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SEPTEMBER 2014

New Horizons for VISA

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Sydney finds new home

The Coal Pier Road container yard

On Monday the 11th of August 2014, the Sydney team moved location to their new, purpose built facility at Building 1, 1 Coal Pier Road, Banksmeadow.

The features of our new facility include;• 15 000 sqm bonded hardstand • 2 storey office complex • 6 000 sqm warehouse • Air freight bond • Diesel refuelling • Truck wash capabilities • Quarantine facility • Container wash capabilities • Reefer power and storage • FAK bond• Steam cleaning• B-double weighbridge ensuring VISA truck road compliance • eCommerce sortation

Goodman handing over the new state of the art operations terminal

OFFICE 6000 m WAREHOUSE2

WASHBAY WEIGHBRIDGE FUEL TANK

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Sydney finds a new home - Warehouse - Hale StreetAs part of Sydney’s move to a new location, they also opened a new warehouse facility to house VISA Global Logistics’ customer Hills Pet Food. Hills, a division of Colgate, has been a customer of VISA Global Logistics for over 5 years now, and this move helped us successfully secure the contract with them for a further 2 years.

This process was successfully put together by our tireless Sydney warehouse department. Nick and his team put in a great effort and many long hours.

After the move was completed, John Douglas, the General Manager of Australasia for Hills, commented “We really appreciate the commitment and hard work you have shown in the last few weeks. It has made a huge difference to the outcome of our business both in the current quarter and for the future as we move forward.”

The team enjoy a well deserved barbecue

Moving in

Getting set up at the Hale St location

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New Offices - Frankfurt and Naples

Our Italy operations have been expanding and we welcome our new office in Naples. The office is located in the city centre in the old MAERSK offices. The Naples Team

Branch Manager:

Raffaele Scognamiglio

Operations:

Alessio Pioggiarella

Giovanni Tafuri

Massimo Flaminio

Alessandra Calemme

Antonello Cardillo

Umberto Grassi

Frankfurt NaplesIt is with pleasure we announce VISA Global Logistics recent investment in freight forwarder Interunion Logistics GMBH. The Company is located in Frankfurt, Germany and will be known as Interunion-VISA, giving VISA a presence in one of the busiest logistics hubs in the world.

Vittorio Tarchi says “this is an exciting opportunity to expand VISA’s presence in Europe with a reputable freight forwarder and will also complement Gamgbogi-VISA’s well established operations in Italy.”

The branch manager in Frankfurt is Peter Karcher and Maria Pallotta is the senior business development manager, who between them have 50 years of experience in the industry.

Vittorio is meeting with the team next week to finalise the name change and procedures going forward.

Maria Pallotta and Peter Karcher

Naples office set up Branch Manager Raffaele Scognamiglio

The Naples Operations Team

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Shenzhen Office OpeningAs part of the VISA Global Logistics’ groups continued investment and focus on China, we are happy to welcome our newest office in Shenzhen.

The office address is Flat H, 27/F., Tower B. Hong Long Century Plaza, No. 3001 He Ping Road, Luo Hu, Shenzhen China.

The office officially opened on the evening of June the 27th with welcome food and drinks.

Attendees included customers of VISA, carriers, new Yuantai Shenzhen Manager Fion Wu and representatives from Yuantai-VISA Shanghai, AFS VISA Hong Kong, Whip Parcel Logistics Hong Kong and VISA Global Logistics Australia.

On the night the team celebrated by cutting cake and popping the champagne bottle.

Whip Parcel Logistics Hong Kong Manager Apple Ng commented that the “atmosphere was warm and happy, we talked a lot about families, work, movies and other things.”

We wish the best of luck to the new Shenzhen office.

Fion and Maria Edward, Maria, Fion, Apple, Brendan and Roberto

Amber, Matt, Cathy, Apple and Fion 1st row: Matt, Apple, Amber, Jennifer, Cathy, Fion, Maria, Julier and Louris Li2nd row: Brendan, Steven, Lincoln, Edward and Roberto

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Shenzhen Office Opening - More photos

A beautiful bunch of flowers welcomed the evening’s guests

Edward Yao and Roberto Caiulo

Y-V Owners Representative Edward Yao cuts the cake

AFS VISA Owners Representative Roberto Caiulo cuts the cake The evening kicks on

Steven Larsen and the representative from The Promotions Factory

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China

Yuantai-VISA receive visit from Korean agent EUNSAN Shipping & AircargoIn June Yuantai-VISA received a visit from our Korean agent EUNSAN. YV have been working with EUNSAN for almost 10years and ship 3 groupage boxes per week from Shanghai to Korea.

Eunsan stands as one of the best consolidators in the Korean Market. They have 5 warehouses in Korea: 3 in Busan and 2 in Incheon. They are also building another 3 warehouses this year with different functions for their variety of clients.

Recently Yuantai-VISA shipped 3000cbm of break bulk cargo from Guangzhou to Port Kembla.

The project consisted of 17 modular housing units which will be assembled and turned into a small housing development located in Canberra.

The great work from all our sales team and supportive departments have meant continued growth for VGL.

YTD growth remains steady at 18% for the year, looking very positive before the peak season.

Project work - Guangzhou to Canberra

Results ex China

The journey to IronmanWritten by Scott Walker - National Transport Manager and all round good blokeThe 18 month journey is now complete.

Some of you would remember and have supported me in my quest to raise money for Cure Cancer about 18 months ago. Back then, it was about trying to complete an ocean swim, when at the time I struggled to swim 50 metres. The time has come to again thank everyone who got behind this great cause, because this has now culminated in me completing my first Ironman Triathlon, a 3.8km Ocean Swim, 180km Bike Ride, and to finish off, running a full Marathon of 42.2kms.

The race was held on the 8th of June on a very rain soaked Cairns day. I was awake at 4am to try and get as much food into my anxious stomach, then dropped at a bus stop for a 40 minute bus trip up the coast to a place called Palm Cove where the swim would be held. Once we arrived it was straight into transition to setup and check the bike, all this in darkness, pouring rain and ankle deep mud. After fumbling around for some time, checking and double checking I had done everything, I moved out of transition to find my family. At this stage I was surprised at how calm I felt. We sheltered in a nearby hotel until around 7am, and then I got my wetsuit on, said my goodbyes to the family and headed to the beach for the start.

Just after 7.30am, the gun went off, and we headed for the water. The start was absolutely crazy, with 1800 people fighting to get around the first buoy, kicks and punches galore, but managed to find some space in a reasonable distance and attempted to find some rhythm. Attempted being the operative word, due to the swell and chop this was going to be easier said than done. It turned out to be a lot tougher than I thought and was the toughest swim

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Amber Tiles - McGrath Foundation Pink Dinner

Rabih Lahoud and George Schirato at the Pink Aphro Katris, Sylvia Maragos and Nick Rimac

The McGrath Foundation Pink Dinner

On Saturday the 26th of July, a table of 10 from the VISA Sydney office attended a McGrath Foundation Pink Dinner in support of the foundation.

The McGrath Foundation raises money to place McGrath Breast Care Nurses in communities right across Australia, as well as increasing breast cancer awarenes in young Australian women.

As of May 2014, the McGrath Foundation is proud to have placed 95 McGrath Breast Care Nurses in communities right across Australia to support families experiencing breast cancer.

I have ever done due to the conditions. There were a few times during the swim I thought I could not make it, however after 1hour 6 minutes I emerged from the water and ran to transition to get ready for the bike leg. After a quick change I grabbed my bike and headed out ready for the 180km ride up the Captain Cook Highway. Whilst leaving Palm Cove there were a heap of speed humps and as I hit the first one most of my nutrition for the day fell off my bike. I did not stop and wanted to focus on moving forward, a mistake I would pay for 4.5 hours later after rationing what I had left. These speed humps took their toll on many competitors, due to the rainy conditions many came off their bikes. This became a talking point with many out on the bike course. The Bike leg made its way from Palm Cove to Port Douglas, back to Palm Cove and then back to Port Douglas, where we then turned and went all the way back into Cairns. About the 140km mark was when I hit the wall. I had not eaten enough over the past 4 hours and my body was coming apart. Whatever I had left to eat started going in, as fast as I could get it in, I even managed to grab a banana at 34kph through an aid station. The next 40klms was not fun, and was like riding double the previous 140klms.

Arriving into Cairns was a great feeling, seeing my family again after 5.24 hours on the bike was just the lift I needed to keep going. With my back and legs killing me it was now time to take on the marathon. Being so excited to get off the bike the thought of a marathon seemed like nothing...ohh how foolish of me.

During the Swim and the Ride there were many times I thought I couldn’t make it, but once into the Marathon I knew I would finish, even if I had to walk all night. Due to the wet conditions all day, my feet had become soft and

around the 10km mark large blisters began to form on my feet. Reality set in that the next 30+ kms would be very painful kilometres. The Marathon was a 3 lap course, good in the fact you know how far you have to go and also you get to see your support crew more to help lift you, but bad in the fact it gets a bit boring. A long and painful 4.24 hours later I was allowed down the finish chute, and amazed how the pain just disappeared over the last 500 metres, to cross the line and hear the announcement over the loud speaker “Scott Walker. You are an Ironman.” These words and the medal around my neck was what it was all about, in a total of 11:07:28, I had swam, biked and ran 226kms to become an Ironman...... something less than a year prior, I thought not possible.

Beer has never tasted sweeter!!!!!!!

The journey to Ironman

Ironman Scott Walker

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AdelaideIn March, the Adelaide office celebrated being open 10 years. Happy Anniversary!

We also celebrated the big 6-0 for Adelaide Branch Manager Kevin Joughin on Wednesday the 30th of July.

New Zealand

Another win for Operations Bledisloe is Richmond Wheel and Castor this was the great work of Alex Politidis.

Debora Barbagli recently made a visit to Auckland for an introduction into Metro Performance Glass, they import 1900 containers per year in NZ, and we have continued discussions since.

Welcome to our new staff members in New Zealand!

Robert Giles – Warehouse Supervisor – 14 April 2014

Sara Warren – Customs Broker – 12 May 2014

Ifrana Ali – Operations – 21 July 2014

Operation Bledisloe

The NZ VISA Sisters completed two different running events this edition, with Bridget Watts finishing the Saint Clair Vineyard Half Marathon in 2:54:05 and Carmen Gallagher completing the Mud Sweat and Tears 5 km challenge in 59:58.

Mud, sweat, tears and marathons

New Staff Members - New Zealand

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Brisbane BlurbWritten by John Scanlon - Business Development

News from the Far WestWritten by Matt Bronickis - Branch Manager

Some news from the Far West starts with fresh new faces in our Fremantle office including yours truly. We welcome Richelle Griffin who has joined us from many years with BCR taking up the role as Sales Executive and brings a wealth of knowledge to our humble little corner of the world. Richelle has gained the title of “Crane Queen” at an early stage after demonstrating her knowledge of the Crane industry in the short time we have been with us. With the departure of Aidan McCartan, we welcome Rob Zoric aka “Banana” into the transport allocator’s role. Rob has been the “Backup” plan when others were on holidays and once again, has demonstrated great knowledge and ability in the role he has taken up.

Fremantle office is reenergised and ready to roll. We have taken back all of our transport requirements and working with Scotty Walker, we now have a new slogan for transport of “NO Contractors”. We have all the services including warehousing (working with 4PL partner AWH) at your call so send through your requests and we will action and make it happen.

As for myself, I am settling into my new role and thank the great people of the Fremantle office in welcoming my Family and I back to the Wild West.

On a final note, the competition is now on between Perth and Adelaide, lookout Kev, we are a coming!

As you all know it has been a very productive cold season, especially for the Brisbane office. We would like to congratulate both Rachael Hughes as she finds herself in a newly appointed position in Export Operations and Thomas Meleady who will joining us as our new Admin and Customs assistant as of Monday the 14th.

The MSC Vessel tour at Patricks as usual went off famously, with the clients already asking to be nominated for any future tours. Charlotte even had a client requesting the captains e-mail so he could thank him and send him through some pictures from the day.

Laurence Pilgrim has gelled well into Brisbane Transport aiding Michael in a record month in June, with more to come this month despite the problems present at DP World.

Matt has said his farewells to the Brisbane office and moved onto greener pastures as the Branch Manager of Western Australia.

Last but not least, the highly anticipated Brisbane mid-year is approaching which is always a great occasion and opportunity for some team bonding outside of work hours.

We also had a visit from Steve Larsen, Adam May and our NZ counter parts, Robert, Bridget and Mandy who participated in Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, helping raise $271.90 towards Cancer research, prevention and support services.

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I started in 2000...a long time ago.

I have been to so many Christmas parties; I just can’t seem to remember them (ha ha). The specials birthday celebrations are always fun too.

I love the people I have worked with over the years, especially my friend Leigh – who sadly passed away.

I think Aphro, Amber and I could write a novel (possibly a TV series) on all our experience’s at VISA.

Meet the team - The Long Standing Staff

Aphro Katris - Sydney - 22 yearsI started with VISA in 1987 and left in 1990 to start a family, 6 years later I came back and there had been 18 years of growth. There were some challenging times but there was always a nice balance of fun!

One of my favourite Christmas parties was in 2007. It was our 25th anniversary. Staff members

from all over Australia, the partners from overseas and long standing customers were there to celebrate with us. It was held at Sheraton on the Park and was a very special night.

Even though I love to whinge and can be a drama queen, Vittorio, George, Simon and Garth are like family to me. I have seen VISA grow from around 15 staff to what it is today and I feel privileged to have been a part of VISA’s amazing journey.

In this edition of Meet the Team we have a chat to some of VISA’s longest standing employees and the experiences they’ve had here. We asked them 3 questions -

What year did you start at VISA?

What was your favourite Christmas party and why?

What do you like about working at VISA?

Rob Alessi - Yarraville - 16 yearsI started working at Visa in August 1998; it will be 16 years next month!

My favourite Christmas party was my 10 year anniversary when I received my Rolex watch. I was so overjoyed; I even sang a song after the thankyou speech.

I love Visa’s happy environment, supportive staff, the flexibility,

Amber Gray - Sydney - 14 yearsI started at VISA in 2000.

The Astral lounge, Minx bar and the 25th anniversary parties were some of my favourite nights out with the team.

One of the things I love about working at Visa is the staff. Some of my favourite memories include our trip to Hong Kong and Bali. Aphro’s 40th stripper (he he), meeting my husband at work, the soccer trip to Wagga Wagga and all of our celebrations throughout the years.

the access we have to our directors and the opportunity to grow within this company. One of my many memories throughout the years was travelling to Asia with George Schirato. We visited all our agents in 1 trip. We boarded 7 planes within 8 days. You really get to know someone when you travel with them!

Maria Vucic - Sydney - 14 years

John Purdue - Yarraville - 13 yearsI started with VISA in 2001.

My favourite Christmas party was held at the Crown Casino. It was great because all of the partners and clients attended.

The Partners are one of the main things I like about working here.

The 25th anniversary is a stand out memory. All the staff, overseas partners and agents attended.

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Meet the team - The Long Standing Staff

Sarah Cuthbert - Yarraville - 13 I started working at VISA in 2001.

One of my favourite Christmas parties was in 2011- when I received my 10 years of service gift. The 25th anniversary party in Sydney was also one to remember. It was a great opportunity to meet the entire team and celebrate such a big milestone.

The best thing about Visa is Meeting people and developing relationships, both through the company and clients. There is a good support network, both work and personal.

Steve Larsen - Yarraville - 13 yearsI started at Visa in 2001.

My favourite Christmas party have been the last 10...why? Because I organised them! The 25th anniversary Gala in Sydney really stands out though. It was a huge couple of nights and loads of fun.

The people are one of the best things about working at Visa. Some of my many memories include the Inaugural soccer game- Syd v Mel in Albury – the dinner after the game and George’s professional goal keeping attire. Escapades with my VISA colleagues in Shanghai/ Hong Kong and the Bali conference.

Suzanne Purvis - Yarraville - 13 yearsI started at Visa in 2001.

I was only meant to be at Visa temporarily; I wanted to get a bit of experience in the industry. I soon realised this is a company I want to work for long term.

My favourite Christmas party was our casino themed party. It was a

Richard Hammond - Yarraville - 12 yearsI started with Visa in 2002.

One of my favourite functions was the SH Villa party in Bali 2014.Everybody had a great time and it brought all staff together. I enjoy working for a company that has an extremely sellable product and a flexible sales mentality. The best part of all is...I get paid to do this!

Simon Orrico - Yarraville - 12 yearsI started in 2002.

The 25th anniversary party stands out as one of the best. We got the opportunity to meet Visa staff members from around the globe (AFS/GAMBOGI). Visa generously flew us to Sydney to stay the night for that Christmas party as well. The staff makes working at Visa enjoyable;

no two days are the same in Melbourne.

Vicki Johnson - Sydney - 12 yearsI started in 2002.

The Christmas parties we have had at the casino were fantastic (Astra lounge being one).

I have made some lovely friends over the past 12 years. The people I work with are one of my favourite things about coming to work. My 60th birthday stands out as a fond memory. I received a beautiful Tiffany’s bracelet (every girl’s favourite blue box) and felt much loved by all.

memorable evening, full of dancing.

Thanks to the encouragement of management, I received my broker’s licence, there were moments when I thought it was too hard and they helped me through. It has been great to be a part of the growth and success of Visa. I look forward to seeing what the future brings.

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The VISA Family

Congratulations! A Trip of a Lifetime

Welcome to the World

One of VISA’s long serving drivers, Kevin Riley, received a very special gift for his 10 year anniversary, the Trip of a Lifetime to Europe.

Kevin sent Vittorio and George a thank you from Florence. It read,

“Thank you so much for this opportunity to get the travel bug. This part of the world is amazing, as you already know. Leaving a place called Isera in the morning going to Australia.

Your uncomplaining driver,Kevin Riley

Welcome to Tony’s new Baby Nico Haerewa who was born 8.7 pounds on the 27 May 2014 at 4.41 pm

Congrats to Carlo Tarchi who has achieved his Graduate certificate in Logistics Management from Sydney University.

Thanks to his dedication to his studies he has been able to prove his knowledge through he new role of Operations Manager in Sydney.

Congratulations Carlo.

We have had our first Adelaide Visa baby born in March – John and his wife Adriana proudly announced the safe arrival of their beautiful little girl Alyssa Auciello.

Adelaide family grows

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The VISA Family

It may have taken him 41 years but it was a walk in the park for Rob who married his beautiful bride in late May.

Better late than never...A new arrival Next generation of VISA!

The VISA team let out a collective ‘aww’ when they first saw the photo and annoucement of the arrival of the first child of Rabih and Sarah. Ethan Lahoud arrived on Friday the 18th of July at 9.19pm weighing 3.24kg.Frank Vasque’s baby girl, Charlotte Vasques, was born on the morning of

Monday the 18th of August at 11:12am.

Congratulations to Mum and Dad for the gorgeous baby girl!

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To contribute to the next issue, all you need to do is email your story or photos through to Louiza Clancy or Elizabeth Murdoch

lclancy@visaglobal.com.auemurdoch@visaglobal.com.au

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