http:// 2013-05-23T06:26:20Z 2013-05-23T06:26:20Z master-perth-photographer-provides-blueprint-for-success

Perth, WA, May 23, 2013 - Geoff Fisher is the owner of Fisher Photography and is a Master photographer in Perth. He has been a professional photographer for over 35 years. He has been awarded the status of Master Photographer by the Australian Institute of Professional Photography. He has personally trained many other professional photographers, including everyone currently on his team.Fisher finds himself in a position where he is an authority and a role model to many aspiring photographers. He is often asked how to become a professional photographer. Earlier this month, Fisher posted a virtual roadmap to success on his blog. The post displays a depth of knowledge and understanding that is far beyond what the casual observer would expect for photography.The hobby photographer usually thinks that taking great photographs is simple: buy a good camera, aim it, and push the button. While this is a good way to get good amateur pictures, there is much more to professional photography.Fisher identifies six skills that any professional photographer must have to be successful. The first essential skill is the “eye” of an artist. A professional photographer must have an innate understanding of what makes a great picture. Literally one second too fast or too slow can make the difference between a mediocre photo and a lasting memory.The second skill involves managing people. This skill can also be seen as “rapport.” If the subjects aren't comfortable in the presence of the photographer, they will never “loosen up” enough to allow their natural personalities and beauty to shine through and be captured on camera. Fisher notes that it is rare when someone has both the artistic and managerial characteristics, and that most people only have one or the other trait, thus making it difficult to be a professional photographer.The next necessary skill is the ability to take full advantage of technology. This includes exposure speed, lighting, camera angles, timing, and lenses, among many other particulars that must be right. A photographer must also be teachable; they must have the ability to learn many divergent skills. They must also be willing or motivated to learn.The last skill or trait is patience. As the saying goes, “Rome wasn't built in a day” - neither are professional photographers. Becoming a professional photographer is difficult, and becoming a Master Photographer and an authority takes even longer.According to Fisher, there is no substitute for professional experience: “Ultimately, to be a successful professional photographer, you must take a lot of pictures in a professional setting. Despite what many of the camera companies say in their advertising, there is no camera that will take perfect pictures every time, simply by pointing and shooting.”“As for becoming an authority, it almost seems to happen by accident, if you work hard enough. As I became more experienced, I noticed that people naturally gravitated to me and asked questions about photography. When I attained Master Photographer status, though, it seemed to kick everything into high gear.”Fisher concluded, “To me, it is a pretty simple formula; I learned as much as I could, and I took as many pictures as I could, until I knew what I was doing. Then, I started teaching others. But I will never stop learning.”Geoff Fisher is an AIPP Master Photographer, and is the owner of Fisher Photography in Perth. He offers family photography, baby photography, corporate photography, and more. For more information, call 08 9381 2233. To view some of his work, please visit his website: http://fisherphotography.com.au/.

2013-05-23T01:04:25Z perth-marathon-causes-increased-demand-for-customised-uniforms

Perth, WA, May 23, 2013 - On Sunday, 16th June, the West Australian Marathon Club (WAMC) will hold the Perth Marathon at the Burswood Water Sports Centre. The marathon will start at the headquarters of the WMAC, outside of the Burswood Water Sports Centre, where it will wind through a picturesque riverside course, through East Perth, South Perth, to Canning Bridge, to Troy Park, and back to the beginning.The first Perth Marathon was in 1979, and has been contested every year since then. It now includes a Relay Marathon, a Kids Marathon, the Masters Athletics WA Marathon Championship, and the WA State Marathon Championship. This year, the Perth Marathon will award prize money totalling $8,000.JP Promotions, which offers promotional products, corporate clothing, workwear, and uniforms in Perth, are currently taking orders for customised race uniforms and singlets for the Perth events. Their singlets are available in many styles, as are tops and bottoms for tracksuits.JP Promotions offers screen printing and embroidery to customise race uniforms with company names and logos. All tops can be screen printed or embroidered on either side of the chest, or on the back. JP Promotions is still taking orders for the Perth Marathon and associated events, but they do recommend ordering now, to ensure that the uniforms arrive in time for the race.In the past, JP Promotions have outfitted numerous local companies, large and small, with corporate athletic clothing. Because the Perth Marathon also has the Perth Relay, in which four runners are allowed to run as a team, many companies and corporations sponsor relay teams. Many also sponsor teams of runners who all run the entire marathon. In addition, many individuals and small clubs also order customised uniforms.According to Jarrod Wojtowicz, Director of JP Promotions, companies and clubs that sponsor runners create a unique camaraderie among the runners: “Every year, we outfit hundreds of runners and triathletes in the various local events. Most of these are sponsored by their workplaces. In almost every case, those ordering the uniforms comment about how the runners are looking forward to them, and how the runners seem to share a special bond that only exists between athletes.”Wojtowicz continued, “We have seen it over and over again. The camaraderie and pride that the runners take in representing their companies in athletic events always spills over into the workplace. Employees who represent their companies in off-site activities, especially athletic ones, seem to be more proud of where they work, and care more about how well their company does.”Wojtowicz added, “In addition, the runners and triathletes are all in better shape than most of their fellow employees, and they seem to be more efficient, more alert, and take less sick days than those who don't get regular exercise. Another benefit from sponsoring runners in customised uniforms is the billboard effect. Employees tend to wear the uniforms when they practise, and if they all meet somewhere and practise together, they wear the uniforms to and from the practise site. Many will stop off for light shopping on the way home, while still wearing the uniforms. This provides hundreds of advertising impressions.”Wojtowicz concluded, “Sponsoring runners with customised company logo uniforms promotes pride in the workplace, gets employees in better shape, and provides thousands of advertising impressions. Everybody wins.”JP Promotions provides workwear, corporate wear, and uniforms in Perth and surrounding areas. For more information, please call 08 9248 6300 or visit their website: http://jppromotions.com.au/

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

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

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

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

2013-05-22T02:22:50Z travel-insurance-enquiries-set-to-spike

With the strong Australian dollar and also with winter settling in many Australians are set to travel overseas, during this time travel insurance is in high demand.The majority of overseas travelers are looking for some sunshine this time of the year and the USA and Europe are top destinations.Travel insurance is crucial as when something can go wrong it usually does. The team at Travel Insurance Australia are well aware of the dangers faced by many Australians traveling overseas.To the young Australians going to hot spot destinations like Greece, the majority of claims which are put through are due to scooter accidents as this is the main call of transport around the Greek islands of the Cyclades. It is important that all Australians set to travel overseas get a cover as this time of the year is also the busiest for insurance companies as this correlates with the spike in overseas travel.TIA is one of the industry leaders when it comes to travel insurance and has over a decade experience in this field.

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

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

2013-05-21T02:28:37Z green-planet-grass-landscape-systems-save-time-and-money

Perth,WA, May 21, 2013 - Green Planet Grass manufactures and installs artificial grass in Perth. They pride themselves in building a system that is more than just an “artificial lawn.” Green Planet Grass is an environmentally responsible company. Their products can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, and they go to great lengths to reduce their carbon footprint during the manufacturing process.Synthetic grass has become popular in Perth and many other areas because it has such low maintenance costs. Since an artificial lawn doesn't have to be watered, many residents who install Green Planet Grass save up to 70% on their water bills. In addition, synthetic turf doesn't require regular fertilisers or weed-killers, saving even more maintenance money.It also takes a lot of time to maintain a natural grass lawn, and Green Planet Grass takes almost no time to maintain. This saves an average of two hours a week, or 104 hours a year, which translates into a lot of money when multiplied by whatever the average homeowner makes per hour.Green Planet Grass Landscape Systems are designed to be complete solutions, and include such innovations as custom infills for various uses, U-shaped fibres to make the grass stand straight and tall, and a shock pad that absorbs impact for uses such as play or sports.Green Planet Grass also includes a proprietary drainage system, an antimicrobial coating to prevent bacterial contamination, and an extra barrier that prevents weeds from poking up through the artificial lawn.Green Planet Grass currently has five different landscape lawns. Saturn contains soft, monofilament yarn in heights that vary up to 35mm. It looks and feels very natural. Mars has the GPG U-shaped fibres, which are 36mm in height. It creates a very lush surface.Earth is the most versatile grass in the GPG line. It is 40mm high, and made of green coloured tape and defibrillated straw, with support yarn made of brown and green polypropylene.The thickest and heaviest lawn in the GPG line is called Jupiter. It is made of a green monofilament pile and nylon thatch. The lawn fibres are dark green in colour and 42mm tall. It is the softest synthetic lawn on the market and is recommended for family use.The Neptune lawn is recommended for commercial use and high-traffic areas, due to its 42mm U-shaped fibres.Justin Everley, Owner of Green Planet Grass, is proud of his Landscape System and choice of complimentary lawns, and currently has over 4,000 satisfied customers: “We put in a lot of research and development into building our Green Planet Grass Landscape System. We started with a mission to be environmentally responsible, and to provide the best artificial lawn on the market today. We know that the word best is subjective, but we like to think that we have succeeded in our original goal.”Everley continued, “We leave nothing to chance with our artificial lawns. We manufacture everything right here in Australia. We use recycled materials when possible, and everything we use is recyclable or biodegradable. We also have tried our best to ensure that we install a beautiful, soft lawn that looks better than the best of natural grass lawns.”Everley added, “GPG lawns are always green and well-manicured, 365 days a year. They require almost no maintenance, and you save a lot on the water bill. And we have over 4,000 satisfied customers to prove it.”Green Planet Grass manufactures and installs synthetic grass in Perth and suburbs. For more information, call 08 9209 2669 or visit their website: http://www.greenplanetgrass.com.au/.

2013-05-20T04:32:52Z just-released-study-proves-that-promotional-products-still-work

May 20, 2013, Perth, Western Australia - Recently, the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) released a study conducted in November of 2012. It was conducted at an international airport in New York, and asked random travellers if they had received promotional items within the last 12 months. 70% of them said yes, and were invited to answer a 22-question survey, in which answers were entered into a tablet computer.PPAI had conducted studies in 1991, 1999, and 2004. Those studies, along with two from major US universities, have been quoted numerous times by numerous people in the promotional products industry. However, the current era is one in which the Internet has changed how everyone does business, and there wasn't a current study.Consequently, many business owners were beginning to doubt whether promotional products were still as effective in this era as they were previously. According to the survey, the answer is a resounding “yes.”The numbers in the current study were almost identical to numbers in previous studies. Almost every study ever done about promotional products has produced the same conclusions as the others, and has had numbers within traditional margins for error when compared to the others. In other words, virtually every study ever done on promotional products has produced the same results.The recent study was broken into two main parts: recall of promotional products and usage of promotional products. The numbers led to the conclusion that promotional products are as effective as they were 21 years ago, and that they provide the highest amount of ad impressions compared to money spent.Seventy percent of the travellers had a promotional product in their possession. 70% of those said they had at least two in their possession. 88% remembered the name of the company who gave them the gift, compared to 71% who remembered the name of even one company who advertised in a magazine they had read the previous week.Eighty percent said they have multiple promotional products, some as many as ten. Items were kept more often for being useful than any other reason. Pens, computer products, health products, and safety products were the most common categories. Respondents also kept leisure products, travel accessories, and sporting goods, but only if they thought the products were attractive.The products that were used most often, which would make them the most effective at producing advertising impressions, were computer products, electronic accessories, planners, and calendars.Scott Eaton, Owner of Imagepak Marketing, has offered promotional products to the Perth area for many years, and was not the least bit surprised by the results of the survey: “While a lot of people were concerned that promotional products were no longer as effective, I knew that they were as effective as ever. My oldest clients are still ordering promotional gifts, still giving them away, and still as happy with them as they were twenty years ago.”Eaton continued, “While the Internet may have changed the way we do business, it hasn't changed the fact that we are all human beings, and that basic human kindness never gets old. When a company gives away a promotional gift, it immediately produces a feeling of gratitude in the person that received the gift.”Eaton concluded, “The numbers don't lie; promotional products still work as well as they ever did.”Imagepak Marketing is a supplier of promotional products and gifts in Perth and outlying areas. Call 08 92444 111 today or visit their website: http://www.imagepak.com.au/

2013-05-17T05:45:34Z most-common-regret-of-brides-is-not-spending-enough-on-wedding-photography

Perth, WA, May 17, 2013 - Two different polls, two different years, one result: 21% of the recently-married brides who were polled regretted not spending more money on their wedding photos. The first poll was conducted by photography website Shutterfly from 10th to 13th January, 2011, and had 500 participants. The second poll was conducted by New York Magazine for their current issue, and had 100 participants. While the sample size may appear small, the convergent results cannot be attributed solely to coincidence. In the more contemporary of the two surveys, which provides more detailed data, flowers were the next item of regret at 16%, the wedding cake came in at 9%, the wedding gown came in at 9%, and everything else combined came in at 45%. A second part of the recent poll asked the bride’s what they regretted splurging on the most. Flowers were number one at 17%, while photos came in second at 12%. Hair and makeup or third at 9%, the wedding gown was fourth at 8%, and the wedding cake was fifth at 6%, leaving everything else at 48%. Peter Edwards is a wedding photographer with a wealth of experience in the Perth area, and is the owner of Peter Edwards Photography. He is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), and has also achieved a Double Master of Photography. His specialisation in wedding photography and the sheer number of weddings he has photographed make him uniquely qualified to interpret the data from the two surveys. Edwards begins by pointing out a pattern that is obvious to him: “Everything mentioned in the poll is visual, because the visual element of a wedding is extremely important to the bride. That is why it is so important to hire the best photographer for your wedding instead of price shopping. It is no accident that photos were mentioned first, and no accident that the other visual elements of the wedding were mentioned as the next three most important items.” Edwards continued: “When the wedding is being put together, it is often a reflex action to try and reduce costs. Sometimes, it is possible to find good work and an inexpensive price. Unfortunately, price shopping is usually hit and miss at best, and the bride ends up being disappointed at the quality of service she receives. Worse yet, when photography is one of the items at which the bride tries to save money, the results are almost always disappointing. This is false economy as if the purchase doesn’t meet expectations, no matter how small the amount paid there is no value. On the other hand an item purchased that is truly valued as time passes is priceless and the cost is soon forgotten and may even appear “cheap” on reflection.” Edwards added: “Ultimately, when the wedding is over, your photographs are going to provide the most enduring memory of your happiest day. If there is one thing, and one thing only, to make sure you do right, it is to hire a professional and experienced wedding photographer. Professional wedding photographers know how to use light effectively, how to use their equipment to the best advantage, how to pose people, capture that moment and put people at ease. ”Edwards commented further: “If a few of the visual elements in your wedding are a bit off, a great photographer can find a way to make them look good. However, a mediocre photographer only produces photos that look mediocre.” Edwards concluded: “Don’t trust your most cherished memories to chance: hire a professional and preserve your memories for a lifetime.” Peter Edwards Photography is a professional wedding photography firm from Perth. Not only do they specialise in weddings, weddings are all they do. For more information, or to inquire about their services, call 08 9316 2465 or visit their website: http://www.peteredwardsphoto.com.au/

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

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

2013-05-16T15:47:48Z latte-art-smackdown-and-cupping-us-roasted-microlot-coffees

First Pour will hold a Latte Art Smackdown, preceded by a Cupping event hosted by Cafe Imports and featuring some exciting microlot coffees from respected US roasters such as Mad Cap, Stumptown, Verve, Sight Glass, Halfwit, Coava, Joe NY and more. The Smackdown event will have some great prizes up for grabs, such as $1000 cash (sponsored by Pura Milk), Otto Stovetop Espresso machine, $500 cash (sponsored by Silverchef), Compak K3 Push Grinder (courtesy of 9Bar Espresso Services) and the winner will also receive a year’s subscription to Barista Magazine. In attendance will be the Barista Magazine team, the guys from Cafe Imports and being close to the MICE event you can expect to see some national barista champions as well as some recognised Australian barista names also present. If you wish to enter – get in QUICK!!  As only the first 30 entrants will be accepted. Look forward to seeing you all there!!  Beers and snacks will be provided. Times: — Doors open 6.00pm — Cupping @ 6.30pm — Smackdown @ 7.30pm –

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

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

2013-05-15T22:58:00Z budget-2013-smes-must-take-advantage-of-technology-innovation-and-skills-initiatives-to-succeed

16 May 2013 MEDIA ALERTBudget 2013: SMEs must take advantage of technology, innovation and skills initiatives to succeed This year’s budget tax increases and spending cuts are the talk of the town in the lead up to the election. To help Australia’s small and medium business operators (SMEs) get the most out of the budget changes, we strongly encourage them to take advantage of technology, innovation and skills initiatives. These will help boost productivity, business performance and confidence in the domestic economy. MYOB CEO Tim Reed says, “Following the handing down of the budget, it can be tempting for business owners to postpone their growth plans until the election. Jobs and growth are key themes in this budget, and there were some positive announcements and opportunities for SMEs. “Investing $24 billion in roads, including highways and rail in our cities and regions, will help ease the pressure of rising fuel prices. This has been a top pressure point of SMEs since 2011. Our latest research found 61% of SMEs would welcome investment in transport infrastructure in our major states and cities. Adopting teleworking technologies can also help ease the pressure by enabling business operators to operate from home or any location outside of the office. “From a job’s perspective, it’s a pity the increase in the tax-free threshold to $19,400 was deferred, but given the government had already lifted the threshold from $6,000 to $18,200; this should still encourage more part time workers to return to the workforce as it becomes more financially viable. This could result in a larger group of skilled candidates for businesses to draw from when they are employing new staff. A fresh perspective and new skills in a team can work wonders for innovation. “I’m pleased with the government’s pledge for new funding to help small businesses take advantage of the National Broadband Network. I hope some of this can be directed towards training on leveraging the internet for business. Our research found more than half of SMEs were in favour of free government-funded training on how to use the internet to help them enhance and grow their business. In addition, SMEs with a business website were 60% more likely to experience a revenue rise in the past year. “The benefits of online technologies include the ability to compete on a more level playing field with local and global rivals, increased productivity and less time spent on business administration. This means more time for growing the business, which has the potential to make a difference to our economy.” Key 2013 Budget measures announced that may impact SMEs include:$24 billion investment for road and rail upgrades, including money for the M4 extension in Sydney, Brisbane’s Cross River Rail project and Melbourne’s Metro train system.$500 million investment in Industry Innovation Precincts and the government's $1 billion "Plan for Australian Jobs".$378.6 million for the Innovation Investment Fund to pump venture capital cash into high-growth businesses. $29.4 million in assistance for small and medium businesses vying for government services and tenders. Government grants of up to $1 million will be made available for SMEs.$12.9 million in new funding to help small businesses take advantage of the National Broadband Network.$3.2 million over 15 years for the “promotion and marketing” of Australian start-up success stories, with the aim to stimulate innovation within existing Australian businesses. Top initiatives that would turn SME election votes:*Making business life easier by reducing paperwork burden, abolishing the carbon tax and investing further in infrastructure were among the top 10 initiatives that would turn SME election votes towards the proposing party. Policies that significantly simplify the GST/BAS reporting process – 65%The abolition of the carbon tax – 63%More Federal Government investment in transport infrastructure in our major states and cities – 61%A reduction in payroll tax – 57%Increased Federal Government funding for skills, training and apprenticeship programs – 57%Increased Government funding for innovation, research and development by Australian businesses – 53%Waiving any penalty interest charges on late tax payments for start-up businesses in their first two years of operation – 53%Providing free Government-funded training to all small businesses on how to use the internet to enhance and grow their business – 51%The creation of a single flat tax for personal tax and company tax – 49%Further cutting Government expenditure to return to surplus faster – 42% Visit http://myob.com.au/EOFY for a summary of major tax changes, helpful tips and resources, and download a Federal Budget 2013 white paper. Note to media: If you’d like further statistics or commentary from MYOB, please contact:Angely Grecia, MYOB Public Relations Consultant Symon Madry, Haystac Public AffairsP: 02 9089 9071 / M: 0449 169 997 / E: angely.grecia@myob.com P: 02 8094 7779 / M: 0409 919 508 / myob@haystac.com.au *About the MYOB Business MonitorEstablished in 2004, the MYOB Business Monitor is a national survey of small and medium business owners and managers, commissioned to independent market research firm Colmar Brunton. The most recent study ran in January and February 2013, surveying 1,005 operators from sole traders to mid-sized companies, representing the major industry sectors. The Monitor researches business performance and attitudes regarding areas such as profitability, cash flow, pipeline work, technology usage and the government. Note: the weighting of MYOB client and non-client respondents is reflective of overall market proportions.About MYOBEstablished in 1991, MYOB is now Australia’s largest business management solutions provider. It simplifies accounting, payroll, tax, CRM, websites, job costing, inventory management and much more for businesses of all ages, types and sizes. Over one million businesses in Australia and New Zealand have used one or more of MYOB’s 50+ products and services. Today, its solutions extend online, delivering innovation through cloud computing. This enables its clients to be more productive and make smarter connections with their staff, business partners, business advisors and customers. With a network of 20,000+ accountants, book keepers, certified consultants and other professional partners, MYOB provides support and tools that help make business life easier. Visit: http://myob.com.au/smarterconnections.

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

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

2013-05-14T02:53:34Z melbourne-chaos-a-national-concern

Written by: David Fitzgerald Many business people may or may not be aware that on the 28th of March 2011 the Victorian State Government announced a major independent inquiry into the Victorian Taxi and Hire Car Industry. So significant was the report and required reform that noted Professor Alan Fels AO was appointed to chair this crucial inquiry (most would remember Professor Fels as the inaugural and outspoken Chairman of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission from its inception in 1995 until mid-2003). As a business person or frequent traveller you may think “well so what, why should this report concern me?” the recommendations, outcomes and changes implemented or not as a result of this report will affect everyone that travels as Melbourne is our second largest city and other states will be looking closely at the reforms that are implemented as they will need to adapt and remain competitive with change.  The report is aptly titled “Customer First; Service, Safety, Choice” which should be on the forefront of all Governments that want to ensure a safe, efficient and cost effective environment for all people that work and travel within their state. Last week’s mass blockade by taxi drivers at Melbourne Airport is a timely reminder that reforms are required as a matter of urgency; further fuelled by the fact that Melbourne cabbies have called for a new and more extensive blockade this week. So what caused this blockade and major inconvenience for travellers wanting to catch a Taxi at Melbourne Airport?  The Airport Authority axed the “short-fare queue,” which allowed taxi drivers to bypass the taxi holding yard and go directly to the terminal taxi ranks so they could service passengers on short term trips (short fare, no waiting, cost effective for passenger and driver). The airport authority axed the “short-fare queue” following evidence that it was being regularly rorted by taxi drivers; taxi drivers fear that the increased wait time will not make it viable for them to take passengers on short term trips; there appears to be no quick fix in sight. Professor Fels final report was provided to the Victorian Government on the 28th of September 2012 however the government is yet to take reform of the industry into the next phase.  Hopefully they will act soon as at Melbourne Airport “Customer First” seems to have been ignored by all parties. The customer should always come first and as a national business that provides transfers for passengers all over Australia we know firsthand how difficult Airports, Governments and Road Authorities have made it for "The Customer”.  Airports and roads have been privatised and allowed to change policies and infrastructures at will; and charge “The Customer” whatever they like and put the price up whenever they want with no regard for passengers, drivers or businesses that have to use their services. It took 18 months to prepare this report and now the report is a further 8 months old; by the time these reforms are implemented it will be time to start preparing a new report.  Just like the M1 in Brisbane; it took 10 years to make a decision, another 10 years to build (it’s still not finished) and now there is talk of a new review as the M1 has now been outgrown by Brisbane’s population increase. Like it or not we are all passengers and customers of these services; we fly on aeroplanes, drive cars and use various service transportations.  An airline will soon go broke if they don’t provide good service, airport transfer companies like BCT would also go broke if our service wasn’t better than just good; so why can’t the government and the airports lift their game as well; we are all their customers and have a right to good service, safety and choice. Travel safe and lets all keep an eye on Melbourne and Professor Fels’s report.  The taxi queueing system at Melbourne Airport is at the centre of a heated protest and blockade by drivers. Photo: Ken Irwin Many passengers were left to find other means of transport. Photo: Ken Irwin