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NOV 2016ISSUE #3

THE AMAZING WOMEN OF

THE HUNTER

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NEWCASTLE CRUISE TERMINAL TO

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2 November 2016 | Hunter Industry News

Hunter Industry News | November 2016 3

Production TeamPublisher: Julie Wicks [email protected]

Editor: David [email protected]: Mark Callaghan

People Brands Manager: James DixonPublished by People Brands ABN: 21 139 736 600 Address: 755 Hunter St, Newcastle, 2300

For advertising inquiries, please call Julie Wicks on 0429 363 847 or email [email protected]

Welcome to issue 3, celebrating women in industry Onto our third issue already, a true indication of busy times and plenty of action within our Hunter industry! Each week we are hearing of new grants and developments helping bolster the region’s growth. Not to mention discussions about the possibility of Newcastle to bid for the 2030 Commonwealth Games – now this is gold!

The feedback and interest from the Hunter community has been encouraging and we look forward to continued support through your stories and through the direct advertising opportunities that a dedicated industry publication presents.

In this issue we celebrate outstanding women who are taking Hunter’s various industries into the future. Go to page 10 to read about some truly inspiration women (including Shivani Gupta, pictured on the cover), and their views on leadership, community and entrepreneurialism.

I’ve been honoured and humbled to meet most of the women we have profiled, and as a woman, it makes me very proud that the Hunter has produced such amazing leading ladies. We could have published a whole magazine to cover so many more women in the Hunter industry doing great things.

This issue also delves into the recent exciting news that the Port of Newcastle is finally getting a multi-purpose cruise terminal, and the economic impact this development will have on the region. See the full story on page 16.

It feels great to bring you our third issue. We’d love to hear your feedback, so feel free to drop us a line at [email protected].

Julie

Hunter Industry News

IN THIS ISSUE

18

33 35

10

2820

November 2016

Hunter People

Savour Win stuff

Feature

Tools & ToysThrough the lens

Keen to advertise with us? Drop us a line at [email protected] or call 0429 363 847


Encouraging signs for the industryBy NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen GalileeDuring the tough conditions of the past few years, the Hunter mining sector has continued to make a large and enduring contribution to the local economy.

Last financial year, mining directly injected $4.8 billion into the Hunter economy, including paying wages to Hunter miners and business spending with with over 3,700 local Hunter

businesses. This direct spending in turn contributed around 25 per cent of the Hunter’s total economic activity.

This ongoing economic contribution will potentially be bolstered by future opportunities, as positive signs continue for the Hunter coal industry. Thermal coal prices have increased in recent months, and are up nearly 40% this calendar year. The coking coal price has risen even more dramatically over the same period, up from around $US78 a tonne in January, to around $US215 a tonne.

Analysts’ views are mixed, but there is definitely more optimism than even a few months ago in terms of the outlook for the months ahead.

Along with a rise in coal prices, approvals have been granted for modifications to extend several existing operations, and several new projects are also proposed. For example, construction is soon to commence on the approved MACH Energy operation at Mount Pleasant, which is expected to generate 300-400 jobs during the construction phase and maintain around 200 jobs during operation.

This is good news for Muswellbrook in particular, and the Hunter more broadly, as it means jobs and investment in

the local community, and an economic boost that will be felt right across the Hunter.

This is because as well as being good news for mining, these positive signs for Hunter mining are also good for the thousands of Hunter businesses that supply the Hunter mining industry.

For example, Quarry Mining in Beresfield employs 14 staff and has been a leading supplier of high quality drilling equipment for mining and minerals exploration for over three decades. Managing Director, Kari Armitage, has long maintained that the economic stability of local communities are linked to mining - “My staff, my small business, my town all rely on local mining” Kari recently commented online.

But it’s not just businesses like Quarry Mining that stand to benefit. The thousands of other Hunter businesses supplying the industry are diverse, ranging from professional services to catering and laundry. And more mining workers will mean more mining wages spent with the small retailers in our local communities, welcome news for our business chambers across the Hunter.

The mining sector has a long and proud history in the Hunter, NSW and across the country. We are part of our region’s heritage, and we will be a big part its future.

OPINION


INDUSTRY NEWS

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Anglo American awaits decision on Drayton South ProjectThe battle between the mining and equine industries continues, as both industries wait with bated breath as to whether the Drayton South Project will be given the green light by the Planning Assessment Commission.

The NSW Planning Department has given the go-ahead for the new Hunter mining proposal, known as the Drayton South Project, which has been the subject of intense debate between the mining industry and the horse breeding industry for five years.

The project – which is being spearheaded by Anglo American – is

now sitting before the independent Planning Assessment Committee (PAC). The PAC has previously refused the proposal despite earlier approvals from the NSW Planning Department.

Hunter Industry News spoke with Project Director Rick Fairhurst about the proposal.

“The initial ground for refusal was a perceived risk to two big horse studs, and a perception that the mine would be too close to the boundary.” The mine would be around 1km from the closest studs. “Ultimately the studs threatened to leave the area.”

Fairhurst said that, following the earlier refusals, his team’s latest proposal has tried to “put to bed” the “nebulous issues” that have previously held the project up. In particular, they have invested in an economic assessment and focused on the viability of both industries working alongside each other.

“The premise of our proposal is that both industries can co-exist. Both should flourish. It is not the case of one at the expense of the other. The studs are still of the view that there needs to be a 10km buffer between a coal mine and any stud.”

Fairhurst said a 10km buffer is not realistic in the Upper Hunter, which is scattered with so many different industries. He also said that Anglo American has made a number of concessions to try to appease naysayers, including making the mine smaller than originally planned, as well as surrendering surface mining rights to the south and the west, and exploration license areas.

He also said that from an environmental perspective Anglo American has ensured complete compliance.

Fairhurst said he hopes that a decision will come from the PAC before the end of the year.

Nearby horse studs include Coolmore and Godolphin.

Hunter horse breeding industry hits backThe Hunter Thoroughbred Breeders Association (HTBA) has hit out against the decision of the Department of Planning’s decisions regarding the Drayton South Project, and has called upon NSW Premier Mike Baird to intervene.

HTBA President Dr Cameron Collins said: “It beggars belief that the Department of Planning continues to support this

proposal against the expert advice of three independent PACs and the NSW Gateway Panel.

“The only people who have ever thought this project was approvable are either working for Anglo American or the Department of Planning. This is also against a backdrop where the mine’s owners have rendered it as ‘none-core’ and put it up for sale. In the meantime, we are left with uncertainty for the protection and future of our industry.

“What is extraordinary about the Department’s position is that it is prepared to allow the sacrifice of a sustainable long-term industry for the sake of one mine whose future is unknown.”

The HTBA went on to call for the NSW Premier to intervene. “Enough is enough. We have lost confidence in a Department that is prepared to continually support mining proposals contrary to expert and independent PAC advice. Premier Baird and Planning Minister Stokes need to take control of this matter.

“We need leadership, not heads in the sand from Government. Premier Baird and Minister Stokes need to step up. The time has come for them to intervene, reject this mine, protect our industry and put an end to the land use conflict in the Hunter Valley.”

Drayton South Project Director Rick Fairhurst conceded that, despite his team’s attempts to address any perceptions that the two industries cannot work together, it would not do much to assuage the equine industry.

However, he was also adamant that “both industries can co-exist”.


INDUSTRY NEWS

ACCC considers whether new player should acquire Glencore’s GRailAs rail behemoths Aurizon and Pacific National continue to compete for the acquisition of Glencore’s rail business GRail, the The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has questioned whether such as acquisition by either party would have an impact on competition in the industry.

The ACCC has called to light whether competition in the industry might be better served by the introduction of a third player to buy the business. Responses to the ACCC’s Statement of Issues have already been sent to the competition watchdog. As such, the ACCC is currently assessing the proposals of Aurizon and Pacific National against the alternative scenario of a new player entering the market by acquiring GRail.

“The Hunter Valley coal haulage market appears to have high barriers to entry, so we would expect the addition of a third competitor to have a significant effect upon the market. This has been supported by market feedback. In contrast, an acquisition by Aurizon or Pacific National would essentially be a continuation of the status quo where there are two active players in the Hunter Valley coal haulage market,” ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said.

“Aurizon and Pacific National were both sponsored into each other’s coal haulage markets in

Queensland and New South Wales and there has been little or no new entry before or since. There are some examples of coal producers acquiring their own rolling stock, but Glencore Coal is the only Hunter Valley coal producer to have done so for a majority of its coal haulage requirements.”

“Glencore is now selling that rolling stock along with a long-term haulage contract. Coupled with the fact that Glencore Coal is the largest coal producer in the Hunter Valley, this is a platform for entry that is unlikely to be replicated in the foreseeable future,” Mr Sims said.

“However, the ACCC also recognises that coal producers are generally well-resourced, sophisticated parties that may be able to protect their own interests, even if Aurizon or Pacific National acquires GRail. We are going to be exploring their ability to leverage competition between Aurizon and Pacific National or to bypass both haulage providers by acquiring their own rolling stock or by sponsoring new entry.”

New investment model to boost Hunter hospitalityThe Hunter hospitality industry could flourish with the help of a new syndicate buying model that will help more people get their foot in the door, according to Hunt Hospitality Principal Stephen Hunt.

Over the past year, Hunt’s group has been buying up a number of local operations, including The Rutherford, The Duke in Newhampton, and Lakeside Village Tavern in Raymond Terrace. The group has been using a novel unit trust structure, which allows people who might not otherwise be able to afford to invest to get involved.

“Pubs are so expensive these days, so it is just that much harder for individuals to get the cash to invest in one,” said Hunt. He said a unit trust structure solves that problem.

Hunt also pointed out that he was not the only operation using this model, and that he knew of at least one other group in the Hunter which has recently adopted such an approach.

“It’s another way of fundraising,” he said, “and it gives people the chance to invest in a positive cash flow business.”

Hunt said that his group has plans to make further acquisitions in the future. “We will get these pubs through the silly season, then look for new opportunities in the new year.”

100 jobs created by Bloomfield’s new mining operationIn a boost for the Hunter Valley economy, the Bloomfield Group has employed nearly 100 extra people as activity at its recently acquired open cut mine near Singleton picks up.

The former Integra / Camberwell open cut mine - now known as Rix’s Creek North - complements The Bloomfield Group’s

adjacent long-term Rix’s Creek operation.

A recent recruitment campaign resulted in almost one thousand job applications with 100 jobs already being filled, including supervisory staff, environmental officers, operators and electrical and mechanical tradesmen.

Many of those employed are staff who lost their jobs

when the Integra owned mine ran into difficulty and was placed under care and maintenance by its previous owners in July 2014.

The Bloomfield Group acquired the open cut mine late last year along with washing plant and rail loop facilities, while Glencore acquired the Integra underground operations.

Hunter Makers Festival to celebrate local manufacturing industryThe Hunter Region is world class when it comes to manufacturing. The Ai Group is rolling out the inaugural Greater Hunter Makers Festival to celebrate this strong industry.

The event will be held on 11-12 November 2016 at the Newcastle Jockeys Clubs, and will bring together manufacturing and engineering technology companies, as well as university researchers, investors, business representatives and local community.

The festival is supported by the NSW Department of Trade and Investment and will be officially opened by the Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, The Hon. Scot Macdonald MLC, representing the Premier. Other supporters are Ai Group, the University of Newcastle, the City of Newcastle, Hunter TAFE, and Engineers Australia Newcastle Division.

It will showcase modern manufacturing and technology, and feature a number of speakers on the issue of ‘The Future for Manufacturing’, including: the CEO of Varley Group Jeff Phillips; Professor Brett Ninness Pro-Vice Chancellor, Engineering and Built Environment, University of Newcastle; Ms Christine Warrington, Director of Hunter TAFE; a start-up technology company and two STEM students.

According to Ai Group Regional Manager - Hunter, Central Coast and Northern NSW, Adrian Price: “Manufacturing has been happening in the Hunter for at least 150 years. The legacy of this has been a very large pool of skilled labour which is

an incredible economic resource. There is very little that we cannot design and make in the Hunter.

“Why did we call it Makers Festival? Would you come if it was called “Manufacturers Festival”? No. That is the problem for our industry – manufacturing is not sexy, it is “old world” and past-history. We need to change community perceptions like they have in Pittsburgh in the USA so there is strong community awareness of the value of manufacturing and a recognition that it is an industry with high skills, creativity and worth.

“These attitudes help the community to raise investment funds for development of new technology by start-ups. We also need the community to come to the support of the industry from time to time when it is under planning threats etc. The Festival, we hope, will greatly assist in the creation of a positive changing of community attitude to manufacturing.

“The biggest opportunity in high end manufacturing and technology is in Defence, particularly in aerospace. The main catalyst has been the basing of most of the RAAF Joint Strike Fighter squadron at Williamtown. As a result, Williamtown is being developed as a hub for aerospace technology companies and the university has recently announced the creation of an Innovation Hub to enhance innovation and development.

“Really, the world is our oyster as a smart engineering region. We have all the necessary ingredients. We need to be very open to where we cast the net and go for it.”


Wambo Coal Pty Limited (Wambo) has been convicted in the NSW

Land and Environment Court of an offence relating to the emission

of an offensive odour, in breach of the Protection of the Environment

Operations Act 1997. Wambo, part of the Peabody Energy group,

operates the Wambo coal mine near Singleton.

On 14 May 2014, Wambo carried out a blast at the mine. The blast

generated a plume of odorous orange gas known as oxides of nitrogen,

or “NOx gas”, which can be harmful to human health. The plume

travelled in a north to north westerly direction towards the village of

Jerrys Plains, causing discomfort and some temporary health impacts to

a number of residents. Wambo has since put in place further measures in

order to prevent a similar incident from occurring.

Wambo was prosecuted by the NSW Environment Protection Authority

(EPA) in relation to the incident and pleaded guilty to the charge.

On Wednesday, 28 September 2016, the Land and Environment Court

fined Wambo $60,000 in relation to the offence. The Court also ordered

Wambo to pay the EPA’s legal costs and ordered it to publish this notice

at its expense.

Local man develops innovative way to repurpose secondhand containersA local man is using a crowd funding model to give away his system of affordably converting containers into houses. The applications of this system are numerous, not to mention it has a great humanitarian angle, especially for use after natural disasters.

Founder of Contain Yourself Australia, Sean McGilvray, has spent the last two years developing a system to modify second-hand containers into tiny houses. The DIY system is easily built, can be disassembled, moved and reused.

Container modifications usually need a brand new container which isn’t very sustainable. There are more than 17 million secondhand containers in the world with more and more being built every day. It’s cheaper to build a new container than to send it back on a return ship.

So McGilvray has come up with a way to modify secondhand containers and can do it without damaging the integrity of the container.

Quick and easy to install, a CYA tiny house can be put together for emergency housing after natural disasters. It can be customised to build a sleek modern home or can be used as an office, an extra bedroom or granny flat. McGilvray calls it “floating infrastructure” - easy to put up, take down and relocate.

The CYA system was launched to the world in mid October.

McGilvray told Hunter Industry News: “Through crowd funding, I want to teach people how they can create their own safe, affordable home, that’s transportable and reusable.

“Modifications are difficult to get a building certification, [while it is difficult to keep] the structural integrity of the container and the cost of a modification means it’s unaffordable. By using existing technology and keeping it simple, I’ve been able to solve these problems.

“Usually when you see a beautiful container home, it required significant engineering, welding and steel bracing to make it work which means lots of money. The CYA innovation is that it doesn’t need all that. It maintains the structural integrity and strength of the container so that anyone can build one themselves.

Port of Newcastle secures $13m cruise terminalPort of Newcastle and the Port Authority of NSW have welcomed the NSW Government’s commitment of $12.7 million for a permanent multi-purpose cruise terminal facility at the Port of Newcastle.

The terminal will be built at the Channel Berth within the Port’s Carrington Precinct which meets current and future cruise industry requirements including berthing for vessels up to 320 metres in length.

“Cruise shipping currently delivers around $11 million per annum to the local economy, according to the Australian Cruise Association,” said Geoff Crowe, Port of Newcastle CEO.

“The cruise terminal will enable the Port to attract more cruise ships. Purpose-built facilities will provide a professional welcome for passengers and will position Newcastle as a home port where ships can start and finish their destination in Newcastle.”

The funding will enable the construction of a purpose built terminal of approximately 3,000 square metres, a dedicated car park, enhanced wharf infrastructure and improved accessibility for ship provisioning. When not in use by cruise ships, the terminal could be used for occasional

events, navy vessel visits, or other port uses.

It builds on an earlier State and Federal Government commitment (June 2016) of $800,000 for the upgrade of mooring bollards at the Channel Berth, which will enable the port to host larger, heavier ships carrying up to 3,500 passengers. The mooring bollards upgrade will commence later this year and is due to be completed in mid 2017.

The terminal is set to enter the detailed design phase. Construction of the terminal is due to commence in mid 2017 and will be completed in 2018.

“Newcastle is a diverse port with 25 cargoes, and we are committed to contributing to the growth and diversification of the Hunter region’s economy. This funding is an important step towards that,” said Crowe.

The full economic impact of this terminal on the Hunter region is explored more fully by Hunter Industry News on a feature on page 24.

New business brokerage firm launches in NewcastleTwo local businessman have joined forces to create and launch Merchant Business Brokers, a Newcastle-based business brokerage.

Leading business brokers and founders, Shane Fox and Ian Jones, have come together to launch their own firm.

The business has already established its key point-of-difference by investing heavily in an advanced and innovative technology platform used by major institutions in other sectors, to provide a superior level of connection between buyers and sellers.

Jones said that the business will be based on the values of connectivity, credibility and the deliverability of client outcomes.

“We build our business one relationship at a time and we work closely with leaders and innovators in business and technology to create better ways of delivering clients with better outcomes,” he said. “A perfect

example, is the way we worked with a software development firm to further develop a great piece of technology to create an industry leading business broking platform. This is transformational in the way it allows us to more efficiently connect buyers with sellers. It also allows other brokers to connect with each other, therefore giving sellers access to a larger pool of local and international buyers.”

Meanwhile, Fox said of the new venture: “We’ll only take on a listing if it is the right thing to do – meaning we must believe that we can sell it at a reasonable price and maintain a value proposition for the buyer. We are a relationship based business thriving on referrals and word of mouth recommendations. Therefore our mandate is to ensure all parties in the transaction realise that our passion, commitment and sincerity are why deals get done professionally.”

Merchant Business Brokers is a member of the Australian Institute of Business brokers (AIBB), the National governing body for their industry, and also part of the Business Broker Network of Australia (BBNA).

INDUSTRY NEWS

Image: Port of Newcastle

PUBLIC NOTICE

Wambo Coal Pty Ltd convicted of a pollution incident near Jerrys Plains


Govt improves resources to assist Hunter business growthAusIndustry, a division of the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science, is rolling out a number of simplified and streamlined services in order to give Hunter businesses better access to information and advice.

Hunter businesses can access AusIndustry’s improved services and national network in order to:

• Get a business up and running

• Develop and commercialise ideas and products

• Improve, innovate and grow a business

• Reach new markets

The network includes a locally based team of Regional Managers, Advisers and Facilitators servicing the needs of the Hunter region. Members of the AusIndustry network link businesses to relevant programmes and work together with experts to provide face-to-face advice, tailored to the profile and needs of each business.

The Entrepreneurs’ Programme forms part of the Australian Government’s National Innovation and Science Agenda, and is the flagship initiative for business competitiveness and productivity at the firm level. It provides practical advice and support for businesses, including advice from people with private sector experience; co-funded grants to commercialise novel products, processes and services; funding to take advantage of growth opportunities; and connection and collaboration opportunities.

The Entrepreneurs’ Programme comprises four elements:

1. Accelerating Commercialisation provides expert guidance, connections and financial support to assist small businesses, entrepreneurs and researchers to find the right commercialisation solutions for their novel products, process or service. Funding is through competitive matched grants of up to $1 million over two years for commercialisation activities.

2. Business Management provides tailored support and advice to encourage business improvement and growth from experienced Advisers and Facilitators, drawn from industry. Funding may be available through matched grants of up to $20,000 to improvements recommended through the engagement with an Adviser or Facilitator.

3. Incubator Support provides funding to new and existing incubators to deliver services aimed at improving the prospects of Australian start-ups achieving commercial success in international markets. Funding is through matched grants of up to $500,000 per project for New and Existing Incubators and up to $25,000 per project for Experts-in-Residence.

4. Innovation Connections is a facilitation service providing expert advice and solution pathways on knowledge-related issues, and a brokering service to connect businesses with knowledge providers and research organisations. This may include a matched funding grant of up to $50,000 that assists direct access to research capability.

Businesses can get information and help through AusIndustry’s website www.business.gov.au or contact centre 13 28 46.

Local surveying firm scores global award Monteath & Powys, a Newcastle firm of surveyors, spatial data experts, town planners and project managers, was successful in winning the Asia Pacific Spatial Excellence Awards held in Melbourne for its work with the Port of Newcastle, monitoring the break walls for deformation using a UAV.

The Asia Pacific awards consisted of entries from The Pacific Islands, New Zealand and every State and Territory of Australia. Entrants were largely multinational engineering firms and Government entities.

Monteath and Powys was selected as NSW representatives at the awards after previously winning the NSW Spatial Excellence Awards.

The firm had been originally approached by the Port of Newcastle to survey and monitor the rock armour surrounding the Nobbies and Stockton Breakwalls forming the entrance to Newcastle Harbour. Previously, the rock armour was monitored by visual inspection only and maintained with no recordable evidence of deformation within the rock walls. This was a costly exercise and posed a substantial risk of failure

given the magnitude of the task.

In order to monitor each of the thousands of rocks along each breakwall, the firm needed a method of capturing the data safely, efficiently and accurately. The idea of utilising an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) for this purpose came from the company’s experience in aerial surveys combined with an extensive 3D laser scanning capability.

Monteath and Powys has operated high-precision 3D laser scanning equipment for a number of years to report on deformation of structures compared to either previous surveys or design models. The firm was able to combine the above-water and below-water data to create seamless Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) for comparison and deformation analysis over time.

INDUSTRY NEWS

• Monteath & Powys has more than 60 years experience in providing industrial, commercial surveying services and land development services.

• We have an ISO 9001 AccreditedQuality Management System.

• Our Work, Health and SafetyManagement System is auditedannually and it has been 6 yearssince our last “Lost Time Injury”.

• Specialist 3D Laser Scanning and Points Cloud Manipulation.

• 3D Clash Analysis.

• UAV inspection works.

• High accuracy sub millimetre industrial surveys.

SafeAccurate Efficient

Newcastle Office: Sydney Office:

Gunnedah Office:

P: + 61 2 4926 1388 P: + 61 2 9436 4210P: + 61 2 6742 0166

Surveyors, Planners, Engineering Designers, Project Managers

www.monteathpowys.com.au


UON professor honoured for lifetime achievement in scienceUniversity of Newcastle Laureate Professor Graeme Jameson AO has been honoured as the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the International Mineral Processing Congress (IMPC), held in Quebec City, Canada.

The IMPC Lifetime Achievement Award recognises a lifetime of distinguished achievement and outstanding contribution to the advancement of the art, science and industrial practice of mineral processing, together with participation in, and contribution to, the IMPC.

The Award was presented before an audience of 1500 academic and industry specialists, at the XXVIII meeting of the Congress.

“It’s an honour to receive this award, nominated by my peers, to join the distinguished

company of international recipients,” Laureate Professor Jameson said.

Laureate Professor Jameson is renowned for his invention of the Jameson Cell, a revolutionary mineral processing technology installed around the world. Well over 300 Jameson Cells are now in operation across 25 countries, with the invention estimated to have earned nearly $100 billion for the Australian economy.

While the technology is most famous for its widespread use in the coal industry, it is also used to recover metals such as copper and gold, to remove suspended solids from dairy in ice cream factories, at breweries, chicken factories and wineries, as well as to treat industrial effluents and remove hydraulic oil from cooling water streams.

Laureate Professor Jameson’s past accomplishments are extensive. In 2014, he was admitted to the International Mining Technology Hall of Fame and was awarded the NSW Scientist of the Year at the 2013 NSW Science and Engineering Awards.

In 2015, he was awarded the Prime Minister’s Science Prize for Innovation and elected to the US National Academy of Engineering (NAE), one of the highest professional distinctions offered to an engineer.

INDUSTRY NEWS

HUNTER EVENTSDATE EVENT DESCRIPTION EVENT LOCATION EVENT NAME EVENT ORGANISER

4 November Winning team from 2016 HunterNet Future Leaders Program Marina Views Centre Future Leaders Gala Ball HunterNet

4 November How to Build Business Systems, Right Now Fort Scratchley First Friday Club Momentum Biz

8 November 2016 Annual Award winners announced Harbourview Function Centre Newcastle Business Club Annual Awards Newcastle Business Club

9 November Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace Crowne Plaza Newcastle Business Development Forum Hunter Business Chamber

10 November Learn about the Business Model Canvas Charlestown Library Business Planning That Works The Business Centre

11 November A showcase of the region’s engineering and technology skills. The Glasshouse - NJC Inaugural Greater Hunter Makers Festival Australian Industry Group

11 November Hunter City Redux Newcastle City Hall Hunter Chapter Lunch Property Council of Australia

15 November Learn about the various social media platforms, their capabilities. The Business Centre Social Media Options for Small Business The Business Centre

17 November Monthly Chamber member networking event. NEX (Wests Newcastle) My Business is Your Business Hunter Business Chamber

17 November Great way to meet new business contacts. Informal networking. Merewether Surf Club Beach Business Breakfast Beach Business Breakfast

18 November Hunter Business Chamber Annual General Meeting NOAH’S On The Beach Annual General Meeting Hunter Business Chamber

18 November Unique economic insights to support local business. NEX (Wests Newcastle) Hunter Economic Breakfast Series Hunter Research Foundation

22 November An opportunity to network and celebrate HunterNet achievements 48 Watt Street HunterNet and HNGTC Chairman’s Awards HunterNet

22 November Learn the Principles & Practices of Good Governance for NFPs Business Growth Centre Corporate Governance for Not-For-Profits Business Growth Centre

23 November Learn the essentials to efficiently manage & maintain your business. The Business Centre DIY Bookkeeping The Business Centre

23 November End-of-year networking event Squires Maiden Christmas Sparkler Event Women in Mining Network

24 November How to make sure your wealth in your SMSF is protected Pitcher Partners, Wickham Protecting your SMSF for future generations Pitcher Partners

29 November Learn how to better value, position and pitch your business. The Business Centre Value, Position and Pitch: Marketing Strategy The Business Centre

NOVEMBER 2016

VISIT www.hunterheadline.com.au FOR MORE DETAILS OR TO SUBMIT YOUR FREE CORPORATE EVENTS

NSW Govt’s Hunter Regional Plan looks to explosive growthThe Hunter Business Chamber has thrown its support behind the NSW Government’s Hunter Regional Plan, with President ross Taggart suggesting it will “positively influence growth”.

The Baird Government has launched its Hunter Regional Plan, a growth plan which will ask developers to help fund major infrastructure projects in the region.

The Plan aims to ramp up infrastructure projects in the region, with plans to grow by a third over the next 20 years.

Fairfax has reported that Planning Minister Rob Stokes has said this “blueprint” will revitalize the Newcastle and surrounding areas, transforming the area into a booming metropolitan hub.

The government will ask developers to help fund infrastructure projects through a ‘Hunter Region Special Infrastructure Contributions Plan’.

The strategy is an evolution of a draft plan that was released late last year, which was the subject of some criticism. The government has made changes to respond to these criticisms, and has established the Hunter Development Corporation to oversee these ambitious plans.

Meanwhile, the Hunter Business Chamber has thrown its support behind the new Hunter Regional Plan.

The Chamber also congratulated the government for nominating Hunter Development Corporation to monitor and review progress towards achieving the vision and goals of the plan.

Hunter Business Chamber President Ross Taggart said that the government should be acknowledged

for empowering a local organisation to deliver on the plan and provide certainty and prosperity for the region.

Housing Industry Association ‘extremely concerned’

The Housing Industry Association (HIA) has said the Hunter Regional Plan has been well received by the local construction industry.

However, the body has been critical of some elements.

According to HIA Executive Director Craig Jennion: “Whilst it is pleasing to finally have plans that can provide direction to industry HIA is extremely concerned to read of the intent to introduce a Hunter Special Infrastructure Contribution Plan (SIC Plan).

“The government’s intent to ‘tap developers’ with additional costs is certain to further reduce housing affordability for local families as any levies paid by developers go straight onto the price of a new home.”


FEATURE

The Amazing Women of the HunterThe Hunter is home to all types of industries and all types of people. From entrepreneurs to community leaders, there are successful women leading the charge on the Hunter business scene. Hunter Industry News sat down with a few of the region’s best and brightest women to talk about leadership, success and life in the Hunter.

Activating passion key to success of local businesswoman Shivani GuptaHunter-based businesswoman Shivani Gupta says success has come to her because she activated her passion to challenge and inspire others and learned to be prepared to fail.

The Founder and Chief Passion Officer at Passionate People Institute (PPI) is also an author and keynote

speaker. She owns the region’s two endota day spas and has been involved in other local businesses. At PPI she has spent more than a decade mentoring and speaking to business people and women, from small businesses to top blue chip companies in Australia and overseas, on how to lead more passionate, productive and successful lives.

“When people are passionate and that is aligned with personal and business objectives, productivity and performance soars,” Shivani says.

Her initial career path was very different. She followed in her father’s footsteps and did engineering. His career brought Shivani and the rest of the family to Whyalla in South Australia when she was a school girl. A “good Indian girl”, she worked hard, graduated, got a good paying job, did an MBA and went on to be a global shared services manager – all before she was 30.

On a mountain in Nepal, just after September 11, Shivani noticed two kids, with little material possessions, happily playing in the dirt and sharing a toy. She realised, while she was good at what she did, it was not her passion and she was burnt out.

On her return she quit her job and set about building a business to realise her passion to challenge, transform and inspire a billion people. Interestingly, when the makers of an SBS TV documentary were looking for a host for their business documentary Risking It All, they chose Shivani. In the program, a ratings success, she mentored four startup businesses and followed their progress.

Shivani says doing TV was an exciting new challenge but the business mentoring was something she was already doing in real life. She says it was a lesson in grabbing opportunity and backing yourself.

“I could have listened to the voice saying I had no experience in TV but I decided to have a go,” she says.

The TV show also gave her an opportunity to promote her first book. The semi auto biographical resource, Passion@Work, written prior to the show, contained Shivani’s tips for people wanting to activate passion

and start their own business. The warts and all tome became the companion book to the series.

“As entrepreneurs and business people we need to be prepared to take calculated risks and fail, so long as we learn from those mistakes.”

Two other lessons she has learned are to diversify and keep reinventing yourself. She has gone on to write other books and is a certified speaking professional. This month she will take a group of business people on a guided professional development tour of India, an extension of her mentoring. The move into endota aligns with her passion to help people to have balance and be well. This month she has launched King Street Hub, a new inner city office space business for other entrepreneurs and business people. A new affordable online community to help busy women to be the best they can be is her next project which she wants to take global.

Shivani hopes one day gender will have nothing to do with business. But she has combated racism and sexism during her career.

“Identifying the areas in which you are passionate and aligning that passion with your vision and goals is one way to help combat barriers to success, for men and women. As women we also need to look at what we are doing to address the situation. Are we supporting each other enough or are we neglecting each other as we try to be ‘one of the boys’? Part of the work I do with women is encouraging them to love themselves a little more and market themselves better. You can wait for people to notice you or recognise you.”

Her final piece of advice for personal and business success is to be passionate about helping others and to never stop learning. Shivani co-founded Hunter Women’s Growth Seminar and is an Ambassador for Barefoot College, which provides education to impoverished Indian girls. She is also a board member of Awesome Newcastle, which helps people with ideas to make the region a better place.

“Giving back is personally rewarding, inspires you and establishes great networks.”


FEATURE

OPINION: Women control the purse stringsBy PRD Newcastle and Lake Macquarie CEO Shula Kentwell

A timely reminder to business and industry – women are driving the global economy.

They are responsible for 70 to 80 per cent of all consumer purchasing. As well as doing the everyday buying, women are also in charge of big-ticket items like properties, cars and appliances. Even when they aren’t paying for an item, women often have the final say about a purchase.

According to Harvard Business Review, women represent the largest market opportunity in the world. They are responsible for US$20 trillion in annual consumer spending, a figure that is expected to rise to nearly US$30 trillion in the next five years. If you’re wondering how much that is, it’s more than the markets of China and India combined - the world’s largest growth markets.

The global purchasing power of women has never been greater thanks to increasing education levels, workplace participation and incomes.

I was intrigued by a presentation delivered by Amanda Stevens about women’s purchasing power at the recent PRD Principals’ Conference. Amanda is the author of the bestseller She Marketing – The Science of Marketing to Women, and is widely recognised as Australia’s leading authority on marketing and selling to women.

I was also fascinated by the impact Amanda’s presentation had on the males at the conference.

To me it was common sense, however for many of the men it was a light bulb moment. As tremendous opportunities for women emerge, this demographic is becoming increasingly influential and in control of their wealth.

Consider some of these statistics from Amanda:

• Women make around 80 per cent of all consumer purchase decisions.

• Women 25-40 are the fastest-growing wealth demographic.

• For the first time since WWI, there are more single women than married women.

• There was a 55 per cent increase in single female property owners in the last decade.

• Single women have a greater proportion of their wealth tied up in property than single men.

• Women are spending a longer proportion of their life single. In fact, there are more single women households in Australia now than there are non-single women households.

• Baby boomer women are the nation’s biggest spenders.

The conclusion we can draw from these figures is we can no longer assume traditional consumer behaviour. The world has changed.

Considering the spending power that women wield in today’s marketplace, it’s vital that advertising and marketing messages resonate with them.

Women make up 51 per cent of our population yet most businesses get it wrong when it comes to their marketing. Many industries, including real estate, need to do better to meet the needs of this discerning female audience to successfully capture their attention.

It’s important to recognise that decisions and emotions are generally more closely connected in women compared to men. Women want to feel heard and understood. They’re seeking meaningful, long-term relationships with brands, not just a quick trade of goods or services. They look for points of commonality to build relationships and trust. Women also rely heavily on their ‘inner circle’ when making purchasing decisions. This is a small group of two or three women who are almost like their ‘pseudo family’. And if women are happy with your products and services, they are five to 10 times more likely to engage in positive recommendations than men.

Women might be a powerful group of consumers but they are also a surprisingly ignored group of consumers. Women are the next global emerging market and their economic power is truly revolutionary. Regardless of the product or services you provide, the message is clear: Ignore them at your peril.

Shula Kentwell is the Chief Executive Officer of PRD Newcastle and Lake Macquarie and a licensed Real Estate Agent. Shula is a Founding Director of Kenterprise, which incorporates PRD Newcastle, PRD Lake Macquarie, SafeHands Property Management, Newcastle New Projects, Easy Move and Stay Longer.

Liz Jackson, the world class winemakerShe was the first ever female Winemaker of the Year, and has been honing her craft to perfection for 17 years. Meet the Hunter’s very own Liz Jackson.

Liz learnt her trade at wineries and vineyards all over the world, from the Hunter to France, but it is at First Creek Wines where she has truly made her mark. In 2008, she was appointed Chief Winemaker at First Creek, where she plays an invaluable role in the production of First Creek products, as well as the wines for 25 other wine companies who place their trust in her amazing talents. She even has her own label Silkman.

“I’ve always been more interested in the

artistic side of winemaking,” she says of her passion. “There is the chemical side, with all the numbers, but a wine can have all the right numbers but still taste horrible, or it can have all the wrong numbers and taste amazing. The fun side of my job is the experimentation, the artistic part. It’s that paddock to plate mentality which winemakers have known forever – it’s all about finding good fruit and making good wine.”

She says the Hunter region can be a difficult area for winemaking in some ways, such as the inevitable summer rains which affect the grapes. But she also says that it is perfect for certain varietals like chardonnay, shiraz and semillon, and despite the rains and the climate, the Hunter has amazing terroir – this is a French word which refers to all the environmental elements coming together.

Well, it looks like everything is coming together for Liz. We expect even bigger and better things in this inspirational woman’s future.


Jodie Bell, the Hunter Steel MagnoliaJodie Bell is an inspirational Hunter woman, some say warrior. In 2014, at the age of 32, she was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and given between two and a half and five years to live. Despite this devastating news, the mum of two young children has been relentless in raising awareness and funds for MND to help find that elusive treatment and cure.

Her courage and determination won her the Lifeline Hunter Central Coast Steel Magnolia Award in 2016.

Jodie says she didn’t really know what MND was when diagnosed. It is the name given to a group of diseases in which the nerve cells (neurones) controlling the muscles that enable us to move, speak, breathe and swallow undergo degeneration and die. She has had to retire from being a school teacher but has established a new class called ‘Team Jodie’. She and her loyal supporters are using social media and other activities to help raise awareness and funds for MND. There were 22 team members at the Steel Magnolia event supporting her. Her husband Matt nominated her for the award.

When presenting the award, local Lifeline CEO Gillian Summers said Jodie was an unsung community hero who, despite adversity, has found the courage to give back to the community.

“The spirit Jodie shows embodies a Steel Magnolia,” Summers said.

Ms Bell was selected from 14 nominees. Six other finalists were named.

• Diane Ball (Raymond Terrace) - CEO of Wahroonga Aboriginal Corporation.

• Carolyn Bear (Valentine) - Ambassador for the Ovarian Cancer Foundation. She has raised awareness and more than $120,000 for cancer research by selling the jewellery she makes in honour of her daughter who died from Ovarian Cancer.

• Carmel Kaczmar (East Maitland) - Despite battling illness she has run her own business and set up the charity Assistance Dogs NSW.

• Mary Maughan (Newcastle) - Helped form a charity called ‘ONE to ONE from Us to You Inc’ that has raised more than $400,000 for charity.

• Cory Newman (Charlestown) - Has raised more than $140,000 for a range of charities in honour of her three siblings. She has run the 89km Comrades race in Africa eight times.

• Teigan Power (Lambton) - A tower of strength and supporter of her partner, Newcastle Knight, Alex McKinnon, who suffered a serious spinal injury in 2014.

Of those finalists, Teigan Power and Cory Newman received special

mentions.

“All of this year’s nominees are inspirational and must to be congratulated and honoured for their contribution to the region,” Ms Summers said.

Other inspirational women were involved in the event. Channel 10 presenter, journalist, author and mental health advocate Jessica Rowe AM (pictured right with Jodie), gave a keynote speech on the importance of mental well being and self-care. NBN Television’s Natasha Beyersdorf was emcee.

Summers said the awards raised funds for local life saving crisis support and suicide prevention services thanks to the generous support of industry including major sponsor, the Port of Newcastle, the Noble Group, Out of the Square Media and other organisations and volunteers.

Suicide rates are at a 13-year high in

Australia. More than 2,500 Australians die by suicide each year, double the national road toll. Lifeline Hunter and Central Coast estimates it saves the lives of 5,000 local people each year through its crisis support and suicide prevention services but relies on community support for more than 55 per cent of its funding.

FEATURE

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Samantha Cross takes waste management to next levelShe is the inventive and incredibly well connected individual who lives by the motto ‘one person’s trash is another person’s treasure’. Samantha Cross brings businesses together to find innovative waste solutions.

Businesses produce waste. And more often than not, a company’s solution to waste is to send it off to landfill. But landfill is becoming ever more expensive, and isn’t exactly the most

environmental solution.

Enter Samantha Cross, the Director of Cross Connections Consulting. She brings different companies together across a range of industries to find synergies, in which one company’s waste can be repurposed by another company as a valuable and useful commodity. “It’s all about collaboration, connection and communicaton,” she says. “I match businesses to each other.”

She is two years into launching her consulting business and already business is booming – she has helped Unilver reduce its waste to zero landfill, meaning all its byproducts have been repurposed for other businesses instead

of being dumped. She has been backed by the NSW Environmental Protection Authority and works with the Office of Environment and Heritage; she is the Chair of the Waste Management Association Australia’s Hunter Regional Group; and she works with universities to find scientific solutions for her clients, to better enable them to repurpose their byproducts for other industries.

She calls it the “circular economy” – nothing goes to waste, it simply gets repurposed.

At present, she has started a social enterprise which converts soft plastics – which can’t be recycled with current methods and ends up in general waste – into furniture for local communities.


FEATURE

SPECIALIST FABRICATORS• MINING • ARCHITECTURAL• FOOD INDUSTRY • TRANSPORT• DEFENCE • AND MORE

Karlie Noon the Indigenous female trailblazerKarlie Noon, a Kamilaroi woman from Tamworth, was the first Indigenous graduate in New South Wales to obtain a double degree in science and mathematics at the University of Newcastle’s (UON) graduation ceremony a few weeks back.

“I didn’t like school very much and missed most of primary school and a bit of high school. A lovely Indigenous elder would tutor me once a week in maths. She was the only person I knew who had gone to university, and maths was the only thing I was really good at in terms of school, so I decided to finish high school and just wanted to keep studying afterwards.”

Initially enrolled in a Bachelor of Arts, Noon found herself researching topics that sparked her interest in physics, inspiring her to change degrees.

“It was really challenging coming into a first year maths degree with no background but I was so determined to do it. “

A tattoo of the solar system on her left arm symbolises her passion for space, and a chance meeting with cultural astronomer, Dr Duane Hamacher from Monash University, has also helped her along her pathway towards undertaking postgraduate study in Indigenous astronomy.

“I had experienced Indigenous astronomy from a cultural perspective, but studying it in a Western paradigm wasn’t something I knew existed. There are a lot of similarities between Indigenous knowledge and physics, which I plan to explore further in either a Masters or Honours program next year,” she said.

Keen to continue breaking barriers and forging new firsts as an Indigenous female in the field of science and maths, Noon has her sights set firmly on obtaining her PhD.

At the young age of 26, Noon is humble about her achievements to date and is proud to be a role model for her family and community. “It’s hard to describe the impact finishing university has had back home. It has helped shift perceptions and raised the expectations for the people around me. My sister has since enrolled in a Bachelor of Nursing at UON after entering through the Indigenous enabling program Yapug and my cousin is also talking to me about going to university and studying science,” she explained.

Alainah Beck blends physical, mental and spiritual for business successShe is a successful entrepreneur who helps a range of people through her unique therapy style, which blends the psychological and the spiritual.

Alainah has come a long way from her origins in mining as a procurement officer at Bengalla mine near Muswellbrook. We discovered Alainah’s intriguing story in Singleton during ‘The Hunter Valley Women in Mining’ network breakfast where she was guest speaker for the event which coincided with R U Ok day.

From her mining days she has since become a personal trainer, and she also studied neuro linguistic programming and hypnosis, but it wasn’t until she tapped into her abilities as a psychic medium that she developed a truly successful and bespoke business.

She has combined her intuitive spiritual skills with her psychoanalytical side to create a unique counseling approach – unique in that there are rarely people who mix the two disciplines. “I’m fifty-fifty,” she says.

“Some spiritual people are too excessive in their delivery, but I’m very grounded. Some people in the counseling world are too structured and clinical. I’m not like that either. I’m just a life coach. I sit down and just have a chat. People feel very comfortable and I have seen some amazing results.”

Alainah says she will often seen results in just two sessions, even with people who have been seeing psychologists for years. She believes her success lies in her ability to offer holistic solutions that tap into a person’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual sides, because she has had experience in all of these areas. Hence her job title of Intuitive Life Coach.

She currently lives in Sydney but travels back to the Hunter regularly to see clients. Her service is so unique and in-demand that she is booked out weeks in advance. She has also been seeing considerable success in her corporate program, in which she works in the Blackmores Wellness Centre as life coach for Blackmores staff.

As a divorced single parent, she says that one of her greatest passions in the job is empowering women and helping them overcome themselves. Her goal in life is “to empower anyone who does not believe in themselves; I want them leaving my sessions feeling that they are ten foot four and bulletproof, that they have their life sorted.”


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Hunter’s first limestone quarry open and ready for businessIt’s been seven years in the making, and Hunter Limestone Managing Director Scott Murdoch had to overcome more than his fair share of obstacles, but Hunter Limestone is finally up and running, and is ready to service the region.

Scott is the Founding Owner of Hunter Limestone, along with his wife Rachel. He is a third generation quarryman – his grandfather developed the highly regarded Mudgee dolomite deposit in the 1940s, while his father continued the tradition with limestone and dolomite deposits in the Central West of NSW.

The launch of Hunter Limestone is something of a “dream come true” for Scott, but it hasn’t been without its hurdles. He and his wife acquired the rights back in 2007, but they have been faced with issues such as opposition from a Newcastle-based caving group. But now the red tape has been cleared and the business has been operational for some months.

“Unfortunately like many projects today this has been equally as difficult to get off the ground, but we knew this was a resource worth investing in.”

Hunter businesses will benefit from having the region’s very first limestone quarry in close vicinity, while a large number of farming enterprises within the Hunter will have access to cheaper high calcium limestone.

Support from the locals

Scott says this project has by and large received support from the majority of local landholders, businesses and industries.

While many mining-related activities have been the subject of intense community debate – for instance the Drayton South Project and the passionate opposition from the horse-breeding community – Scott says that

limestone quarries generally do not generate the same controversy, as they are much smaller and ultimately have much less impact.

“Many industries in the Hunter actually have a need for limestone. On the whole we have been well received by the agricultural community because farmers use limestone.

“There are synergies across the horse industry and vineyards and coal mining – so many industries have a use for limestone.”

In fact, Scott says that in the first few months of operation, the issue won’t be getting customers on board; it will be generating enough supply to meet the demand. This poses a logistical issue that Hunter Limestone will have to address, but as Scott notes, this is a good problem to have.

Did you know?

There are just so many uses for limestone. It is used: to make glass bottles; in steel making; in the production of plastic; as a soil ameliorant; in the process of acid sulphate neutralization; in animal husbandry; across certain pharmaceuticals; to make paper; in coal flue gas desulphurization; as a carbon capture absorbent; in water purification and water treatment; in glass insulation batts; as a mineral additive; in the production of paints; in road pavement … the list goes on. It really is the product with a thousand uses.

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SUSTAIN

SUSTAIN BUSINESS PROFILE: Umwelt provides quality environmental consulting to business and government in the Hunter and beyond.Umwelt was established on the shores of Lake Macquarie in 1993 and since that time the team has grown to over 100 professionals nationwide, with many recognised leaders in their fields of expertise.

Umwelt has over 20 years of experience in environmental and social consulting, successfully completing over 4,000 projects across Australia for the public and private sectors. Having a nationwide spread, with offices also located in

Brisbane, Canberra, Sydney, and Perth, Umwelt strives to make a positive difference for clients, the environment and in the communities in which it operates.

In the Hunter, Umwelt has valued clients across the resources, infrastructure, ports, defence, renewable energy, and urban development sectors, in addition to providing expert and strategic advice to both State and Commonwealth government. Over the last few years, Umwelt has worked collaboratively with clients and relevant stakeholders to balance environmental, social and economic considerations in the design and assessment of major resource, ports and infrastructure projects, to successfully gain government approval for, and deliver, $100million worth of development in the Hunter. A couple of other recent examples of Umwelt’s work

in the Hunter include: cultural heritage services for the Hunter Expressway, working closely with many local Aboriginal community representatives; and ecological services associated with construction at Williamtown RAAF Base.

The company has a strong focus on developing skills and expertise of its valued team and is well-respected, with a reputation for producing high-quality outcomes and offering flexible services tailored to the needs of clients and key stakeholders. Barbara Crossley, Umwelt’s Managing Director says: “What really sets us apart is the quality and expertise of our people. Our team are dedicated professionals, demonstrating excellent strategic and technical leadership, and strong communication and project management to meet our clients’ needs. We are very proud of the skills and experience of our team,

and their loyalty and commitment are essential to our success. Further, our trusted relationships with State and Commonwealth agencies, industry leaders and community stakeholders make Umwelt a leader in providing environmental and social assessment and management outcomes capable of withstanding the highest scrutiny”.

Umwelt also has a very strong focus on innovation, and on the back of successful research and development has established Anditi, which combines more than 10 years’ experience in advanced spatial analytics with the latest high performance computing technologies to deliver ingenious solutions that extract maximum value from spatial big data.

Further details on can be found at www.anditi.com.

Environmental consultants - from the Hunter to the nation


HUNTER TRAINING

Student of the Month: Blake AyerstAge: 22

Course: Certificate III in Wall and Ceiling Lining

Employer: J&M Ayerst Pty Ltd

Blake Ayerst is one of the most hard working young tradespeople you will come across. From a very young age Blake was clear about what he wanted to achieve, having grown up looking up to his father and anticipating the day he would first walk on site as an apprentice. That determination to succeed has been realised. In October, Blake represented the Hunter at the 2016 National WorldSkills Competition in Melbourne and achieved the ultimate goal - bringing home the Gold Medal for plastering.

What led you into this field of study?

My father has been working as a plasterer in the Newcastle and Hunter Valley region for over 30 years. As a

child looking up to my father, I was always interested in what he did and from a young age often attended work with him. The business has been a part of our family for 40 years with my father, grandfather, uncle and cousins all having worked in the family business. Plastering was always an interest of mine and gave me a great opportunity to work alongside my father.

What do you like most about Hunter TAFE?

The opportunities that come with TAFE are endless. The facilities and teachers who are still heavily involved in the industry outside of TAFE also make it easy to learn.

How has your TAFE training translated into the work you are doing in industry now?

TAFE taught me skills that I have put into practice in the workplace, skills which can only be gained through attending the courses. It has also helped me to become a much better person and tradesman.

What are your long-term career goals?

My long terms goals would be to continue my trade and further my skills within the family company. Being a partner with my father would easily have to be my long-term goal and is something I have been working towards since the day I commenced my apprenticeship.

Hunter TAFE Student vies for International Student of the YearZimbabwean student Rumbidzaishe Mazhura has been named International Student of the Year in the Vocational Education and Training category.

When she was named finalist, she did not initially realise the significance of the honour. “I thought it was just nice news at first and I rang my mother and she was so excited. Then I thought, ‘Maybe it is a big deal.’”

The Hunter TAFE student won the honour in the 2016 Study NSW International Student Awards, which were announced at an invitation-only ceremony at the Sydney Opera House last month.

She is currently studying a Diploma in Business Administration at Hunter TAFE. Rumbie’s volunteer work outside of her studies also contributed to her being an excellent contender for International

Student of the Year. She was a member of VGen World Vision NSW National Team for the years 2015-2016. VGen is a group made up of young people who are empowered to take action on issues of global poverty and injustice.

She is also a member of UN Youth Australia NSW, which is a national youth-led organisation that aims to educate and empower young Australians on global issues.

Additionally, Rumbie is involved with Red Cross Australia and is a Youth Member/Team member and is involved with planning social inclusions for people of all ages, which include the elderly and the disadvantaged groups in Australia.

NSW Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres said: “Rumbidzaishe’s commitment to the Hunter community is something she should be proud of and demonstrates the valuable contribution international students make to NSW.”

In her spare time Rumbie enjoys raising awareness through blogging on her online page called Happy African Feminist, which is aimed achieving equal political, economic, cultural, personal, and social rights for women in Africa. She has also had her articles featured in Tigress Magazine for African girls based in Australia.

Hunter TAFE looks to the futureTAFE NSW staff in Newcastle, Hunter and the Central Coast have today launched the organisation’s new Strategic Plan, focused on delivering the skilled workforce needs now and into the future.

TAFE NSW Managing Director Jon Black said TAFE NSW was embarking on exciting and unprecedented development and change right across NSW, with the Strategic Plan 2016-22 document identifying an innovative path forward that will benefit students in Newcastle, Central Coast, Lake

Macquarie, and the Hunter.

Mr Black said the Strategic Plan 2016-22 identified four goals, including:

• Making NSW’s future workforce job ready;

• Strengthening communities across NSW;

• Creating a strong and innovative business with a bright future; and

• Coming together as a proud, passionate and customer-focused team.

Hunter TAFE Institute Director Christine Warrington said: “TAFE NSW will firmly focus on the communities we are part of, and ensure equality of access to training for school leavers, young people at risk, unemployed, students in rural, regional and remote areas, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and learners with a disability.

“No-one will miss out – no matter their location, background or circumstances.”

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TAFE App integrates disparate campusesAn innovative app has been developed to enhance the experience of students studying at Hunter TAFE campuses.

Hunter TAFE’s 15 campuses are geographically dispersed over a wide area throughout the Newcastle, Hunter, Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie and Central Coast regions and the app was developed with two key needs in mind.

One was to provide better communication and information to students. The second was to provide an easy and accurate tool for getting around each of Hunter TAFE’s campuses.

Newcastle creative agency Headjam created the app for Hunter TAFE and it can be used on Android and iPhone mobile platforms and tablets. It is downloadable after searching for “Hunter TAFE” in the Android Play Store or Apple App Store.


HUNTER PEOPLE

One wave is all it takes for Joel PilgrimNovocastrian Joel Pilgrim is one of the originating members of mental health organisation OneWave, which aims to tackle mental health issues through a bit of open dialogue and a lot of surfing.

Joel heard about OneWave when it was just two weeks old. A friend told him about OneWave Founder Grant Trebilco, an inspirational individual who was diagnosed with bipolar in 2012 and found that surfing was his saviour in tough times. Grant had set up OneWave to help other people with mental health issues, and Joel knew that he had to get involved.

“It involved surfing, it tackled mental health issues, and I got to dress up like an idiot, it was perfect for me,” Joel says. He had studied occupational therapy, specialising in mental health, and was an avid surfer, so OneWave was a perfect fit.

The program started at Bondi Beach in Sydney, and initially revolved around Fluro Fridays, where people would meet every Friday at the beach at 6.30am, dressed in all manner of weird and wacky clothing to openly discuss mental health and remove the stigma attached to it. People could surf, socialise and do some yoga.

OneWave has since spread to scores of beaches around Australia and worldwide, from New Zealand to

Pakistan and India. But the Hunter has a special place in the OneWave story, and in particular for Joel. “I’m from Newcastle so the area has a very special meaning to me, it’s in my blood.” Newcastle Beach was the second beach to get involved in the program, after the founding beach Bondi, and formed a great foundation for OneWave’s stellar growth into new beaches and countries.

The OneWave surfing experience

Fluro Fridays were just the beginning. OneWave has since launched the OneWave Surfing Experience, an eight-week program for people with mental health issues, where they can experience therapy sessions in a non-clinical environment, while incorporating surfing.

“I know the power of surfing,” Joel says. “I took a client surfing one day and saw the amazing impact it had, and I thought to myself, ‘This just has to happen’.”

But when he presented his idea to NSW Health, it was not viewed as a plausible form of therapy, and OneWave was unable to get any support. Instead of

giving up, the organisation partnered with a range of community groups, training them up in the OneWave Surfing Experience method. Over time, the fellas were able to develop their own events, with their own staff and volunteers.

“We meet up and we discuss mental health issues before we go out for a surf. Basically, the idea is that we want to normalise mental health. It’s okay to not be okay. I want mental health to be like breaking your arm – at school when you break your arm all the kids wanted to sign your cast, but if you have mental health issues there is a different perception. We want to change that.”

OneWave is currently spearheading eight separate programs around the country, including corporate sessions which discuss mental health in the workplace.

Why Surfing?

According to OneWave, surfing in particular is one water-based physical activity that could provide a great deal of benefit to clinical populations. The few studies that do exist show positive results.

A 2009 study has shown that surfers experience less anxiety and depression than the average population, while a 2015 study has revealed that surfing enhances the mental health capacities of elite athletes. It has been shown to increase body image, self-compassion and self-esteem, while decreasing depression and alienation; while it has been shown to provide a sense of respite from post traumatic stress disorder.

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My unique Defensive Driving Workshops examine the most common types of road incidents and crashes. Using a discovery learning approach, clients ‘discover' techniques that help them avoid these dangerous road accidents, through use of the best safety Power Point presentations in Australia and intensive, thought-provoking question and answer sessions, small group discussions and an encompassing quiz.

Our ideal clients are individuals and companies who want to achieve the highest standards in Occupational Health and Safety.

I’m an accredited Driving Instructor/Assessor for the RMS and also do Disability and Pensioner Retesting for over 75 year olds.

I am also available as an Expert Witness on traffic matters and incidents.

Phil Burns C.D.I.Saving Australian Lives


Hunter l Central Coast l Manning

1300 817 917employment.castlepersonnel.com.au

• Free Recruitment• On The Job Support• Employment and Training Incentives

Disability Employment Services

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Castle Personnel General Manager Justin BrownBriefly tell us about your business.

For 25 years Castle Personnel has been operating an employment service and a support service for people with a disability. We operate in the Hunter, Central Coast and Manning regions, with a team of almost 200 employees. Our employment operation provides no cost recruitment, training and support services which helps connect job seekers to employers. Our services span from pre-employment guidance and training, recruitment and candidate nomination for employers and then ongoing support for the employee and the employer.

How does your company contribute to the Hunter region?

In a direct business contribution we have 7 offices located throughout the Hunter region. These have a geographic range from Cessnock and Maitland to Port Stephens, and throughout Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

Our key focus is on supporting people with a disability to prepare for, find and maintain long-term employment. Currently we are helping over 600 jobseekers enter the local workforce. In terms of our local business connection, we have assisted numerous Hunter organisations – some on multiple occasions with our recruitment and support services.

Over the past 25 years, through our strong partnerships with Hunter business operators, it has been a privilege to provide the opportunity to help our jobseekers find employment. We look forward to many more positive outcomes for our clients and business partners in the future.

What is the secret of your success?

In the Hunter region we have an exceptional team who know the region

and the business market intimately. Through their deep connection to the Hunter businesses, their regional pride and their personal focus to excel in their careers, we have continued to grow.

What growth opportunities do you see in the Hunter?

Most recently the Hunter is transforming and adjusting to the broader economic and industry changes. We continue to see strong entrepreneurial spirit of the local businesses and these small to medium operations are providing a foundation for growth in the non-industrial areas, and we have been able to work closely with them in building the workforce they need.

What advice would you give anyone with ambitions to run their own company?

The immense personal passion and energy that leads to starting a business should be supported with the input of those with experience. Always ask for advice from those with experience and connect with others that have been on the start-up journey, them have probably had to solve similar issues. Oh and of course talk to Castle Personnel for any staffing needs.

What is the biggest issue facing your industry at the moment?

At present, the general economic environment is making it challenging for business to proposer and grow into bigger operations. Our core service is connecting job seekers and employers, so we are focused don what areas are increasing job opportunities.

What was your “big break” in your industry? What qualifications did you need to get into your current role?

In all roles, the big break generally comes from others having the confidence in you and giving you that initial opportunity, after that moment it is in your hands to turn that into a success. Prior to Castle, my background has been in other general management roles, and certainly completing tertiary studies in business has been essential to lead a business so the size of Castle.

Meet the MargansFrom prestigious Bordeaux to Italy, throw in a stint behind the Iron Curtain and back to Broke, the Margans are well travelled in the pathways to culinary utopia.

One can never be too indulgent when it comes to food, wine and relaxation according to these two. Together they are young and adventurous, business savvy and entrepreneurial. They are both grounded in their passion for the land, and all things culinary are their forte. All this in the midst of raising their three children while working the farm.

Andrew quips, “It’s a fast pace and days are full, however, a morning coffee together gets us focused for the day ahead and an evening Campari signals ‘bundy off…... stop talking shop’… it’s now time to relax.”

Super troopers of success, Lisa (pictured) and Andrew Margan are a step above determined, and their thirst to achieve bigger and better things in fine dining Australian style is second to none.

She means business. A mum, well-travelled chef and successful entrepreneur, Lisa was born in Sydney but made her ‘green change’ to the Hunter Valley when she married winemaker Andrew Margan 28 years ago. She was a teacher before retraining as a chef under highly respected French chef, Robert Molines, at his iconic restaurant The Cellar in the Hunter Valley, as well as completing a masters degree in science and nutrition, focussing on organic food production.

While Lisa cooked her way to her dreams and aspirations, Andrew learnt the ropes under wine industry legend, Murray Tyrrell. As a young couple in 1990, Lisa and Andrew spread their wings far and wide setting up a home in Bordeaux, France; he to make wine and she, to cook.

Lisa worked as a private chef at wine house, Chateau de Sours and later further explored her love of all things ‘fine’ at local restaurant, Le St Martin led by a Michelin Star chef.

Down to business

Today and together ‘they’ mean business. They believe their success is defined in their common business rules as well as understanding each other’s rules. Harmony is ‘king’ in the Margan household. Being together in business and matrimony can be detrimental to relationships. For this very reason they have separate powers of veto in their own areas of expertise. Lisa believes this keeps the marriage strong and where there is disagreement they need to defer to ‘the agreement to differ’.

Apart from the daily grind Lisa loves to walk in the evenings through the vineyard, the orchard and the restaurant’s own garden. She is a self -confessed fan of yoga and meditation and dreams of doing more of this activity regularly. Both are super-keen skiers and when they get a chance to ski, they take it.

Andrew loves the ocean for relaxation and has been a surfer since the age of nine still finding the experience incredibly cathartic today. He has now been lucky enough to own a good racehorse and is now in the process of breeding some for the future, a slow forming passion.

As farmers, they also have a firm commitment to the environment and have one of the most accredited businesses in recognition of their environmental sustainable initiatives including compliancy with ISO 14000 (international standards) for best environmental practice.

Together they are Margan, two organic peas in a pod, mum and dad to three, and leaders in their industry. Come to Margan Restaurant and you’ll immediately know that they have something so unique. They live a life in respect of all things from the land – they are the new heirs apparent of good food and wine, Australia style.


THROUGH THE LENS

Through the lensEach month we like to showcase beautiful images created by Hunter locals. In previous issues we have published snaps of the Hunter region, but this month we’ve decided to do something a little different.

Maitland resident Ivan Kobiolke is one of the Hunter’s most talented photographers. He offers a range of tours and courses for anyone interested in the craft, from fine art photography workshops to local and international photography tours.

One of his most intriguing experiences is a 17-day photography and wildlife tour, where he takes tourists all the way to Namibia and Zambia in Africa. The tour takes travellers through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, and gives them access to the most amazing animals on earth.

According to Kobiolke: “Photography is a way of life, where I can express what I feel about my world. To me, my photography is a measuring stick of my life. I always strive to produce the highest quality and standards in my images, in the content, editing, post production and printing.”

In this month’s Through the Lens, we thought we would celebrate the amazing photography that has been produced by this Maitland local in one of his trips to Namibia and Zambia. They truly are breathtaking. If you are to get in touch, check out his website at http://www.ivankobiolke-photography.com.au/ or call him on 0418 108 909.


If you have a passion for photography, we’d love to see your best shots. Drop us a line at

[email protected]


OPINION

OPINION: Embrace The Power of FlexibilityBy AECOM Hunter Area Manager Ian Richardson

Research continues to show that businesses who offer genuine workplace flexibility are ahead of the competition in terms of attracting and retaining top talent, increasing diversity of their workforce and leadership, and improving employee engagement and satisfaction.

These organisations also benefit from a more focused and productive workforce, leading to increased output and superior financial results.

In early 2016 Bain & Company and Chief Executive Women (CEW) released the Power of Flexibility report, suggesting that flexible working is no longer just a women’s issue. If we truly want to see equal workforce

participation at every level of leadership, then both men and women must be equally enabled to share the caregiving role through equal access to flexible work arrangements, free from negative repercussions in terms of career prospects.

So it is no surprise that many organisations are implementing flexible work practices to ensure all employees can balance their work with their personal caring commitments.

With around 2,750 Australian employees and 100 based here in the Hunter, AECOM is shining a light on gender equality through a number of programs including reporting gender pay gap analysis, unconscious bias awareness training for managers, mentoring circles for female staff and a new all roles flex commitment.

Earlier this year the company removed standard contracted start and finish times from employee contracts, in conjunction with improvements to systems and IT infrastructure enabling employees to remain connected away from their desk.

Now more than ever it is important for men and women to be committed to flexibility and gender equality in all of its forms.

Throughout my career I have worked flexibly in a range of ways. I have previously taken extended parental leave, taking on the primary carer role so that my wife could return to work following maternity leave. This gave me a fantastic insight into what it’s like to be a stay at home parent, juggling career and family. In my current role I travel frequently, and AECOM’s flexible working arrangements enable me to more effectively balance work commitments with family time.

As a result it will come as no surprise to those I work with in the Hunter that I’m a big advocate for diversity in our workforce. Here in the Hunter we have a range of employees working flexibly whether it’s part-time, flexible start and end times or working remotely.

What’s been really encouraging is that flexibility has been embraced by both male and female staff. It’s essential that it isn’t seen as a gender issue and it doesn’t mean that someone is less driven or committed than a full time, office based colleague. In fact in many instances the opposite is true.

We have staff across our Australian business working flexibly for a range of reasons beyond caregiving responsibilities. Whether it is studying, volunteering in their community, or winning an Olympic silver medal as Karsten Forsterling, a Structural Engineer from our Melbourne office, recently did in the men’s quadruple sculls at Rio. All of these have been made possible through flexible work arrangements.

In recognition of the impact the company has made in the area of gender diversity, AECOM was presented with the Most Outstanding Company in Gender Diversity Award by Engineers Australia in August.

In the past 12 months AECOM has managed to increase the number of senior female leaders by 26 per cent, driven by an executive group who have identified diversity and inclusion as a key enabler of the company’s future success.

In a typically male dominated industry like engineering and design, I’m proud of the impact we have made to reduce the pay gap, appoint more senior female leaders and manage to achieve a 50:50 gender split in our graduate intake for the first time.

About AECOM

AECOM is a global infrastructure firm, with around 2,750 Australian employees and 100 staff based in the Hunter. The company designs, builds, operates and manages infrastructure projects, and has been named one of Fortune Magazine’s ‘World’s Most Admired Companies’ two years in a row.


OPINION

OPINION: How to develop a local manufacturing advantage By Advanced Manufacturing Growth

Centre Managing Director Dr Jens Goennemann

Innovation, automation and globalisation are forces becoming more familiar to Australians. Being part of an open market not only means that we have a choice of products from around the world, but it equally opens our home economy to competition.

And this is where Australian manufacturers are starting to find their niche.

Making complex things is key for Australian prosperity. Our nation’s competitive edge leans upon its ability to differentiate at all levels of the manufacturing value chain. Production is only one area.

We are meeting Australian manufacturers specialising in the early stages of R&D and design, logistics management, and pre- and post-sales support and services. Their manufacturing ingenuity is exported for fighter jets and commercial airlines, for tightening screws on most iPhones sold and helping millions hear.

This is how Australian manufacturers become part of the global supply chain. Solving a problem for a large multinational system integrator means a local business has a market much larger than 24 million domestic customers.

Becoming export-focused and collaborating, opening the door to other Australian manufacturing

firms and researchers is the answer. The competition is not between Australian states or universities, it’s with the next commercialised product developed overseas.

We have evidence that high-value intangible factors other than just the price are what international buyers are most looking for. Technology leadership, reputation and reliability consistently influence purchasing decisions. This is good news for Australian manufacturers as competing on cost doesn’t need to be our strong point, nor should it be.

We have many Australian success stories in the manufacturing sector that deserve the spotlight, but we need many, many more; and we are committed to helping more manufactures get on this successful path.

About the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre

The Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre Ltd (AMGC) is the not-for-profit company responsible for delivering activities for the benefit of the Advanced Manufacturing sector. The body’s aim is to develop an internationally competitive, dynamic and thriving Australian sector. This body has particular relevance to the Hunter Region, due to the region’s multiple connections with the advanced manufacturing industry, in relation to areas such as Defence.

Making Sense of Risk By Dolphyn Principal Consulant Rob Sams

Welcome to my first monthly column, one that will aim to explore how people make sense of, and deal, with risk. So let’s begin with a situation that most of us face regularly.

Have you ever thought to yourself after an accident or mistake: “That just doesn’t make sense to me” or “What were they thinking?” It can be challenging trying to understand decisions about risk made by others, especially when our own thoughts and decisions are filled with biases and paradoxes. So how can we begin to make sense of risk?

Firstly, it is useful to recognise that understanding risk (and people) can be quite a challenge, especially when we are trying to understand risk from the perspective of ‘others’.

For example, when we talk of ‘risky’ activities, some people develop a feeling of anxiety (How could you...). Others may feel excitement (I Can’t wait to...) and for others still, the feeling may be neutral (So what). So what can this teach us about risk?

It is a common misconception that the way we think and feel about risk can be simply described in one way or another, that is: risk is either good or bad (binary) or perhaps neutral. We can also be easily seduced into thinking that risk is simply

objective and easily understood, but how can it be when it involves people, whose decision making is chockfull of contradictions, attributions and assumptions?

For many situations, the feeling of risk, and our thinking about risk, is messy, complicated and constantly changing. Further, it is only through our relationships and connection with others that we can start to make sense of risk.

This is the key point that I have learned through both my formal studies in Social Psychology and Risk, along with my extensive work in the industry. Early this year, I took time out to reflect on this, and it is this reflection that I share in my first book Social Sensemaking.

Social Sensemaking brings together these reflections and holds that making sense of risk is a social activity. In other words, while people as individuals may have changing, conflicting, or even co-existing views and feelings about risk in their lives, when we ‘sense-make’ ideas, feelings, thoughts and viewpoints with others, we can make better sense of risk. I will share more practical reflections on this topic in future columns.

Thanks for joining in the discussion, if you’d like to keep the conversation going, you can e-mail me at [email protected]

Till next month…

Rob Sams is the author of Social Sensemaking, the Owner and Principal Consultant at Dolphyn (www.dolphyn.com.au) and is currently the Acting Chairperson of Lifeline Hunter Central Coast.


FEATURE

Newcastle cruise terminal to turbocharge tourism It’s the decision that has many Hunter businesses jumping for joy. It will see the creation of jobs and inject tens of millions of dollars into the Newcastle and Hunter economy. We’re talking, of course, about the $13 million multi-purpose cruise terminal facility that the State Government has recently approved.

Hunter Industry News sat down with Port of Newcastle CEO Geoff Crowe to discuss what exactly this cruise terminal means for Newcastle and the surrounding region.

He says the development project will bring lucrative contracts to local businesses and will create new jobs. Meanwhile, when it is completed, an increases in visitors will bring valuable tourist dollars.

The construction of new boring bollards, expected to be completed in mid 2017, allows the port to accommodate larger ships carrying up to 3,500 passengers. Meanwhile, construction of the terminal will begin in mid 2017 and is likely to finish in late 2018.

Great news for the Hunter economyCrowe says the benefits for the Hunter region will be numerous. To begin with, the development stage could prove lucrative for local businesses.

“There is the actual cruise terminal which we need to design and construct, as well as car parking, landscaping, in-fill work on existing channel berth area. There are different aspects and different disciplines required. The largest part of job is the cruise terminal.”

Crowe said the Port of Newcastle will put several contracts out to tender, and he expects that these contracts will largely be taken up by local businesses.

He pointed to research conducted by the Hunter Research Foundation which indicated that the construction of the terminal and its flow on effects will inject $26.7 million into the local economy, while creating 76 jobs.

Once completed, the terminal will be a gift that keeps on giving.

“The growth occurring in the cruise industry has been huge. Cruise Lines International Association Australasia has quoted figures in the order of a million Australians who went on cruises in 2015, which was

a major increase on 2014, and we expect this growth to continue.

“This is a great opportunity for Newcastle and the Hunter to attract more cruise ships passengers. That means we have more tourists visiting our region. A permanent cruise terminal will allow Newcastle to host home port visits, where the ship stays overnight or a couple of days.” Previously, cruise ships have only been able to arrive in the morning and leave the same day.

“Travellers, even Novocastrians, can start and finish their cruise here. Home porting will allow visitors to come through Newcastle Airport, and make use of local hotels, shops and restaurants. Home porting also means that people are in and around the region longer.

“At the moment cruise shipping injects $11 million per annum into the Hunter’s economy. If you look at that and then see the increase in cruise shipping and combine that with home porting, and that number will quickly grow. The main areas of attraction for people coming in on cruise ships might be the Hunter Valley vineyards, Port Stephens for whale and dolphin cruises, the Central Coast for its reptile park and other attractions, Maitland Gaol, Stockland for sandboarding,

there’s all sorts of attractions.”

A community effortIt was a true community effort that got this project off the ground, and Crowe is quick to thank all the parties and stakeholders who were involved.

“We have had fantastic support from across business and across the entire community, and we have also had support from cruise industry itself. We have cruise liners like Carnival Australia, Royal Caribbean, Silversea, Ponant and Crysal – and in the future there are more cruise lines out there we can potentially tap into.

“The opportunities are immense and it really symbolises the opportunity that the Port of Newcastle offers in terms of diversification. It’s very well known and has done well in the trade of coal for many years, at around 6 million tonne per annum, but cruise ships visiting our port and the growth of tourism will really create a great opportunity for Newcastle.”

Crowe also praises the Hunter Infrastructure Fund, through which the terminal’s funding has been acquired. It was the support of the board which flowed through to getting the support of the NSW Government, he says.

Images: Port of Newcastle


FEATURE

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Plans for the futureWhile Crowe has more than enough on his plate with the design, planning and construction of the cruise terminal, he says the Port of Newcaslte is already thinking about future direction.

“We would like to think we will have international cruises, if international flights come into Newcastle Airport, we could set up customs and quarantining facilities.

“That is certainly something we have in our vision down the track. It is pretty solid straight forward steps initially, but that is certainly the vision. If you look at growth in Asia and China, there is a real opportunity for us to grow into that.”

One thing is certain – it looks like blue skies ahead for the local economy.


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In focus: Ruth Hutchinson, General Manager HunterNet Group Training CompanyHow did you get involved in HunterNet?

I first became involved with HunterNet over 9 years ago when I undertook the project management of a HunterNet sponsored Skill Shortages in the Mining Industry project.

What made you decide to go into the field you now make your living from?

I have been involved with Vocational Education and Training for 25 years. I

have a passion to see people change their lives in a positive way.

What advice would you give someone who wants to be successful in your line of business?

To be patient and take time to understand where the other person is coming from, as working with a variety of people you have to learn to adjust your style to suit the situation.

What separates you from the competition?

Staff who care about the apprentices and hosts and work towards positive outcomes.

What, if any, do you see the role of the customer playing in the innovation strategy?

We regularly seek customer feedback and apply this when possible to our business model so we know we are achieving the business needs of our customers.

What do you see as the coming trends in your profession/area of expertise?

Diversification from traditional apprentice roles into emerging industries and advanced engineering.

So Ruth, if someone were to describe you in one sentence what would they say?

Ruth is very professional, decisive and loves a challenge.

HunterNet Member Profile:

DC Rowe1. What business are you in?

DC Rowe is in the business of providing convenience and prosperity to clients through its suite of thermal management products and services, such as mechanical insulation, expansion joints and inspection services that offer lifecycle or ‘cradle to grave’ solutions for industrial assets.

2. Has your market changed in recent years?

Lack of revenue diversification hit the company hard recently with the mining industry downturn but a new strategy aimed at improving business development and marketing efforts through our parent company as well as internally has seen us establish footprints into the marine, defence, oil and gas, mineral processing and food and beverage industries.

3. What challenges have these changes presented to your business?

The main challenges have centred on capturing and then meeting the unique demands within those industries. Whether it’s documentation, a particular material or style that differs or purpose for our products, there are slight differences across the board that need to be respected. Aside from this, there have been the usual commercial challenges such as marketing ourselves towards customers that may already have a number of established relationships.

4. What have you needed to do to adapt to those changes?

In most cases we prepared for these changes by attending to market specific workshops that assisted in outlining certain cultural differences and expectations within those markets. Our membership with HunterNet has certainly helped in this regard. We have also been forced to innovate production methodologies for our products, which has included introducing new materials we hadn’t utilised previously and in some instances we have had to retrain and

upskill staff in administrative areas. Ultimately it forced us to conduct significant amounts of research into the drivers of our products within these markets.

5. What do you believe are the key competencies for a small business?

Leadership – this needs to be nourished and encouraged to enable good decision making to occur across the organisation and set the tone and expectations for subordinates.

Innovation – unless you innovate and hence differentiate, whether it be customer service, product or even packaging, you will simply not offer ongoing value to customers who will opt to partner with competitors who do.

Customer Management – Whether it’s communication, meeting DIFOTs, quick quotations or regular follow ups, customer management should be a core competency for any small business to ensure customer relationships are built enabling loyalty and repeat business. Importantly, by staying close to customers, intelligence such as perceived value or competitor movements is captured more efficiently allowing companies to react more swiftly.

Quality Control – if your products or services don’t meet customer expectations, be it for reliability, performance, material choice or a combination of other reasons, ongoing ventures with these customers will be short lived. Moreover, you’re likely to develop a reputation for poor quality, real or perceived, that may prove impossible to overcome.

6. How does your company contribute to the Hunter Region?

DC Rowe employs a diverse range of individuals ranging male to female, junior to senior and technical to tertiary qualified. We embrace our diversity believing our broad experiences and skills assist in developing new ideas and innovating new products and services. DC Rowe has recently formed a partnership with ‘Trees In Newcastle’ where we will donate as well as offer opportunities for staff to volunteer towards TIN projects.


Purpose living project on track with community needsA new development planned for Hall Street at Maryville will provide the ideal living space for those seeking ‘cycle-friendly’ inner city housing to suit their lifestyle.

Mavid Group has submitted a Development Application following extensive collaboration with Newcastle City Council’s planning department, along with an independent expert cycling consultant, to ensure the project meets the needs of residents and the surrounding community.

Located alongside Throsby Creek the proposed Bicycle Oriented Development (BOD), Velocity, has been designed by local award winning architects CKDS Architecture and will contain 33 two-storey townhouses intended to fit with the natural environment and existing profile of the site.

The dwellings include efficient bicycle access to front entry and kitchen service zones, dedicated and controlled cycleway access points, on-site bicycle parking, along with private and shared outdoor spaces.

Development Manager for Mavid Group, Peter Childs, says Maryville, Wickham and Islington are fast becoming places of choice for people wanting to integrate their lifestyle with recreational activities such as cycling, rowing, canoeing and paddle boarding.

“During the design phase we worked closely with

council and internationally respected cycle design expert Dr Steven Fleming,” Mr Childs said.

“This project has been described as a model for future inner city developments as it not only encourages and supports less vehicular activity for residents but also embraces, capitalises and improves on established cycleway infrastructure used by the wider community.”

In conjunction with the new development, the existing cycleway is proposed to be widened to 3 metres with an additional 2.5 metre dedicated walkway installed.

“Velocity is a shining example of how architects and developers can work together to design modern urban and purpose built living spaces,” Mr Childs said.

The Mavid Group is a Newcastle/Hunter based property investment, development and construction company investing in communities throughout NSW. The company is committed to undertaking projects that have a positive impact on the social, environmental and economic fabric of growing communities.

BUSINESS IN PROFILE

UVS: Helping sharks and humans co-existNewcastle-based UVS is a supplier of quality subsea equipment and services to the Oceanographic, Hydrographic, Defence, Offshore Oil & Gas, Renewable Energy and Water Utility market. One of its latest projects has been its involvement with the Clever Buoy, a non-invasive shark detection technology which alerts beaches to the presence of sharks well before they come into contact with humans.

The Clever Buoy is a shark detection buoy which sits off the shore of a beach and uses sonar to detect the marine life near the beach, and which can determine when a shark is near the shore based on size, shape and swim pattern. It then shoots an early warning signal to lifeguards, who are alerted via an app.

The product is owned by a Perth-based company called Shark Attack Mitigation Systems, but local

business UVS has been heavily involved in the project from its inception as an engineering partner. The idea has been backed by Optus.

According to Clever Buoy General Manager Richard Talmage, UVS was first engaged at the proof of concept stage, and has also been involved in research and development. UVS is also involved in the current commercialisation phase as well.

UVS was brought on board because of its engineering capabilities, and in particular its “capabilities in defence and marine electronics”.

Dealing with the skeptics

As with any shark detection technology, there are always going to be skeptics.

According to Talmage: “Any new technology faces skepticism. But we are founded around understanding the science.

“There’s a lot of literature on sonar, and we are getting independent verification. Sonar is already something that is well understood scientifically.

“There is also the question regarding environmental impact. We have to ensure that we are working above a frequency that marine animals use.”

The product is currently being trialed in Australia – for instance trials have already occurred in Western Australia and at Bondi Beach in Sydney.

Did you know

Australian waters are home to some of the deadliest sharks in the world, notably bull sharks and, of course, the dreaded great white shark.

In fact, only a few weeks ago, a surfer was attacked by a shark a little further north up the coast in Ballina. The attack has sparked considerable concern in NSW, with Premier Mike Baird revealing plans to trial shark nets on the far north coast of NSW.

But with all the uproar about shark attacks, it is actually sharks who have the most to fear. Researchers estimate that at least 100 million sharks are killed by humans each year.

This is why technologies like the Clever Buoy and so important, as they will hopefully allow sharks and humans to co-exist.


Float, pop or teaseHydro Float Fishing has created the HYDROX3. This 3-in-1 fishing float can be used as a float, popper or teaser depending on the type of fish you’re on the hunt for.

The design allows you to easily adjust the HYDROX3 so you can target your approach to land based fishing or offshore fishing, the species you’re hunting or

the time of day you’re wetting a line. These interchangeable features and the impact resistant polycarbonate body creates the ultimate fishing float for every angler.

MORE INFORMATION: It has a recommended retail price of $17.99. For more information, go to www.hydrofloatfishing.com.au

Walk into another worldSony’s new VR headset has finally rolled out in Australian stores, and we can’t wait to immerse ourselves in a virtual reality world.

The Sony VR headset became available in Australia last month, with the first shipment sold out before it even hit the stores. New shipments have already started rolling in, and

at $550, it’s not exactly cheap but it won’t break the bank either.

Virtual reality has been the latest technology trend in 2016, with players like Facebook, Google, HTC, LG and Samsung also entering the market with their own versions of VR.

Playstation’s offering obviously has gaming at its heart, but it won’t stop there. VR is already been used in real estate, social media, tourism, entertainment, and beyond. The possibilities are limitless. Welcome to the future.

Master your painIt’s a drug free pain management system known as the Painmster Micro Current Therapy. It can be used for any muscular skeletal pain and is incredibly affordable at just $45.

The Painmaster uses Micro-Current Therapy, a process of supplying extremely low electrical current, similar to that found naturally in the body, to the affected pain area, where it can reach injured cells, potentially restoring and regenerating them to alleviate chronic pain.

MORE INFORMATION: Visit www.painmaster.com.au.

An off road adventure

Market Direct Campers (MDC) has engineered a camper trailer that offers everything a caravan does, but without its timid off road fear, or their hefty price tags - the Venturer LT - Cape York Edition.

MDC has made the dream of owning a campervan easier, and without any

sacrifice. Winner of Camper Trailer Australia Magazine’s 2016 Camper Trailer of the Year Under $20k, the Venturer LT - Cape York Edition is a tow-behind trailer built to take an off road beating, with all the bells and whistles. The camper ‘home’, folds down into a heavily durable, slim unit - that is easy to manoeuvre with, and that does not impede on your rearview vision.

MORE INFORMATION:

Visit www.marketdirect.com.au

Get Up Stand UpThe iconic musician Bob Marley understood the power music has to bring people together, and the upgraded and refreshed audio system from House Of Marley is designed to do just that.

House Of Marley engineers its audio systems to capture the energy and

detail of every recording, and the new Little Get Together Bluetooth Portable Audio System delivers this sound in a smaller and more portable form. Made from 90% recycled content, this speaker was built with the environment in mind.

MORE INFORMATION:

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TOOLS & TOYS


Muswellbrook artist gives back to communityAndrew Davis is a Muswellbrook artist with an incredible talent. He is a local man through and through – he has donated over 200 pieces to different community projects.

Andrew’s output has been guided by “a continuing desire to understand life’s mosaic of human discourse and interactions”, which, being mildly autistic, he has always found bewildering.

Inspired by the “what’s happening in his ‘own backyard’ attitudes of early newspaper comic strips”, Andrew’s mosaics express whacky, over-the-top expressions of life, reminiscent of festivals or tickertape parades – with many elements of live action reworked into one large modern jumble of animated activity.

He says of his work: “It’s kind of like sitting at central train station, imagining the stories of every person walking past and expressing that in a single work.”

Here at Hunter Industry News, we love to support anyone who supports the Hunter. Good on you, Andrew, keep the great work coming.

Why managers need to be aware of mental health in the workplaceConsidering the mental health of your staff is no longer an optional extra. A worker may develop a mental illness prior to their employment or during their employment and the workplace is often the place where mental health problems become evident. Most workers successfully manage their illness without it impacting upon their work, whilst others may require support for a short period of time. A minority might require ongoing workplace strategies.

Someone with a mental health issue is unlikely to bring it up with a manager and is more likely to keep it to themselves. What you might see is increasing sick leave, complaining, and complaints from others, withdrawal, distraction, confusion, uncharacteristic errors, lateness and leaving early. There may be moodiness that’s out of character, finding it hard to take minor personal criticisms, and increased physical health complaints like fatigue and pain.

A top down approach is needed to provide leadership in addressing mental health in the workplace. Research shows that every dollar spent on identifying, supporting and case-managing workers with mental health issues yields close to a 500% return in improved productivity (through increased work output and reduced sick leave).

Employers and managers have legal obligations in relation to the management of mental illness in the workplace. As a manager you will need to have effective communication strategies with your people, understand reasonable adjustments for those with mental illness and know what to do about performance concerns for a worker with a suspected or known mental illness.

Prevention is better than a cure, where $1 invested in mental illness prevention today – e.g. through a good quality Employee Assistance Program and training in mental health for managers - returns $9 in the first year, and over the next 2-5 years will return $48 through reduced absenteeism and workplace accidents and increased employee performance and productivity.

Your awareness, your empathy and your skills as a compassionate manager will make all the difference.

Article courtesy of Tarnya Davis, clinical and forensic psychologist.

NewPsych Psychologists 15 Queen Street, Cooks Hill, NSW PO Box 345, Newcastle, NSW 2300

Telephone: (02) 4926 5005 facsimile: (02) 4927 0915 email: [email protected] web: www.newpsych.com.au

HUNTER LIFE


Pokolbin: The Heart of the Hunter wine countryThe Hunter Valley is famous for its spectacular beauty and, of course, it world class wines. If you’re looking for a day trip, or you want to stay for a few nights, there’s any number of experiences you can enjoy in Australia’s most beautiful wine region, and Pokolbin is at the centre of it all.

Pokolbin is the heart of the Hunter Valley. It is where most of the Hunter Valley’s first vineyards were planted and where you will find the largest collection of wineries, accommodation houses, restaurants and activities. And, of course, you will also find many of the original winemaking families here.

What’s more, it’s not just for tourists. Even if you’re a Hunter local (and if you’re reading Hunter Industry News

then chances are you’re a Hunter local through and through), there’s so many hidden nooks and crannies in Pokolbin that you’ll enjoy returning to the region time and time again.

There’s just so much to love about Pokolbin. We thought we’d run you through a few of our favourite places and activities. This is just a small sample, and remember, to really enjoy the region, you have to go back more than once.

Treat yourself to some pamperingIn such a relaxing and peaceful setting, it seems only natural that you would want to enjoy a little pampering. There’s heaps of options if you’re looking for some relaxation. You might try the Golden Door Spa, which is located in famous health retreat Elysia. Otherwise Spa Anise is another favourite – it’s situated within Spicers Vineyards Estate.

Food, food and more food You can’t enjoy a good wine without some amazing food to go with it, and Pokolbin has more world class restaurants than it knows what to do with. You’ll be absolutely spoiled for choice. Many of these are attached to wineries, so you can combine your wine tours with a relaxing dining experience.

Awash with outdoor adventuresIf you’ve had enough of rest and relaxation, then why don’t you try your hand at some of the outdoor activities you can enjoy in this picturesque region. You can enjoy hot air ballooning with Balloon Aloft, an exciting aerial adventure with Hunter Valley Vintage Wings, or private horse and carriage tours with Hunter Valley Horses. What’s not to love.

Visit wineries and have a tippleThis is an obvious one. But here’s the problem … there’s just so many amazing wineries you can visit. A few of our favourites are Tulloch Wines, McGuigan Wines and Moorebank Private Vineyard. But there are just so many you can choose from. Your best option is to look into a wineries tour.

Enjoy the show at the Hunter Wine Theatre Hunter Valley Resort gives visitors the total ‘wine experience’ with the Hunter Wine Theatre. At most wineries, you can only see the grapes being crushed in January or February, but the wine experience gives you a taste of wine harvesting, with grapes being crushed on-site for your enjoyment.

Explore Pokolbin by bikeThe area is simply stunning, so why would you want to be cooped up inside. You can create your own wineries tour if you hire a bike and explore the region. You can pull off the road for a picnic and enjoy the tranquil surrounds. Grapemobile Bicycle Hire, which is located in the Pokolbin Brothers Wines vineyard, has a range of mountain bikes and tandems, so you can really enjoy the outdoor experience.

HUNTER LIFE - TOURISM


Famous Hunter drops

Hunter Valley Semillon: The Hunter Valley is recognised as the world’s leader in dry white wines made from Semillon. So strong is Semillon’s connection with the terroir of the Hunter Valley that the style cannot been replicated anywhere else in the world. Hunter Valley Semillon is widely regarded as Australia’s unique white wine – a style unlike all others, based on unique climatic conditions, Australian ingenuity and more than 180 years of practice.

Hunter Valley Shiraz: Hunter Valley Shiraz (known as Hermitage or Burgundy until the late 1970s) has established itself as one of Australia’s great red wine styles. It is a food friendly wine of medium body that, much like Hunter Valley Semillon, reflects its origin. Hunter Valley Shiraz wines made in the 1940s and 50s by the legendary Maurice O’Shea at McWilliams and Hector Tulloch at Tulloch are still drinking well at the turn of the 21st century and are highly sought after and widely regarded as some of the best wines ever made in Australia.

Hunter Valley Chardonnnay: Now, in the early years of the 21st century, Chardonnay is the world’s most popular white grape variety and the most widely planted white grape variety in Australia. It was not until the 1960s that it appeared in the Hunter Valley as White Pineau in the Penfold’s HVD vineyard (next to Tyrrell’s), where Murray Tyrrell famously jumped the fence a few years later and borrowed some of the prunings for propagation. These were to become the Tyrrell’s Vat 47 Pinot Chardonnay wines of the early 1970s and most believe these wines were the first varietally labelled Chardonnays in Australia.

Hunter Valley Verdelho: Due to its natural ability to withstand heat and the occasional bit of rain, Verdelho has become a natural partner to the Hunter Valley and its wines are growing in importance in the Valley. Hunter Valley Verdelho is a naturally full-bodied, fruit driven style of wine that is becoming increasingly popular with Australian wine lovers.

HUNTER LIFE - TOURISM


HUNTER LIFE - SPORT

Maitland Sportsground set for multimillion dollar makeoverThe NSW Government, through the Hunter Infrastructure and Investment Fund, has announced the awarding of a $5.5 million grant for the upgrade of the city’s Athletics Centre, which is part of the wider plan for the development of the Maitland Regional Sportsground Complex in Central Maitland.

The upgrade of the current Smyth Field facilities will include an international standard modern synthetic running track, athletics facilities, clubhouse, floodlighting and additional parking. Once complete, the new athletics complex will significantly improve community sporting options and provide the facilities that meet the needs of a growing population.

Maitland City Council Mayor, Cr Peter

Blackmore said: “This is fantastic news for our community. Sport is an integral part of the fabric of Maitland and the athletics community will be thrilled with this announcement.

“The addition of an upgraded track and field facility within Central Maitland will certainly broaden the offering for the community and mean our aspiring athletes will be able to train in Maitland, rather than travelling to other parts of the Hunter.”

The announcement also enables the realisation of the second stage of a wider Master Plan for the site that will see it transformed into a complex that meets regional needs now and into the future. The site will connect to Maitland No. 1 Sportsground, which itself is currently undergoing an $8.6 million redevelopment to its grandstand and facilities.

“Both No. 1 Sportsground and Smyth Field have had an interesting history. Smyth Field was originally set aside for community use in the 1800s and many iterations of development have followed. But these facilities haven’t evolved since the 1960s, so it’s definitely time they received an upgrade.”

The Maitland Regional Sportsground Complex (Stage 2) is jointly funded by the Hunter Infrastructure and Investment Fund (HIIF) and Maitland City Council. The total cost of the project is $10.5 million, with construction scheduled to begin by the end of 2017.

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Rescue Helicopter knockout a big hitIt was sweet victory for Glencore’s Ravensworth Rhinos who were crowned champions in the 2016 A-Plus Contracting Hunter Valley Mining Charity Rugby League Knockout Competition at Singleton last month.

Following some serious training sessions and vowing to avenge last year’s runners-up position, the Rhinos convincingly defeated Peabody Energy’s Wambo Wolves 18-nil in the decider.

An estimated crowd of 1,600 attended the family friendly day which raised about $60,000 for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

Organised by the Singleton Volunteer Support Group, 300 mining employees made up the 16 teams competing in the rugby league 10’s competition at Pirtek Park. This year’s event divided teams

across four pools with each playing a minimum of two games.

Support Group volunteer and organiser Danny Eather said he is in awe of the community and business backing the competition generated. “This year’s event far exceeded last year’s in terms of spectators and the amount of money raised.

“It’s certainly a welcomed fixture on the local sporting calendar and there’s been interest from some interstate teams for next year’s competition.”

More than 70 local businesses backed teams to help their fundraising targets with major sponsorship secured from A-Plus Contracting, Pirtek, IEEP Engineered Products, Jennings Print, Workpac and Betts Bowers Haulage.

Coal Services Mines Rescue (First Aid), Group 21 Rugby League Referees Association, Singleton Rugby League Football Club and the local Rotary and Lions clubs provided in-kind support and assistance on the day.

Every year the Rescue Helicopter undertakes more than 1,000 missions including transporting people from accident scenes, transferring critically ill patients between hospitals and undertaking search and rescue operations.

“Our local community, and in particular the mining sector, are well aware the Rescue Helicopter provides a vital service to our region,’ Eather said.

“The Singleton Volunteer Support Group has worked hard for the past 19 years to help raise awareness and funds to make sure it stays in the air.”


HUNTER LIFE - SAVOUR

Chef’s Choice:

Jonah’s on the BeachWith impressive views of Newcastle beach, Jonah’s on the Beach is a truly breathtaking dining experience. Come for the view, but stay for the cuisine.

The gourmet seafood restaurant and cocktail bar is located in the relaxing Noah’s on the Beach hotel, which overlooks the water and is just minutes from all the major attractions in the area, like Nobbys Head and the Fort Scratchley Museum.

Even without the food, it’s worth it just for the ambiance. You can’t go wrong with the view at Newcastle. If you’re really lucky, you might even see a few dolphins or a whale frolicking in the ocean. At this time of year you might have some luck - the best time to see the whales is May through November. The humpback whales pass by Newcastle beach during their 12,000km migration from their feeding grounds in

the Antarctic to the warmer waters of the Pacific, then back again.

Newcastle beach is one of the most spectacular stretches of coastline in the region, and Jonah’s takes full advantage of its location to offer you a world class, award-winning experience.

Taste the ocean

The view reels you in, but you’ll stay for the food.

If you love your seafood, then Jonah’s is for you. From the delicious range of oysters – our favourite was the tempura oysters with wakame and pickled ginger, served with a crisp Semillon – to the king prawns served with haloumi and

zucchini fritter and fennel salted, the range of inventive dishes will leave you hungry for seconds.

It’s not all seafood though. You might try the pan-friend Venison Denver with savoy cabbage, roast celeriac, speck and a dark chocolate and shiraz glaze. Absolutely delicious!

For dessert, you can’t go wrong with a chocolate and caramel croissant pudding served with house-made pecan ice cream and caramel sauce.

If you want mouth-watering dishes combined with a true visual feast, then look no further than Jonah’s on the Beach.

Recipe of the month:

Supergrain SaladThis month, the talented folk at Core Espresso on Darby Street in Cooks Hill have provided us with a recipe that you can try at home. Core Espresso is owned by chef Richie Ransom and his wife Bec, and they’ve built a reputation for making some delicious coffee and scrumptious meals.

According to Richie, “This simple little salad is perfect as a vegetarian option, packed full of goodness, and you can add your choice of low fat meat to create a different salad, like poached chicken breast, tagine or pan roasted ocean trout.”

Its benefits are that it is protein rich, high in fibre, low in saturated fats, low GI and a great source of a wide range of vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients:150g brown rice150g quinoa400g cooked chickpeas100g dry roasted almonds400g sweet potato50g raisins500g broccoli50g baby spinach2 tsp ground cumin2 tsp ground coriander1 tsp ground fennel1 tsp nutmeg80ml maple syrup

Method:

1. Cook rice and quinoa separately and put aside to cool.

2. Peel and dice sweet potato and roast with all the spices in a heavy based pan.

3. When sweet potato is cooked, add maple syrup into the pan to deglaze and create a dressing. Set aside to cool.

4. Trim and steam the broccoli, and refresh in iced water to stop the cooking process. Cook and strain the chickpeas (or you can used tinned if you prefer).

5. Place all ingredients into a large bowl and combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve with minted yogurt. Enjoy by itself or with your favourite protein.

Clarification of Core Espresso’s addressIn last month’s issue, we made a blunder and said that Core Espresso was in Warner’s Bay, when in fact it is in Cooks Hill on Darby Street. The old location was in Warner’s Bay, but the Ransom’s have in fact moved to their new Darby Street location. We apologise for any confusion. Rest assured, the coffee is still just as great, and the inventive dishes just as delicious.


ENTERTAINMENT

Reading Cinemas:

Top Movie Picks Out and about in the Hunter

The AccountantRelease Date: 03 November 2016

Genre: Drama / Thriller

Cast: Ben Affleck, Anna Kendrick, JK Simmons, John Lithgow, Jeffrey Tambor

Synopsis: Christian Wolff is a math savant with more affinity for numbers than people. Behind the cover of a small-town CPA office, he works as a freelance accountant for some of the world’s most dangerous criminal organisations.

Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find ThemRelease date: 17 November 2016

Genre: Animation

Cast: Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston, Dan Fogler

Synopsis: “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” opens in 1926 as Newt Scamander has just completed a global excursion to find and document an extraordinary array of magical creatures. Arriving in New York for a brief stopover, he might have come and gone without incident … were it not for a No-Maj (American for Muggle) named Jacob, a misplaced magical case, and the escape of some of Newt’s fantastic beasts, which could spell trouble for both the wizarding and No-Maj worlds.

Broke Village Community MarketWhere: Wollombi Street Broke When: Sunday 6 November

About: These markets are on the first Sunday of the month, with great little stores created for the community, by the community. You can get your hands on gourmet food, handmade gifts and any number of bric a brac – even some local wines. There’s a barbecue and coffee served on the day, so all you need to do is bring the family.

Find out more: www.brokefordwich.com.au

Doctor StrangeRelease date: 27 November 2016

Genre: Action / Adventure

Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams, Benedict Wong, Michael Stuhlbarg, Scott Adkins, Benjamin Bratt with Mads Mikkelsen and Tilda Swinton

Synopsis: From Marvel comes “Doctor Strange,” the story of world-famous neurosurgeon Dr. Stephen Strange whose life changes forever after a horrific car accident robs him of the use of his hands. When traditional medicine fails him, he is forced to look for healing, and hope, in an unlikely place—a mysterious enclave known as Kamar-Taj.

Bitter and Twisted Boutique Beer FestivalWhere: John Street East Maitland

When: Sunday 5 November 2016

About: A great lineup of over 80 boutique beers, international musical artists and global cuisine – add in a few brewing master-classes and you know you’re in for a great day. The festival will feature music from indie rock four piece The Jungle Giants and blues musician Ash Grunwald.

Find out more: www.bitterandtwisted.com.au

Christmas Lights SpectacularWhere: Hunter Valley Gardens, 2090 Broke Rd Pokolbin

When: 4 November 2016 – 26 January 2017

About: Every year Hunter Valley Gardens bring thousands of families together to celebrate Christmas with the annual Christmas Lights Spectacular – the event sees millions of lights put on display. A great night out for the entire family.

Find out more: www.huntervalleygardens.com.au/hvg/christmas-lights-spectacular/


WIN STUFF

Movie MadnessReading Cinemas and Hunter Industry News want to keep you up to date with the latest flicks on the big screen. This month we have two double passes to give away, which are valid either at Charlestown or Maitland Reading Cinema locations. We also have one double pass for the Gold Class Cinema at Charlestown up for grabs.

TO ENTER: SMS 4 your name & email address to 0417 037 369

Caring for your soilWe have three awesome Fiskars products to give away, for all those green thumbs out there who only want the best for their garden. We have a Fiskars Light Planting Spade, a Light Digging Fork and a Light Soil Rake. All three could be yours.


Get your Gerber onThere’s no job too small for the Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier hand tool. Two lucky winners will score one of these handy tools, which boasts a range of fold-out components that make it versatile and compact, so you can take it with you anywhere. The tool includes scissors, spring-loaded pliers, a wire cutter, fire edge knife, can opener, saw and a cross point screwdriver.


Fantastic free fuelFuel is expensive, so we thought to ourselves, why not give some away? Thanks to the team at Auto Advantage, this month we are giving away a $100 fuel voucher. Auto Advantage is a Hunter based independent car buying service that specialises in finding new and used cars of all makes for personal use and for people in business around Australia.




A delicious lunch for twoThe Team at NOAH’S on the Beach have been kind enough to offer a three-course set lunch for two, valued at $110.00 in their Restaurant; Jonah’s On the Beach. Jonah’s On the Beach is a Newcastle institution boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, providing diners with a panoramic view of Newcastle’s Pristine Pacific Coastline. This Premier position offers diners a ringside seat to watch the whales on their annual migration north to warmer waters. Combine this with their sumptuous a la carte cuisine and extensive wine list and you have the elements of a superb dining experience. noahsonthebeach.com.au


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