https:// 2017-08-23T02:33:08Z 2017-08-23T02:33:08Z preparing-the-ground-for-new-builds-and-renovations-1

Advances in re-levelling products and processes for buildings have created cost-effective and less invasive alternatives to traditional underpinning methods. For builders and developers, innovative solutions such as Teretek® engineered resin from ground engineering specialist Mainmark can also increase the ground’s bearing capacity. This ground treatment can help to re-level and re-support an existing structure and avoid the need to replace foundations or rebuild sections of a dwelling when renovating or adding the extra load of an extension. Extreme weather events including periods of drought followed by heavy storms can affect the ground on which a house sits, with changing levels of moisture causing soils to contract and expand. Many buildings in coastal areas also sit on sandy, shifting soils. These are just some of the environmental factors that can contribute to ground instability and weakness, leading to building subsidence. The resulting damage this can cause to a home, including uneven floors and cracks starting to appear in the structure, is often a catalyst for property owners to decide to undertake a renovation or extension. Teretek engineered resin is injected into the foundation soils beneath a structure’s footings, in a process likened to key-hole surgery. The unique two-in-one solution delivers both ground improvement and re-levelling of the building by increasing ground bearing capacity, filling voids, and minimising soil deformation, at a significantly lower cost than traditional underpinning. Mainmark technicians inject the resin beneath the sunken sections of the affected structure using their fast, precise and controlled method. It’s possible to raise and re-level strip footings, raft slabs, and ‘waffle-pod’ slabs, as well as infilling slabs and driveways, using Teretek. “We have seen the issues that can arise when building works, from single dwellings to multi-residential and commercial developments, are carried out without the appropriate foundation ground support,” said Laurie Andrews, business development manager at Mainmark. “Defects such as cracks in walls and sinking foundations are likely signs of serious structural issues that may present or be exacerbated if ground bearing capacity is not addressed prior to adding a second storey or an extension to an existing structure. “Despite extensive use in a range of environments, including resolving complex ground engineering problems for civil infrastructure, residential, mining, commercial and industrial sectors, engineered resin is still an unfamiliar solution to some in the building industry. Resins have been used for more than 25 years and have a proven performance history. This is now internationally recognised as one of the most advanced ways to improve ground bearing capacity and re-level structures and a highly effective way to resolve issues quickly.” For further information or to request a consultation on a project, contact Mainmark on 1800 623 312. - Ends - Media inquiries: Kim Viney at Write Away Communication + Events Ph: 02 9978 1400 or Email: kim_viney@writeaway.com.au About Mainmark Mainmark provides a range of specialist ground engineering and asset preservation solutions for commercial, industrial, civil infrastructure and mining sectors. Committed to excellence, Mainmark’s state-of-the-art solutions are backed by more than 20 years of engineering expertise. Mainmark has 15 sites across Australia, New Zealand, Thailand and Japan. Mainmark products and services include solutions for ground stabilisation, void filling, stopping water ingress, raising and levelling on-ground and in-ground structures, fixing anchors into rock faces and embankments, and other related ground-engineering processes. The Mainmark group consists of Mainmark Ground Engineering, Mainmark Civil and Mining and other engineering businesses.

2017-08-22T22:15:38Z mindfields-to-democratise-rpa-by-offering-a-one-stop-solution-at-a-fixed-price-per-process

Sydney: Australian automation and AI advisory firm Mindfields has launched Automation as a Service (AaaS), a banquet of RPA services such as research, education, consulting and execution, packaged at a fixed price per process. It will open doors to automate processes that were previously unimaginable or unfeasible. RPA takes business processes that are currently performed by human workers and creates a software bot that then performs the same task around the clock. Mindfields Managing Director Mohit Sharma said, “We do not want to charge new clients for the framework we have already developed for existing clients, instead we have customised workshops backed by ongoing research to reduce the cost of automation and shorten their decision cycle," Mindfields has automated and robotised its own consulting and delivery processes in the form of AaaS. Clients will get a bundled offering containing consulting backed by ongoing research in emerging technologies and delivery embedded with training. “Our aim is to make it free in the long-term and focus on feeding and exploiting data generated by automation. Automation is the first step in the journey and should be treated as investment in short-term” commented Sharma. AaaS will provide following benefits to clients for a fixed price per process: Automate more at faster pace Consulting backed by ongoing research on RPA tool and process selection Education to empower client teams to execute RPA in-house Execute and implement RPA efficiently based on Mindfields’ experiences and lessons learned Automation at a fixed price per process, which provides cost assurance to a business case Enabling clients to focus on the most important outcome of RPA i.e. automating data and interaction analytics, rather than the technical details. Currently, clients are paying separately for these services to various vendors who work in silos which can increase costs and project timelines. AaaS will democratise RPA irrespective of industry vertical and client’s company size. “Businesses can now think about the outcomes they are seeking, rather than getting bogged down in the technology specifications and cost of initiating the RPA journey.” Mindfields has also been recently covered in the technology section of the Australian Financial Review. You can view the article here - http://www.afr.com/technology/robotic-process-automation-on-demand-as-consultants-get-disrupted-20170816-gxx6b0 For more info on AaaS, visit - http://bit.ly/2wsMVrP or watch this video About Mindfields: Mindfields is a vendor and tool agnostic full-service Robotic Process Automation and Artificial Intelligence firm with a global presence. We provide consulting, education and execution to clients backed by comprehensive independent research. For more information, please visit our website.

2017-08-15T02:04:09Z top-sydney-dance-schools-star-in-9th-annual-kidsxpress-dance-challenge

Over $16,000 raised on the weekend to support KidsXpress charity Sydney, Australia – 15th August 2017 – The talented teams of over 1,000 local dancers from Sydney’s top dance schools, accompanied by their principals, attended the annual KidsXpress Dance Challenge at the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre on Sunday. Performing in front of more than 3,000 people who attended the event, they not only gave the audience a terrific show but with their combined efforts they helped support the KidsXpress charity, a world’s first early-intervention, unique expressive therapy program for young children, by raising $16,000. The funding raised over the weekend will help ensure that KidsXpress can continue to inspire children to thrive through the power of music, art, drama, play and, of course, dance. Lachie Dearing, Hi-5 member, Australia’a Got Talent 2013 finalist and current KidsXpress ambassador, has also been an active part in KidsXpress’ journey since he performed at the grand opening in 2006 when he was just 8 years old and has participated at the Dance Challenge event every year since its inauguration, including this last Sunday. "The purpose of the program was explained to all of us back then and hearing about what some kids endure opened my eyes to how fortunate my own life is. It made me realise that I wanted to be able to help others. To this day, the most fulfilling part of being in Hi-5 is having the ability to be able to give back in some small way. The program uses the things that I am most passionate about, dance, music and drama to help troubled kids. I for one know just how helpful expressing yourself through the arts can be.” Talking about the event, Lachie continued saying “There is a sense of unity as we are all there to do what we love to do, dance, but more importantly raise money for an incredible cause. It’s an incredible feeling to know that an awesome day of fun for us can make a change to others lives." Miss Galaxy 2017, Shikye Alyce Smith, is too one of the original performers who was invited to be a part of the opening of KidsXpress back in 2006 and she said ‘It's been amazing to see how it has grown over the past 10 years. I've been involved in the Dance Challenge from its first year as a competitor and now volunteer each year at the event. I'm a huge believer that the performing and creative arts are very powerful healing tools so I am beyond proud to support this incredible organisation. “ Now in its 9th year, the KidsXpress Dance Challenge brings together Sydney’s top dance schools with the children’s charity, KidsXpress, to showcase some of the state’s most talented young dancers while also raising funding to support KidsXpress innovative program. The day celebrates dance and highlights the incredible impact it can have on young lives, as KidsXpress uses dance and movement therapy, along with other expressive therapy modalities to support children living with the impacts of childhood trauma. Over the years, more than $260,000 has been collectively raised for KidsXpress through this event which has helped KidsXpress grow and develop their program to reach more children in-need throughout Sydney. Margo Ward, KidsXpress founder and CEO said “The KidsXpress Dance Challenge unites the dance community in a meaningful demonstration of compassion in action. It is a day of expression, a day of dance, beauty and fun, but most importantly, it’s a day of incredible impact for the vulnerable children which can now access our incredible expressive therapy program as a result.” For more information, please visit https://kidsxpress.org.au/how-can-i-help/#schools-and-organisations /Ends About KidsXpress Founded in 2005, KidsXpress first opened its doors in 2006 and it seeks to reduce the personal, social and financial burdens of the childhood experiences of trauma through an innovative and accredited expressive therapy interaction program for children aged 4-14 years. More than 2500 children have been through the program. KidsXpress’ core therapy program is run by highly skilled, expert therapists in small groups from its headquarters in Sydney’s Moore Park as well as through a Western Sydney Outreach program. Media Contacts Einsteinz Communications Carlotta Vittori or Pru Quinlan 02 8905 0995 carlotta@einsteinz.com.au or pru@einsteinz.com.au KidsXpress Contacts Matthew Keast Grants and Communications Manager matthew.keast@kidsxpress.org.au 0431679916 Anastasia Bernardo Fundraising and Events Manager anastasia.bernardo@kidsxpress.org.au 02 9380 9220

2017-07-27T02:37:26Z local-melbourne-business-woman-nominated-for-influencer-award

The AusMumpreneur Awards presented by The AusMumpreneur Network celebrate and recognize Australian Mums in business achieving outstanding success in areas such as business excellence, product development, customer service and digital innovation. The awards are designed to recognize the growing number of women who successfully balance motherhood and business in a way that suits their life and family. Natalie is a Melbourne based Mum and founder of Miracle Mama, an online resource that empowers and inspires mothers with special needs children. Through coaching, community and heart-centered collaborations, her mission is to create a space for women to reconnect with themselves and what is most important to them. Natalie is a passionate writer, speaker and coach. She also has a background in both the corporate and wellness worlds, with experience in Sales & Marketing as well as being a Yoga and Meditation teacher. There are many benefits to balancing business and motherhood as Natalie explains: "The ability to follow our personal dreams as well as enjoy the precious time of raising our children." Yet the initially she lost the balance of work – life – motherhood, when her youngest daughter Chiara had suffered a stroke. As a result, Chiara was left with a serious brain-injury that would impede her ability to ever walk, talk or live a long life. "All of a sudden my life was catapulted into hospitals, therapies and the unknown. Due to high medical needs of my daughter I could not keep up with my yoga business at the time. Unfortunately, I had to close the business and focus on Chiara and her medical needs. Not to mention coming to terms with such a life changing diagnosis for our daughter and what that meant for her and our family as a whole. A few years on I decided to create an online business, that would be a culmination of my background in corporate, yoga, coaching and writing and deliver to the mums who needed it most, special needs mothers. It can very isolating when you have a medically fragile child, so the power of community and connection for the special needs mums has been incredible. Creating an online business helped to create flexible time and space to combine my work with my most revered role, motherhood. It can be challenging to be a successful business woman whilst raising a family and Natalie gives this advice for others thinking about starting their own enterprise. ”Do your research, take your time but never stop chasing your dreams”. Natalie is in the running to be recognised as one of Australia's most outstanding mums in business, nominated under the "Influencer Award" category. You can help by voting for her via https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ausmum17 Round 2 voting starts 24th July and ends 13th August. For an interview with Natalie Roberts Mazzeo contact 0413 296 288, http://www.miraclemama.com.au natalie@miraclemama.com.au The winners of the 2017 AusMumpreneur Awards will be announced at a glamorous Awards dinner at Doltone House in Sydney on Friday 25th August. For more information on the AusMumpreneur Awards visit: contact Peace Mitchell on 0431 615 107 or hello@ausmumpreneur.com

2017-07-27T01:24:14Z breaking-news-asx-listed-g-medical-signs-binding-mou-for-us-67-5m-for-china-distribution

ASX Announcement 27 July 2017 G MEDICAL SIGNS BINDING MOU FOR CHINA DISTRIBUTION VALUED AT US$67.5M •Binding MOU signed with Shandong Boletong Information S&T Co. Ltd. •Agreed terms include call centre cooperation and a minimum purchase order of Smartphone Prizmaunits within the first year. •Medical and ancillary support via Nurse and Physician staffed call centres and ‘Cloud’ services. Mobile health and e-health company G Medical Innovations Holdings Ltd (“G Medical” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce it has executed a Binding Memorandum of Understanding (“Agreement”) between its subsidiary G Medical Innovations Asia Limited and Shandong Boletong Information S&T Co. Ltd. (“Boletong”), for the distribution of G Medical’s products and for call centre and ‘Cloud’ services in the People’s Republic of China. G Medical Smartphone Prizma Purchase Order Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, Boletong has agreed to purchase a minimum quantity of units within the 1st Year of the G Medical Smartphone Prizma, and to provide associated support services for a minimum period of 60 months. Boletong will pay a pre-determined price for each unit, with the value of the agreement based on the minimum commitments being no less than US$67,500,000. The obligation to acquire the units commences on the granting of the CFDA certification to G Medical, which is currently in process. Support Services 1) Medical Services: Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, Boletong and G Medical will set up a medical call centreproviding support services from 50-60 Nurses and 3-5 General Practising Physicians. Boletong will be responsible for the recruitment of the Nurses and General Practising Physicians, andthe establishment of the call centre. 2) ‘Cloud’ Subscription and Support Services: Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, Boletong and/or G Medical will provide; a) Automated Cloud algorithm interpretation services, for biomedical signals 20170727_GMV - Binding MOU for China Distribution Page 2 of 3 b )Level 1 services including, Live and/or automated end-user technical support c) Level 2 services including, hardware (device) support, replacement/repairs Marketing and advertising G Medical agreed to contribute an immaterial portion of the per unit price as marketing and investment for Boletong's promotion of the products and services in China, with such payments to be set-off against payment of the purchase orders by Boletong. Non-competition Boletong and its associations are subject to non-competition restraints for the period of the Agreement, and ending five years after its termination (unless G Medical is found by a Court to have breached the Agreement). These non-competition restraints extend to competing with the products or services of G Medical. G Medical CEO Dr. Yacov Geva, commented: “I am extremely pleased to announce yet another significant relationship for G Medical within the ever-growing and lucrative Chinese territory. To have further increased our purchase commitment for our G Medical Smartphone Prizma devices, over and above our existing agreements, is an exceptional outcome with a key partner in Boletong. This adds further to our robust, multi-year revenue stream for the Company, particularly within the first year of a CFDA approval being granted”. “I have met with the executives of Boletong, and whilst in China have visited their facilities and operations. Boletong operates in 16+ provinces and works with the National Public Health care system and acts as a distributor of medical services for the government. Boletong is currently working with several large healthcare organisations such as Wanda, a medical company which is positioned in the top three in their area, and along with telecom carriers such as China Telecom. Boletong is also supported through investment from a large and reputable group in Beijing. Our team, has invested more than 3 months in bringing this MOU to fruition, during which time we were able to satisfy ourselves as to Boletong's strong financial position, their key government partnerships in place, and the ability to deliver all aspects under our agreement.” “This relationship is a significant strategic partnership, allowing the roll out the Company’s medical and ancillary support services within the Chinese territory, for both our professional call centre and Cloud based systems”. Ends Corporate Advisors Otsana Capital 108 Outram Street West Perth WA 6005 Telephone: +61 8 9486 7244 www.otsana.com About Shandong Boletong Information S&T Co., Ltd Shandong Boletong Information S&T Co., Ltd. (Boletong) is a hi-tech medical and healthcare company invested by Beijing Honghui Group which has businesses in medicine, investment, drug store automation system and new energy areas, based in China. Boletong focuses on the production and sales of medical devices, membership healthcare management systems and R&D and applications for the National Basic Public Healthcare Project Solution. Boletong is currently one of the top 16 service providers for the national public healthcare system. Boletong is located in Jinan Hi-tech Technology Development Area, Shandong province. Boletong’s website is www.sdboletong.com About G Medical Innovations G Medical (ASX:GMV) was founded in August 2014, aiming to be at the forefront of the digital health revolution, developing the next generation of mobile health (mHealth) technologies. The Company brings forth the experience and expertise of its Board to deliver best-in-class solutions to address this global opportunity. The Company specialises in innovative next generation mobile and e-health solutions and services using its suite of devices and software solutions with a view to driving multiple and recurring revenue streams, across numerous verticals and territories. For more information on G Medical, please visit www.gmedinnovations.com

2017-07-26T00:48:52Z treasury-packs-a-punch-for-upcoming-money-fight

Hot on the heels of the Horn vs Pacquio boxing match, another knockout event touted as ‘The Money Fight’ is set to ignite the interest of boxing and sports enthusiasts alike. Set within the heritage surrounds of the hotel courtyard, Treasury Brisbane will broadcast the Floyd Mayweather Jnr vs Conor McGregor professional boxing super fight on Sunday 27 August with streaming of the undercards to commence at 11am. Floyd Mayweather Jnr is the undefeated eleven-time five division professional boxing World Champion and Conor McGregor is the current UFC Lightweight Champion. The fight will take place in Las Vegas and will be broadcast around the globe. At Treasury, guests will experience the blow-by-blow action on a gigantic 7m x 4m LED screen and enjoy a choice of two crafted catering packages from their ringside seat. General Admission Reserved table seating from 1pm to 4pm, including 3-hour all-inclusive beverage package. Beverages include Kirin, XXXX Summer, Little Creatures, Heineken/Heineken 3, T’Gallant Moscato, North of South Sauvignon Blanc, North of South Pinot Noir, Domaine Chandon, water, assorted soft drinks. Food includes onion rings, chips, calamari with aioli, buffalo wings and mini pizza. Cost: $80 per person. VIP Package Exclusive front row mega screen table seating from 1pm to 4pm - including 3 hour all-inclusive package. Beverages include Johnnie Walker Black, Makers Mark, Tanqueray Gin, Ketel One Vodka, Angostura Spiced Rum, Kirin, XXXX Summer, Little Creatures, Heineken/Heineken 3, T’Gallant Moscato, North of South Sauvignon Blanc, North of South Pinot Noir, Domaine Chandon, water, and assorted soft drinks. Food includes beef sliders, tempura seafood platters, onion rings, chips, calamari with aioli, buffalo wings and mini pizza. Cost: $125 per person All guests will receive a $10 Casino Dollar voucher (must be a Member of The Star Club to redeem). A cash bar will be available from 11am – 1pm and 4pm – 5pm. Minimum booking of eight required to secure exclusive table (no mixed packages allowed). For Bookings: bit.ly/treasuryboxing Media Contact Luana Latham Communications Manager T: 0427 904 284 E: luana.latham@star.com.au

2017-07-26T00:34:26Z thoughtworks-releases-first-ever-report-on-courageous-leadership-among-successful-c-suite-executives

p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial} li.li1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} span.s2 {text-decoration: underline ; font-kerning: none; color: #0563c1} span.s3 {text-decoration: underline ; font-kerning: none} ul.ul1 {list-style-type: disc} ThoughtWorks, a global software consultancy released a first of its kind report, “The Next Big Disruption: Courageous Executives”, revealing what sets top business leaders apart from their competition. The report profiles an elite segment of C-Suite leaders referred to as “Courageous Executives” in the US, the UK, Australia and India and the findings underscore the critical role technology plays in business strategy, from navigating the chaos of digital transformation to how they’re setting their business up for future success. The report also sheds light on the leadership styles of Courageous Executives including their tolerance for risk and failure, their use of customer insights and the ways leaders in all four countries are preparing for the future of work. This report, developed by ThoughtWorks in partnership with research agency Northstar, features insight from Fortune 500 C-Suite executives who are: advocates for digital transformation; have an active role in directing how technology enables their business; have seen their company’s revenue or profit increase significantly due to a recent technology change; and 85 percent of which self-identified as risk takers. “As companies across all industries embrace the changes of our increasingly digital world, we’re seeing leaders at the helm of these companies dive deeper into how technology is implemented and how it works,” said ThoughtWorks President and CEO, Guo Xiao. “I began my time in the industry as a developer, giving me the tools I needed to approach business with a technology first perspective. Executives across the globe are learning that a strong grasp of technology matters and they’re finding ways to adapt. Our findings show that 54 percent of Courageous Executives have developed a deep understanding of technology with a remarkable 57 percent of these leaders reporting having written code,” noted Xiao. "A tenacious commitment to embrace technology is what today sets apart truly Courageous Executives." According to Ange Ferguson, Group Managing Director for ThoughtWorks Asia Pacific, “In this new age of digital disruption, technology is being catapulted closer to the business core and that’s challenging the traditional C-suite. They need to think and behave differently when it comes to the role of technology in their strategy, and to question how they are engaging technology to produce better outcomes for the business. “While capability was once a barrier to what’s possible, now the constraint lies in the willingness of decision makers to be courageous with foundational technologies,” she said. REA, which operates Australia’s leading residential, commercial and share property websites, as well as a number of property portals in Asia and interests in the US and India, credits its impressive growth and success to a culture based on consistent innovation and invention. “The REA business is built around customer delivery, which demands that we work to the same agile rhythm across all levels of the organisation. Visualised work, team stand-ups and collaboration enable the innovation and invention that has become part of our DNA,” said Nigel Dalton, Chief Inventor, REA. “Our competition is global and the landscape is set to change as AirBnB, Facebook, Google, eBay, and WeChat become major players in property over the next few years. We’re embracing the opportunities this creates by focusing our culture of innovation and invention on the technologies that will change how people find property - robotics, virtual reality, augmented reality and data science. “That, along with our diverse backgrounds, creative thinking and scalability, will see us continue to deliver new products and services to market faster than anyone else, and ensure we are the world’s best.” According to the report, notable themes uniting Courageous Executives include: Proactive Approach to Technology Changes According to the report, to keep pace and anticipate future technology shifts, Courageous Executives conduct research, analyze their competitors, troubleshoot tech challenges and hire subject matter experts. A majority of Courageous Executives (65 percent) say that digitizing and adapting to new technology is a top business priority followed by growth. Research – 63 percent of leaders do their own research to stay ahead of technology changes. Top trends they’re exploring include security threats; human and machine interaction; new hardware, software and operational platforms; machine learning and artificial intelligence; virtual reality and augmented reality. Competitor Analysis – In all four countries, big tech decisions are most often fueled by competition. Asked to identify the largest driver motivating change, 47 percent pointed to their competitors. Tolerance for Risk and Willingness to Fail Understanding risks and its impact on ongoing business success is an important characteristic of a Courageous Executive along with the ability to rebound after a perceived failure. Appetite for Risk - In fact, 87 percent of all executives agree that taking risks is necessary to achieve goals and maintain a strong competitive advantage with 62 percent pointing to their willingness to take risks their competitors won’t as a key differentiator. Failing Well - Courageous Executives reported their most common reaction to these setbacks was to focus on what went right with the second being to stay as positive as possible. When asked how failure affected their employees, 54 percent globally said that they believed failure made them even more motivated to succeed. Use of Customer Insights Throughout the world, courageous leaders recognize the necessity of maintaining a close connection to their customers. 91 percent report that customer input directly informs their strategic decision-making. While there is some agreement as to the best methods for gathering that customer input, there’s still a lack of consensus among executives when it comes to what data they’re collecting and who is assessing the insights. Data Source - Overall, the most common source of insight is customer research, followed by social feeds which are monitored by 68 percent of Australian, 60 percent of UK and Indian and only 38 percent of US leaders. Other ways executives gather information includes using analytics from a content management system or implementing a designated customer insights task force. Customer Engagement - Gathering data from multiple sources is universally valued, but 87 percent of executives report having an internal team dedicated to their customers. Additionally, 58 percent of US and 48 percent of Australian executives say they speak to their customers themselves, which is far more than 32 percent in India and 22 percent in the UK. The Future of Work Across continents, nearly half of all courageous leaders describe their company culture as “team-first,” meaning they hire primarily for cultural fit, with skills and experience the second consideration. A third define their company as having an “elite” culture, described as hiring only the best to change the world by untested means. Subject Matter Experts - An overwhelming majority of Courageous Executives (90 percent) emphasized the importance of key hires, stating that discovering subject matter experts and new talents helps their context and credibility and is crucial to success. Tech’s Impact - 70 percent believe that replacing white-collar workers with technology is a natural progression and to be expected. To prepare for the potential impact of technology on the workforce, 87 percent of leaders admit to researching new technologies that may help them save on staff costs. 83 percent also agree that they’re preparing for the impact of technology replacing their workers by limiting new hires to reduce ongoing overhead. To download the report visit www.thoughtworks.com/courage Methodology Developed by ThoughtWorks’, this report is based on data collected by Northstar Research Partners from C-Suite executives from Fortune 500 companies with 100 employees or more, 87 percent of whom have occupied their office for at least three years and 79 percent reporting more than $100 million in revenue. The executives are primarily Presidents or Chief Executive Officers, the data also includes insights from the full C-suite including CIOs, CMOs, COOs, CTOs from a variety of industries from finance and retail to healthcare and manufacturing and more. About ThoughtWorks We are a software company and community of passionate purpose-led individuals. We think disruptively to deliver technology to address our clients' toughest challenges all while seeking to revolutionize the IT industry and create positive social change.

2017-07-21T05:36:32Z banking-on-a-bright-idea

Australia’s army of budding entrepreneurs is being encouraged to apply for grants of up to $50,000 to kick-start their business ideas.Beyond Bank Australia has released a total of $250,000 through its unique Community Entrepreneur Program which aims to identify and support emerging innovators around the nation.  “Now more than ever, entrepreneurs need a bit of help to get started,” said Beyond Bank’s General Manager, Community Development, Peter Rutter.  “There are some great ideas out there and for those looking to turn that idea into reality $50,000 can go a very long way.”  Grants are available for new businesses and concepts as well as pre and post-launch stages of existing projects to help take them to the next level.  “We’ve been running the Programme for two years now and have uncovered some amazing talent.  “This year we have decided to expand it even further with more money and an opportunity for the public to get involved by voting for those who make it on to the national shortlist.”  Applications open on July 17 with voting in September and October ahead of the announcement of successful recipients in November.  “Ideally, what we want to see are original ideas around social enterprise, technology and grassroots business models that support the community, be it in a capital city or in a regional town” said Mr Rutter.  “And aside from the cash windfall, we will also support those who are successful by linking them to local networks, access to experts and encouragement to consider further growth strategies like crowd funding, shared workspace, education and training.”  Interested entrepreneurs are invited to apply online at beyondbank.com.au/entrepreneur where they will be asked to outline the key components of the business plan, show an understanding of the local market and a pathway towards meeting future targets.

2017-07-17T04:11:34Z local-melbourne-mum-nominated-for-national-ausmumpreneur-awards

Local business woman nominated for National Awards Natalie Roberts Mazzeo of Miracle Mama has been nominated for the 2017 AusMumpreneur Awards. The AusMumpreneur Awards presented by The AusMumpreneur Network celebrate and recognize Australian Mums in business achieving outstanding success in areas such as business excellence, product development, customer service and digital innovation. The awards are designed to recognize the growing number of women who successfully balance motherhood and business in a way that suits their life and family. Natalie is a Melbourne based Mum and founder of Miracle Mama, an online resource that empowers and inspires mothers with special needs children. Through coaching, community and heart-centered collaborations, her mission is to create a space for women to reconnect with themselves and what is most important to them. Natalie is a passionate writer, speaker and coach. She also has a background in both the corporate and wellness worlds, with experience in Sales & Marketing as well as being a Yoga and Meditation teacher. Natalie explains: "There are many benefits to balancing business and motherhood. The ability to follow our personal dreams as well as enjoy the precious time of raising our children." Yet the initially she lost the balance of work – life – motherhood, when her youngest daughter Chiara had suffered a stroke. As a result, Chiara was left with a serious brain-injury that would impede her ability to ever walk, talk or live a long life. "All of a sudden my life was catapulted into hospitals, therapies and the unknown. Due to high medical needs of my daughter I could not keep up with my yoga business at the time. Unfortunately, I had to close the business and focus on Chiara and her medical needs. Not to mention coming to terms with such a life changing diagnosis for our daughter and what that meant for her and our family as a whole. A few years on I decided to create an online business, that would be a culmination of my background in corporate, yoga, coaching and writing and deliver to the mums who needed it most, special needs mothers. It can very isolating when you have a medically fragile child, so the power of community and connection for the special needs mums has been incredible. Creating an online business helped to create flexible time and space to combine my work with my most revered role, motherhood. It can be challenging to be a successful business woman whilst raising a family and Natalie gives this advice for others thinking about starting their own enterprise. ”Do your research, take your time but never stop chasing your dreams”. Natalie is in the running to be recognised as one of Australia's most outstanding mums in business, nominated under the "Influencer Award" category. You can help by voting for her via https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ausmum17 Round 1 voting ends at midnight on Friday 21 July. Round 2 voting starts 24th July and ends 13th August. For an interview with Natalie Roberts Mazzeo contact 0413 296 288, http://www.miraclemama.com.au natalie@miraclemama.com.au The winners of the 2017 AusMumpreneur Awards will be announced at a glamorous Awards dinner at Doltone House in Sydney on Friday 25th August. For more information on the AusMumpreneur Awards visit: contact Peace Mitchell on 0431 615 107 or hello@ausmumpreneur.com

2017-06-22T02:00:12Z nominate-a-deserving-ausmumpreneur-and-show-your-support-for-australian-mums-in-business

The AusMumpreneur Conference and AusMumpreneur Awards are all about supporting Australian mums in business. This event provides a unique opportunity for women from all over Australia to come together to gain new skills, promote their business, connect with fellow mums in business, learn from leading business experts and celebrate the success of the best and brightest in the industry. Proudly presented by AusMumpreneur and The Women’s Business School, the AusMumpreneur Awards recognise the best and brightest in the Australian mumpreneur industry. The categories that will be judged are: AusMumpreneur of the Year Rising Star AusMumpreneur of the Year Emerging AusMumpreneur of the Year Regional Business Award Product Innovation Award Digital Innovation Award Sustainability Award Business Excellence Award AusMumpreneur Network Excellence Award Women’s Business School Excellence Award Global Brand Award Big Idea Award Making A Difference Award Retail Business Award Service Business Award Handmade Business Award The People's Choice Awards: Influencer Award Customer Service Award Making a Difference Award (Business) Making a Difference Award (Non-profit) Business owners or those who wish to nominate a mumpreneur, can go to: https://www.ausmumpreneur.com/ausmumpreneur-awards/ Nominations close on Friday the 30th of June 2017. Media Contact: Candice Meisels candice@candicepr.com 0481 369 484

2017-06-06T01:30:40Z sheep-farmer-grateful-for-20k-tax-write-off-to-improve-farm-productivity

Illabo sheep producer, Peter Belling, has capitalised on the Federal Government’s highly popular tax write off for equipment purchases valued up to $20,000, by purchasing a Clipex Sheep Handler before the end of financial year. The business-savvy cereal crop and sheep producer, who runs “Dundoo Hills” with his wife and son, said the tax break was a big incentive. “I’ve been studying sheep handlers for the past three years and the benefits of each model,” Peter said. “The machine itself was $19K without the scales, but it will be worth it. If the incentive is there, you might as well be improving the farm – you don’t want to be working with old gear all the time.” Peter purchased the Clipex Sheep Handler in March to meet the end-of-financial year deadline. “I was looking to save time and man power. We buy wethers or lambs every few months and then fatten them up and turn them off and get another lot, so for us the Sheep Handler has a dual purpose” Peter explained. “As we speak I am shifting sheep onto grazing canola and grazing wheat and they will stay here until we shut these paddocks up at the end of June and then we’ll harvest in October.” The high turnover of stock is labour intensive, with Peter man-handling a lot of sheep during his 35 years on the property. “I’ve purchased 1,500 wethers in the past few weeks and, when they arrive, I weigh and sort them into their weight category,” Peter said. “Yesterday I vaccinated, drenched and drafted 700 wethers by myself with two dogs using the Clipex Sheep Hander.” Peter said prior to purchasing the machine the same task would have taken him one and a half days. “I would have to run them up a draft onto a set on scales and then release them and then go back and get another one. I did have a reasonable system before, but nowhere near as good as this,” Peter explained. “I’ve only had it for a couple of months, but I can do jobs now that used to take two people and I am saving my shoulders – I don’t have to man-handle sheep up and down a race.” Peter believes his ability to easily and accurately weigh his flock will improve their bottom line. “We will be able to improve profitability as we will be able to calculate accurately how long it has taken for the sheep to put on weight,” Peter said. “It will be worth it. If I bought 1,000 wethers and made $20 a head I will make my money back.” The federal government have extended their $20,000 instant asset tax write-off scheme for another 12 months. Businesses with an annual turnover of up $10 million will now have until June 30, 2018, to immediate deduct eligible assets up to the value of $20,000. Please refer to the Clipex website (www.clipex.com.au) for more information about their innovative Clipex Sheep Handler, including explainer videos. Ends For media enquiries: C7EVEN Communications Adam Arndell, 02 6766 4513 / 0403 372 889 adam.arndell@c7even.com.au

2017-05-30T05:21:58Z wavelength-international-listed-in-the-best-smes-to-work-asia-2017

Wavelength International has made the prestigious Best Places to Work Asia 2017, one of only 3 Australian businesses to make the top 10 of the small and medium workplaces list. The Best Places to Work Australia Study is one of the world’s most comprehensive independent studies of workplace culture by global research and consulting firm Great Place to Work – More than 1,400 companies participated in national list studies in the 9 Asia-region countries where Great Place to Work® is represented. Wavelength shot into the top 10 this year, placing 9th in the top 25 Best Places to Work (20-500) employees. It is an impressive achievement, especially in an industry renowned for its high pressure work environments and high staff turnover. “It just goes to show you can be a successful high performance business by embracing a generous and supportive culture,” says Chris Riley, Wavelength’s CEO. “Just by walking through the door, you immediately sense Wavelength is a happy, motivated and engaged place to work. In my experience in this industry our workplace culture is quite unique: everyone cares passionately about the business and working collaboratively as a team." With over 75 employees, Wavelength is Australia’s largest and most successful medical recruitment agency. The company offers a range of employee benefits including: Flexible and family friendly working hours, Free breakfast Fitness classes A creative, casual and fun working environment i Monetary incentives linked with productivity and performance against key goals. Additional information Specific highlights that have made Wavelength a great place to work include: · A generous remuneration and commission scheme renowned for being extremely market competitive. Wavelength is also committed to making salary packages consistent and fair across the organisation. Employees in all roles are recognised and rewarded for outstanding performance. Individual goals created for all employees quarterly which are part of their performance criteria. Managers regularly meet with team members to provide feedback and coach them to be even better in their role. An internal mentoring program which enable employees to discover and develop their talents. · A real commitment to work life balance with a broad range of flexible full-time, part-time and job share work patterns in place. Employees can work flexibly between 7am and 7pm and have the opportunity to work from home one day a week. Wavelength also offers an additional five days of annual leave once an employee has completed four years’ continuous employment. A generous paid parental leave program and flexibility when it comes to extended leave for weddings and overseas trips. · Inspiring values of excellence, ingenuity, integrity and heart incorporated into all business processes, policies and communications. · A bright, fresh, modern and open workspace to encourage a positive working environment and work life balance. There are showers, great training facilities and plenty of room for regular health and fitness sessions. Breakfast, drinks and healthy snacks are all provided daily for all employees. · A love for celebrations – birthdays, anniversaries, individual and company achievements. · An internal social networking platform to foster a modern culture of openness and transparency. · Quarterly employee briefings to share information, business goals, successes, challenges and new initiatives. A commitment to the health sector both in Australia and overseas. Wavelength actively donates and fundraises for the Fred Hollows Foundation and Médecins Sans Frontières. The company also sponsors indigenous medical students and encourages employees to participate in other charitable events throughout the year. ### About Wavelength International Wavelength International
is Australia’s largest medical recruitment company, offering local and international candidate resourcing, medical registration and immigration services for medical professionals and healthcare employers. Based in Sydney, we work with over 300 hospitals, clinics and general practices across Australia, New Zealand and Singapore. About Great Place to Work Inc Great Place to Work Inc, is a global research and consulting firm specialising in workplace excellence and development of high-trust and high-engagement workplace cultures. Our proprietary research tool, the Trust Index Employee Engagement Survey, is taken annually by over 10 million employees worldwide. Leading companies worldwide use our model to increase the levels of trust across their organisations and drive business results. For further information, please contact: Deanna Daly Marketing Executive, Wavelength International Tel: 02 8353 9032 Email: ddaly@wave.com.au www.wave.com.au www.wavies.com.au

2017-05-29T23:53:57Z treasury-brisbane-to-host-free-origin-supporters-breakfast

VISION/ INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY REMINDER Tuesday 30 May 2017 For immediate release Treasury Brisbane to host free Origin Supporters Breakfast An army of Mighty Maroon supporters are expected to descend upon Queens Park in the Brisbane CBD on Wednesday 31 May for a free Holden State of Origin Supporters Breakfast hosted by award-winning sport reporter, commentator and radio presenter, Ben Davis. Kicking off at 7.00am, supporters will be able to snap their favourite fan moment with footy legends Gorden Tallis, Scott Prince and Jharal Yow Yeh who will also be serving up a free sausage sizzle and complimentary barista-made coffee. Fans will have the chance to enter Treasury’s Cash Booth and win one of a fantastic range of prizes which include the last Origin tickets in town, cash prizes and Treasury gift cards. Not yet kitted out? Supporters will have the opportunity to buy the latest gear onsite from Canterbury NZ and collect a token to receive a free, limited-edition supporter t-shirt to be collected after 6pm from the LiveWire Bar. Game day celebrations are set to continue late into evening. Supporters will be able to fuel up before the big clash with our mighty $22 Members Only Steak & Prawn offer* and listen to former NRL great, Scott Sattler’s live pre-match review in the LiveWire bar. Full time doesn’t mean ‘game over’ at Treasury, when The Potbelleez take centre stage for a live and loud, free post-match performance. Head on down to Treasury Brisbane to capture the beginning of all the game day action. Treasury Brisbane is proud partner of Queensland Rugby League and Official Home of the XXXX Queensland Maroons. *Membership to The Star Club is free and easy to join. Breakfast in the Park - Wednesday, 31 May 2017 Time: 7.00am – 9.00am Venue: Queens Park (corner George & Elizabeth Streets, Brisbane) Talent available for interview: Scott Prince and Jharal Yow Yeh Parking: Complimentary media parking is available at the Treasury Brisbane Car Park. Please see Luana Latham for validation of ticket. Game 1 – Wednesday, 31 May 2017 Talent available for interview: Scott Sattler To confirm attendance or arrange talent interviews, please contact: Luana Latham Communications Manager Treasury Brisbane T: 0427 904 284 E: luana.latham@star.com.au

2017-05-29T02:30:15Z accurate-weighing-of-ewes-critical-to-improve-profits

Accurate weighing of ewes critical to improve profits Like most experienced sheep producers, Damon Soster has a good eye for judging the weight of a moving merino ewe, but he says his farm profitability has increased dramatically since using the Clipex Sheep Handler to weigh his flock. The Cassilis farmer runs a 5,500 hectare Hereford Stud, “Dalkeith”, in the Upper Hunter Valley, where 500 commercial cows and 8,000 merino ewes enjoy a generous, annual rainfall of 610 mm. “We used to just eyeball the sheep, but to be able to get accurate weights quickly and efficiently pays for itself - it just takes the guess work out of it,” explained Damon. “The Clipex Sheep Handler is fantastic for weighing – it is so efficient. One person and two good dogs can manage the whole process – you could weigh 550 / 600 in an hour if you are having a good run.” Damon said he purchased the Clipex Sheep Handler two years ago to decrease labour costs. “Labour costs are our biggest challenge. In our district the mines take a lot of the casual labour – even kids coming out of school want 10 or 20 times what we used to pay,” Damon said. “With the Clipex Sheep Handler you’re saving money on having people during those peak times and you’re making good money at the end of it having a good line to sell.” The innovative farmer said he trusts the Clipex brand, since first using the Clipex fencing system to erect fences throughout his property seven years ago. “I am constantly looking at innovation. I am a big believer in moving forward, rather than doing things how we have for the past 30 or 40 years,” Damon said. “The two main challenges for us in the fencing system were labour and longevity. A lot of the other products on the market are very labour intensive and you could see the other products were wearing out after 10 years.” Damon said he first saw the Clipex Fencing System at a field day and knew it would save time. “I liked the formulation of the clip. I knew it would be a labour saver and, having used the product now for eight years, it proved that it was,” Damon said. “Once we got the fences up and erected, I haven’t done anything to the fences at all. We have a kangaroo and feral pig problem here and it has stood up to that really well and the maintenance is minimal.” Damon said the products have also improved on-farm safety. “With any of these new technologies it makes life easier and takes away that hard labour component - the Clipex fencing system is not back breaking,” Damon explained. “The old technology in weigh crates resulted in jammed fingers. For keeping staff morale, if you are running things more efficiently and safely then people are happier. And, if it’s not hard on your back and your fingers, it just makes things safer.” The after-sales service has also been impressive. “I think an important thing with this company is that it is family-owned - you can talk directly to the people who are innovative and making the products. It’s a massive plus and driver for me to use the products,” Damon explained. “I’ve used their products for eight years and I have promoted their products to other producers in the region. I’m not afraid to preach it at all – they are great products.” Please refer to the Clipex website (www.clipex.com.au) for more information about their revolutionary fencing products and the Clipex Sheep Handler, including explainer videos. Ends For media enquiries: C7EVEN Communications Adam Arndell, 02 6766 4513 / 0403 372 889 adam.arndell@c7even.com.au

2017-05-24T08:14:40Z breakthrough-in-cancer-treatments-and-prevention-of-subsequent-heart-failure-1

PREVENTING HEART FAILURE DUE TO CANCER TREATMENTS: RESEARCH Life-saving research to protect cancer patients from future heart disease   Researchers from Heart Research Australia are working on a project that has the incredible potential to make cancer cells more responsive to cancer treatment and potentially eliminate the risk of developing heart failure at a later stage. A commonly used group of cancer treatment drugs called ‘anthracyclines’, which includes the common drug Doxorubicin, although effective can lead to side effects such as heart damage and heart failure. 50% of patients with severe heart failure will die within 1 year of diagnosis.[i] Heart Research Australia’s Chair of Cardiology, Professor Helge Rasmussen, and his co-investigator Dr Chia-chi Liu, are leading a project which has the amazing potential to make a significant improvement in the lives of cancer and cardiac patients. Professor Rasmussen and his team were investigating a group of proteins, called ‘FXYD proteins’ when they realised one of the proteins, FYXD 3, was overexpressed in some cancer cells including breast, pancreas, prostrate and bowel cancer cells. Their test tube experiments proved that the FXYD3 protein protects the cancer cells, making them less responsive to treatments such as Doxorubicin. The team have now developed a peptide (a small protein-like substance) which when applied to some cancer cells, “wipes out” the protective effect of the FXYD 3 protein. “In our studies, when we put the peptide on breast cancer cells and treated it with Doxorubicin, it amplified the effect of the Doxorubicin tenfold.” says Professor Rasmussen. While these results are from test-tube experiments, if Professor Rasmussen and his team could prove this action to have the same effect on some cancers in people, it is possible doctors could use a tenfold lower dose of Doxorubicin (for example) and still get the same results from the treatment. In doing so, this would reduce damage to the heart, and likely eliminate the risk of developing heart failure. Professor Rasmussen is cautiously optimistic, but does acknowledge that this research not only has the potential to reduce damage to the heart, it could also lead to a cure for some cancers. “Heart damage is often now the limiting factor in cancer treatment. You can treat the cancer, but if you damage the heart, it doesn’t always recover. Sometimes people get their cancer treated or even cured, but then they can die from heart failure,” says Professor Rasmussen. “Our work is extremely exciting as it has the potential to drastically change the way we treat cancer.” Fast Facts[ii]: ·      Around 100,000 Australians are living with heart failure.  ·      20–30% of patients with mild to moderate heart failure will die within one year ·      50% of patients with severe heart failure will die within one year ·      Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples experience chronic heart failure at a younger age and are more likely to die than non-Indigenous Australians ·      Heart failure costs are estimated to be more than $1 billion per annum [i] Watson et al. 2000   [ii] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Heart failure… what of the future? Bulletin no. 6. Canberra: AIHW, 2003.