http:// 2013-05-15T23:17:00Z 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 –

2013-05-15T11:42:47Z coca-cola-amatil-indonesia-quiksilver-and-garuda-indonesia-sign-mou-to-help-keep-bali-s-beaches-cleaner-amp-safer

Jakarta, Indonesia, May 15, 2013 - (ACN Newswire) - Coca-Cola Amatil Indonesia and Quiksilver signed an agreement with PT. Garuda Indonesia (Persero), Tbk today in an effort to help reduce the amount of rubbish in Bali coastal areas, as a means to sustain Indonesia's tourism industry and support economic prosperity for the local communities.President Director of Coca-Cola Amatil Indonesia, Erich Rey, and CEO of Quiksilver South East Asia, Paul Hutson, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with CEO of Garuda Indonesia, Emirsyah Satar, officially adding the airline company as the third partner in the Bali Beach Clean Up Program (BBCU), a program that was first established in 2008 by Coca-Cola Amatil Indonesia and Quiksilver to help solve one of Bali's alarming issues - too much waste. In 2013 alone, the program has picked up over 1 million kg of waste off the five beaches of Kuta, Jimbaran, Legian, Seminyak, and Kedonganan, adding to the total of over 14 million kg of rubbish collected since the program started five years ago.Through close partnership with the local leaders of Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Jimbaran, and Kedonganan, Bali's Beach Clean Up program has quickly developed into a daily activity, committed to cleaning 9,7 km of arguably the most visited beaches in Indonesia. Our program now employs 74 local beach clean-up workers, and investment of 4 tractors, 3 trucks, and placed more than 300 waste bins. There's also support given to the lifesavers (Balawista Badung) who keep the beaches safe for residents and tourists every day.As the beaches have become cleaner there has been a noticeable increase in the number of Sea Turtles returning to these beaches to lay eggs. Our program also supports the Bali Sea Turtle Society who has released over 50,000 baby sea turtles back to the wild from Kuta beach since 2008."Through this agreement, we believe we can continue our objective to make significant impacts on the efforts to reduce the amount of waste. Our efforts demonstrate a small amount of the work required to make the significant changes in environmental care across the country, however we hope that the program can inspire other organizations in the environment in which they operate," says Erich Rey."By entering into the agreement and signing the MOU of Bali Beach Clean Up, which soon will be followed by eco festival called The Bali Big Eco Weekend on 22nd June with Coca Cola Amatil Indonesia and Garuda Indonesia, we are taking further action to our commitment in demonstrating a sustainable CSR program. By working together hand in hand, we believe our corporate social responsibility work will be impactful to the community, the environment and Indonesia as a whole," says Paul Hutson.PT. Garuda Indonesia (Persero) Tbk first took part in the program last December 2012, through donation of two (2) Beach Surf Rakes units that let trash to be swept off the sand instantly, including small items like cigarette butts and other miscellaneous bits of plastics. The company then decided to fully join the program this year, as it remains committed to support many initiatives and programs to preserve the environment. Through this partnership, Garuda Indonesia supports USD 80,000 per year for this program."As one of our largest hubs serving Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and numbers of other domestic destinations, Bali has always been an important destination for Garuda Indonesia. Garuda Indonesia feels impelled to take part in the improvement and preservation of this island's genuine nature, and for that reason, we have carried out various environmental programs," adds Emirsyah.FURTHER COMMITMENT TO BALI: BALI'S BIG ECO WEEKEND 2013The MOU will soon be followed up by an annual eco festival called Bali's Big Eco Weekend, to be held in Kuta Beach this coming June 22, 2013, just in time when the island reaches its peak on both Indonesia and Australia's school holiday. The one-day festival, which will be held for its third time this year, aims to raise further awareness among the locals and tourists on the alarming environmental condition.Along with the serious messages of preserving Bali's environment through Bali beach clean-up activity, the festival will bring everyone to join a series of eco-fun activities by the beach, such as Lifesavers Race, attractive demonstration from various Bali-based NGOs in "Eco Village", as well as sea turtle release. Last year's Bali's Big Eco Weekend was able to gather local residents and tourists to pick up more than 1,5 tons of trash in one day, and released 1,200 baby sea turtles back to their natural habitat.According to the Central Statistic Agency (BPS), the number of foreign tourists that visited Bali last year totaled 2,949,332, a rise of 4.3 percent compared to the previous year. The five top countries of origin supplying tourists to Bali in 2012 were Australia, China, Japan, Malaysia and South Korea, respectively contributing 27.12 percent, 10.75 percent, 6.40 percent, 5.75 percent and 4.18 percent to the total number of tourist arrivals. Contact:Putri Silalahi Media & Communications Manager COCA-COLA AMATIL INDONESIA Evanggita.In.Putri@sea.ccamatil.com Ni Putu Purniati Marketing Manager PT. QUIKSILVER INDONESIA Putu.Purniati@quiksilver.co.id Pujobroto VP Corporate Communications PT. GARUDA INDONESIA (PERSERO), Tbk pujobroto@garuda-indonesia.com

2013-05-15T05:47:58Z 1spatial-launches-1edit-powerful-spatial-data-editing-solution

Sydney, Aust., 15th May 2013.  1Spatial, global specialists in spatial big data management, is today launching 1Edit in Australia and New Zealand, as well as globally. A revolutionary, touch-screen-compatible solution, 1Edit offers fast and intuitive data-editing in the field or office. Trialled by Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSi), 1Edit incorporates an innovative touch screen for capture and editing of real-world data, making it a breakthrough for data collection in the field via touch screen, stylus and survey devices.  It can also be used in an office environment with mouse and keyboard. 1Edit’s ‘in the field’ capabilities will be a particular benefit to spatial data providers and industries such as utilities, transport, environment and government.  Lorraine McNerney, Spatial Data and Infrastructure Manager, Ordnance Survey Ireland said: “Ordnance Survey Ireland has been trialling 1Edit as a tool for maintenance of our PRIME2 product database. PRIME2 is the OSi real-world feature database that ensures Ireland has accurate and up-to-date spatial datasets supporting improved government service delivery and economic development in Ireland. The facility for users to interact with 1Edit using a portable device touch-screen with a stylus or as a desktop with a mouse, and the integration it provides with our existing survey equipment means that our surveyors out in the field and staff who are office based can utilise the same innovative tool for optimal efficiency. This means that we will be able to provide more accurate and up to date data to our customers more frequently.”1Edit provides fast and accurate topological editing to keep data connected. It allows change-only saving of data and supports rich real-world hierarchical data models, as well as intelligent management of inter-feature references.  1Edit is currently available on Windows 8 with other operating systems to follow.Brett Madsen, Regional Director, 1Spatial said: “We are delighted to launch 1Edit, which offers a powerful, fast and accurate tool to effectively manage real-world data. 1Edit maximises data output, because the touch screen capability means that whether organisations are using 1Edit on location or in the office, they will be able to use the same tool to edit information quickly and easily, saving them time and money on data capture. Organisations can also use aerial imagery or survey devices to ensure the quality and accuracy of the data they create and manage.” He continued, “We have used our extensive knowledge and experience of working with the world’s largest, spatial big data sets to build and develop our products to truly meet the needs of organisations around the world. 1Edit is an innovative approach and further complements our product offerings.” 1Spatial will be hosting a series of live webinars offering attendees the chance to be amongst the first to see 1Edit in action, including Thursday 6 June 2013 at 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM AEST. Places are limited so register for your free place at www.1spatial.com/1editlaunchNotes to Editors 1Spatial at Geospatial World Forum1Spatial will be exhibiting at Stand No.40 and hosting a series of live webinars offering attendees the chance to be amongst the first to see 1Edit in action. Places are limited so register for your free place at www.1spatial.com/1editlaunchAbout 1Spatial1Spatial technology already provides the foundations for data management and processing solutions around the world.  Customers include National Mapping and Charting Agencies, utilities companies and defence and government departments. Visit www.1spatial.com

2013-05-14T06:35:33Z sodastream-continues-to-redefine-beverage-industry

SodaStream has been announced as the premier sponsor of The American Pavilion (AMPAV) at the Cannes Film Festival 2013, taking over a long-standing sponsorship by Coca-Cola.   SodaStream is the world leader in home soda making, where consumers turn tap or filtered water into a mouth-watering array of carbonated beverages without the wasteful bottles. SodaStream’s involvement with AMPAV this year allows the Pavilion to be truly free of cans and plastic bottles. This symbolic move will see SodaStream host the bar at the American Pavilion as the exclusive soft drink and water provider, offering a far better-for-the-planet and better-for-you experience for visitors.   To create a plastic bottle free environment, a range of freshly-made SodaStream flavoured drinks will be available complimentary to guests; re-usable eco-friendly bottles will be re-filled for free with either still, sparkling or flavored drinks. A selection of SodaStream cocktails will also be served from the SodaStream SodaBar, an exciting new design aspect of the updated Pavilion for the 25th anniversary celebrations.   “We are thrilled to partner with The American Pavilion to help them with their first ever event without the trash from bottles and cans,” commented SodaStream CEO Daniel Birnbaum. “One billion bottles and cans are trashed every day, the majority ending up in landfills, parks or oceans. What better place than the beautiful beachside location of Cannes to share with the international film industry that people have a choice; that with SodaStream they are empowered to enjoy great-tasting soda without the hazardous waste.”   Ampav founder Julie Sisk also stated: “It makes so much sense for us to partner with SodaStream as The Pavilion was the first entity in Cannes to implement recycling, trucking our recyclables to Marseille every other day. We continue to be as green as possible and conscious of the impact we have on the fragile Cannes environment.”   Founded 25 years ago by industry maven Julie Sisk, The American Pavilion is a place where North American film industry professionals gather to share ideas and network during Cannes Film Festival, the largest and most prestigious film festival in the world. Initially created to provide a convenient single meeting space for all the North American film professionals in town, The Pavilion has grown to become the essential hub for the industry off The Croisette, offering membership for professionals, provocative and insightful programming, immersive student programs, Emerging Filmmaker Showcases, and more.   Luminaries that have supported The Pavilion over the years include: filmmakers Ron Howard, Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorsese, Quentin Tarantino, Wong Kar Wai, Spike Lee, Billy Bob Thornton, and stars Tommy Lee Jones, Sean Penn, Ryan Gosling, James Franco, Michelle Williams, Jessica Chastain, Robert Duvall, and Matt Lauer amongst many others.     -ENDS- For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact: Sam Pearson Access PR E: sam@accesspr.com.au T: 02 9292 7005 M: 0415 271 911   Andrea Kerekes Access PR E: andrea@accesspr.com.au T: 02 9292 7002 M: 0418 427 412 About SodaStream SodaStream International Ltd is the world’s leading manufacturer and distributor of home beverage carbonation systems which enable consumers to easily transform ordinary tap water into carbonated soft drinks and sparkling water in seconds. SodaStream Drinks Makers offer a highly differentiated and innovative solution to consumers of bottled and canned carbonated soft drinks and sparkling water. Our products are environmentally friendly, cost-effective, promote health and wellness, customisability and fun. In addition, our products offer convenience by eliminating the need to carry bottles home from the supermarket, to store bottles at home or to regularly dispose of empty bottles. Our products are available at more than 60,000 retail stores in 45 countries around the world. Key stockists in Australia include Myer, Woolworths, Big W, Good Guys, Harvey Norman, KMart and Target. For more information, visit http://www.sodastream.com.au   ABOUT THE AMERICAN PAVILION Celebrating its 25th year bringing professionals and emerging filmmakers together, The American Pavilion is the centre of activity for the American film community at the Cannes International Film Festival.   Since its debut at the 1989 Cannes Film Festival, The Pavilion has served as a hospitality and communications hub for the thousands of Americans attending the Cannes Film Festival and Marché, providing an impressive array of facilities and services, including membership for the international film community, provocative and insightful programming, the Emerging Filmmaker Showcase, immersive student programs, and more.   For its corporate sponsors, scores of American participants, and hundreds of exhibitors and office holders, The American Pavilion accommodates the need for information, orientation and recreation, providing both a dynamic business environment and an opportunity to relax in comfortable surroundings for the duration of the Festival.   With a panoramic view of the Bay of Cannes and just a few steps from the Palais des Festivals, where all the major Festival films are premiered, The American Pavilion is now a permanent fixture on the Cannes landscape, proving to be the perfect place to transact business, share ideas and effectively reach the thousands of affluent international travelers who attend the Festival every year.    For more information, visit www.ampav.com.

2013-05-10T02:26:15Z the-gloss-is-gone-on-the-beauty-industry

Consumers of everyday makeup products are being exposed to potentially toxic chemical ingredients that have not been assessed for public health and safety. This alarming revelation has motivated Brisbane based Loretta Fazzari to develop an online outlet that will allow consumers to research the contents of their favourite cosmetic brands and buy safer alternative products. Advised Loretta, “Rewind a few decades to when many of the mainstream cosmetic products were introduced and there seemed little concern for the implications of what chemicals and synthetic ingredients they contained.” “Now though, I think consumers are definitely more aware and concerned over the toxicity of some of these products, particularly those containing petrochemicals and synthetic fragrances and preservatives.” “When you think that the average woman uses between 10 to 12 skincare products a day – that equates to a lot of chemical ingredients and frankly, it’s frightening to think that we simply don’t know how safe the majority of these ingredients are.” Since launching her site late last year, Loretta is now leading the way to educate women about the potentially toxic materials that are in every day products. “Without regulated safety assessments being done prior to a product going to market, there is no way of knowing what cumulative effect these ingredients will have on the health of the people using them.  Toxic might be cheaper for the manufacturer but it is definitely not better for the end consumer.” Loretta readily admits that switching to an all-natural beauty routine can be daunting but suggests small changes are a great starting point. “Switching products can be costly – particularly if you have a bathroom bursting with balms, moisturisers and glosses.  “I suggest to customers that they start with small changes, which will still have an immediate improvement to their health.  Things like toothpaste, soap and deodorant are affordable and easy starting points.” Loretta’s website stocks a diversity of natural and safe product ranges from hair care to lipsticks, men’s products and baby care products that have all been previously screened for safety and any signs of toxicity. To find out more regarding safe and organic beauty products, visit www.consciouscosmetics.com.au.

2013-05-09T00:22:35Z two-times-the-charm-for-today-s-homes

Today’s Homes have won the 2013 HIA Australian Professional Small Builder Award for the second year in a row, and is the third time they have taken out the title. Today’s Homes Director Brendan McCoullough was thrilled to accept the award, which recognises the company’s commitment to quality and customer service. “We love providing our clients with a quality home, which is environmentally and family friendly and built to last a lifetime. To again be recognised by our peers for delivering what we love to do as a family company is a bonus”. “Today’s Homes have developed a unique step by step process we call BuildCare.  This flexible and transparent experience guides the client through every stage of creating their new home – design, selections, pricing and construction – at a pace that suits them. This guarantees  a smooth build, as clients are aware of targets, costs and timeframes from the very beginning”. This commitment to quality and customer service was identified by the judges when naming Today’s Homes the 2013 HIA Australian Professional Small Builder. “Quality assurance, customer service and the client’s journey are important to us. Building a home should be a stress free and enjoyable experience. It should be about realising your dreams, not having to manage your expectations. With BuildCare there’s an upfront understanding about what we can and will do for clients and we aim to deliver that, if not better, on every project. “We work closely with all our clients to develop their ideal home design, and then guide them through the entire project, ensuring all customer expectations are met. We have a particular focus on sustainable and energy efficient homes, and offer a monthly BuildCare seminar which answers all of the questions that you need to know before you start to build. We also educate our customers about sustainable best practice building principles, and how to design an economical and energy efficient home suitable for the Canberra climate.” he said. As well as the company honour, Today’s Homes Marketing Manager - Heidi McCoullough was awarded Highly Commended for her nomination in the 2013 HIA Australian Business Partner award. “Heidi is a driving force behind Today’s Homes client centric approach and developing our brand and broader marketing profile. It is great to see Heidi’s commitment to the company acknowledged in the wider building community.” Mr McCoullough said. Today’s Homes has recently opened their new display home – 28 Drooka Cres, Crace. For more information on Today’s Homes and their projects visit: www.todayshomes.com.au or contact Heidi McCoullough on: 0407 613 533 or heidi@todayshomes.com.au HIA Award: Today's Homes, Canberra, won the 2013 HIA Australian Professional Small Builder of the Year. Today’s Homes values quality construction, impeccable customer service, innovation and flexibility. Their commitment to these qualities was a stand-out feature for the judges.

2013-05-07T05:30:34Z long-life-battery-protects-assets

Perth based GPS Tracking Company, Myionu (pronounced ‘my eye on you’), have introduced a range of intelligent battery powered GPS Tracking devices which remotely monitor location and movement of a range of assets and plant equipment. Unlike many tracking solutions, Myionu AssetTrack does not rely on external power. Using the very latest battery technology coupled together with intelligent GPS Myionu AssetTrack can last up to massive 7 years. The fit and forget devices are IP67 rated and can work in extreme temperatures  Temperature -30º to +75º C (operating) -40º to +85º C (storage). Using the Telstra Next G network to send data, coverage is excellent. Paul Delaney, Myionu GM says “the Myionu AssetTrack now gives customers a cost effective solution to track and manage a range of assets including trailers, containers and plant equipment” Measuring just 55 x 55 x 260mm the device is completely self-contained and can be deployed in minutes without specialist installation.   The Myionu AssetTrack is a battery operated, non-rechargeable trailer tracking product designed for reliable, multi-year deployments. The AssetTrack is an ideal solution for managing assets that will be deployed for long periods without maintenance needs. The AssetTrack can be configured over the air to change the way the unit reports. Regardless of the number of updates the AssetTrack produces, the monthly service fees remain the same at just $30 per unit per month. As with all Myionu™ products, AssetTrack comes with a life time warranty† and the choice of a no contract option. Location and management information can be viewed at anytime, anywhere in the world from any device that has an internet connection using a standard web based browser. 

2013-04-30T11:44:27Z hands-across-the-kitchen

Hands Across the Kitchen is a cookbook filled with childhood recipes from 51 top chefs and stunning photography of leading Sydney photographer Will Horner. This is the next recipe book to get into your collection with stories of childhood memories and the foods that the memories are made of. A staggering 11,000 copies have already been sold with massive support from many wonderful people. The launch of Hands Across the Kitchen was held at Hugos’ bar in Kings Cross with over 240 people turning up to support this great event. Peter Baines started Hands Across the Water after experiencing the devastating effects of the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami. Hands Across the Water was established to help the children who were orphaned from the tragic event. The charity now provides not only accommodation but a safe home and an education for these children and it continues to grow with more orphanages opening Purchasing the book will assist Hands Across the Water to continue to offer support for the children as every cent goes towards the work they are doing the lives they are improving. Focus Creative have worked with Hands Across the Water to create this recipe book which also includes photos of the chefs in their childhood. PURCHASE HANDS ACROSS THE KITCHEN Listen to Peter Baines being interviewed by Carol Duncan, ABC at the book launch.After The Wave – 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami and of course you can read more about Peter on his website www.peterbaines.com.au and also www.handsacrossthewater.com.au

2013-04-30T11:41:55Z a-tsunami-of-care-1

Peter Baines, founder of charity Hands Across The Water helped identify thousands of bodies after the Boxing Day Tsunami. For him, the joy of caring for children at risk in Thailand without expectation of return, is one of his key motivations.Read more: http://www.theage.com.au/executive-style/strive/a-tsunami-of-care-20130426-2ijs8.html#ixzz2RwgeVtLFJoin Peter and Hands Across the Water for the Annual Night of Inspiration at the Hilton Hotel Sydney > Saturday 18th May 2013

2013-04-30T06:36:57Z professional-perth-photographer-warns-don-t-trust-your-cherished-memories-to-an-amateur

Perth, WA, April 30, 2013 - In a recent blog post on his website, Perth photographer Geoff Fisher gave a long, detailed answer to a frequently asked question: “Why should I hire a professional photographer?” Fisher, who has been the owner of Fisher Photography for the past 35 years, holds “Master Photographer” status, awarded by the Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP). In addition, he has won a Gold Award, and many Silver Awards, and has been named AIPP Western Australian Portrait Photographer of the Year. In the post, Fisher explained some of the pitfalls of hiring an amateur photographer, and described some of the factors that differentiate professional photographers from amateurs. Since the advent of digital cameras, amateur photographers have had access to much better equipment than they used to. Unfortunately, this has inspired many amateur photographers to buy the most expensive camera at their local department store, take a few pictures, and offer their services to friends and acquaintances as photographers. While some of the more expensive digital cameras on the market do, indeed, take great pictures, they are still, by nature, point and click devices. The amateur photographer simply points the camera, waits for it to focus, and snaps a picture. While this can produce the occasional good picture, professionals view the default settings on any camera to be a starting point: not a finishing point. Professional photographers use equipment that is far more expensive and elaborate than the cameras at the local department store. Professional photographers use their own lighting. Their studios are designed to allow for perfect lighting, and their cameras allow for more adjustments. Professionals pay close attention to variables such as angles, exposure time, distance, and different lenses. Professionals undergo extensive training, and then add experience to that training. Fisher, for example, has personally trained everyone in his studio, regardless of their past experience. Professional photographers leave nothing to chance. Their protocols ensure that there’ll be no surprises, such as cameras without batteries, or lights that don’t work. Amateur photographers, even those who mean well, are simply lacking in the equipment and experience to provide a product on the level of a professional photographer. Fisher believes that the risks are too high and the rewards are too low for anyone who needs professional photos to trust them to anyone but a professional photographer. According to Fisher, “Your photographs are extremely important. While amateurs are certainly capable of taking decent photos, they cannot come close to producing the kind of quality your professional photographer can. Professional photographers have years of training and experience, and they have access to equipment that outclasses anything an amateur can buy.” Fisher continued, “We have been taking professional photographs for over 35 years. We have seen every situation, and have taken photographs for all kinds of people. All of this experience has taught us how to consistently uncover the best of anyone’s inner qualities, and allow them to come to the surface to be photographed. When those photographs are taken under controlled conditions with professional equipment, they always turn out perfect.” Fisher concluded, “Professionals have the best training, the best equipment, and the most experience. If you want professional results, hire a professional photographer.”Fisher receives a lot of testimonials; a recent one comes from CJ Halvorson, who is Vice President of Strategic Accounts in Asia, Pacific, and Japan for a major IT Company: “Hi, Geoff: Love the photo and getting great reviews already.” Fisher Photography provides professional photography in Perth and the surrounding area. They offer many services, including portrait photography, family photography, and corporate photography to their Perth area clients. For more information, call (08) 9381 2233 or visit their website: http://fisherphotography.com.au/

2013-04-29T02:15:29Z new-media-partnership-with-logicaltech-group-to-boost-green-it-awareness-for-2013

IGITAW is a seven day, multi-time zone, global, online event hosted by FFITS.ORG that will bring together the global network of Green IT professionals with thousands of tech journalists, CIOs, CTOs, IT Managers, sustainability professionals, carbon managers and more under one virtual roof. FFITS.ORG’s Project Manager and Event Manger of IGITAW, Tim Martin, said, this year we will have over 30 live and pre-recorded tactical and practical learning sessions, international keynotes, Q&A panels and is a must attend for those looking for greater sustainability performance and efficiency from their organisation and IT assets.” “The main outcome of this week is to encourage individuals and organisations to demand more from themselves and their partners, holding each other to account for our impact on the environment,” Tim concluded. In support of the week of awareness, the LogicalTech Group, a leading IT Consulting and Technology Solutions Provider in Australia for over 25 years, has embarked on a collaborative media partnership with the Foundation for IT Sustainability (FFITS.ORG). The LogicalTech Group is supporting the event by promoting International Green IT Awareness Week to its extensive network of Tech Journalists, CIOs, CTOs, IT Managers and CEOs of various vertical markets. “Green IT is perhaps the best way for any organization to get started with energy efficiency. Servers, laptops, and other IT equipment are typically refreshed every three or four years as part of an organization's strategy to keep up to date with technology” said Cassidy Poon, National Marketing Manager of LogicalTech Group. Mark Winter, Founder of FFITS.ORG said, “We are extremely pleased to have the support of the LogicalTech Group for this year’s International Green IT Awareness Week.” “This collaboration will enable a tremendous amount of knowledge to be compiled and shared around the world. Our world-class partners are the reason our event remains the biggest Green IT conference in the world,” Mark concluded. For further information on International Green IT Awareness Week, register your interest at: www.greenitweek.org. Any enquiries relating to International Green IT Awareness Week or FFITS.ORG can be directed to Mr. Martin. Enquiries relating to the LogicalTech Group may be directed to Mr Cassidy Poon, National Marketing Manager of the LogicalTech Group.  -ENDS-Contact Information Cassidy Poon National Marketing Manager The LogicalTech Group Email: cassidyp@logicaltech.com.au Phone: (+61) 3 8643 6448 Mobile: (+61) 403 600 524 Level 7, 446 Collins St Melbourne, VIC Australia, 3000 Web: http://www.logicaltech.com.au/ TechBlog: http://logicaltechgroup.com/   Tim Martin Project Manager, Global Initiatives The Foundation for IT Sustainability (FFITS.ORG) Email: timm@ffits.org Phone: (+61) 7 5699 9850 Mobile: (+61) 424 544 854 Fax: (+61) 7 5607 0295 PO Box 160 Currumbin, QLD Australia, 4223 Web: www.ffits.org Web: www.greenitweek.org

2013-04-26T04:08:53Z 9-ideas-under-80-to-buy-good-s-this-mother-s-day

26 April 2013: Online retailer Andable is marketplace where you can buy your mom a gift made better by indie sellers all over Australia.  Through May, 10% of all sales will fund loans to moms in need all around the world. It's the first place to go to buy your mom something beautiful that also makes a real difference in another mom's life.  This Mother's Day, celebrate your mom in a way that doesn't include mass made junk! Here are 9 products made with passion from indie makes all around Australia, all under $80.  And 10% of every sale goes to fund a micro loan to a mom in need, via Andable's partner Kiva.org: Vintage Handbag ($75): Completely unique hand bag handmade using vintage saris French-Style Market Basket ($58): Help her go eco-friendly in style with this french market style classic basket Resuable Wren Coffee Cup ($25) The fanciest reusable coffee cup she's ever seen.   For hot or cold, this coffee cup was made locally in Melbourne Upcycled Photo Frame ($27):  Mulbury frames intercepts discarded timbers from going to the dump and puts together this beautiful upcycled frame. Berry Colander ($35):  Form meets function with this handmade berry colander  Geese Measuring Cups ($49): Four stackable ceramic geese measuring cups Indivudlally handmade in Melbourne Hanging Garden ($79): A functional, all-weather gorgeous planter Individually handmade right here in Australia Anokhi Robe ($79): Block printed by hand using fair trade principals Seed Packet Greeting Card ($16) The most amazing card she will ever receive.  This comes with 3 packets of seeds for flowers that grow in the shade.   For more information, contact: Rupal Ismin, Rupal@Andable.com

2013-04-26T01:07:00Z kohler-co-selects-perceptive-content-intelligent-capture-for-global-shared-services-automation-initiative

Instant Document Visibility, Ability to Process Diverse Languages Key to Standardising Accounts Payable Operations SYDNEY, Australia– April 26, 2013 News Facts Kohler Co., one of America’s oldest and largest privately held companies with more than 50 manufacturing locations worldwide, has selected Perceptive Software’s Content and Intelligent Capture solutions to facilitate a standardised, automated accounts payable process across the company’s global shared services operation.The technology will be implemented within Kohler Co.’s SAP enterprise resource planning system over the course of a three-stage rollout to include shared services operations in the Asia-Pacific, North America and EMEA markets.Perceptive Content enables users to access documents and share information readily, which increases responsiveness, minimises risk, creates operational clarity and fosters opportunities for continuous improvement.Perceptive Intelligent Capture, powered by Brainware, eliminates manual data entry from the accounts payable process, shortening cycle times and improving accuracy while freeing up personnel to focus on more strategic or mission-critical activities. By integrating with SAP without the need for templates, Intelligent Capture provides a rapid return on investment by scaling to process a number of languages and currencies, making it an ideal application for establishing uniform global routines. Supporting Quotes “We tested a number of available automation solutions, and Perceptive Software’s platform was able to extract more than eighty percent of field data from Chinese and Thai invoices sight unseen, far better than any of the others,” said Ming Zhang, Sr. Systems Analyst, IT Asia-Pacific Corporate Services for Kohler Co. “In pursuing a streamlined, consistent and reliable system for our global accounts payable strategy, we determined that the ability to accommodate regional differences and requirements was of paramount importance in anything we implemented. Perceptive Software was the clear winner in that regard.”“This contract demonstrates the powerful business proposition that results from pairing a highly adaptable content management platform with the industry’s most capable data capture technology,” said Scott Coons, President and CEO, Perceptive Software. “Large businesses like Kohler, which operates worldwide and faces a number of significant challenges in standardising the accounts payable process, can rely upon Perceptive Software to deliver broad functionality, superior control, capabilities that handle growth readily, consistent efficiency, and more. We are proud to serve Kohler’s document processing needs as they expand their footprint among the world’s diverse markets.” Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wis., Kohler Co. is one of America’s oldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a global leader in the manufacturing of kitchen and bath products, engines and power generation systems, tile and home interiors, and an international host at its award-winning hospitality and world-class golf destinations. For more information on Kohler Co. and its products, please visit www.kohler.com. Supporting Resources About Perceptive CapturePerceptive Capture on TwitterPerceptive Capture on FacebookPerceptive Software on LinkedInInContext: “OCR-based capture in accounts payable: it’s all about control”Perceptive Software on YouTube About Perceptive Software (www.perceptivesoftware.com) Perceptive Software, a Lexmark company (NYSE: LXK), builds a complete family of intelligent capture, content and process management, enterprise search and integration products that connect enterprise applications to the processes and information outside those applications, providing the visibility and control needed to improve financial performance, reduce risk and ensure future flexibility. For more information please contact: Caroline La Rose Max Australia +61 2 9469 5740 lexmark@maxaustralia.com.au

2013-04-24T01:04:42Z aerator-pumps-play-important-role-for-australians

Perth, WA, April 24, 2013 - In a recent blog post, Pump Solutions Australasia explained how aerator pumps work and how important they are to our way of life in Australia. Aerator pumps are crucial to waste treatment and to aquafarming. Since fish farms and adequately processing our sewage are important parts of modern society, it can safely be said that Australia would have to make some pretty big adjustments if there were no aerator pumps available. Aerator pumps are used to provide oxygen as part of the sewage treatment process, and for water whose oxygen has been depleted, compromising its ability to support aqueous life. Their primary applications are in sewage treatment and aquafarming. Small aerator pumps are used for aquariums, and provide a miniature model of what larger aerator pumps accomplish. In sewage treatment plants, aerator pumps are used to provide oxygen for the second stage of the treatment process. In the second stage of the waste treatment process, microorganisms are used to remove organic waste material from sewage. Those microorganisms must have oxygen to live. The aerator pump provides oxygen to the microorganisms, allowing them to consume the organic waste material and thus remove it from sewage. In aquafarms, aerator pumps provide oxygen to water where oxygen has been depleted due to too much demand. A fish farm, for example, produces too many fish for the amount of oxygen that would naturally be present in the water supply. When the oxygen becomes depleted, it is then necessary to supplement the oxygen in the water, or the fish will die. Aerator pumps provide oxygen by drawing air from above the surface of the water, and releasing it at the bottom of the water, where the bubbles rise to the surface. On their way to the surface, the bubbles interact with the water, and oxygen is transferred into the water. This process is known as subsurface aeration. Pump Solutions Australasia carries a full line of Tsurumi submersible water pumps, including their line of water aerator pumps. Tsurumi, located in Kyoto, Japan, has manufactured pumps since 1924. Since their first submersible pump, produced in 1953, Tsurumi has been responsible for many innovations and advancements, and have developed an impressive resumé in the field of submersible pumps. Tsurumi now manufactures 500,000 pumps per year, with a capacity of as many as one million if the demand arises. They currently make submersible pumps than any other manufacturer in the world, and export them to every major international market. Mike Hurlbatt, owner of Pump Solutions Australasia, is proud to be Western Australia’s distributor of Tsurumi pumps: “Tsurumi is an old, respected name in submersible pumps. It is not a stretch to say that almost everybody’s way of life has been influenced, either directly or indirectly, by a Tsurumi pump. You don’t notice them, but they are the most popular option for submersible aerator pumps in waste treatment facilities and fish farms everywhere.” Hurlbatt continued, “Aerator pumps fill a vital role in treating waste and in making sure that anything produced in aquafarm has enough oxygen to live. The smaller pumps are also great for small ponds that need a little oxygen boost to keep the marine life alive.” Hurlbatt concluded, “If you need an aerator pump, large, small, or in between, we have exactly what you’re looking for.”  Pump Solutions Australasia is Western Australia’s foremost distributor of Tsurumi submersible water pumps. For more information, call 1300 922 973 or visit their website: http://www.pumpsolutions.com.au/.

2013-04-23T00:10:00Z lexmark-names-leonel-jose-da-costa-vice-president-and-general-manager-for-asia-pacific

SYDNEY, Australia: 22 April 2013 – Lexmark International today announced that Leonel Jose Da Costa was recently appointed as Vice President and General Manager of Lexmark’s Asia Pacific region. Previously, Da Costa was the Vice President and General Manager of Lexmark’s Latin America region. In this role, he was responsible for leading the entire sales team. Da Costa has been with Lexmark for the past 16 years. Under Da Costa, who will be based in Singapore, Lexmark’s Asia Pacific region will focus on: Emphasising managed print services, a mixture of software tools, services and custom solutions and strategies that provide significant return on investment for enterprises.Continuing Lexmark’s transition from a hardware-centric to an end-to-end solutions provider.Helping small and mid-sized businesses innovate by supplying a compelling alternative between low cost out-of-the-box offerings and highly customised solutions.Strengthening the region’s customer relationships and maintaining the company’s mission of creating “Customers for Life”. Supporting quotes “Leonel’s leadership skills and commitment will be major contributors in leading Lexmark Asia Pacific through the next stage in its transformation,” said Ronaldo Foresti, Lexmark’s Vice President for Asia Pacific and Latin America. “Lexmark’s transition to an end-to-end solutions provider is unlocking a tremendous opportunity for customers,” said Da Costa. “From managing large, distributed, multi-national output and imaging fleets to improving a company’s business processes and workflow, Lexmark is uniquely positioned to help customers large and small innovate, thrive and succeed.” About Lexmark Lexmark International, Inc. (NYSE: LXK) provides businesses of all sizes with a broad range of printing and imaging products, software, solutions and services that help customers to print less and save more. Perceptive Software, a Lexmark company, is a leading provider of process, intelligent capture and content management software that helps organisations fuel greater operational efficiency. In 2012, Lexmark sold products in more than 170 countries and reported $3.8 billion in revenue. To learn more about Lexmark, please visit www.lexmark.com. For more information on Perceptive Software, please visit www.perceptivesoftware.com. For more information on Lexmark, see the Lexmark Facebook page and follow us on Twitter. For more information about Perceptive Software, please visit the company’s Facebook and Twitter profiles For more information please contact: Caroline La Rose Max Australia +61 2 9469 5740 lexmark@maxaustralia.com.au