, WA, April 23, 2013 - Due to changes in Google’s algorithm, video marketing has become a very important part of most serious Internet marketing campaigns. Videos, if promoted correctly, can not only be seen by thousands, but can also help vault a website to page one of Google for very competitive keywords.  This has led to a virtual flood of videos on sites like YouTube, with mixed results. Sometimes the most professionally produced video fails with a resounding thud, while a teenager’s smartphone video of a friend doing something stupid can go viral and get a million views overnight.  While nobody can guarantee with 100% certainty that a video will or will not be successful, savvy video marketers have noticed a pattern in what does and doesn’t work. In particular, knowing the worst mistakes to avoid can save any company, large or small, a lot of time and effort, and produce much better results. The first common error is often called “set it and forget it.” Many marketers think that they can simply put a video up on YouTube, and it will automatically be seen by thousands of viewers. In reality, very few YouTube videos are ever seen by as many as 1,000 people without a lot of help. The second common error is thinking that one video makes an entire marketing campaign. One video can be seen by thousands of people, but forgotten the next day. Statistics, surveys, and anecdotal data all agree that it takes a series of videos to be successful. The third common error is making a video advertisement instead of a video that provides great information, great entertainment, or both. People go to websites or videos for information or entertainment. They do not go to be bombarded by commercials. If a video looks like a commercial, the viewer will not finish watching it. The fourth error is to not have a plan or strategy. Human development gurus communicate this concept thusly: ”If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Michael Hanson, Owner  and Founder of Video Labs, a video production company in the Gold Coast, has extensive experience in helping businesses not only avoid these strategic errors, but in mitigating the damage done to a business by faulty video marketing strategy. According to Hanson: “These errors are really easy to avoid, because they are merely errors of omission: not errors of commission.” Michael went on to describe his deceptively simple system for maximising the results of a video campaign: “First, you must have a marketing strategy. It does no good to throw a bunch of videos around with no concrete plan. You might as well save the time, money, and effort, and watch videos with your kids instead. Second, your plan must feature repetition and consistency. One video is not enough; you must have serial content to make a serious dent in the market.” He continued, “The last thing you must always remember is that you must make a video that is worth watching. Obviously your agenda is to move your product. Unfortunately, the viewer’s agenda is to obtain great information or be entertained. If you fail to do at least one of these, there is no reason for anyone to watch your video.” Video Labs is a video production and video marketing firm serving Brisbane and the Gold Coast areas. They have produced numerous successful video campaigns, and specialise in results. For more information, call 1300 881 783 or visit their website: http://videolabs.com.au/

2013-04-02T04:13:47Z viral-videos-found-to-contain-common-key-elements

Brisbane, Australia, April 2, 2013 - Many companies, large, small, and in between, have realised that video marketing is a very important part of any effective advertising campaign. Consequently, those companies have started using videos in their campaigns, with mixed results. Two years ago, including a video on your site almost guaranteed a spot on page one of Google, and the traffic comes with it.In this era, however, it takes more than a shoddily-produced and ill-conceived video to gain traffic. The sheer number of companies employing videos in their advertising campaigns has “upped the ante” considerably. It now takes a professional video and at least a modicum of creativity to see results from video marketing.One thing, however, hasn’t changed from two years ago: the viral video. A viral video is loosely defined as a video that receives thousands of views due to sharing on social media websites. This is the Internet era’s version of “word of mouth” advertising, but it only happens if the video is epic. Videos that “go viral” have seven characteristics in common. If a video is missing even one characteristic, it probably won’t go viral, and potentially loses a lot of money for the company using it. Here, then, are the seven characteristics shared by all viral videos.First, it either evokes an emotional response, answers a question, or both. Second, it addresses a current topic that receives multiple searches or dominates conversation. Topics that are trending on Google, Twitter, or Facebook are a great guide.Next, the description, title, and video thumbnail must all drive clicks and must be compelling. This gives people three potential reasons to plaster it on their social media accounts. Next, the video must be long enough to not lose viewers before it is finished. Most viral videos are under two minutes. Also, most experts agree that a video has fifteen seconds to grab a viewer before they click elsewhere.Although a video can go viral by itself, most business videos that go viral get some “help” in the beginning. This is best accomplished by submitting it to every possible outlet, and paying for traffic in the beginning if necessary. Another very important trait: the video must serve at least one of four functions: provide value, generate discussions, align with the sharer’s identity, or maintain and grow relationships.The last thing a video must have to go viral is actually what it can’t have: material that is too toxic to make people want to share it. If it’s offensive, it must be left out.Michael Hanson, Owner and Founder of Video Labs, has been personally responsible for many viral videos: “The best thing about a viral video is that it’s like finding money on the ground. It takes the same amount of money to produce a viral video as it does to produce one that goes nowhere. Unfortunately, more than 95% of marketing videos go nowhere.”Hanson continued, “Believe me, it’s worth it to make the extra effort to do your homework and choose the right company to shoot  and create your video. It’s also worth it to come up with compelling material that grabs viewers and forces them to click on to your video.”Hanson concluded, “If you have the right strategy, viral videos are easy. If you don’t, they’re impossible.”Video Labs is a video marketing and video production company in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. They have a wealth of experience in producing videos that go viral. To get started today, call 1300 881 783 or visit their website: http://videolabs.com.au/

2013-03-21T05:18:24Z more-advertisers-now-turning-to-viral-video-marketing

Brisbane, March 21, 2013 - As Internet usage continues to rise, and more mobile devices are now connected to the Internet, viral videos are rapidly gaining a reputation as “traffic magnets” among savvy Internet marketers. From sole proprietors of small Internet marketing operations to multi-billion dollar companies such as Nike, more and more advertisers are leveraging the power of viral videos to provide traffic to their websites. A viral video is loosely defined as any video that receives large amounts of views on the Internet on the strength of being shared multiple times. The sharing usually occurs when a video is mentioned on numerous blogs and numerous social media accounts, such as Facebook and Twitter. For example, a recent search on YouTube revealed a video titled “Inspired Bicycles” which received over 32,000,000 views in three years. A video with 100 movie insults received over 21,000,000 views. Recently, a major marketing company conducted an international survey of executives at top media buying firms and creative advertising agencies and their clients. The results of the survey were a source of encouragement for many in the video production industry.  According to the survey, 80% of the professionals who participated in the survey referred to themselves as “very familiar” with viral video. Approximately 49% are “interested” in viral video, and approximately 23% expressed what they called a “high level” of interest. 56% of clients who conducted a viral video campaign were “pleased” with the results they obtained. Less than 3% of the clients reported being “displeased” with the results of their viral video campaigns. Opinions differ greatly on what constitutes a successful video campaign. Participants were given the choice of using 100,000, 250,000, 500,000, or 1 million as a benchmark for success. While 28% of those who responded chose 1 million as their threshold for success, the other three numbers shared the remaining votes almost equally.Approximately 95% were of the opinion that tracking and reporting effectiveness of campaigns had room for improvement. When asked to choose which benefits they had received from viral video marketing from a list, slightly over 92% chose “exponential views”, while 87.2% chose “brand engagement.” Other factors commonly chosen were online reach and having an image as a forward-thinking brand. According to Michael Hanson, owner of Video Labs, the results of the survey are great news, not only for everyone in the video production industry, but his clients as well: “We have been aware of the benefits of viral video marketing for a long time, but we are always glad to see industry studies agree with what we have experienced as truth. We have seen firsthand how powerful and effective video marketing can be, for both small and large businesses.” Hanson continued, “The magic of viral video is that it becomes viral by the most effective form of advertising known to man: word-of-mouth advertising. Before the dawn of the Internet age, word-of-mouth marketing was still very effective, but not nearly as far-reaching. Now, because the Internet allows instantaneous communication, and social networks are so effective, a video that goes viral can be viewed by millions of people.” Hanson concluded, “It only takes one great video to put your company in front of millions of people.”Video Labs is a video production company primarily serving the Brisbane and the Gold Coast markets. They specialise in extremely effective, high quality video production. If you want to create the next viral video, call them at 1300 881 783 or visit their website http://videolabs.com.au/ for more information.

2013-03-13T04:35:00Z australian-visa-restrictions-and-the-need-to-tread-lightly-on-financial-services

Australian visa restrictions and the need to tread lightly on financial servicesMEDIA COMMENT13 March 2013The Australian Federal Government’s proposed tightening of 457 visas could harm the nation’s financial services sector if it proceeds as it relies heavily on the flow of talent across Asia and the innovation that international workers bring to the Australian economy.Confusion abounds with the Federal Government arguing for tighter restrictions, whilst the NSW Government is urging for greater flexibility to attract more international talent into financial services - NSW’s biggest employment sector.The facts are Australia’s strict visa rules are already keeping highly skilled financial services professionals out of the country at a time when Australia needs more foreign talent to manage the increasingly global international funds management sector, for example.“Australia has the fourth largest fund management industry in the world and international expertise is vital to the growth and success of the industry” said eFinancialCareers Managing Director Asia Pacific, George McFerran.” “There is no doubt the current visa situation as it stands is restricting talent to Australia from Asia, Europe and the US, making Sydney and other capital centres less competitive. Any further restrictions would be a retrograde step, harming individual firms and the international reputation of the industry,” said Mr McFerran. “It needs to be recognised financial services is an international career and by further restricting visa classes for skilled migration, we’re hampering the flow of talent from Asia-pacific to Australia. This will make Sydney less competitive as a finance destination” added Mr McFerran. “In addition the move to tighten foreign worker employment opportunities in Australia may accelerate the shift of certain functions overseas” Mr McFerran said. Australian employers are concerned that the proposed new measures will limit their ability to select top talent from a global pool of candidates. “Restricting access to highly skilled foreign professionals, and the innovation they bring, could also prove a challenge. It will need to be managed to avoid harming productivity at the same time that the Government is trying to increase it” Mr McFerran said.“It’s odd because the Asian Century Whitepaper the Federal Government released recently was all about opening up trade and labour flow across Asia-pacific. Yet the current moves to tighten skilled migrant visas goes against this. We would urge the Government to tread lightly when it comes to financial services” said Mr McFerran.**ENDS**About eFinancialCareerseFinancialCareers, a Dice Holdings, Inc. service, is the leading global career site network for professionals working in the investment banking, asset management and securities industries. The website provides financial services professionals with job opportunities, job market news and analysis, salary surveys and career advice. Recruiters and employers can post jobs targeting specific sectors within the financial services industry, both buy-side and sell-side, and can search the resume database for highly qualified and specialized professionals. eFinancialCareers has a network of co-branded career sites with industry-leading trade publications and offers local websites in 19 markets and five languages primarily across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and financial centers of the Middle East. www.eFinancialCareers.comFor further information: Cape Public Relations +61 2 8218 2190 Luke Roberts luke@capepublicrelations.com M: 0422 855 930

2013-03-05T09:25:04Z video-marketing-produces-staggering-statistics-in-2012

Until 2009, online advertising was almost non-existent. According to a report from ContentWise, through 2008, online advertising was so small in scope that it was virtually non-existent in content marketing industry stats. All content advertising was done in print. In 2009, the first online and video advertising showed up in mainstream use, with businesses spending $30.9 billion on print, $12.1 billion online, and $4.2 billion in the “other” category, which includes events and video.  The numbers remained relatively stable in the next two years, but 2012 represented a “tipping point” for the video component of online marketing.We are still a month or so away from having some of the stats we want to see from 2012, but the projections and stats that are available are very encouraging for video marketing. At the beginning of 2012, businesses were asked whether they planned to spend more, the same, or less on seven different content marketing media. The largest percentage, 54%, said that they would increase spending on video content. The next-largest number, at 35%, was for virtual events and website updates, which both received that number. 54% is a huge increase, and would be an impressive number for any medium or any industry segment.The actual numbers for 2012 aren’t in yet, but the overall industry stats that are available from 2012 indicate that the projected rise may have been too conservative. An infographic from Brainshark contains stats from the US, but US stats have been found to usually mirror most English-speaking countries, including Australia.According to the report, 53% of the population viewed video online during 2012, for a total of 167 million viewers. Of those viewers, 54.6 million used their mobile devices to watch the videos. In surveys, respondents usually report that they retain information from videos longer than they do with the written word. Videos are now the sixth-most popular online marketing medium, with approximately 70% of marketers using them. Online videos can be used to sell brands, services, features, or products. They can also be used to educate the public, by sharing commentary, tips, or ideas. Some of the most effective videos are those that entertain by delivering content that makes people laugh.According to Michael Hanson, Creative Director and Founder of Video Labs, the numbers from 2013 could easily surpass those from 2012: “We’re not surprised by any of these numbers. We had a great year last year, and we are on a pace to grow even more this year. We have plenty of testimonials from satisfied customers who have seen traffic to their websites skyrocket from using professionally produced videos to deliver their marketing to the public. Everyone loves a good story, and what better way is there to tell a good story than a professionally crafted video.”Hanson continued, “We are getting a lot of people to page one of Google, and we have had great viral activity on many of our videos. YouTube provides a huge marketing leverage for large, medium, or small businesses for two reasons: First, videos are the fastest way to get to page one of Google, giving a huge return on investment. Second, people have a tendency to share videos with their friends on social networks. This gets more views and produces some great backlinks for your website.”Hanson concluded, “Video marketing makes ‘the’ difference.”Video Labs specialises in video production and video marketing, especially in the Brisbane and the Gold Coast markets. To learn how easy it is for your business to utilise video, call 1300 881 783 or check out their website:  http://videolabs.com.au/.

2013-03-05T05:48:00Z sydney-film-festival-celebrates-its-60th-anniversary-5-16-june-2013

As well as screening around 150 films across 12 days and nights; a series of red carpet galas, talks and forums; and soon-to-be-announced international guests; Sydney Film Festival 2013 will present an extended program of free events at the ‘Sydney Film Festival Hub’ at Lower Town Hall, even more screenings at the heritage-listed State Theatre and Event Cinemas George Street and return to the opulent Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace on the city’s North Shore after a near 30-year absence. To mark this historic 60th year of the Festival’s history, Sydney Film Festival will launch a comprehensive interactive eBook on 27 March. This free, living resource will be packed with original research, criticism and essays about the history of SFF and its role in the development of local art and culture, and gives users the ability to learn more about this prestigious Australian festival. For more information visit www.sff.org.au from 27 March. From 5-16 June, Sydney Film Festival will showcase the best in cinema from across Australia and around the world, including features, documentaries, short films, retrospectives, restorations, animation and more. The Sydney Film Festival programming team gathers an amazing selection from film festivals around the world, including Cannes, Sundance, Toronto and the Berlinale, then brings them home to add to our finest local productions, creating a packed program of more than 250 screenings for patrons to choose from. Travelling way beyond the mainstream, there really will be something for all tastes and interests to select from, with many ways for patrons to map their own Festival adventure from a single ticket to a full subscription and all points between. A sneak preview of the 2013 program will be announced on 3 April and the full program will be revealed on 8 May. This year marks Sydney Film Festival’s second year with Festival Director Nashen Moodley at the helm. Moodley’s impressive career includes roles as Manager/Head of Programming at South Africa’s Durban International Film Festival (2001–2011) and Director of Asia and Africa programs for Dubai International Film Festival (2005–current) as well as curating Tehran’s first South African Film Festival (2006). ABOUT SYDNEY FILM FESTIVAL Sydney Film Festival screens feature films, documentaries, short films and animations across the city at the State Theatre, Event Cinemas George Street, Dendy Opera Quays, the Art Gallery of NSW and the Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace. The Festival is a major event on the New South Wales cultural calendar and is one of the world’s longest-running film festivals. For more information visit www.sff.org.au Sydney Film Festival also presents twelve films that vie for the ‘Official Competition’; a highly respected international honour that awards a $60,000.00 cash prize based on the decision of a jury of international and Australian filmmakers and industry professionals. Previous Sydney Film Festival Official Competition winners include: Alps (2012), A Separation (2011) – which went on to win an Academy Award®, Heartbeats (2010), Bronson (2009) and Hunger (2008). The 60th Sydney Film Festival is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW, the Federal Government through Screen Australia, and the City of Sydney. The Festival’s Strategic partner is the NSW Government through Destination NSW. What: Sydney Film Festival When: 5-16 June, 2013 Tickets & Info: 1300 733 733 www.sff.org.au MEDIA ENQUIRIES Amber Forrest-Bisley Director Cardinal Spin E: amber@cardinalspin.com.au P: 02 8065 7363 M: 0405 363 817 Matt Fraser Communications Advisor Cardinal Spin E: matt@cardinalspin.com.au M: 0401 326 007

2013-03-05T05:30:00Z the-rocks-plays-host-to-towering-pop-up-windmill

From Friday 12 April to Sunday 12 May 2013, the rich history and cultural heritage of The Rocks will come to life as Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority launches a thought-provoking and visually stunning interpretive icon in the heart of one of Sydney’s foremost arts hubs. Known as ‘The Rocks Windmill’, the striking large-scale temporary installation will act as a functioning wheat-grind as well as a vibrant and intimate 40-seated venue. A month-long cultural event program will give voice to the centuries-old design of Sydney’s fascinating heritage precinct, while also delving into contemporary subjects around urban sustainability. Inspired by The Rocks’ colonial windmill era, Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority’s innovative project features theatre and screenings, visual arts and interactive installations, workshops and historical tours, all designed to entertain and educate visitors on The Rocks’ heritage and natural environment. “The Foreshore Authority is always looking for inventive ways to interpret history, and the arts offer us a way to think and look at the world differently” explains Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority CEO Catherine Gallagher. “Beguiling visitors with beauty or provoking them with surprises is a great way of helping them to reflect on the past or look to the future in new ways.” she said. In recent years, The Rocks’ arts and cultural value has grown steadily, spearheaded by the Museum of Contemporary Art’s redevelopment and Vivid Live. Now with the help of the Windmill’s designers and builders, Paul Gazzola and Joey Ruigrok van der Werven, and a dynamic event program, The Rocks will be home to a lively new venue and creative space in the form of a towering ‘pop-up’ windmill that is as visually stunning as it is thought provoking. The Windmill’s cultural program will include five streams of events: · Windmill Live will ignite the mill and its surrounds with pop-up live performances, screenings and interactions that allow visitors to experience this unique structure. Events have been carefully curated to satisfy curiosities and generate discussion. · Grist to the Mill, a series of workshops, demonstrations and guided walking tours, will have you learning, exchanging and discovering The Rocks in a whole new way, whether you’re a seasoned Sydneysider or a new visitor. · Inside These Walls is a series of exhibitions that will come to life within and around the walls of The Rocks Windmill. It is here that some of the work completed during residencies will be on display for the public to admire, learn from and contribute to. · Listen to the stories of The Rocks at Windmill Whispers, where talks and seminars will allow audiences to share their own stories with thought leaders on issues ranging from the arts and Sydney’s humble history to issues of sustainability. · In the late 18th-century, pardoned convict Robert Sidaway opened the colony’s first theatre and allowed patrons to pay for entry with flour. Pay homage to Sidaway at the Wheat Exchange by collecting a bag of wheat at The Rocks Discovery Museum and grinding it into your own flour in The Rocks Windmill. With a series of entertaining and educational school holiday and weekend workshops, this is a cultural program that even the kids will enjoy. At Bricks on The Rocks kids will learn how bricks were made in colonial times to build the heritage sandstone buildings and laneways of The Rocks. They’ll even be able to get their hands dirty making their own brick to keep for show and tell. Bell Shakespeare will also be presenting as part of their program Discover Shakespeare Workshops designed to feed the imagination of primary school aged students. Artist Diego Bonetto will present a fascinating series of holiday and weekend workshops called Wild Stories, focusing on the secret uses of the wide variety of common weeds found in The Rocks, while kids and adults alike will enjoy working the cogs of the functioning wheat-grind housed inside the Windmill, grinding their own wheat as part of the Wheat Exchange. The Windmill’s program includes a sustainable garden, with workshops such as wheat-growing classes showcasing the significant role windmills played in providing colonial Sydney’s food staples, while offering insights into sustainable food production. Costa Georgidais (host of ABC’s Gardening Australia) will also draw connections between history and the land in his exploration of the sustainable gardening culture surrounding wheat. His passion for everything grown will guide visitors through an exploration of how our main grain becomes our daily bread. The history of The Rocks will come out to play throughout the course of the arts program. Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority Creative Producer Michael Cohen says the Windmill is “a way to get people engaged with history”. “We are encouraging our visitors to think about the past in interesting and provocative ways,” says Cohen. “That said, this is not an area that stands as a memorial to the past: it’s a vibrant contemporary place that is full of curiosity and surprise.” Bell Shakespeare, Australia’s premier contemporary Shakespeare company will present key scenes from the historically significant Henry IV, the first Shakespearean work ever to be played in Australia. FBi Radio’s All The Best will follow on from this idea by creating an audio event throughout The Rocks discussing the history of the area and its architecture. Short-story merchants Penguin Plays Rough will also present a night themed ‘The Rocks’ with stories about the area developed and performed by emerging writers. As part of the wide array of multi-sensory events on offer, radio producer and sound artist Jane Ulman will be creating an exciting work that takes sounds from history, from the building of The Rocks Windmill, from literary works and the imagination, and weaving them into a rich tapestry of evocative audio that explores the cultural significance of the venue itself. Architecture will be an important feature of the program, with The Rizzeria and Make-Space for Architecture collaborating for a zine-making workshop. Visitors will also be able to work with Craft NSW to create a story banner reflecting some of the architectural history of The Rocks, with their work going on public display. Craft NSW will also present workshops on early colonial craft techniques like leather craft and indigenous basketry. With a wealth of historical knowledge, The Historic Houses Trust will guide walking tours of the area’s old windmill sites, explaining how steam power ended the windmill era while investigating the importance of ‘the daily bread’ for a fledgling colony. The Rocks Windmill will also take a look at the present casting an eye on the future with Carbon Arts and Media Lab Melbourne taking a technological perspective, focusing on gadgets that help us measure and think about energy use of appliances within the home. This multi-dimensional celebration of the history and cultural identity of The Rocks comes as part of the Foreshore Authority’s reinvigoration of this interesting and charming precinct. “There are hundreds of fascinating stories from The Rocks so having an interpretive version of one of its bygone-era buildings magically appear overnight will jumpstart discussions about this place and the many different attachments it holds for Sydneysiders,” says Cohen. Whether it’s history, storytelling, gardening, architecture, science, technology, food, music or art you’re into, or if you just want to be wowed by this magnificent structure, get to The Rocks Windmill from Friday 12 April before it disappears on Sunday 12 May. With an eclectic and vibrant month-long program of events, showcasing some of Sydney’s most creative and talented people, The Rocks Windmill is sure to blow you away! Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority is proud to manage The Rocks: traditional land of the Cadigal people and the birthplace of European settlement in Australia. Whilst preserving The Rocks’ unique heritage, we produce large scale and intimate quality events, outdoor markets, and educational tours. The Rocks: it’s a perfect blend of culture, cuisine and a myriad of experiences worth savouring. WHAT: The Rocks Windmill WHERE: Rocks Square, The Rocks WHEN: Friday 12 April to Sunday 12 May, 2013 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday. Plus various times for programmed events COST: 90% of the event program is FREE, however spaces are limited and bookings are required INFO and BOOKINGS: therocks.com

2013-02-08T02:20:19Z corporate-team-entries-pour-in-for-v-adventure-race-fremantle

On 2nd June 2013, the V Adventure Race Fremantle will be contested in Fremantle, WA. The race will fall under the auspices of Triathlon Western Australia, but it is actually a race with 5 different legs. The first will be an ocean swim of 1 km, followed by a Cyclo-Cross Ride of 18 km, and a Trail Run of 4.5 km. Moving it past triathlon status, the V Adventure Race Fremantle will end with an Ocean Paddle of 8 km, followed by the Coast/Port run of 9 km.If there were such a word, the V Adventure Race would qualify as a “Quintathlon,” or at least a “Quadathlon.” Though the race will attract athletes from all over the world, many Australians will be more interested in the team races. In the team races, teams have five members who each participate in one leg of the race. Large corporations, small to mid-size businesses, amateur track teams, and even groups of friends get together and enter teams in the V Adventure Race.Most companies find the race to be a great morale builder for the employees involved, and it often gives employees and management from different departments a chance to work together as a team outside of the office. Any business, from small to large, finds entry into races like the one in Fremantle to have a lot of intangible benefits for their workplaces.Team entries are a source of pride for those who enter and complete the race, and this pride is carried over into the workplace. Companies also see an opportunity to take the benefits a step further by providing the participants with singlets or uniforms with the company’s name and/or logo.Anyone who finishes any kind of race always feels a sense of accomplishment. When an employee has a uniform with a company logo, that employee tends to link the positive experience of the race with his or her company’s name.When a company provides a uniform for a team race such as this one, everybody wins. The racers get a uniform that makes the race even more special to them. The company gets a boost in morale, and brand recognition as the participants wear the uniforms not only in the race, but in practice leading up to the race, and in recreational participation afterwards.Races like the V Adventure Race Fremantle can also help participants develop a stronger interest in physical fitness. This always provides benefits in the workplace, as many studies have shown fit employees to perform better under pressure and take less “sick days” than employees who are not physically fit.According to Jarrod Wojtowicz, Director of JP Promotions, a lot of companies outfit their employees in corporate uniforms: “The Fremantle race is a great time to build teamwork and camaraderie, and there is something about a sharp uniform with a team logo that encourages the competitors, and makes them feel even more part of the team.”Wojtowicz concluded, “We have a range of athletic uniforms, from singlets to full uniforms; they can be screen printed or embroidered with the company’s name, logo, or both. We recommend getting your order in soon, and watch the pride on your team’s faces when they see their uniforms for the first time.”JP Promotions supplies singlets, uniforms, workwear, corporate gifts, and other promotional products to businesses throughout the Perth area.For more information, call them at 08 9248 6300 or visit: http://www.jppromotions.com.au/

2012-11-27T02:42:00Z 145-aboriginal-employment-strategy-graduates-celebrate-career-success

Tuesday, 27 November 2012 – Leading Indigenous employment organisation, The Aboriginal Employment Strategy (AES), has begun its annual nationwide graduation series, celebrating the outstanding achievements of 145 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. The graduates, who have all participated in school-based and full-time traineeships run by the AES in conjunction with its corporate partners, will attend a total of 10 graduation ceremonies across NSW, NT, QLD, VIC and WA throughout November and December 2012. The AES runs successful Indigenous employment programs in close collaboration with more than 40 of Australia’s highest profile organisations across a range of industries, including Australia Post, the Big Four Banks, Coles, Intercontinental Hotels Group, Nine Entertainment Co, Qantas, Telstra, Woodside and Westfield. Since its inception in 1997, the AES has placed over 10,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. AES traineeships are aligned to specific industries and are designed to equip Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders with skills and on-the-job-experience, giving them the best possible chance to succeed in their career aspirations. Many of the AES graduates from the class of 2012 will now move into full time permanent roles with the employers they trained with. The graduates include Grant Maling, who is now well on his way to fulfilling his dream of a career in the media having just completed a two-year school based traineeship with the Nine Entertainment Co., for which he will earn a Certificate III in Screen and Media. "Through my traineeship, I have gained valuable skills and experience that will help me in all aspects of my life. I had the best time while I was at work and the people at both Nine Entertainment Co. and the AES have been the most helpful people I could ask for. I couldn't think of a better way to do my Certificate III than working at one of Australia's major television stations!" Danny Lester, AES CEO said, “The AES is incredibly proud to have played a significant part in the career journeys of these best and brightest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and we have every confidence they will go on to become future leaders of Corporate Australia. “Over the last 15 years the AES has pioneered employer-driven Indigenous employment programs, where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trainers help others in their community to reach their full potential. The high retention rate of this model has consistently proven itself as the best way to achieve significant positive social change and real career progression, and this is the basis of why our business achieves such highs. We look forward to continuing to deliver these outcomes for years to come.” AES Corporate Partners include: · Qantas · Australia Post · Westpac · Commonwealth Bank · NAB · ANZ · Telstra · Woodside · Kmart Tyre and Auto Service · Coles · NSW Department of Education and Communities · Housing NSW · Westfield · Nine Entertainment Co · Forests NSW · Intercontinental Hotels Group · Mission Australia · Melbourne Zoo · Sydney Opera House · Sydney City Council If you would like to know more about the work of the AES and the opportunities available please visit - www.aes.org.au / www.facebook.com/aborginalemploymentstrategy # ENDS # For further information or interviews with Danny Lester, please contact: Natalie Payne / Anna Frilingos / Rosie Schloeffel DEC on behalf of the Aboriginal Employment Strategy 02 8014 5033 / aes@decpr.com.au About the AES The AES seeks to bring about significant positive social change by supporting Indigenous Australians in establishing successful careers. It does this through its Career Preparatory Programs inclusive of school based training, group training, apprenticeships, recruitment services, mentorships and community-based programs. Nationwide, the AES works closely with a number of Corporate Partners including Australia Post, Intercontinental Hotel Group, Coles, Coates Hire, Westpac, NAB, ANZ, CBA, Telstra, Qantas, Woodside, Nine Entertainment Co, Westfield, Kmart Tyre and Auto who are committed to establishing a generation of Indigenous professionals, changing the face of employment in Australia and improving living standards for thousands of Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders. During the last 15 years the AES has been responsible for: · Delivering over 10,000 skilled career seekers into long-term employment · Increasing the current Indigenous Australian workforce by 5% · Helping the Government to save over $458 million in funds that otherwise would have been spent on welfare benefits · Created a network of more than 40 Corporate Partners, all committed to receiving trainees from the school based traineeship programs and working together to change the face of corporate Australia.

2012-09-26T02:43:00Z forbidden-fruits-queer-folk-festival-brisbane-pride-festival-2012-1

MEDIA RELEASE26th September 2012 Forbidden Fruits Queer Folk Festival, Brisbane Pride Festival 2012 The first ever Queer Folk Festival in the southern hemisphere wraps up Brisbane Pride Festival 2012. The Forbidden Fruits Queer Folk Festival is an inaugural event this September and is the only all-inclusive event of its kind. A Brisbane based collective, made up of active members and veterans of the queer community have come together to create this multi-faceted festival. The four-day event will run from the 28th September to the 1st October at a lakeside location in Coominya, one hour west of Brisbane City. The long weekend will showcase an array of South East Queensland’s bands, DJs and performers, as well as special guest artists from across the country. The festival will also play host to family-friendly activities, open mics and discussion forums to encourage, celebrate and bring solidarity to a far-reaching and diverse community. Brisbane Pride Festival highlights the active and accepting community South East Queenslanders are able to experience and participate in. The creators of The Forbidden Fruits Queer Folk Festival, wanted to keep the momentum of all this positive action moving forward and thus set about creating an all-inclusive event that would be queer-friendly, family-friendly and welcoming to all.A founding member of Angel Heart, the collective charged with producing Forbidden Fruits, had this to say when asked what inspired her to put on the festival: “It’s always been a dream of mine to create something as meaningful as this. A moment in time where we can celebrate all aspects of what being a real person is. People don’t just fit into little pigeonholes or categories; I’m a woman, I’m queer, I’m a humanitarian, I’m an equal rights advocate, I have Indigenous heritage, and I’m a lesbian. But I’m also a person, with friends and family and people who love me and I love back. I think the fact that we’re all a combination of so many things is what makes us all unique, and that’s what this festival is all about.” Another host of the event will be Tricky BoomBang, noted drag king, winner of the 6th annual kings ball of 2009 and star of his very own Wicked Camper Van. Tricky will be hosting the SpeakEasy Salon which will be showcasing Burlesque Performances, midnight movies and open mic sessions for anyone has something to share. The main stage will have live music throughout the day and special evening shows. Saturday night is dedicated to the Glow Ball and Sunday, the Fire Ball. Both evenings are outdoor dance events with live performances and BYO alcohol. The ticket price includes camping but there are also a limited number of cabins available to book and a special deal with Wicked Campers for those attending the festival. Further information about the acts, performances and ticket outlets can be found at Forbidden Fruits Folk Festival Events Page. –ends- Contact information 0468 961 317 lgbtqldfolkfestivale@facebook.com

2012-08-20T04:57:00Z record-number-of-indigenous-australians-find-careers

20 August 2012 – Sydney: National, not-for-profit employment organisation, the Aboriginal Employment Strategy (AES), has reported its most successful year since inception in 1997, placing 1,957 Indigenous Australians into careers between July 2011 and June 2012. This represents a contribution of 13% towards the Australian Government’s Indigenous Employment Program job commencements for the 12-month period. The figure includes over 216 School Based Trainees and 75 Full Time Trainees and apprentices who commenced their career journey through the successful AES Career Preparatory Program. The structured workplace-training program is managed by the AES in conjunction with its corporate partners - who include Australia Post, Intercontinental Hotel Group, Coles, Coates Hire, Westpac, NAB, ANZ, CBA, Telstra, Qantas, Woodside, Nine Entertainment Co, Westfield, Kmart Tyre and Auto. AES CEO, Danny Lester attributed the success to the team’s unwavering focus on the AES’ purpose – to create a career opportunity for every Indigenous Australian. “At the AES, we believe our work goes well beyond placing career seekers in their roles; we work closely with each individual to build their confidence and increase their self-belief. We help them to better understand their identity and purpose in their community and in doing so, achieve their aspirations and goals,” said Mr Lester. “What a year for the AES! We transformed 1,957 lives through career placements, bringing the total number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people we have placed into careers to over 10,000 - AND we celebrated 15 years in business”. “Moving forward, we are committed to further increasing the opportunities available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in Australia and we look forward to continuing to work closely with the government and corporate Australia to achieve this exciting goal,” he finished.In June 2012, the AES increased its national footprint further by opening a Darwin office and also launched its Cadetship and Graduate Program, designed to tackle the issue of low representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander professionals in management roles in Australia. This program is designed to move Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people into medium to high professions and will involve on-the-job training and mentorships. Delivered in partnership with AES corporate partner organisations, the Program will equip participants with business management and leadership skills. Some of AES existing Corporate Partners include: - Qantas - Australia Post - Westpac - Commonwealth Bank - NAB - ANZ - Telstra - Woodside - Kmart Tyre and Auto Service - Coles - NSW Department of Education and Communities - Housing NSW - Westfield - Nine Entertainment Co - Forests NSW - Intercontinental Hotels Group - Mission Australia - Melbourne Zoo - Sydney Opera House - Sydney City Council If you would like to know more about the work of the AES and the opportunities available please visit - www.aes.org.au / www.facebook.com/aborginalemploymentstrategy # ENDS # For further information or interviews with Danny Lester, please contact: Natalie Payne/Hannah Ellson DEC on behalf of the Aboriginal Employment Strategy 02 8014 5033/ aes@decpr.com.au About the AES The AES seeks to bring about significant positive social change by supporting Indigenous Australians in establishing successful careers. It does this through its Career Preparatory Programs inclusive of school based training, group training, apprenticeships, recruitment services, mentorships and community-based programs. Nationwide, the AES works closely with a number of Corporate Partners including Australia Post, Intercontinental Hotel Group, Coles, Coates Hire, Westpac, NAB, ANZ, CBA, Telstra, Qantas, Woodside, Nine Entertainment Co, Westfield, Kmart Tyre and Auto who are committed to establishing a generation of Indigenous professionals, changing the face of employment in Australia and improving living standards for thousands of Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders. During the last five years the AES has been responsible for: Delivering over 10,000 skilled career seekers into long-term employment Increasing the current Indigenous Australian workforce by 5% Helping the Government to save over $458 million in funds that otherwise would have been spent on welfare benefits Created a network of more than 40 Corporate Partners, all committed to receiving trainees from the school based traineeship programs and working together to change the face of corporate Australia.

2012-08-05T23:04:29Z mhits-mobile-wallet-provides-lowest-price-remittance-from-australia-to-the-philippines

Media Releasenew mobile remittance corridor between mHITs Australia and SMART Money in the Philippines enables lowest cost international money transferCanberra: 3 August 2012mHITs (pronounced Em-HITS), a pioneering developer and operator of mobile payment services, today announced that it’s Australian SMS mobile wallet service has expanded it’s low cost international mobile remittance corridor to include SMART Money in the Philippines. This means that users of the mHITs Remit mobile remittance service will now be available to send money to over 50 million SMART mobile subscribers in the Philippines.The mHITs Remit micro-remittance service allows Australians to send money safely and conveniently to partner mobile wallet operators in other countries simply by sending an SMS. Unlike traditional international remittance methods, the mHITs Remit service provides very low fees and instantaneous transfer of funds directly to a recipients mobile wallet account without requiring a transfer agent or bank. Senders can conveniently perform a transaction from their mobile phone at any time and require only the mobile number of the recipient in order to send money. Recipients do not need a bank account, do not need to wait for the funds to arrive or do not need to travel to or locate a transfer agent to access their funds. Recipients automatically receive an SMS notification as soon as funds are credited to their mobile wallet. The Recipient can access the funds instantly and securely from their mobile wallet directly or depending upon their region, may also withdraw funds in cash, via ATMs and SMART Money centres.“We are very excited to be one of the first mobile wallet operators to provide this service” said mHITs CEO Harold Dimpel. “People living in Australia will be able to send money instantly and conveniently by mobile phone to their relatives and friends living in the Philippines by having funds credited immediately to their SMART Money mobile wallet account. In some developing markets, families and communities rely on money sent by relatives abroad to pay for essentials such as food, clothing and medicines so we are very pleased to be able to assist with this in some way” he concludes. In Australia, mHITs operates the mHITs mobile payment service that allows users to send and receive payments via SMS text message. mHITs is also working globally to provide simple, ubiquitous mobile payment solutions for the unbanked in emerging markets.For more information on the mHITs Remit service see www.mhits.com.au/send-money.about mobile international remittanceMobile technology lowers the cost of remittances as it removes the need for physical points of presence and ensures a timely and secure method of transaction. The World Bank estimates that reducing remittance commission charges by 2-5% could increase the flow of formal remittances by 50-70%. Reducing the cost of sending each individual remittance encourages the delivery of lower value remittances, at values far less than today's average transfer of US$200.Mobile communications can also drive significant growth of the formal remittance market and has the potential to vastly improve and transform access to remittance funds for people in developing countries. The GSMA forecasts that the formal global remittance market could grow from around US$300 billion today to over US$1 trillion in five years with the help of mobile communications.For more information visit www.gsma.com.about mHITsmHITs (pronounced Em-HITS) is an Australian based developer and operator of mobile payment services. In Australia, mHITs operates the mHITs SMS payment service that allows consumers to send and receive payments by SMS text message. See www.mhits.com.au.mHITs is also working in emerging markets in the design, deployment and operation of mobile payment solutions for the so called “unbanked” (people who do not have access to traditional banking services). Use of the mobile phone as a payment device is acknowledged as a logical payment solution for the unbanked as people in developing countries often lack the formal identity requirements that traditional banking services require such as a birth certificate, formal address or regular employment or income. The lack of bank branches, limited number of ATM’s, limited access to the Internet and the general low level of financial literacy in developing countries are contrasted by the large-scale uptake of mobile phones in these same markets.For more details visit www.mhitslimited.com.about SMART MoneyOperated by Smart Communications, Inc. SMART Money is one of the world’s first and leading mobile wallet services. SMART is the Philippines' leading wireless services provider with over 50 million subscribers. SMART Money is also connected to 13 partner banks, 10,000 ATMs, and over 5,000 Money In Money Out Centers.For more details visit www.smart.com.ph/money.

2012-05-17T06:46:36Z recipe-sharing-to-create-change

Funding from the Inner North Community Foundation helps break down barriers to employment for localpeople, like Hanim (picutred). Photo courtesy of Lindi Huntsman. Cooking enthusiasts from all over Moreland, Darebin, and Yarra are sharing their favourite recipes with the Inner North Community Foundation this May for the organisation’s first ever Cook For Your Community fundraiser. The fundraiser is an opportunity for local people to celebrate community diversity, culture, and a love of food by submitting a recipe to the foundation while making a donation to benefit community well-being. Recipes are being compiled into a community cook book which will be available for free download on the Inner North Community Foundation’s website, www.innernorthfoundation.org.au, at the end of the month. Recipes in the book so far include mains, like Aunty Chicken, and desserts like Toblerone ‘Heavenly’ Cheesecake. “The recipe book is a fun way to be involved with your community while helping local people build their capacity towards getting a job” says Miles Openshaw, the Inner North Community Foundation Communications Officer. The Inner North Community Foundation funds employment projects assisting hundreds of local people in the inner north of Melbourne every year. “Participating in funded programs helps them become more financially independent, build self-esteem and confidence, and improve social and job networks” says Miles. Program participants face daily barriers to employment such as living with mental illness, homelessness, or limited job prospects as a migrant or refugee. A target of $5,000 has been set for the fundraiser and money raised will go towards the Inner North Community Foundation’s 2012 Pathways to Employment grant round, which will assist more local residents to secure necessary work and life skills. In an end of fundraiser event, those who submit recipes to the book can also be voted for by the public as recipe winners on the foundation’s Facebook page or by email. These winners will have the chance to cook with a trained chef in a commercial kitchen at CERES Community Environment Park on June 17th, 12 pm. For more details, call Miles on 8689 1972 or email mopenshaw@innernorthfoundation.org.au. For more details about the event, visit www.cookforyourcommunity.eventbrite.com. Photo opportunity and Media Enquiries: Miles Openshaw on 0438 538 125 or 8689 1972Visit our Flickr for images of Hanim:http://www.flickr.com/photos/innernorthfoundation/

2012-05-09T04:57:09Z new-mobile-remittance-corridor-from-australia-to-nepal

MEDIA RELEASE:mHITs (pronnounced Em-HITS) a pioneering developer and operator of mobile payment services, today announced that it’s Australian SMS mobile wallet service has launched an international mobile remittance corridor to Nepal via its affiliate eSewa.The mHITs Remit micro-remittance service allows Australian mHITs account holders to safely and conveniently send money to counterpart mobile wallet operators in other countries. Unlike traditional international remittance methods, the mHITs Remit service provides instantaneous transfer of funds directly to a recipients mobile wallet account, simply by sending an SMS. It does not require a transfer agent or bank.Senders can conveniently perform a transaction from their mobile phone at any time and require only the mobile number of the recipient in order to send money. Recipients do not need a bank account, do not need to wait for the funds to arrive or do not need to travel to or locate a transfer agent to access their funds. The Recipient can access the funds instantly and securely from their mobile wallet directly or depending upon the region may withdraw funds in cash.mHITs is one of the first mobile wallet operators in the western world to provide this service. For the first time, people living in Australia will be able to send money instantly and conveniently by mobile phone to their relatives and friends living in Nepal by having funds credited immediately to their eSewa mobile wallet account. In some developing markets, families and communities rely on money sent by relatives abroad to pay for essentials such as food, clothing and medicines.For more information on the mHITs Remit service see www.mhits.com.au/send-money.mobile international remittanceMobile technology lowers the cost of remittances as it removes the need for physical points of presence and ensures a timely and secure method of transaction. The World Bank estimates that reducing remittance commission charges by 2-5% could increase the flow of formal remittances by 50-70%. Reducing the cost of sending each individual remittance encourages the delivery of lower value remittances, at values far less than today’s average transfer of US$200.Mobile communications can also drive significant growth of the formal remittance market and has the potential to vastly improve and transform access to remittance funds for people in developing countries. The GSMA forecasts that the formal global remittance market could grow from around US$300 billion today to over US$1 trillion in five years with the help of mobile communications.For more information visit www.gsma.com.about mHITsmHITs (pronounced Em-HITS) is an Australian based developer and operator of mobile payment services. In Australia, mHITs operates the mHITs SMS payment service that allows consumers to send and receive payments by SMS text message.For retail transactions, mHITs allows consumers to pay for coffee or other food and beverage items using their mobile phone simply by sending an SMS. Consumers can also use the mHITs service to pre-order their items before arrival at a venue, meaning less queuing and waiting and faster service.mHITs is also an ideal payment method for purchase of mobile content, MP3 and other electronic and digital downloads, or for making purchases for goods and services from Internet websites. Other applications include cashless vending, web based micro-billing, parking, taxi fare payment, charity donations and cash back offers.For more details of the mHITs Australian SMS payment service visit www.mhits.com.au.