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your business, your lifestyle 180,00 WEB VIEWS, 45,000 READERS EACH MONTH
BUSINESS
COMMUNITY
ISSUE 30, OCTOBER 2013
WEALTH BUILDER
FOUNDED IN PARRAMATTA
KIDS
LIFESTYLE
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COMPETITIONS PAGE 9
Forget B2B or B2C, now it’s Business to People
THE business and retail landscapes have changed. It is no longer retailer/supplier/brand run in a bricks and mortar location or face to face business that is conducted in an office. Anyone who sells a service or product is a retailer by today’s definition. It is no longer a B2B or B2C environment – now it’s B2P, Business to People, says retail expert Nancy George.
Reality of what we have and what we really need in super
PAGE 21
THE Reserve Bank of Australia has commented on the recent changes to legislation which have allowed SMSFs to borrow money to invest in property. The trend in SMSF property is particularly strong in NSW. However, a report by Deloitte found that the potential to generate wealth and prosperity may well be at risk for average Australians.
How Adam built classic car heaven Full story page 14. Adam Hughes, founder of American Classic Cars at Castle Hill in the business he built with passion.
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Exploding the myth that sugar makes kids hyperactive
PAGE 30
MOST parents will tell you that children fuelling up on sugar is a sure-fire recipe for rampaging hyperactive kids. The connection between sugar and hyperactivity is one of the most popular foodbehavior myths. Science has been unable to fund any difference in behavior between children who ate sugar from lollies etc and those who did not.
NEW: Women In Business Cherrybrook mum’s doll business
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IN our new section Women In Business, we profile Cherrybrook mum, Adriana de Simone and her knack of creating amazingly life-like baby dolls. As Celebrity Dollhouse’s creative director, Ms de Simone and her team recently produced a replica of royal baby Prince George – the moment he was presented to the world by Kate and Prince William.
Discuss how your business can gain access to market intelligence, local economic and demographic information, population forecasts, business workshops and networking events. For more information call the Economic Development team at The Hills Shire Council on 02 9762 1108 or email enquires@sydneyhills.com.au
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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
NEWS
www.wsba.com.au
New York planner engaged to reshape cities By Red Dwyer estern Sydney councils have tapped into American expertise to find ways to spruce up their city centres and make them more appealing and boosting the local economy. Parramatta City Council has sought the help of Ed Blakely, who helped rebuild New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, to “transform” the Church Street Mall, in front of the town hall, by June next year. Professor Blakely, a former US national and now an Australian citizen, is an urban planning expert attached to the University of Sydney’s United States Study Centre, and will work on the project with US-based urban designer, Ethan Kent, who helped transform New York’s famous Times Square. These high profile people aim to revitalise the space by June next year, at a cost up to $2 million, subject to public consultation. The visit to Parramatta by Professor Blakely and Mr Kent, the vice president of the Project for Public Spaces, who has worked on over 200 projects in the USA and overseas, follows council’s participation in a United States Studies Centre’s Future Cities Mayors Program, to the USA which was led by Professor Blakely Another tour participant, Liverpool City Council in partnership with Sydney University recently conducted an Urban Design Symposium at which Professor Blakely, who has been retained by council, spoke. The all-day event was the start of a project aimed at assisting council with its plans to revitalise the city centre. Meanwhile, council has called for expressions of interests for the operation and management of the Liverpool Night Markets to be held on Friday and Saturday evenings as a means to liven up and to encourage pedestrian activity in the CBD, in particular, between Macquarie Street Mall and the southern end of the city centre. A report prepared by property consulting firm, Urbis, noted that Starry Sari Night, a Bollywood film night, held in August, was
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Parramatta Council has engaged Professor Ed Blakely to work with Ethan Kent to help transform the Church St mall. Ethan Kent helped transform New York’s Times Square.
successful in encouraging people into the CBD at night and indicated the same could be expected for the night markets. Turning to Penrith, where yet another American, Mike Lydon, described by Penrith Mayor, Mark Davies, as a “leading US tactical urbanist” has guided a group of business people, residents, architects and others in council’s Make My Park Pop project. The group, together with place-making
specialists Place Partners and The Lot, aims is to “radically and rapidly transform an underused asphalt space into a buzzing CBD park installation”. Clr Davies said the project – part of council’s $17 million CBD masterplan – would help to revitalise High Street’s economy and be a blueprint for other Australian communities placing radical urban transformation in local hands.
The “exciting and edgy new space” is scheduled to open on October 23. Blacktown City Council also participated in the tour to the USA and will include the findings as part of the master planning process for the Warwick Lane CBD site. Western Sydney councils on the tour were Blacktown, Liverpool and Parramatta, together with Botany Bay, Waverley and Woollahra.
Framework complete for $850m Panthers development LANNING framework has been finalised for the Penrith Panthers site which would facilitate a 10-year development with an end value of $850 million. “The Panthers Entertainment, Leisure and Sporting Precinct [is] a substantial investment for Penrith creating jobs, a boost to the local economy and importantly delivers community facilities,” said Stacey Fishwick, general manager, corporate real estate, Panthers Group. Facilities include a vertical wind tunnel, cinemas, bowling, restaurants, hotel and services apartments, 37,500 square metres of retail and outlet shops, a 25,000-squaremetre, campus-style office park, and sporting
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OCTOBER 2013, ISSUE 30
Can your super be used to buy property? ....... pg 25
facilities. The development would generate 5000 jobs with 2100 jobs when operational, said council’s Major Developments and Investment Opportunities document “This brings a significant new dimension to our local employment and lifestyle opportunities and reinforces Penrith’s role as a regional city,” said Penrith City Council, general manager, Alan Stoneham, in his halfyearly report. Other issues in his report included the completion of the $6.6 million Erskine Park and Mamre Road intersection upgrade, lobbying for improved train services including quadruplicating of the Western Line, separate
freight rail lines and improved bus/rail interchanges. He said a research project to assess the feasibility of an agribusiness precinct and ways council could promote sustainable agriculture had been completed. “Recruitment and selection of the boards for the two new centre management corporations for the Penrith City Centre and St Marys Town Centre was finalised,” he said. They would support the marketing and promotion of the retail and services sectors and assist with business development and improvement, and contribute to amenity improvement and faster activation of public spaces.
WIN tickets to Waterview Melbourne Cup lunch ...........................pg 4
Charity starts in the office and ends in community ..................... pg 23
Qantas hops away from Richmond for $80m ..............................pg 5
Cine Buzz Crew time and it’s FREE .............................. pg 29
Region’s first indoor cycling studio ........................................pg 6
How financial health checks can protect businesses ...................... pg 39
Johnny Warren’s memory gambled away in election .....................pg 7
Why networking holds key to selling well............................... pg 40
Council moves to divide Parramatta CBD ....................................pg 8
2013 WSABEs attract best ever entry pool............................ pg 41
Race on to find the next compelling thing ........................ pg 18
Gloria Jeans NSW Open in full swing .............................. pg 46
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
Part of the existing Panthers World of Entertainment.
VIEW EACH EDITION ONLINE AT www.wsba.com.au Western Sydney Business Access (WSBA) ABN 9336 7098 582 Publisher/editor: Michael Walls M: 0407 783 413. E: michael@wsba.com.au Journalist: Anthony Stavrinos M: 0411 188 111 Sales manager: Rose Settembri M: 0422 158 946 Printer: New Age Printing, Rydalmere Design: Design2pro.com Website: www.wsba.com.au Email enquiries: info@wsba.com.au Phone: 02 4572 2336 Fax: 02 4572 2340 DISCLAIMER: The publisher, authors and contributors reserve their rights in respect of the copyright of their work. No part of this work may be reproduced or copied in any form without the written consent of the publisher. No person or organisation should in any way act on the information and content of Western Sydney Business Access or www.wsba.com.au without first seeking professional advice. The publisher, contributors and agents accept no responsibility for any actions that may arise from the contents of this newspaper or website www.wsba.com.au. The opinions and views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Advertisements are published in accordance with WSBA terms and conditions published in the media kit downloadable at www.wsba.com.au. Advertisers agree to indemnify the publisher and his agents for any actions that may arise as a result of published advertisements.
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COMPETITION
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Win tickets to Melbourne Cup lunch at Waterview T can be a long afternoon while you’re waiting for the race that stops a national but not at WatervieW in Bicentennial Park! This is a venue that knows how to entertain. Guests will be dancing in their seats this year as Melbourne Cup has a Motown feel. Boys in the Band will sing and dance their way through some of the best music of the 20th Century – including hits from The Jackson 5, Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons and the Backstreet Boys. It wouldn’t be Melbourne Cup with-
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out the fashion so there is a parade of new season’s fashions courtesy of Myer and hosted by celebrity fashion stylist, Caitlin Stewart. There will also be Myer Best Dressed Fashion Awards for both men and women. Of course there will be big race betting opportunities, sweeps, raffles, taxis on call and a magnificent, fine-dining 3 course lunch that includes beer, wine and sparkling. Melbourne Cup Day registrations begin at 11.30 am with business networking and drinks overlooking the enchanting parklands
that surrounding the venue. Melbourne Cup Day registrations begin at 11.30 am with business networking and drinks overlooking the enchanting parklands that surrounding the venue. Celebrating Melbourne Cup at WatervieW in Bicentennial Park is a truly magical experience. Businesses are encouraged to purchase tables to entertain clients and reward staff while family, friends and social groups are welcome to share in the fun. WSBA has five double tickets to give away
to the Melbourne Cup lunch at WatervieW in Bicentennial Park. These are valued at $130, or $260 per couple. To win a double pass simply send us an email describing in 25 words or less why you deserve to win. The best five entries as judged by the WSBA team wins. Send entries to info@wsba.com.au. Mention Melbourne Cup in the subject line. CONDITIONS: Judge’s decisions are final. Entries must in by Friday, October 25 COB.
Scenes from last year’s Melbourne Cup lunch at Waterview.
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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
NEWS
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Flying kangaroo hops away from Richmond for $80m
PENRITH MP, Stuart Ayres, has been appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Transport and Roads. He replaces John Ajaka who has been promoted to cabinet.
By Red Dwyer
$35 million centre opened
HE Flying Kangaroo has fled one of the largest defence industry clusters in Australia in pursuit of selling non-core assets in recent years. Qantas has sold its defence services division, Qantas Defence Systems (QDS), at RA AF Base Richmond, for $80 million to USA-based Northrop Grumman, a leading global security company providing a range of services to government and commercial customers worldwide. While the Flying Kangaroo may have hopped away, the new owners are expected to rename the facility and offer employment to the 320 employees at QDS, which has its main operation at Richmond. It provides maintenance, supply, deep maintenance and training support to major defence aerospace systems with sales of around $140 million. The facility is one of a cluster of 275 businesses, which have formed around the RA AF base contributing goods and services to meet the nation’s defence requirements This cluster is one of the largest in the country, according to a Deloitte Access Economic study in 2012. The size of the cluster is a combination of its proximity to the large population and diversified economy of Sydney and the fact that Defence has been operating in the area for a significant amount of time, according to the NSW government’s NSW Position Paper On Defence, September 2013. The paper notes that the NSW share of Australia’s Defence expenditure is around
MP promoted
GYMNASTICS NSW has relocated from Sydney Olympic Park to the new $35 million Sydney Gymnastic and Aquatic Centre, at Rooty Hill, which was funded solely by the adjacent Rooty Hill RSL Club.
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Telstra Business Centre Blacktown 2/76 Sunnyholt Road Blacktown PH: 02 9839 0000
NEWS BRIEFS
Rezoning of Bonds factory HOLYROYD City Council has received a DA to rezone the former Bonds factory, at Pendle Hill, from light industrial to residential to create high-density housing with over 1800 dwellings as well as 8000 square metres of retail space and 1.5 hectares of open space.
Carrington’s anniversary
24 per cent which is at risk through relocation interstate or closures of assets and, therefore, it is critical that the NSW government continues to promote and develop the state’s defence industry. The two-year old, Parramatta-based Sydney Aerospace and Defence Interest Group (SADIG) has over 150 members who aim to work collaboratively to strengthen the state’s successful aerospace and defence industry in a competitive marketplace. Western Sydney is well represented in the industry with companies such as Ray-
Telstra Business Centre Penrith 1/308 High Street Penrith PH: 02 4722 7777
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
theon Australia and BAE Systems, at North Ryde, Thales and Indra, at Rydalmere, CAE Industries, at Silverwater, ETMS Technologies, at Parramatta, SAFRAN Group, Quickstep Technologies and Australian Aerospace, at Bankstown, Broens Industries, at Ingleburn, and Flite Path, at Penrith. Bob Germaine, executive officer, of the Parramatta-based RDA-Sydney, said his organisation and SADIG – a RDA-S project – welcomed the position paper as it provided a clear statement setting the direction for the future growth and sustainability of the industry in NSW.
THE iconic Carrington Hotel, in Katoomba, has celebrated its 130th anniversary since its reopening in 1999 and a $10 million facelift including renovations to the adjoining Old City Bank Brasserie, Harp and Fiddle Irish Pub, Baroque nightclub and the conversion of an old power station into the Carrington Cellars and Deli.
Council wins an award PENRITH City Council’s Health Strategy and Action Plan won the Heart Foundation Healthy Community Award, at the 2013 Local Government Week Awards .The draft Health Strategy won the Commendation in The Planning Institute of Australia NSW Division’s Planning for Healthy Urban Environments category, in 2010.
Telstra Business Centre Merrylands 164 Merrylands Road Merrylands PH: 02 8868 1111
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NEWS
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Region’s first indoor cycling studio rides into town By Belinda Hill ELOTONE is set to ride into Norwest Business Park with the opening of the region’s first dedicated premier indoor cycle studio. In December 2013 Pelotone, a state-ofthe-art, 55 bike indoor cycling studio geared for cyclists will open its doors in Lexington Drive in the Norwest Business Park. The studio follows a trend in in cycling gyms that started in the US and is fast gaining
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traction in Australia. Pelotone director, Karen Newham who lives in the Hills district said: “I want to encourage people from all walks of life to get on a bike and ride at Pelotone offering a safe, supportive, professional and fun environment. The studio provides options for indoor and outdoor cyclists.” In 2012 Karen suffered a significant sports injury which presented an immediate opportunity to reevaluate her life. After 20 years in the corporate world, with a lot of time away from my family, and having
experienced heartfelt local community support during my recovery, she was determined to follow her dream. The outcome of that dream is Pelotone, and a life where family, fitness and community come first, she said. “I am extremely passionate and excited to give back to the community and provide the one and only dedicated premier indoor cycle studio to one of Sydney’s fastest growing regions,” Karen said. Pelotone, named after the cycling term, ‘peloton’, will not only include a state-of-theart studio and equipment but will also have a hang-out area that will become the Pelotone community. The facility will have no lock-in contracts, just pay as you ride, with a variety of cycle classes catering to all types of riders and levels of fitness.
“Pelotone will cater for not just the regular cyclist looking for a safe place to train, but also for cycling beginners and professionals, and those looking to use cycling to get fit, lose weight and to improve their mental wellbeing,” Karen said. Benefits of regular cycling include: increased cardiovascular fitness; increased
Pelotone Founder, Karen Newham.
muscle strength and flexibility; improves joint mobility; decreases stress levels; improves posture and coordination; strengthens bones; decreases body fat levels; reduces anxiety and depression. “At Pelotone the community will engage in cycling, and that makes for a healthier community and a happier community,” Karen said.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.PELOTONE.COM.AU.
NEWS BRIEFS Resort wins excellence award EMIRATES Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence by leading travel advisory site TripAdvisor. The award signifies that the resort is in the top 10 per cent of all hotels in the world based on traveller feedback. The resort was also recognised by TripAdvisor in January of this year as the Best Hotel in Australia. Artist’s impression of the cycling studio.
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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
NEWS
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Johnny Warren’s memory gambled away in election By Anthony Stavrinos
HE memory of Johnny Warren and his legacy has been trashed by political opportunism, according to his childhood best mate John Economos. Economos, a veteran soccer journalist who attended Cleveland Street High School with Johnny Warren and had known him for about 50 years at the time of his passing in 2004, was referring to a funding promise before the recent federal election. A week before the September 7 federal election, the former Labor government through Treasurer Chris Bowen, pledged $10 million towards the establishment of the Johnny Warren Football Institute. But in hindsight, it appears the Institute was given the kiss of death. Politicians lined up for publicity opportunities and an extraordinary amount of coverage was received. But a week after the announcement, it was dead and buried with Labor Government, which found itself on the wrong side of the election result. “I was disgusted to see what looked like a very worthwhile initiative in Johnny’s name desperately gambled away on an election result,” Economos told Western Sydney Business Access.
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Johnny Warren on the cover of his ‘incomplete biography’ Sheilas Wogs and Poofters.
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
“The media reports made you think it was a done deal – that the funds had been allocated and that it was going ahead, but nothing was further from the truth. “I just hope the new government doesn’t cast the idea aside and gives strong consideration to funding it, especially considering how valuable Johnny was to the game in this country.” Economos said greater care needed to be taken in future to ensure initiatives had bipartisan support and did not ultimately end up being obstacles in realising the Warren legacy. “What I’d really like to see now are all the people who jumped at the opportunity of publicity in Johnny’s name, to appealing to the new federal government to fund the Johnny Warren Football Institute,” he said. Only The Age’s football writer Michael Lynch drew attention to the tentative nature of the Labor funding initiative by noting: “The cash is dependent on it pulling off a shock win in next weekend’s election.” But the tenuous nature of the funding was not spelt out by those who, perhaps, should have known better. At a media call for the funding announcement, Johnny’s nephew, Jamie and SBS presenters Craig Foster and Les Murray – all board members of the Johnny Warren Football Foundation – spoke as if the funds had already been banked. Politicians flocked to take part in a photo opportunity for the local papers who were there along with other outlets including SBS TV and radio station 2GB, Half of Foster’s column In the Sun-Herald the next day lauded the arrival of the institute without so much as a mention of the decreas-
John Economos after being named as an inductee to the Football Federation Australia Hall of Fame.
ing likelihood Labor would be around to cough up the funds. The reality check was a story in the Fairfield Advance on September 11 under the headline: “Youth centre to go ahead. But outgoing Treasurer cannot guarantee Labor’s other campaign pledges.” “I think the youth centre will happen but we will have to see about the other ones,” Bowen told the paper. “That’s what I will fight for as the local member.” Economos said it was essential that Bowen made good on his comments and made efforts to gain bipartisan support for the initiative. “Johnny’s sporting talents deserve celebration and remembrance.There’s plenty to celebrate, he was the Don Bradman of soccer and the funny thing was that he was just as brilliant as a cricketer, if not better,” Economos said. WSBA was unable to reach new federal Sports Minister Peter Dutton for comment.
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PARRAMATTA CBD
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City lanes and car parks transformed to eateries NE of Western Sydney’s biggest food celebrations, Parramatta Lanes is transforming eight ordinarylooking lanes, car parks and spaces into trendy, vibrant eateries and bars over four days in October.
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By Red Dwyer IVIDE and capitalise is the tacit strategy of Parramatta City Council’s drive to revitalise the central business district (CBD) – divide its economy into two sectors and leverage their strengths and opportunities. Council has readily agreed that the CBD economy be divided into the professional economy and the so-called “street� economy. A council report argued the city’s business and professional communities were “underutilised assets�, and the mobilisation of each group could boost the CBD economy. Potential outcomes included an “increase in localised economic opportunity, higher Parramatta brand value impacting no property values in surrounding locations, attainment of transport infrastructure and safer and more vibrant CBD streets. “Professional economy initiatives such as the activation of the legal sector around Supreme Court functions, facilitation of business-university graduate programs and business/talent attraction with the professional, scientific and technical sector are also recommended,� the report said. To further emphasise the potential of the city’s legal sector in boosting its contribution to the CBD economy, council’s new 4-year corporate plan notes the setting up of a CBB Professional Services Business Group to showcase the capability of the city’s professional services. The city’s legal fraternity, itself, has mounted a campaign to urge the federal and state governments to have additional judges sit in Parramatta, which would save all those involved
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Produced by Parramatta City Council, Parramatta Lanes is offering gourmet street foods, cocktails and craft beer, live music and art installations on Thursday 17 and Friday 18 and Thursday 24 and Friday 25 October from 4:30-9:30pm.
Lord Mayor of Parramatta, Cr John Chedid said that the event reflects Parramatta’s changing food scene, which is increasingly focused on providing higher quality produce and experiences in unique and creative settings. “We’re asking people to come to Parramatta Lanes to discover a new taste around every corner – spicy laksa from local institution, Temasek in Roxy Car Park, craft beer from local brewer Riverside Brewing Company and authentic Mexican tacos in Erby Place, as well as delectable desserts from Adora Handmade Chocolates in Red Cow Lane,� Cr Chedid said. “This year’s event builds on the success of the inaugural Parramatta Lanes in 2012, which attracted over 9,000 visitors to discover our hidden lanes and spaces.�
Council moves to divide CBD between professional and street economy businesses
Red Cow Lane.
To download the full program and Parramatta Lanes map, visit www.discoverparramatta.com/parramattalanes
the expense and time travelling into the Sydney CBD for court cases, and their presence in Parramatta would add to the street economy Council aims to work with the small businesses operating at the street level to improve the retail, food, beverage, services and cultural offering of the CBD, which, if successful, could deliver significant outcomes to the CBD economy, particularly at midday and in the evening. The recent opening in the CBD of a University of New England campus and the pending arrival of undergraduate and postgraduate teaching facilities, of the University of Western Sydney, are welcome week-day additions to the street economy. Council’s revitalised Farmers Market, held outside the town hall on Fridays, is also adding to the life of the city centre, and trading in the restaurant precinct on Thursdays-Sundays gives a significant buzz to the CBD – and the economy. Weekend sport is yet to be fully leveraged in the street economy. For example, the economic benefit of the home games of the Western Sydney Wanderers, at Parramatta Stadium last summer, was an estimated $15 million to $18 million. With the Wanderers playing in the summer and the Eels in the winter, CBD Street traders – given they are motivated – have the opportunity to leverage as fans travel through the CBD before and after the games. Looking ahead, the proposed 1200-seat conference and exhibition centre, as part of the proposed Lennox car park site redevelopment would make Parramatta “an ideal business events destination’, according to council and a boost to the CBD accommodation and hospitality businesses.
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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
NEWS
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Region’s potential overlooked, says invitation-only group ESTERN Sydney has been overlooked for too long by decision makers who have failed to grasp the true social and economic potential of the
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region. That is the view of the Sydney Business Chamber which is actively seeking to expand it Western Sydney First (WSF) membership – see box. “The chamber believes in Western Sydney, and has a dedicated focus on the region through the establishment of the WSF membership,” according to the chamber’s website. “The WSF brings together leading Sydney and Western Sydney organisations to focus on the development of the region, particularly in generating jobs for one of the fastest growing regions in Australia.” The latest to join is Liverpool City Council, which sees value in its membership as part of its strategy to attract new business investment and employment to the city, at a fee of $12,000 plus GST. “As part of its strategy to attract new
investment to Liverpool there is merit in council becoming a member of relevant business groups where there is demonstrated interest by these groups in Liverpool and the broader Western Sydney area,” a council report said. “Membership of such organisations will allow council to promote Liverpool as a business destination to a relevant audience, as well as tap into sources of intelligence that can potentially generate new business leads for Liverpool.” The council report said membership would provide council with intelligence on emerging business and economic trends and access to key private and public sector stakeholders. Blacktown City Council has been approached but has deferred a decision. WSF’s priorities for Western Sydney include promoting advanced manufacturing in Western Sydney and creating knowledge based jobs for the region; securing Western Sydney’s fair share of transport services
and infrastructure funding; and enhancing and promoting the cultural offerings of the region and establishing the brand “Western Sydney”. WSF enables members to have direct access to the NSW government, at invitationonly functions, to discuss issues and offer comment and advice. These functions are understood to operate under the Chatham House Rule
which encourages openness and the sharing of information among members; it allows members to speak as individuals and to express views that may not be those of their organisations. WSF, supported by Deloitte in Parramatta, expects to hold functions with the Minister for Transport, Gladys Berejiklian, in November and the Minister for Trade and Investment, Andrew Stoner, in December.
Members of Western Sydney First embership of Western Sydney First program includes Brickworks Limited, Catholic Education Office - Diocese of Parramatta, Coleman Greig Lawyers, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu – Parramatta, Dyldam Developments Pty Ltd, Evolve Housing, GWS Giants (SF/WSF), Insurance Australia Group (IAG), Moore-
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bank Intermodal Company Ltd, NRMA Motoring & Services, Parramatta City Council, Parramatta Eels, Sydney Markets Limited, Sydney Water, University of Western Sydney, UrbanGrowth NSW, Western Sydney Parklands Trust, Western Sydney Wanderers FC, Westlink, Westmead Millennium Institute for Medical Research, Liverpool City Council.
B2B or B2C? No, now it’s B2P – Business to People HE business and retail landscapes have changed. It is no longer retailer / supplier / brand run in a bricks and mortar location or face to face business that is conducted in an office with products and services of the business’ choosing. Anyone who sells a service or product is a retailer by today’s definition. It is no longer a B2B or B2C environment - it is now B2P, Business to People, says Nancy George, a retail expert who presented at the Sydney Hills Business Chamber on September 25. “The consumer is the driver and the playing field is offline, online and mobile! Given
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the current retail climate, it is now more important than ever to get back to basics to ensure that your business’ foundation is based on sound fundamentals,” said Nancy. Do you know how your customer behaves in today’s connected world? Do you really know who your customer is and what they want? Do you know what the customer is doing online, how they connect, what tools they use in the retail space that impact how they interact with every business they deal with? “Gone are the days when the customer deals with their bank manager, accountant, newsagent, shoe shop in different ways. The
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expectation and interaction is the same,” she says. During her presentation, Nancy showed what the customer is doing and offered some tips and tools for navigating the new environment. Nancy is a retail strategist, with over 25 years’ experience in retail, marketing, strategic planning, wholesale, product development, customer service, training and manufacturing in a diverse range of retail environments and product categories, in Australia, Asia, USA and Europe. She started Magnolia Solutions in response to an increasing demand from retailers for marketing support.
Nancy George presents at the Sydney Hills Business Chamber.
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REGIONAL ROUND UP NORTH WEST Aussie beer in India
600 truck movement weekly
THE Australian Brewery, in Rouse Hill, has secured an export deal with two Indian distributors. The initial agreement was for 250 cases of pale and pilsner.
PENRITH dairy processing facility, Lion, produces about 275 million litres of fresh milk annually involving up to 600 truck movements weekly receiving and distributing products. Staff complement is 150 workers
Food showcase THE festival that showcases the diverse food culture of Western Sydney, Best From The West, will take over Western Sydney Parklands on October 27 featuring more than 40 stallholders.
Bought for $$2.44 million AN undisclosed private buyer has purchased a 1363-square-metre warehouse, at 70 Peter Brock Drive, Eastern Creek, for $2.44 million, from Calvert & Grier Properties.
Leased for five years FOAM and plastics manufacturer, Rema Industries, has leased a 6534-square-metre office and warehouse, in seven Hills, from PPK Properties, at $85 per square metre for five years.
New warehouse for firm STORAGE and logistics provider, Pick Packers, has leased a new warehouse, in Arndell Park, at an annual rental of $175,059
SOUTH WEST Property bought for 1.25 million BUILDER, Fadi Mansour, has purchased a 1385-square-metre warehouse and factory in Smithfield, for $1.25 million, from New Global International.
$67.5 million in capital works THE $67.5 million which Bankstown City Council listed in its capital works budget, in the 2012-13 financial year, has been described as one of the biggest amounts it’s ever spent on projects.
$27 million order book
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Furniture maker beats Chinese SEBEL Furniture, at Padstow, the world’s biggest school-chair maker, says its edge against Chinese competitors is research and innovation. The company has beaten competitors from countries such as China to export its stadium, health and school chairs to 58 countries.
Police lease space THE NSW Police Service has renewed its lease over 3445 square metres of space at 2 Meredith Street, Bankstown The office space has been leased from Fortius Funds Management for a 7 year term at a net rent of $320 a square metre
Panania town centre BANKSTOWN City Council, which has invested $2.1 million in a two-stage upgrade of the Panania town centre, has completed the second stage.
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THE order book of Quickstep Holdings Limited the manufacturer of high-grade carbon-fibre composite components, at Bankstown Airport, stands in excess of $27 million, mostly to be delivered before the end of December 2014.
$1.15 million, from Farah George Mattar and Marlin Matter.
over three years. The 2013 race takes place from December 6 to 8.
Legal representation in CBD OVER 200 law firms are based in Parramatta and two chambers, Arthur Phillip Chambers and Lachlan Macquarie Chambers, with over 40 barristers.
Sale of commercial buildings AUSTRALIA and offshore-based investors are the purported combination of buyers of the $175 million Sydney Water site, in the Parramatta CBD, according to The Sydney Morning Herald, which also reported the possible sale of the NSW Police headquarters, in the CBD fo0r about $240 million.
$22 million facility HOLROYD City Council will transform the Hyland Road Reserve, a former dump, into a $22 million sporting facility.
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PARRAMATTA CITY COUNCIL NEWS
Parramatta development and activation is going gangbusters ith Parramatta Square, one of the largest urban renewal developments in NSW, powering along, and the jam-packed events season almost upon us, Parramatta is certainly on an upward trajectory. Over recent weeks, Parramatta City Council has made significant progress on Parramatta Square, the $1.6 to $2 billion three hectare development of prime real estate at the centre of the City’s rapidly expanding CBD. Construction of Stage One, a commercial tower at 169 Macquarie Street, will commence shortly following the recent approval of the Development Application by the Joint Regional Planning Panel, the independent regional planning authority. Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr John Chedid said the 16 storey tower, which is being developed by Leighton, will feature 25,000 square metres of office space accommodating about 2,000 workers. “There’s very strong interest in preleasing office space for this project due to the buildings high profile location, proximity to the train station and its large floor plates,” Cr Chedid said. “The design also delivers on key elements that businesses want in modern workplaces - efficiency, flexibility, connectivity and abundant natural light. Parramatta Square Stage Three, at 153 Macquarie Street, is also moving ahead, with Council and Alfasi Property Developments Pty Ltd recently lodging a Development Application. Designed by award-winning architecture practice FJMT, the project will include a 16-level 22,000 square metre commercial tower and a separate podium building for a new civic building and library. In total, it will feature 7,000 square metres of public facilities, opening onto the public domain. Cr John Chedid said he expected the DA for Stage Three to be approved early next year, with construction to commence mid 2014. “We’re confident we will be able to deliver these state-of-the-art facilities to the Parramatta community by late 2015,” he said. “Our residents, workers and visitors can look forward to vibrant and contemporary spaces and high quality amenity. As the design evolves, Council will be going out to the local community to seek input on how these new public facilities should look, feel and be used.” A design competition for Stages Five and Six, the two remaining commercial towers with gross floor area of up to 130,000 square metres, will commence in October, with a design excellence competition for the remaining projects - the public domain and Stage Four - scheduled for early next year. The DA for Parramatta Square’s 90-storey mixed-use tower on the corner of Church and Darcy Streets is expected to be approved early next year. In addition to Parramatta Square, there’s also a lot planned for the activation of the City to make it an exciting, safe and vibrant place to work and visit. Over the next month, the City will be a hive of activity, with the events season in full swing - kicking off with Parramasala on 4-7 October, the Freedom of Entry Parade on 8 October from 12.30pm and Parramatta Lanes on 17, 18, 24 and 25 October. Parramasala’s 2013 program is filled with an exciting array of world class
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A space transformed as part of Parramatta Lanes 2012.
theatre, music and dance, celebrating the cultures of Asia and Parramatta’s many diverse communities. Highlights include the spectacular opening night parade and concert and the Masala Market. Closely following Parramasala is the HMAS Parramatta Freedom of Entry Parade on 8 October, starting at 12.30pm along Church Street, which will involve more than 250 sailors. The Freedom on Entry Parade grants the crew of HMAS Parramatta IV the right to march through the City’s street with swords drawn, bayonets fi xed, drums beating, bands playing and ensign flying. “The Parade recognises the strong relationship between the Navy and the City of Parramatta. We look forward to welcoming the Navy back to our City and the opportunity to pay our respects to its service men and women,” Cr Chedid said. This year’s Parramatta Lanes, as part of Good Food Month, will transform eight lanes, car parks and spaces into vibrant, trendy bars and eateries. “We’re asking people to come to Parramatta Lanes to discover a new taste around every corner – spicy laksa from local institution Temasek in Roxy Car Park, craft beer from local brewer Riverside Brewing Company and authentic Mexican tacos in Erby Place, as well as delectable desserts from Adora Handmade Chocolates in Red Cow Lane,” Cr Chedid said. “This year’s event builds on the success of the inaugural Parramatta Lanes in 2012, which attracted more than 9,000 visitors to discover our hidden lanes and spaces.” These events will then take the City through to the major summer events, including Loy Krathong, Christmas festivities, New Year’s Eve celebrations and the Sydney Festival.
The commercial tower at 169 Macquarie Street, part of Parramatta Square.
Content on this page is sponsored by Parramatta City Council in the interests of informing residents and businesses of council initiatives and events. Any views expressed on this page are not necessarily those of WSBA, nor does WSBA accept any responsibility for claims made on this page.
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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
NEWS
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Xavier’s head’s in the cloud and he loves it By Anthony Stavrinos WO phone chats and a flick through his slides from a recent presentation is all it took to realise Xavier Simon is a man with his head in the cloud. And that’s fantastic news for his existing and future clients at VOIP Pty Ltd. The company is a Telstra Cloud partner and Microsoft Gold partner which combined, ensure a potent cloud solutions offering, which Simon oversees as ICT Services product manager. But I don’t totally get this whole “cloud” thing, I hear you all desperately say. IT research and advisory firm Gartner defines Cloud Computing as a style of computing in which scalable and elastic ITenabled capabilities are delivered as a service using Internet Technologies. Walt Heuer, general manager at ACTbased Alacrity Technologies said the “cloud” concept was nothing new and had been with us for at least two decades. “It’s the internet version of a service bureau in the 70s and 80s,” he told WSBA. “Not long ago, the marketing boffins came up the with “cloud” tag and it worked so well, it’s stayed with us ever since.” And along with prolific use of the tag, there’s been a similar trajectory of growth in the number of self-appointed cloud experts. Without a formal definition of what constitutes a cloud solution, Simon admits it can be challenging to prospective clients why he’s better equipped to provide advice. But he’s an accomplished IT boffin – 15 years in IT and more than five of those already in cloud solutions underpin a confidence in his product knowledge, which relieves him of any need to disparage competitors. In fact, he readily acknowledges that
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competitors such as Google, offer solutions of similar high quality to Microsoft, which he represents. “What we do is before we declare something to be a cloud solution we do have a certain amount of rigour,” Simon explained. “For us, to be a cloud solution it needs to meet certain criteria.” Simon said that among those requirements: • It’s got to be flexible. • Usually there’s no long term commitment attached to it. • It’s usually involves a per user, per month fee. • It should be useful or of some value to an organisation. “Just a website in itself, is not ‘cloud’ because it doesn’t provide any kind of business value to the people using it,” he explains. “But if you’re talking about something like Office 365 providing an email address, that’s business value.” His main weapons include Microsoft’s Office 365 suite for communications and Telstra’s T-suite covering HR, accountancy, project management and customer relationship management. “The reason why I like cloud solutions is because it actually got me from crawling out from under desks and having arguments with the users, to actually be able to have a normal discussion with people and get them to like IT,” he said. But he’s not in denial when it comes to the ability of discussion about the cloud to put an audience to sleep. In presentations to business people, one way he likes to keep his presentation enjoyable is to launch into a discussion on the phenomenon of the IT worker and why they are mostly grumpy. He explains that it’s all to do with having to crawl under desks, put up with entangle-
ment in cabling and hide in dark, dingy rooms at the back of or underneath the office. I couldn’t help thinking that the idea of companies switching to cloud solutions must be making those IT workers even grumpier by threatening their jobs, but Simon doesn’t believe that’s necessarily the case. He believes the cloud has the potential to take skilled IT workers away from menial, time-consuming tasks to focus on areas that will increase an organisation’s productivity and functionality.
Cloud boffin, Xavier Simon.
NEWS BRIEFS Council calls for EOI
Parking figures
PARRAMATA City Council is seeking expressions of interest from food, merchandise, information stallholders, casual staff, entertainers and performance groups to take part in its major events.
COUNCIL’S June 2013 quarterly report show parking meter revenue of $61,000 was below budget due to inclement weather. Revenue from parking stations was down $314,000 due to lower rates of competitive alternatives. Parking fines were $400,000 above budget
Electronic savings THE change from a paper to electronic format of Parramatta City Council’s business papers and other information for councillors and senior management has saved council an estimated 35,000 pages of printing a month and significantly reduced printing costs
28-storey unit building COUNCIL has approved alterations and additions to an approved mixed-used development, at 29 Hunter Street, to add an additional five storeys to create a 28-storey mixed-use development containing 133 units, one retail tenancy and two commercial tenancies over four levels of basement parking.
$800,000 after infrastructure SYDNEY Water is currently spending more than $800,000 on wastewater infrastructure across the Parramatta area. The work will take about two months to complete, weather and ground conditions permitting.
$17 million refurbishment THE $17 million redevelopment of the 35-year-old Greystanes Shopping Centre will create 400 construction jobs, and once completed it will include a new and expanded Woolworths supermarket and more than 20 other specialty shops. Completion is expected in late 2014.
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NEWS
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Council moves on from $16b Civic Place debacle By Red Dwyer ARRAMATTA City Council is on the move from the debacle of its $1.6 billion Civic Place project with approval for the first of a six-stage redevelopment of a 3-hectare prime site in the CBD. Council has renamed site, Parramatta Square, surrounding the historic town hall, and upped the ante to $2 billion. The first stage will be the demolition of the council-owned 7-storey Macquarie House, on the corner of Macquarie and Smith streets, later this year. Leighton Properties, which has developed three other commercial properties in the CBD, won the right to redevelop Macquarie House, in July, for a 14-storey, 25,000-square-metre office tower, estimated to be worth $200 million upon completion in late 2015 “We are currently in the process of preleasing the office space and are experiencing very strong interest,” said Mark Gray, MD, of Leighton Properties The DA for stage 2, a 90-storey mixed-use tower on the corner of Church and Darcy streets, the former Hungry Jack’s site, is awaiting approval, which is expected later this year.
P Professor Michael Barton OAM, Ingham Institute Research Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Ingham Institute.
Ingham awards dinner to honour researchers HE Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research will host its inaugural Research Awards Dinner at the Liverpool Catholic Club on December 6 2013. The event places some of Australia’s best talent in health and medical research in the spotlight for their work in improving the health of the nation. The Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research is a charitable organisation that facilitates cutting-edge research on a range of disease areas affecting the local community in South West Sydney. The night will celebrate and acknowledge the significant efforts of Ingham Institute researchers who have made their mark in the
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world of medical research. Ingham Institute researchers had a prosperous year and have been well-deserving of a variety of major national and international awards. “We have an immense range of some of Australia’s best talent working at the Ingham Institute on a range of critical disease areas affecting Australians including cancer, cardiovascular disease, early childhood disease and mental health,” said Research Director Professor Michael Barton OAM. To purchase a ticket, a table or for sponsorship enquiries contact Tracey Roberts, Community Relationship Manager on 02 8738 9000 or events@inghaminstitute.org.au
Residential tower proposal supported against rules PRELIMINARY concept proposal for a 24-floor tower in the Parramatta CBD has been supported by council in an area where residential units are prohibited. The owner had sought rezoning of 7 Charles Street, on the eastern periphery of the CBD’s commercial core, from B3 (Commercial Core) to B4 (Mixed Use) to allow construction of a 114-unit building. A council report said it would set an undesirable precedent and erode the commercial viability of the city as a business and employment centre. It might, also, compromise council’s ability to decline further requests for residential development in the CBD core which would likely result in an imbalance of land uses. Approximately 35.8 hectares, or 25 per cent of the CBD, is allocated exclusively for business uses. “The removal of land supply and conversion to residential land uses will permanently prevent the creation of employment floor space on this [1000-square-metre] site located within the commercial core,” the report said “Parramatta’s ability to provide land
A Strong local economy leads to Stockland’s $220m expansion
HE undersupply of retail space in the trade area, fragmented competition and a strong local economy were the catalyst for Stockland to undertake a $222 million expansion and redevelopment of its Wetherill Park Shopping Centre The centre, developed by Stockland in 1983, has been through three phases of development, with the most recent completed in 2003. Stockland will expand the centre by 15,000 square metres to create a shopping centre with a gross lettable area (GLA) of more than 70,000 square metres. Stockland will commence the redevelopment with a “light touch” over the first few months to minimise its impact on pre-Christmas trade. Major works will begin in earnest in January 2014 and will be managed in three sequential stages to minimise disruption to retailers and
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customers, with practical completion of the entire project forecast for mid-2016. The centre currently supports 132 specialty stores and is anchored by Big W, Woolworths, Target and a 12-screen Hoyts cinema. The expansion includes a larger entertainment and leisure area, an upgrade of the cinema complex, additional restaurants and a new 800seat food court The centre is located in Prairiewood within Fairfield City Council area and is nominated as a potential major centre under the Sydney Metropolitan Plan Stockland forecasts the redevelopment would provide strong financial returns, deliver growth in market share and recapture a portion of the estimated $600 million escape expenditure in its trade area.
Also, this year, approval is expected for stage 3, the Alfasi Property Developments’ redevelopment of the Australia Post building in Macquarie Street, into a 16-level, 22,000 square-metre commercial tower. A separate podium building of 7000 square metres, at the rear of the tower, will be developed by council for its new civic building and library. Council said the design excellence competition would commence later this year for stage 4, a low-rise retail and commercial building behind the town hall. In the meantime, council has jumped ahead and approved a design competition be conducted prior to December this year, for stages 5 and 6 which are towers on Darcy Street, providing approximately 100,000 square metres of commercial space. Parramatta Square, opposite the Parramatta Transport Interchange and bounded by Church, Macquarie, Smith and Darcy streets, is expected to accommodate up to 13,000 workers when completed. Council owns over eight hectares of development sites, including Parramatta Square, in the CBD, representing over 500,000 square metres of potential floor space.
exclusively for business purposes is critical to ensure it continues to develop into a true business district supported by residential, on the periphery.” Once developed for residential purposes and strata titled council’s ability to provide employment floor space would be compromised, the report said. This would restrict Parramatta performing its role as the premier regional city in the metropolitan area, the primary business services centre for Western Sydney and a significant business location for metropolitan Sydney. The current residential population in the CBD and immediate surrounds was approximately 10,000; in the 2007-2013 period council approved 31 residential projects, representing approximately 4850 apartments. The report recommended the proposal be held in abeyance until the completion of the planning review of the city centre currently underway. Councillors resolved to support the preliminary concept proposal following a debate at a recent council meeting and the applicant would be invited to proceed with a detailed planning proposal for the site.
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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
COVER STORY
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How Adam built classic car heaven Story: Mike Walls Photos: Jessica Fahd S a builder Adam Hughes makes a pretty good collector of American classic cars. So much so that this Hills resident has converted his passion into a business with a stunning new showroom where people can see his creations – 18 fully restored American classic cars which are available to for hire. It’s been a labour of love for Adam, years in the making and design. Alongside him all the way has been his experienced and dedicated mechanic Andrew Ezzy from Nick Combes Automotive in Castle Hill. Adam has converted an industrial unit in Castle Hill to a grand showroom which resembles an old school 50’s themed workshop and vehicles can be viewed by appointment only. (You can call the team of ACCH on 9634 7274.) The skill involved in restoring cars of this vintage is very much in the detail. Each car can take months of skilled labour to restore, not to mention the necessary modification requirements to each vehicle to conform to the Australian road regulations. All cars must pass stringent regulations in order to obtain a blue slip and due to the vehicles being left hand drive. The law states that the vehicle can remain left hand drive if they were built prior to 1971. This means basic things such as indicators need to be adjusted for Australian conditions. Some cars need rust removed and some substantial motor work. No expense or time is spared to bring each vehicle to pristine condition. Adam buys his cars from various auction houses throughout the USA. The main one
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being www.mecum.com.au – an American based auction house that is a world leader in live auctions in collector cars. Auctions are also held online which means Adam is able to purchase vehicles sight unseen but recommends buyers seeing each vehicle in the flesh as the only way to go. Once a car is purchased, the importation process begins. Each vehicle can take up to a period of 3-6 months before they are in the country and released to the owner. Then the restoration process starts. Adam plans to hire these gems out for weddings, formals, movies and advertising as well as photo shoots or any special occasion. He has created packages that include full chauffeur services, champagne and flowers. “Building this business has been an exciting and rewarding project. We have already seen some success in terms of people booking weddings but the range of experiences these cars can provide is huge,” said Adam. “We believe we have something very special to offer. No expense has been spared to recreate these special cars back to their original character and the experience we offer is second to none.” Visit www.americanclassiccarhire.com. au for more details.
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
Adam Hughes, above, and below, the classic cars at his showroom.
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COMMUNITY
www.wsba.com.au
Mayors hit the ground running Management Strategy, allocatEW Holroyd City Mayor, ing more than $13 million to Nasr Kafrouni, says he asset renewal. More still needs will be leading from the to be done in the area of asset ground as he refocuses renewal with forecasts showCouncil on meeting private ing we need to spend more so sector shortfalls in services that Council’s infrastructure and building local business. remains in an acceptable A Holroyd resident for standard and so that we do not 37 years and a Councillor for leave an unmanageable burden five years, Mayor Kafrouni for future generations”. says he will be spending time Mayor Robinson also working with residents, comtouched on the initial work munity groups and businesses of creating Masterplans for to reduce shop vacancy rates Blacktown Aquatic Centre in town centres, attract new and Emerton Leisure Centre, business, improve roads and the steps that have been taken infrastructure and meet the to have the Warrick Lane site key service needs of ratepayredeveloped and the improved ers. relationships with national “I have close ties with the sporting bodies such as Tennis resident and business comAustralia and the National munity and I’ll be the kind of Blacktown Mayor Councillor Len Rugby League. Mayor who meets with people Robinson. Liberal Councillor John to find out what they need and Chedid was re-elected to serve as Lord Mayor of works with Council and the people to deliver. Parramatta City Council for another 12 months Mayor Kafrouni, a local real estate agent and and will be aided by new Deputy Lord Mayor, Cr father of five, says his priorities for his Mayoral Paul Garrard. term stem from seeing firsthand how Councils Cr Chedid was first elected to Parramatta City that work closely with their communities can Council in 2004 and previously held the position build cities that are strong, economically and of Lord Mayor in 2010-2011 and 2012-2013. socially. “My priorities for this term will be to build Councillor Len Robinson has been re-elected on the work I’ve been doing to activate key areas as Mayor of Blacktown City with Councillor Dr of the City including Church Street Mall and Russ Dickens OAM as Deputy Mayor. Mayor the River foreshore, promote healthy lifestyles, Robinson said the past year as Mayor has been an progress Parramatta Square and our Light Rail extremely busy time. Network proposal, along with delivering a sport “My commitment was that I would work to and recreation precinct for Western Sydney in ensure Council provides value for money to the community, and the Council’s long term financial Parramatta. “I take this opportunity to thank my Liberal position is protected”. council colleagues for their support and assistance The Mayor said the Council had adopted a over the past year and I look forward to working $377 million budget the largest ever for Blackwith everyone in the Chamber to take Parramatta town City. forward,” Cr Chedid said. “The budget gave drive to Council’s Asset
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Residents reminded to register their pool ITH temperatures climbing and the Swimming Pool Register deadline approaching, residents are reminded to make sure that their pool fence is compliant and their pool is registered by October 29. In an effort to increase safety around water and decrease the annual number of drownings or near drowning incidents, the NSW Government has developed new rules for pools and spas. These rules also apply to any swimming pool with a depth of 300mm or more, which includes temporary rubber swimming pools. So far only 6,348 swimming pools have been registered in The Hills Shire out of an estimated total of 20,000. Home owners are reminded that they must provide a compliance certificate for every home sold or leased after April 29, 2014.
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Pool owners must: Register their pool on an online register provided by the State Government. Self-assess and state in the register that, to the best of their knowledge, their pool complies with the applicable standard. Provide a valid swimming pool compliance certificate before being able to sell or lease a property with a pool. Council inspectors may conduct swimming pool inspections initiated by the owner. Council will: Develop and implement a swimming pool barrier inspection program in
High-profile Hills residents Nathan Hindmarsh and David McAllister got behind Hills Council’s campaign to alert all pool owners to register their pool.
consultation with the community. Report annually on the number of pool inspections and the level of compliance with requirements. Inspect pools associated with tourist and visitor accommodation and multioccupancy developments every three years At the request of a pool owner, inspect pools prior to sale or lease Issue compliance certificates after an inspection which finds a pool barrier compliant with the legislation. A $220 penalty applies for failing to register a swimming pool. Find out more at www.dlg.nsw.gov.au and select backyard swimming pools.
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
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9891 3330 17
FEATURE - FUTURE TECHNOLOGY
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Race on to find the next ABLET sales showed their first sequential decline ever in the second quarter of this year, according to research firm IDC. Apple sold fewer iPads than expected in its most recent quarter. Barnes & Noble’s Nook e-reader sales fell 20% in the fiscal first quarter ended August 20, two months after the company announced it will no longer make color versions of Nook, only black and white ones. And analysts are worrying about whether smartphone profit margins can hold up as buyer fatigue sets in. All of this points to what is becoming the new normal for tech gadgets: a rapidly accelerating product cycle. Devices hit the market, wow the crowd, mature and sunset at an ever increasing rate. For instance, the netbook, a light, strippeddown laptop, was created in 2007, shortly peaked and then plummeted as consumers bought tablets. Research firm IHS iSuppli predicts that by 2015, netbooks will be extinct after hitting a peak of 32.14 million units in 2010. Experts at Wharton say that smartphones and tablets are here to stay, but slower growth as markets mature isn’t too far behind. “Smartphones and tablets have grown more quickly than any consumer electronics device we’ve ever seen,” notes Kevin Werbach, legal studies and business ethics professor at Wharton.
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We’re going to see new form factors like smart watches and smart glasses such as Google Glass, as well as a proliferation of sensors.” “The torrid rate of growth means those devices are reaching the maturation stage more quickly than personal computers or other prior devices did. It has been only a handful of years since the introduction of the iPad in 2010, but already much of the core market in the U.S. and other developed countries has a tablet.” IDC said that worldwide tablet shipments were 45.1 million units, down 9.7% in the second quarter relative to the first quarter. Second quarter shipments were up 59.6% from a year ago, but the research firm noted in a press release that the lack of a new iPad from Apple hurt the market. “With no new iPads, the market slowed for many vendors, and that’s likely to continue into the third quarter,” said IDC analyst Tom Mainelli. “However, by the fourth quarter we expect new products from Apple, Amazon and others to drive impressive growth in the market.” On August 29, IDC cut its 2013 forecast slightly from 229.3 million to 227.4 million tablet shipments. In other words, the tablet market now is experiencing similar dynamics to the PC industry, where much of the growth falls in the second half of the year. Barclays analyst Ben Reitzes wrote in a research note that sales of the iPad “clearly have the flu. “Apple shipped 14.6 million iPads in the fiscal third quarter, well below the 18 million he expected. The market has really suffered from a lack of new and compelling devices.” According to Citi Research analyst Glen Yeung, the desktop PC market took 12 years to mature and hit saturation in developed markets in 2008. The laptop market took 10 years
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to mature in 2012. Smartphones and tablets are expected to mature in 2015 - for a life cycle of seven years and five years, respectively, Yeung wrote in a research note. Smartphone sales remain strong largely because they are replacing mobile phone sales overall. Research firm Gartner said that global mobile phone sales grew 3.6% in the second quarter, and smartphone units surpassed socalled feature phones for the first time. Nevertheless, analysts covering Samsung and Apple question whether the two mobile market leaders can maintain profit margins and have expressed doubt that they will be able to launch new devices that are enticing enough to offset buyer fatigue. Sales of Samsung’s Galaxy S4 phone didn’t live up to initial expectations. Meanwhile, Apple recently introduced the latest upgrade to the iPhone, the 5S, along with a new lowercost model, the 5C. With its $99 price tag for a 16GB model, Apple is hoping the 5C - which is made of plastic and comes in five colors- will put the phone within reach of consumers in fast-growing emerging markets. The 5S, meanwhile, includes an upgrade to an A7 chip and is the first smartphone based on a high-performance 64-bit architecture. It also comes in three colors - silver, gold and “space gray.”
Played out According to Wharton legal studies and business ethics professor Andrea Matwyshyn, rapid product cycles mean that consumers, who have grown dependent on electronics, are becoming more demanding. “Consumers are increasingly comfortable when it comes to appreciating novel designs, but if the bells and whistles don’t add new functionality, they won’t buy” a device, she says. Matwyshyn adds that the tablet, smartphone and PC are all variations of the same computing theme. “The tablet, smartphone and PC all have functionality limitations, and consumers find shortcomings with all of them,” she says. As a result, tech companies need to find a way to combine those devices or entice consumers with something new.
Wharton management professor David Hsu agrees. “The underlying question is: What functionality is unique and can push consumers to upgrade? Upgrading just for incremental improvement isn’t as compelling.” Werbach points out that although smartphones and tablets have been refined in recent years, they have fallen short of any breakthrough uses. “The first few years of smartphones and tablets were about software innovation, and then the development of cloud-based systems tied to the devices,” he notes. “There has been significant refinement since then, but today’s devices basically have the same functionality that Apple first delivered when it added the App Store to the second-generation iPhone.” According to Knowledge@Wharton technology and media editor Kendall Whitehouse, screen size might be the most critical differentiator for consumers. “The middle ground [in screen sizes] is where the market challenges will be.” The smartphone is highly portable and will continue to do well, Whitehouse predicts. Tablets will increase in functionality to become lightweight PCs. Standalone, limited function tablets are the most vulnerable. “The extremes at either end have a niche. At home I want the biggest screen I can get. When I’m on the go, I want something portable. It will be a market made up of large screens and things I can carry in my pocket.”
Today’s winners, tomorrow’s losers? The angst over whether consumers will continue to buy the latest, greatest device has Apple’s board of directors pushing for a faster innovation cycle, according to Fox Business News, which reported that there is pressure on CEO Tim Cook to bring new products to market faster. Apple’s iPhone 5C is on sale, and the 5S model is available for pre-order started on September 20. An Apple television set also has been long rumored. “Apple has created so many product waves, one has to wonder whether it can continue to do so,” says Whitehouse. Barclays’ Reitzes argued in a research note that Apple should concentrate its iPad sales efforts on
corporations to hold market share against Samsung and a bevy of inexpensive Android tablets. According to Reitzes, Apple’s tablet already has traction in corporations, and if it could develop more business use, the company would have a more stable base for its device. Meanwhile, Apple’s rival, Samsung, has its own concerns. Competition from Chinese smartphone makers ZTE, Huawei and Lenovo are cutting into the firm’s profits. “Samsung and Apple both have to worry about the ‘Dell problem,’” says Hsu. Dell pioneered an efficient PC supply chain and the ability to quickly customize computers, but it missed the mobile trend and hasn’t been a player in smartphones or tablets. “Both [Apple and Samsung] have been doing great many quarters in a row, [but they are] focusing on giving people what they want now, not what they want in the future.” Neither Samsung nor Apple can look to recent history from PC companies for much insight on how to navigate faster product cycles. Few traditional PC players have been able to handle the rapid pace of the mobile product cycle. Microsoft is currently looking for a new CEO, as Steve Ballmer plans to retire within the next year after a not-always-successful atContinued on page 19
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And as more people have multiple connected mobile devices at the same time, services that tie them together will become increasingly prominent.”
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
FEATURE - FUTURE TECHNOLOGY
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compelling thing Continued from page 18
tempt to focus the company on cloud services and devices like the Surface tablet. Microsoft’s mobile platforms are a distant third to Android and Apple’s iOS. PC vendors in general have struggled in the so-called “post-PC era” -- Hewlett-Packard, Dell, Acer and Asus have all failed to hit home runs with
mobile devices. Of the PC makers, only Lenovo, which recently became the number-one PC vendor globally, has managed the transition to mobile relatively well. In China, Lenovo is the second-largest smartphone maker and has plans to take a smartphone called the Vibe X global. Lenovo has also created laptops, called
“convertibles,” that can double as a tablet. In addition, the firm has an all-in-one PC that can act as a table-top tablet. Lenovo executives say the company is the largest player in the Windows 8 convertible market and that its Yoga convertible PC will inspire new functions throughout its products.
The next big thing For smartphone and tablet makers, the pressure to innovate will remain high. The question is: How? “The next stage of innovation is going to be about hardware and data analytics,” says Werbach. “We’re going to see new form factors like smart watches and smart glasses [such as] Google Glass, as well as a proliferation of sensors. And as more people have multiple connected mobile devices at the same time, services that tie them together will become increasingly prominent.” According to Werbach, the connections and services will matter more to consumers than the actual hardware. Google has multiple cloud services focused on documents, sharing and apps, and Apple has its App Store and iTunes juggernaut. Ultimately, these services will be tailored to individuals. More business models similar to Amazon’s are likely to take root: Amazon breaks even on its hardware sales, but profits from usage and follow-up sales of content. Hsu, however, adds that there’s still plenty of potential for hardware innovation. “It’s hard to disrupt the dominant design for computing. The form factor for what we do is usually a rectangular screen. That’s why there’s excitement for Google Glass and wrist watches. There’s going to be some interesting experi-
Business to business distribution Call for expressions of interest
Western Sydney Business Access (WSBA) is a regional business and consumer newspaper covering the rapidly progressing region of Greater Wrester Sydney. A key element of our success has been the effective nature of our distribution to businesses throughout the region. Due to a restructure in our distribution coverage we are now looking to outsource these services. As a result we now seek expressions of interest from suitable people to undertake business to business distribution services in the following areas: • Parramatta. • Blacktown. • Norwest/Hills. • Penrith. • Liverpool. You may be interested in all, or some of these areas. You will need a reliable vehicle (ideally a commercial type) and be able to complete the deliveries primarily during business hours. Rate of pay is by negotiation. WSBA is published monthly with the printer located at Rydalmere. If this opportunity interests you please contact the publisher, Michael
Walls, direct at: Email: michael@wsba.com.au Mobile: 0407 783 413
For more information about WSBA visit www.wsba.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
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The angst over whether consumers will continue to buy the latest, greatest device has Apple’s board of directors pushing for a faster innovation cycle, according to Fox Business News.” mentation.” Recently, Samsung has been highlighting the potential of flexible displays - which can bend and wrap around a person’s wrist, for example - and is holding a business model contest to find creative uses for the technology. Matwyshyn says that she has hope for this particular innovation because it would give consumers the ability to tailor hardware to their personal needs. According to Whitehouse, new designs or product categories will need to combine existing devices in order to gain considerable traction. The market won’t support distinct categories of devices that perform tasks being subsumed by smartphones and tablets. “Consumers will gravitate to a future enhanced tablet or a souped-up smartphone,” he says. “There are signs of convergence. It’s not like people are buying separate GPS devices or point-and-shoot cameras [anymore].” ARTICLE COURTESY OF KNOWLEDGE@
LAUNCH OF NEW EDITIONS Call for expressions of interest
Western Sydney Business Access (WSBA) is a regional business and consumer newspaper with a five-year track record of successfully covering the issues and people that shape the region. The WSBA formula is unique in that it provides exclusive coverage of the business and lifestyle issues that impact upon people’s lives. With a highly regarded website and hard copy edition, WSBA is a journal of record the region in business circles. With the recent addition of a lifestyle section, the brand will continue to grow in influence and reach throughout the GWS region. We are now considering launching new editions of this popular product and are seeking expressions of interest from people who may have an interest in publishing and may be looking to launch their own publishing business as a prime business or as a support business to established entities. There are a range of options available in terms of locations for new products. Minimal start-up capital is required for the right person/people. If this opportunity interests you please contact the publisher, Michael Walls direct, in full confidence: Email: michael@wsba.com.au Mobile: 0407 783 413
For more information about WSBA visit www.wsba.com.au 19
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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
OPINION
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Reality of what we need VS what we have in super By Kate Hill Partner Delloite Private
N recent weeks I haven’t been able to open a newspaper without hearing about the growth in Self Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) and their impact on property prices. It seems the baby boomers in some suburbs are snapping up more than their fair share of properties at auction, leaving potential first home buyers baffled at the prices being paid for starter homes or units. Last week, in its latest Financial Stability Review, the Reserve Bank of Australia commented on the recent changes to legislation which have allowed SMSFs to borrow money to invest in property. “Since then, property holdings by SMSFs have increased and this type of investment strategy is being heavily promoted,” the review said. The RBA says there has been a particularly strong increase in SMSF property investment in NSW. Australia’s superannuation system is the fourth largest in the world and as such is a source of pride for government and those working in the financial services industry. Its purpose is to provide the country with a pool of investible funds with the potential to generate wealth and prosperity for our ageing population. For many super is not enough However, a report launched by Deloitte last month - The Dynamics of the Australian Superannuation System – found that despite the $7.6 trillion asset pool projected for 2033, that potential to generate wealth and prosperity
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may well be at risk for the average Australian. The research shows that many Australians will not have enough savings in superannuation alone to fund their retirement. Increasing longevity means that half our retirees are expected to live past age 86 with a 100% increase in the number of Australians over the age of 75 in just 20 years. According to the findings, today’s average 65 year old Australian will not have enough superannuation to fully fund his, and particularly her, life expectancy. The Deloitte report also looks ahead to the younger Australians who will have received the compulsory Superannuation Guarantee (SG) contribution for a full lifetime and considers a worker currently aged 30 with a salary of $60,000 and with an average current balance of $27,000 (these are median figures for someone in the 25-34 age range1). The projection estimates that this person will have $1.1 million on reaching age 65 in 2048 in future dollars. This account balance is expected to last to age 94 under the modest retirement standard of $22,654 pa and to only 77 under the comfortable retirement standard of $41,197 pa. To afford a comfortable retirement standard covering life expectancy, a current 30 year old male would need a retirement benefit in 2048 of $1.58 million and a female, $1.76 million both in future dollars. To achieve this, current 30 year olds would need to make an additional contribution of 5.4% as a male and 7.5% as a woman on top of their current SG rate. With all this in mind it is no surprise that future retirees are looking to maximise their investment in property in order to generate the amount required to live comfortably through retirement! The report goes on to identify that currently there are four individuals of working age to each retiree. Over the next 20 years to 2033, there will be less than three individuals of working age for each retiree. Given the pressures on tax collections – there will be fewer workers paying tax to fund 1
AMP Retirement Adequacy 2012
the government’s aged pension and other social security commitments – so the country will need more self-funded retirees to lessen the burden on the public purse. The Deloitte projections show that, while the overall level of superannuation assets will grow significantly, retirement adequacy and longevity risk will remain concerns for both the government and individuals. The good news is we can all take steps to improve our position through actions such as increasing contributions or delaying retirement. Other options include taking superannuation as an income stream or annuity rather than a lump sum, to help address the demographic challenges of adequacy, and this is what the report recommends. But these options are not available to all and they do not fully eliminate the longevity risk. Unfortunately superannuation is still recovering from the global financial crisis which caused more than a ripple for the aggregate system, bringing lasting adversity for those on the verge of retiring as well as many currently retired Australians. Many Australians now approaching retirement have only contributed to super for a limited portion of their working lives as our system is still maturing. The concern is that current policy settings, including changes to caps and drawdowns, and the SG 12% increase, will not deliver the lifestyle that the majority of those retiring in the next 20 years are seeking. The reality is that many Australians will need to work longer and where possible contribute more. To that end the report projects the possibility of Australians deferring retirement by two and five years respectively. By deferring the retirement age by two years to age 67, Australia’s asset pool will increase by $400 billion. If it were possible to defer retirement age by five years to age 70, another $1 trillion would be added to the system. This will bring the total pool of superannuation assets to $8.6 trillion. Although, not everyone would be able to spend extra time in
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Increasing longevity means that half our retirees are expected to live past age 86 with a 100% increase in the number of Australians over the age of 75 in just 20 years.” the workforce and the jobs would also need to be available. Whether it is through company, industry or self-managed super fund the message is clear, take control of your super early. Know where you stand, understand what you can do to increase payments, whether it is through salary sacrifice or through lump sum payments. Leaving it in the too hard basket could leave you with fewer options as you near retirement. When I mention to my kids about how important it is to keep track of the super accounts they have acquired through part time or summer jobs, they look at me as if I’m from another planet. My key focus however is to get them set up in a good job so they can keep me in the manner to which I’m accustomed once I retire! For more information on the Dynamics of the Australian Superannuation System: the next 20 years, download the Report at www. deloitte.com/au/super-dynamics Contact Kate Hill at khill@deloitte.com.au
Roll out the red carpet, not the red tape the approval and cooperation of two NSW State Government entities: the Stadium Trust and the Parks Trust, and their support will be critical to the progression. We anticipate the Premier’s feedback this week. The revitalised sports precinct will include an enlarged and renovated stadium, a high performance centre for our pro sports teams, an indoor pool and new facilities for the PCYC.
Ensuring safety for the Church Street Mall By Cr John Chedid Parramatta Lord Mayor
SW Premier Barry O’Farrell and Sport and Recreation Minister Gabrielle Upton met with members of our new Parramatta Sports Precinct Advisory Board recently to discuss ways to fast track the City’s stadium development. Joining me at the meeting were PCYC Manager Chris Gardiner, Eels Chairman and Deputy Chairman, Stephen Sharp and Tom Issa and Wanderers CEO Lyall Gorman. Once again, partnership has made this project a success and the group wasn’t there to ask for money. In fact, all of the stakeholders, including the federal government, have committed generously to the project. We had one main message: roll out the red carpet, not the red tape! A key to the redevelopment of the site is
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Our thoughts are with the victim of the tragic fatal assault in the Church Street Mall last weekend. We have been meeting with the police to improve the police presence in the Mall, particularly on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. In the meantime, we have engaged a private security firm to patrol the mall during this time so our residents will be as safe as can be.
We want feedback from businesses Urban design gurus, Ethan Kent and Ed Blakely have arrived in Parramatta to help the Council transform key areas of the City, including Parramatta Square, Church Street Mall and the River foreshore. We’re committed to ensuring that key gateways to our City are active and vibrant spaces that attract residents, workers, visitors and business, so we will be working intensely with Mr Kent, Prof Blakely and the community to transform our key public spaces and
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
Premier Barry O’Farrell, (fourth from left) and Sports and Recreation Minister Gabrielle Upton, and Parramatta MP Geoff Lee (second from right) met with the delegation from Parramatta’s sports precinct advisory group sporting delegation, including (from left) Eels deputy chairman Tom Issa, PCYC’s Chris Gardiner, Wanderers CEO Lyall Gorman, Lord Mayor, Cr John Chedid and Eels Chairman Stephen Sharp.
build this City for the People. We’re honoured to have such internationally-renowned urban designers as part of my City Activations Committee. An important facet of activating urban spaces like the Church Street Mall is that busi-
nesses are frequently partners in this activation – especially the hospitality sector. To share your thoughts about Parramatta’s public spaces, email us at: haveyoursay@parracity. nsw.gov.au.
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OPINION
www.wsba.com.au
Perception of parking problems plague Parramatta
By Geoff Lee State Member for Parramatta
ACK of parking in Parramatta is one of the issues I hear the most complaints about. There is a perception that finding parking in Parramatta is difficult. Perceptions matter! Parking is important to lure businesses, shoppers and diners to the CBD to keep the city vibrant and expanding. To encourage visitors to our city we need to make it easy for them to park. In 2011, Parramatta City Council estimated that the city had in excess of 26,000 parking spaces in the city centre. Parramatta has more than 10,000 spaces spread across 21 public car parks, 15,331 in private off-street parking spaces and 1,363 in metered on-street parking. The question remains ‘Is that enough for Parramatta’s CBD?’ As a past retailer, I know that parking matters. If parking is not available, shoppers do not stop. Westfield shopping centre’s strategy works with their centres attached to multi-deck car parking. Westfield Parramatta has close to 5,000
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Geoff Lee talking to the community about parking issues.
spaces alone. When talking to business leaders, they all recognise the need for parking for their staff and clients. Our city parking strategy needs to be carefully managed as: 58% of Parramatta residents drive to work, 79% of Parramatta households have one or more cars, Projections of the city sees growth from 50,000 to 100,000 workers in the next 25 years. Parramatta Council’s Car Parking Strategy September 2011 provides interesting recommendations. It recommends improved signage to direct traffic to car parks,
better management of parking fees to encourage longer stays on the edges of the city, and improving the amenity of multi-deck car parks, which make good sense. However, the recommendation to relocate around 500 car parking spaces from the city’s CBD to the outer areas is problematic. I do not see how you can solve the parking problems by removing public parking. In an ideal world we would not need car parks as everyone would have access to convenient public transport. Yet despite continued Government investment in trains, buses and ferries – most people in
Western Sydney still drive a car. There is no ‘magic bullet’ – solving parking concerns needs a multi-faceted strategy. Encouraging residential and commercial development around transport hubs is essential to fully utilize public transport options. Parramatta is doing this particularly well with new high-rise development in the CBD to offer an inner-city lifestyle. The elimination of the need for people to use their cars to get to work is the ideal solution but not practical or desirable for everyone. All developments need ample parking. Development controls need to reflect the reality of the need for parking. Residential developments need to have more than one car space per unit - two people means two cars. Commercial developments need basement parking for their staff and the option for paid public parking – we should encourage developers to put in as many off-street parking spaces as possible – the more the better. We need to better utilize our existing parking more efficiently. The Council has made some good efforts with parking on the outskirts of the CBD offering commuters ‘park and ride’ options, and improved street signage so people can find the parking stations, and variable pricing as a mechanism to manage demand. With parking increasing in cost closer to the centre of the city, people can then choose the option which suits their budget.
Finally, we need to ensure the traffic management of CBD streets reduces congestion. Cars need to be able to get to and from their destination in the most direct manner. While more cars does mean more traffic, if we optimise the flows onto local streets we should be better able to manage the increased traffic. Despite the 5,000 car spaces at Westfield Parramatta the area around the mall is in grid-lock at Christmas time. Something needs to be done to address choke-points like this. The proposed ring-road around Parramatta, shared cars, and the introduction of a dedicated police metropolitan response team on motor cycles are a good start but we need to do more. Parking has become a perennial issue for cities such as Parramatta. Often town planners assert that we should reduce parking to encourage the use of public transport and discourage car ownership. However, public transport relies on highdensities to be most efficient. The sprawling suburbs that make up Western Sydney necessitate the use of cars to get people to work. Restaurants and retailers rely on parking close by to attract trade. Businesses want on-site parking for their staff and clients. Without adequate, convenient and cost-effective parking solutions customers will choose to do their business elsewhere. Personally, I don’t believe we can ever have too much parking in our city.
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
OPINION
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Charity starts in the office and ends in community
By Tony Eades Chairman Sydney Hills Business Chamber
CTOBER is community month at the Sydney Hills Business Chamber and an opportunity for us business leaders to focus on what more we can do for our community. Our local charities especially are doing it hard with a recent Roy Morgan Research survey finding that Australians are giving less to charity but are increasingly using digital technology to make their donations. In 2012, 66% of Australians aged 14+ donated to charity — down from 70% in the year to December 2008, according to the latest findings. As local charities feel the pinch, twice as many donations are going to charities which fund overseas development - with the lion’s share going to World Vision, the Christianbased giant in the market. Greater Western Sydney is home to more than 150,000 small businesses and collectively we can make a real difference in our local community. Here are six reasons why you should consider supporting a charity or non-profit endeavor in your community: The opportunity to give back. Your business success is probably down to the local customers who support you so giving back some of your good fortune to assist charities
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or community groups in your area makes good sense and may bring added business benefits too. Community support and good will. Being an integral part of a community is vital for small business. In today’s competitive world of mega stores and the convenience of the internet, it can often be difficult to maintain the awareness of your small business. One way to ensure that your business thrives in your community is to help build a thriving community. Marketing opportunities. If you donate money, products or services or even your time you will find that most charities and non-profit groups usually have some sort of recognition program. This is positive recognition for your brand and one of the reasons you see your child’s sporting team wearing shirts sponsored by a local business. The opportunity to support causes you believe in. Get your staff involved in choosing
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
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Greater Western Sydney is home to more than 150,000 small businesses and collectively we can make a real difference in our local community.” a local charity or not-for-profit organisation for your business to support. Ideally relate it to your business purpose, for example a swimming pool store may support the work of Royal Life Saving. Non financial contributions. Many local organisations are under resourced and have particular needs for time and services as well as cash. Contact the group you would like to
help and ask them if there are volunteer opportunities available. The opportunity to be involved. Getting involved in your local community is a great business strategy for many reasons and helps build a solid network of likeminded people and other businesses. You’ll become part of a special group of people who are in tune with the needs of the local community - market research that would be almost impossible for small businesses to attain. According to a study commissioned in the UK by financial services group, Foresters - most consumers think businesses should support charities and nearly half are more likely to buy from companies that donate to good causes. The survey of 1,100 people from across the UK found that 89 per cent thought businesses should support their local communities and 59 per cent that companies that did so would benefit from increased profits. All in all, supporting a charity or non-profit group can help a business grow, but most of all, it can be a great way to give back to your community and help support causes that need your help. The Sydney Hills Business Chamber is running a breakfast event at The Mean Fiddler, Rouse Hill on Wednesday October 9th from 7am. Join members and guests to discover how business and charity work together including three ways of partnering with charity that doesn’t involve $$$ and provides direct benefits to business. Support Chamber members and local community groups - Royal Institute of Deaf and Blind Children, Men In Action, Sustain Foundation and The ‘Hills’ Relay For Life and hear about an exciting initiative designed to assist all of these charities in 2014. For more details on this and other upcoming events visit the Chamber website at http://www.sydneyhillsbusiness.com.au
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IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION FOR WEALTH BUILDER EMAIL ASKANEXPERT@WSBA.COM.AU
October 2013, Issue 5
Can your SMSF be used to buy property? OU may have heard your friends or colleagues talking about buying SMSF property as a method of wealth creation. SMSF property is an asset (or assets) you purchase through your self-managed super fund (SMSF). The rules and regulations around what you could and couldn’t invest in through your SMSF underwent some changes in the middle of 2007. Because of this, you can now borrow money to buy investment properties through your SMSF. Just keep in mind that your SMSF will need to be set up in a certain way to enable this kind of borrowing. This has since become one of the most popular wealth creation solutions for Australians looking to fund their future and retire in style. There are a number of tax advantages associated with purchasing SMSF property, which is the main reason that people are buying investment property in this way. For instance, you aren’t required to pay tax on the rental income you receive from a SMSF property. In addition to this, if and when you end up selling this asset, you shouldn’t have to pay tax on the capital gain you make. If you borrow money through your SMSF, you can also leverage it when buying investment property. It also be a good idea to purchase SMSF property in order to diversify your investment portfolio. If you have a mixture of assets in your portfolio - such as cash, shares and property - the value lost by some at certain times can be counterbalanced by the value gained by other assets. If you’re thinking about buying SMSF property, there are a number of factors to take into consideration. Will you, for instance, be able to pay off your home loan before you retire? This is the kind of question a property consultant can help you to answer - so get in touch with one today!
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This has since become one of the most popular wealth creation solutions for Australians looking to fund their future and retire in style.”
Aussies share views on superannuation STUDY, titled “Superannuation - Australia’s View”, was recently conducted by the Financial Services Council and ING DIRECT. Approximately 1,000 people contributed to the study, which reveals that the vast majority of Australians are fans of superannuation. An impressive 89 per cent of participants said they “strongly support superannuation” and think it’s a great way to save for retirement. In addition to this, 83 per cent admitted
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they are ready and willing to see “compulsory superannuation savings” increase to 12 per cent. John Brogden, chief executive officer of the Financial Services Council, said in a September 16 statement that this positive feedback proves Australia’s superannuation system is “working well and is on track to achieve its goals”. However, “Superannuation - Australia’s View” also demonstrates that many people don’t really understand how the superannuation system works or what they’re actually
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
paying. A shocking 48 per cent said they “don’t know the fees they pay on superannuation,” and believe the whole system needs to be a lot more transparent. Mr Brogden said that “superannuation will be the biggest investment many Australians will make during their lifetime,” so it’s important they know where their hard-earned money is going. “Financial advice along the way can significantly help consumers achieve their retirement goals, said Mr Brogden.
If you could use some investment consulting, you may want to get in touch with ZAC Investments today. The study also revealed that 62 per cent of Australians don’t think they’ll have enough money to retire on comfortably. If you feel this way, you may want to investigate buying investment property through your self-managed super fund (SMSF) SMSF property is becoming a popular method of wealth creation among Australians who want to make sure their golden years are well financed.
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Asset protection comes down to Trust By Steve Brown
A typical discretionary or family trust structure The following diagram shows a typical discretionary family trust structure.
OU take years of hard effort, saving and going without things to build up assets, be they land, business, shares and or a combination of all of these. While the effort and time to accumulate assets can take years, loosing what you have accumulated can take seconds. One wrong choice or even the right choice taken at the wrong time can result in you losing your assets and wealth. Assets need to be protected at all times and one of the more common means of seeking to protect assets is to use a legal structure known as a trust.
Y
Appointor
Settlor • •
•
Cannot be a beneficiary Settlor and trustee establish trust by executing a Trust Deed
• •
Trustee
What is a Trust? A trust (including a family trust) is established whenever there is separation of the legal ownership of an asset from the beneficial (equitable) or real ownership of the asset. For example, the ownership of shares can be in the name of the Sergi Family Trust, but are actually owned by William and Maria Sergi.
Appointor hires & fires trustee Usually Appointer indirectly controls the trust. Trust deed should provide for the future control of the trust after the Appointer dies.
• • • •
Can be yourself and your spouse or your company Trustee taxed on accumulated income and pays tax on behalf of non-resident, minor, intellectually disabled or bankrupt beneficiaries Trustee holds investments and/or conducts business on behalf of trust Trustee has discretion to choose which beneficiaries are to receive income or capital (to the exclusion of other potential beneficiaries).
Different types of trusts There are three common types of trusts. These are: • Fixed Unit Trusts Unit trusts distribute income and capital according to the units you hold in the Unit Trust. Unit trusts are usually established as an alternative to companies. A public unit trust like those listed on the Australian Securities Exchange are typical of fixed unit trusts. • Discretionary Trusts Discretionary trusts are the most common form of trust. Money assets or even whole businesses are generally transferred into a trust by sale or gift. • Hybrid Trusts Hybrid trusts are similar to fixed unit trusts except the Trustee has given discretion to vary the entitlements to income and capital distributions.
Forming a Trust Each of the common forms of trust is usually established by a document. A trust can be established during a person’s life time or upon their death through the deceased person’s will.
A Trust needs a Trustee A trust is an obligation that binds a person (known as the trustee) to deal with and manage property for the benefit of others (known as beneficiaries) in accordance with the requirements of the trust deed. A person (e.g. William Sergi) can be both trustee and a beneficiary of a trust (of the Sergi Family Trust). A Company or another trust can be a trustee. Trusts are used for many reasons. (You should seek professional legal and tax advice before making any decision to establish a family trust). Common uses include: • Asset protection; • Estate planning; • Masking the ownership of assets; and • Tax planning.
Asset protection and estate planning The pooled nature of a trust means that beneficial ownership of assets and income is masked. Thus, if William Sergi was to accumulate wealth in a trust rather than his own name, then in the
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TRUST FUND Primary individual and legal/de facto spouse
Tax exempt entities
•
• Other defined family Members Includes children, grandchildren, parents, grandparents, siblings, nephews and nieces of test individual or current spouse
Current legal/ de facto spouses of family members
event of bankruptcy or insolvency (say of his business) the ability of his business’s creditors to seek compensation directly from William’s own “pocket” is limited. Company directors, lawyers, engineers, architects, doctors, electricians, builders and plumbers are exposed to litigation and potential bankruptcy being more likely to be sued than other workers and should consider using trusts as a form of asset protection. Be aware that transferring: • Existing assets particularly those subject to capital gains may trigger a tax payment to the ATO as beneficial ownership will have changed; and • Assets into trust may be still subject to claim by creditors for up to five years after the day they were shifted. This is designed to capture people who suspect claims from creditors or litigation and shift assets in anticipation. Trusts allow considerable estate planning benefits. You can preserve assets (e.g. a holiday home) for succeeding generations and secure income for certain beneficiaries, either for life, a specified period, or until a particular event (e.g. until the marriage of a child or the competi-
•
•
Beneficiaries are taxed on any income paid or allocated to, or applied for, them Beneficiaries have no right to claim any unallocated trust income or capital Stamp Duty and CGT may be payable on transfer of assets to the trust Less choice of beneficiaries if a family trust than a discretionary trust, but fewer restrictions on utilising company losses, bad debt deductions, utilising or carrying forward income losses and no loss of Franking Credits for post 1997 shares
tion of education). For example, if you die at a relatively young age, your widow might inherit substantial wealth, such as a life insurance policy. It is possible that your widow spends, lends or loses (or remarries someone who does the same), this wealth leaving nothing for your children’s education or general benefit. A trust is one way of preserving capital and providing an education for your children. Tax planning Trusts are not tax shelters. Discretionary trusts do permit the trustee to vary income and capital distributions each year to minimise overall family tax without incurring stamp duty or capital gains tax. This is particularly useful where the income of individual family members fluctuates from year to year. Thus, William Sergi can elect to pay Maria Sergi income this year, but not next year if it suits to do so. This ability to distribute income to family members who are on low tax can be very useful. Trustees can “stream” income. Income streaming, is, where the trustee distributes one type of income to one person (e.g. franked income and another type of income to another person - unfranked income).
No tax is paid on income distributed to tax exempt
Tax deductible entities
Family Trusts with same Primary Individuals
Companies/Trusts wholly owned by family members
Income not distributed in any one year is taxable at the top marginal tax rate plus the Medicare levy. So there is a real stimulus to distribute income each financial year. The decision as to which beneficiaries are to receive income technically has to be made by the trustee by the end of each year It is the ATO’s practice to allow that to be done up to August 31, each year.
Who are the players in a Family Trust? • The Settlor The Settlor is the person/ company, who establish the trust by putting in an asset (usually $10). After the family trust is set up, you transfer in assets or cash to purchase assets into the trust. The settlor is typically a lawyer, accountant or financial adviser. A Settlor should never be a beneficiary. (Income Tax Assessment Act (1936) section 102(1)). • The Appointer This is the most important person in the trust structure as the Appointer appoints and can dismiss the Trustee. The appointer can be anyone, but it’s wise to make the Appointer yourself. Your spouse can also be an appointer alongside you.
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A trust (including a family trust) is established whenever there is separation of the legal ownership of an asset from the beneficial (equitable) or real ownership of the asset.” • The Trustee The Trustee is the legal owner of the trust’s assets (but not the real owner of the assets) and manages the trust, including making investment decisions aimed at increasing the value of the assets. Trustees, among other things, must be fully acquainted with the terms of the trust, know who the possible beneficiaries are, know what the assets and liabilities of the trust are, keep proper accounts and prepare tax returns. • The Beneficiaries Beneficiaries are the people who benefit under the trust. In normal family trusts the beneficiaries are generally immediate, and sometimes extended, family. They have no right or claim to any of the trust property until it is distributed or otherwise vested in them under the terms of the trust. That means, they can be a beneficiary but not receive anything unless the Trustee so determines.
What happens if the Trust goes broke? The Trustee of the trust is indemnified out of the assets of the trust. The beneficiaries of a trust are likewise personally indemnified. This means that should the family business find itself in difficulty with creditors and you have signed no personal guarantees, then it is possible that the only assets that can be called upon to pay these debts are those owned by the family trust. The trust can also limit the personal liabilities of individual members of the trust’s business. Properly set up, the business is not owned by the individuals, as in the case of a partnership; the business is owned by the trust for the benefit of it’s beneficiaries. Can trusts avoid the death taxes such as capital gains tax? Yes. A beneficiary does not own the Trust Fund. Thus, when a beneficiary dies the Family Trust fund does not form part of your estate under your Will. The Appointer and Trustee need to think carefully about who will take over these roles in the event of their death. Children are the obvious choice but this can cause problems as well. Further, what happens when they pass-on? It maybe that you decide that this is the time that the Family Trust is wound-up and the remaining assets distributed. * Steve Brown is chairman at Etienne Lawyers Parramatta. Email: sbrown@etiennelaw.com
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
www.wsba.com.au
We are currently working in offering health & wellbeing services, in order to fulfil our continuous improvement goals as well as provide our residents with the best possible quality of life. The services provided to our residents include:
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Physiotherapy. Pain Management. Falls prevention. Manual handling. Exercise classes.
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420 Woodstock Ave, Rooty Hill NSW 2766 Phone (02) 8887 5555 Fax (02) 8887 5500
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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
Scenes from Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2.
Cine Buzz Crew time and it’s FREE HILDREN aged 3 - 14 years can join the free Cine Buzz Crew at Event Cinemas. Patrons can pick up a membership card at the Event Cinemas Castle Hill box office or join online at eventcinemas. com.au. Members can earn points for every movie experience to redeem free movies plus, get discounted tickets to exclusive screenings, access to Scoop Alley deals, and more! Cine Buzz Crew Preview Screening of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 Sunday 24 November, Event Cinemas Castle Hill, The Piazza Join Event Cinemas on Sunday 24 November at 10:30am for a Cine Buzz Crew preview screening of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2. Plus from 9:30am enjoy free family activities including colouring-in and crafts,
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face painting and more! Tickets are on sale from October 24. Tickets $10 for Cine Buzz members. Event Cinemas is also holding a family and friends sale where you can pre-buy movie tickets for $8.50* Enjoy the Event Cinemas Family & Friends sale and pre-purchase your movie eVouchers for just $8.50* each! These exclusive $8.50* movie eVouchers are only available to buy until 11:59pm AEDST Monday, October 7, 2013 Tickets can be redeemed to see any movie, any time at any Event Cinemas, Greater Union or Birch Carroll & Coyle Cinemas between Tuesday, October 8 2013 and Wednesday, November 20 2013. To purchase your tickets and view full terms and conditions visit www.eventcinemas.com.au/familyandfriends
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Kids and sweet food: the myth has been broken.
Medical myth: sugar makes kids hyperactive
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By Tim Crowe Associate Professor in Nutrition at Deakin University
NY parent would tell you that seeing children fuelling up on sugar-laden cake, lollies and soft drinks at a birthday party is a sure-fire recipe for a bunch of rampaging hyperactive kids. The connection between sugar and hyperactivity is one of the most popular foodbehavior myths going around, yet it is one that has been well and truly busted by science. Where there’s sugar, there must be hyperactive kids – or so says conventional wisdom. Science says otherwise. An abundance of published randomised controlled studies have been unable to find any difference in behavior between children who ate sugar (from lollies, chocolate or natural sources) and those who did not. Even studies that included children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) could not detect any meaningful difference between the behavior of children who ate sugar compared with those who did not. The most important aspect of all these myth-busting studies is they used a study design where the researchers (or parents) and the children were unaware of whether they were consuming a product containing sugar or a non-sugar substitute. It is only when you introduce an intentional bias into the experiments – and allow the parents to know what food their child was given – that the real culprit behind the myth emerges. When parents believe their child has been given a drink containing sugar, they consistently rate their child’s behavior as more hyperactive, even if the drink did not contain any sugar. So why do kids seem so hyperactive when they consume an abundance of sugar? It all comes down to the context. When kids are having fun at birthday parties, on holidays, and at family celebrations, sugar-laden food is frequently served. It’s the fun, freedom and contact with other kids that makes them hyperactive, not the food they consume.
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When parents believe their child has been given a drink containing sugar, they consistently rate their child’s behavior as more hyperactive, even if the drink did not contain any sugar.” But that doesn’t mean hyperactivity should be ignored. ADHD is a serious behavioral and developmental disorder that can impact on the child’s academic performance and family life. As such, extreme hyperactivity should be investigated by an appropriate health professional. Simply removing sugar from the child’s diet isn’t going to reduce their hyperactivity. In fact, eliminating whole food groups in an attempt to treat hyperactivity is an extreme approach that can do more harm than good. Growing children have different nutrient needs to adults, so eliminating whole foods groups – without a valid medical reason – can affect their growth, overall health, and even later-life food preferences. Having too much sugar, especially if it is coming from drinks, has been linked to excess weight gain and dental problems in kids. So even with the sugar equals hyperactivity myth busted, there are valid reasons to restrict how much kids consume.
ARTICLE COURTESY OF WWW.THECONVERSATION.COM.AU
Associate Professor Tim Crowe is a nutrition academic within the School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences and is also an Accredited Practising Dietitian. He teaches across the undergraduate and postgraduate programs in nutrition dietetics in the areas of nutritional physiology and biochemistry as well as the applied role of nutrition in disease prevention and management, particularly obesity, diabetes and cancer. He is actively involved in several areas of nutrition research including specialised nutrition in the prevention of surgical complications; malnutrition identification; and nutrition support in wound healing.
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
We provide the training you need to succeed.. INSIST THAT ANYONE WHO CARES FOR YOUR CHILDREN HAVE A FIRST AID CERTIFICATE
What courses does A Grade Education and Training offer? FIRST AID COURSES A Grade Education and Training offers first aid training for both work and home purposes, perfect for parents, grandparents, guardians and baby sitters. Perform CPR HLTCPR211A Provide Basic Emergency Life Support HLTFA211A Apply First Aid HLTFA311A First Aid Management and Anaphylaxis 22099VIC Course in Emergency Management of Asthma in the Workplace 22024VIC
CHILDREN’S SERVICES COURSES Completing an A Grade children’s services course can lead to a career in a long day care, preschool, outside school hours care, family day care, in home care or as a nanny or au pair. Certificate III in Children's Services CHC30712 Certificate IV in Children's Services (Outside School Hours Care) CHC41212 Diploma of Children's Services (Early Childhood Education and Care) CHC50908 Diploma of Children's Services (Outside School Hours Care) CHC51008 A Diploma qualification makes you eligible to be a Director of a preschool or long day care service. A Diploma in Children’s services can lead onto a Degree in Teaching (Early Childhood) with advanced standing to a Degree in Teaching Primary Teaching).
‘STAY-AT-HOME-MUMS’ YOU CAN GET A CERTIFICATE OR DIPLOMA IN CHILD CARE WHILE STUDYING FROM HOME
Our Children's Services training supports: the National Quality Framework for Early Education and Childcare; the Approved Learning Framework; the Early Years Learning Framework; and the Middle Years Learning Framework.
What assistance does A Grade Education and Training offer? A GRADE EDUCATION AND TRAINING Can offer a practicum at a local preschool or child care service. Can deliver individualised training for Year 10, 11 and 12 students and assist them in organizing an apprenticeship in a preschool or child care service. Offers online training which allows students to work at their own pace and to study while working or travelling. For example, students who complete a Certificate III in Children’s Services while studying for their HSC can work overseassand study on line for their Diploma, which can then lead to a degree qualification.
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Cherrybrook mum turns doll making into dollars By Anthony Stavrinos HERRYBROOK mum Adriana de Simone has a knack of creating amazingly life like baby dolls and after encouragement from two entrepreneurial friends, is using her artistic talents to launch an exciting new business. As Celebrity Dollhouse’s creative director, Ms de Simone and her team set to work on the company’s launch project – a replica of royal baby Prince George – the moment he was presented to the world by Kate and Prince William on the steps of St Mary’s Hospital. “The birth of Prince George was probably the biggest celebration of a newborn that most people are likely to see in their lifetime,’ Ms de Simone said. “It was incredibly exciting to be celebrating the prince’s arrival by creating a humanlike, detailed replica that preserved the positive, beautiful things we associate with newborns.” The mother of three, has devoted almost a decade to her hobby and over that time significantly refined her techniques and skills in the art form she describes as “a celebration of new life”. Celebrity Dollhouse aims to create premium quality, life-like, replica dolls of high profile newborns as well as jewellery, accessories and other related fashion items.
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Most of the profits will be channelled into creative industries, in which her partners in the venture - Bianca Biasi of Morning Starr Productions and Rebekah Biasi, of talent agency, Rebekah Biasi Management – are heavily involved. When Celebrity Dollhouse’s replica doll was publicly unveiled in early days of August, it was believed to have been the world’s first, premium-standard, hand-crafted replica doll of Prince George, utilising the highest quality moulds and componentry. Ms de Simone said the week-long online auction – as was typically the case - only ramped up into a three-way bidding contest in its final half hour. A United Arab Emirates-based collector, who requested that her identity not be disclosed, secured the exquisitely detailed, premium quality doll artwork with a bid of GBP 1,020 (AUD 1,730) just 12 minutes before the auction closed. “I’m thrilled that Celebrity Dollhouse’s first creation has found its way to someone who truly has an appreciation of this very specialised art form,” Ms de Simone, said. “I’m even thrilled to see it go to her at such a fantastic price. She can be sure this Prince George re-creation involved exceptional workmanship, dedication and effort from each member of our team. “In the coming months, we hope to cap-
Dollmaker Adriana de Simone with the replica of Prince George.
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Ms de Simone set to work on the company’s launch project – a replica of royal baby Prince George – the moment he was presented to the world.” ture the public’s imagination with a series of premium quality, intricately-designed re-creations of high profile newborns.” Hand-crafted doll art can at times achieve incredibly high sale prices, with a premium quality re-creation of a high-profile newborn, typically achieve a sale price
approaching $5,000 and on rare occasions, closer to the $10,000-mark. A leading doll artist from South Africa, sold one of her creations last April for nearly $25,000. For more information, visit www.celebritydollhouse.com
PROFILE
PROFILE
Marta Aquino, Residential Gardens
Melissa Ellis, Castle Hill Country Club
Residential Gardens CEO focus on community
Non-golfer leads iconic golf venue
ARTA Aquino came to Australia as a migrant of Uruguayan decent. She eventually established herself as the CEO of Residential Gardens – the only aged care facility in Australia dedicated to providing for the Spanish-speaking frail aged community. This year marks her 19th year as CEO of Residential Gardens. Mrs Aquino currently employs over 45 employees covering a range of roles including, but not limited to, registered nurses, care staff, physicians and a strong and knowledgeable administration team who ensure Residential Gardens operates as efficiently as possible. Personally, Mrs Aquino is heavily involved in local community service and passionately dedicates herself to helping those in the community. She is a member of five separate committee boards and often takes time out of her busy schedule to educate the community on aged care issues. Under her leadership, Residential Gardens has passed every single accreditation and has ensured that the facility remains transparent, thorough and efficient in providing care for the residents who call Residential Gardens home. She is driven by a genuine passion for her work and continues to deliver her services at the highest professional level. Residential Gardens was established in 1993 as a hostel for Spanish Speaking Frail Aged People. As a non-profit organization, its aim was to manage and operate an Aged Care Service to meet the needs of the elder people of Spanish Speaking background.
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ITH an extensive background and management experience in the club industry together with a love of sport, Melissa Ellis, the new general manager at Castle Hill Country Club is a non-golfing female in a male dominated industry. Despite no golfing experience Melissa has strong expertise and emphasis on management, business growth, cost control, hospitality, and customer service together with great visions for the club. Since her appointment in early 2013 Melissa has brought about positive progression, growth and a strong sense of community excitement to the club. In November 2013, Castle Hill Country Club will host the prestigious NSW Open. The NSW State Amateur Championships will be held on January 29, 30 and 31 2014, as well as the Renault Ladies Pro AM on the January 20 2014. Clubhouse renovations offering a new modern bistro lounge and first-class conference centre and facilities are also on the agenda for Castle Hill Country Club. Melissa’s main aim is to create a unique vibe and excitement within the club, make it the talk of the town and the place to be – a gem of the Hills with a strong sense of community and pride. Melissa loves her sport and plays softball (masters Pan Pax 2012) and tennis. She also enjoys boxing, kickboxing, bush walking and horse riding. The mother of two practises her golfing swings twice a week on the club’s driving range. Melissa is excited by the future growth of the club. Memberships are rising, to-
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Residential Gardens CEO, Marta Aquino.
Residential Gardens was, and remains, the only Aged Care organization in Australia with a focus on the Spanish Speaking community. Services include a wide and wholesome menu with the option to cater for individual needs. Each resident has choice of their own doctor and each room is equipped with intercom, fire system and satellite television. Residential Gardens currently accepts residents from all over Australia and has undergone redevelopment and expansion for new places to meet the demand that has been investigated in the growing ageing population. Upgrading and extension of the facility has been carefully planned and meets both the short and long term needs of our community. For information phone 8887 5555.
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
Castle Hill Country Club’s Melissa Ellis.
gether with increased social memberships, junior golf and many new lady members. Since its birth in 1950 Castle Hill Country Club has become one of Sydney’s leading private golf clubs and for many years has been recognized among the top 100 golf courses in Australia. Boasting a world class par-72 championship golf course, Castle Hill Country Club is nestled among 167 acres of open fairways and picturesque bush land with state-of-theart clubhouse amenities.
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DINING OUT - REVIEW
www.wsba.com.au
Being a true foodie, I just love tapas By Kim Wilkinson Founder – Go West Gourmet
YOU are like me, you believe that being a true foodie means you like tasting food more than just eating food. And that’s one of the many reasons why I love Tapas! With small portions designed to share, you can try a range of dishes and flavours, without feeling full too quickly. Delishus at Richmond was on my must try list for just this reason, and I’ve now had the opportunity to dine there on more than one occasion, always with pleasing results! Looking inside the late 1800s building is like visualising the Spanish arriving in colonial Australia. Dark wood and high ceilings are paired with vibrant red and yellow Spanish decor. Although this might sound gaudy, this unique setting works nicely, and harmonises well with the appropriate Spanish guitar background soundtrack. Delishus impressed me immediately by having my favourite Cider available, and the complimentary spiced peanuts and olives accompanied this perfectly to calm my anticipating stomach! As this is Tapas, I recommend choosing three or four dishes to share, always making sure you leave room for dessert! The variety of food will make it hard to choose, but after sampling at least eight different dishes on my visits so far, I can guarantee you will be pleased with whatever is decided upon. One of my favourites is the pork belly with apple sauce, which isn’t always on the menu so ring ahead to check if it’s one of the daily specials. Thankfully it’s not the typical pork belly with lots of visable fat, but rather a juicy, melt in your mouth pork portion superbly matched by salty crispy crackling.
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The Ensalada de radicchio is a warm salad combining chorizo, potato and broad beans served in a crunchy radicchio leaf. While that already sounds amazing, the real champion of this dish is the mustard vinaigrette, which combines the textures and flavours wonderfully. Another mention must go to the Empanadas de Carne con Manchego Mousse. These beef empanadas exceed expectations by tasting more baked than fried. The Manchego Mousse is like a hard cream cheese, and when you melt it on top of your empanada, it’s a crunchy gooey match of “delishusness”’! As I recommended, make sure you leave room for dessert because you’re going to want to try the Tasting Plate – Postre Messe! Selections can vary from day to day, but the sample I tried included white chocolate mousse with lavender, fresas en balsamico (fresh strawberries with aged balsamic vinegar), Leche Frita (fried milk with cinnamon and vanilla – like a mini custard filled donut) and Crema Catalana which is like a Creme Brûlée. The Crema Catalana is a favourite I’ve now had more than once, however the Leche Frita comes a very close second – oh, if only I had a separate dessert stomach! Their courtyard area offers a lovely outdoor eating option, but even when the temperatures rise in western Sydney, you’ll
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be pleased to have plenty of air conditioned room inside to choose from. Dog owners will be pleasantly surprised to know they can bring their furry friends on a leash when dining in the courtyard, something that will encourage me back again in the future (as if the food wasn’t enough)! Whether you’re relishing the romance of a date night, or hanging out with a party of friends, it is well worth treating yourself to a meal at Delishus, for an enjoyable experience that will leave your taste buds feeling truly satisfied. DELISHUS 122 Windsor Street Richmond NSW 2753 (02) 4578 6999 www.delishs.com.au
This might sound gaudy, but the unique setting works nicely, and harmonises well with the appropriate Spanish guitar background soundtrack.”
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BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
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How to conduct a financial health check for your business By Eric Tjoeng HEN setting up a new business, some business owners have developed a business strategy and financial plan. Then they get so involved in the daily operations that they often don’t go back and revisit their strategy and plan. Over time, the positioning, profitability, and cash flow of a business can suffer as the business environment changes, and financial controls are overlooked. A business’ ability to take advantage of opportunities and offset any threats depends upon its strengths and weaknesses. One of the key concerns is whether you are selling the right product or services at the right place and at the right price. This can be evaluated through a business strategy review to ensure a business model that still satisfies customer demands and can be profitable at the same time. You might think your business is doing well. A financial health check conducted by
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a qualified independent expert will verify that. More importantly recommendations for improvement will follow. Examine your business records focusing on the key business drivers which affect profitability and cash flow. They are price, volume, cost of goods sold, margin, overheads, accounts receivable days, accounts payable days and inventory days. The key to this is to set up your accounting system to capture this information timely and accurately. Ask yourself a few critical questions, for example:
Margin Do you know the margin of each of your products or services? Which ones are your most and least profitable areas? As focusing on higher margin products or services will improve your profit greatly.
Overheads Do you regularly compare and analyze expense items? Examining major expenses to see whether there is a possibility of any savings is another great way to improve profit.
Accounts receivable days Do you know what is the average number of days you customers owe you? Do you have an exception report with the breakdown of each overdue receivable? Managing your outstanding account receivables will improve both your cash flow as well as the amount of funding you will require.
Accounts payable days
Inventory days
before they are sold. This means you have spent working capital to have the stock waiting to be sold. If you can reduce the number of inventory days, this can have a big impact on your bank account and working capital situation. Similarly, critical examination of other key drivers and come up with pragmatic improvement actions will pay great dividends.
Do you know what is the average number of days you inventory is sitting in your warehouse or store? These goods often have to be paid for
Eric Tjoeng is the Joint CEO and Senior Practicing Partner at CAD Partners CFO On-Call (www.cfooncall.com. au). He can be contacted at erict@cadpartnerts.biz.
Do you know what is the average number of days you owe your suppliers? It’s tempting to pay suppliers who hassle for money and ignore potential better terms to be had from suppliers. Some changes to accounts payables management can pay big dividends in your bank account.
Confused about illegal Phoenix director activities? By Kevin Cotter, Manager Insolvency Division, Condon Associates
HAT are you going to do about the phoenix activities of the directors? That is a common question asked by creditors and even some accountants and solicitors. There seems to be so much confusion over what is and is not illegal phoenix activities. This is because there appears to be no commonly communicated definition that is generally understood by the average person. I did an internet search and found numerous versions from legal practices, government agencies and insolvency practices. No wonder everyone is confused. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) recently released a statement advising they will be cracking down on illegal phoenix activities. So the issue has been brought back into the limelight once again. However, there is limited information on the internet that supports the concept that a transfer prior to the appointment of an insolvency practitioner can be legal. So therefore everyone seems to jump to the conclusion that it must be illegal. Not only can it be legal, it can also be beneficial to creditors. This is due to the fact that a “going concern”
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sale will usually return a higher value to the company and therefore ultimately to creditors. As such, a sale prior to an insolvency practitioner being appointed can sometimes be more beneficial and these pre-appointment transfers in and of themselves do not automatically become illegal phoenix style activities. Firstly, there is a need to sell a business quickly during an insolvency administration to limit the exposure to liabilities. For example, when deciding on trading a business during an external administration the insolvency practitioner must consider the ability to cover the liabilities for any costs or claims (negligence, damages, defaults, contractual obligations etc.) incurred during the process of selling the business. So it is a balancing act as any shortfall and costs incurred would result in a reduction in the return to creditors being traded off against the potential of squeezing out a few extra dollars from the purchaser.
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
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A sale prior to an insolvency practitioner being appointed can sometimes be more beneficial and these preappointment transfers in and of themselves do not automatically become illegal phoenix style activities.”
Secondly, an insolvency practitioner is in a weaker bargaining position to negotiate a higher value for the sale. He needs to sell and with time restrictions a purchaser does take on a few more risks as the time for due diligence is reduced. How can you tell if it is legal or illegal? Commonly there is a sale agreement in place and the transfer has been done on legitimate grounds. These transfers only become illegal phoenix activities when they involve any or all of the following common aspects: It was uncommercial; It was undervalued; It was hidden; or It involved illegal conduct. Rest assured, the law does however protect creditors should the company be placed into liquidation and the business has already been transfers. This protection is the ability to overturn any transfer found to be illegal phoenix activities. All insolvency practitioners are required to conduct an analysis and investigation into pre-appointment transfers. This involves, amongst other things, an analysis of the assets, values and liabilities transferred compared to the amount paid and how the transaction was completed. Basically what needs to be considered is if the amount received is more than what would have been recovered if the Insolvency Practitioner sold the business. So creditors and their advisors should stop automatically jumping to the conclusion that any transfer of a business prior to an insolvency practitioner being appointed is illegal. There are some valid reasons why these occur legally and may actually be beneficial to them in the end.
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BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
www.wsba.com.au
Successful selling hinges on the power of your networks By Stephen Pead ELCOME to my column on selling and sales techniques - it’s a great privilege to join the team at WSBA. What I’d like to achieve is to help sales people and sales managers to be more effective at what they do, so each month I’ll focus on one aspect of the skills you’ll need to take you to the top of the tree. As a professional salesperson you need to take time out and remind yourself that choosing this career is a daily task. As a matter of fact, let me encourage you to make this first entry on your “to do” list: “I am a successful sales professional, and I will learn something today that will make me even more professional tomorrow.” Finding new clients or customers is often the first topic that most sales people want help with, whether they have been selling for five minutes or five years. To do this effectively you have choices. First choice is to go and pick up the phone or go door knocking to do some good old fash-
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ioned cold calling - it’s a raw number game with a poor hit rate of around 5% for getting an initial appointment. Cold calling tends to be generally abusive to both parties and is hard work! Your other choice is what I call “warm” calling - contacting or following up prospects who you already know. A great way to set up those “warm” calls is via networking. It’s my opinion that networking forms a vital and mandatory part of any prospecting activity because you get to go where your current customers and prospects are likely to go. Remember that your prospects are people with lives just like us, they play sport, help charities, participate in community groups, attend church, help at their kid’s school etc.; so why not connect with them there? Here are my six easy ways to find new clients (or customers): Join a community group such as Lions, Apex, Rotary, the list is huge. Really participate. It’s a great way to meet like-minded people while helping the community. Check out trade shows that are specific to your business or market. These events are a terrific way to connect and become well known in a business environment. Business referral groups are another way to actively network. These groups help members to find new prospects. Google the subject and you’ll find several here in western Sydney. Attend local chamber of commerce after hours business networking events. At these events you’ll find any number of buyers and sellers. The more of these you attend the better you become known. Get involved with a sports group or gym.
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Your prospects are people: they play sport, help charities, participate in community groups, attend church, help at their kid’s school so why not connect with them there?” It’s amazing what conversations take place on the sidelines or as you swap a piece of apparatus. Maybe the conversation will be about what you sell! Consider any of the education groups such as Toastmasters or Dale Carnegie. You get to learn something new AND cross paths with other people who are just like you. All six of these networking ideas combined with your normal prospecting activities are just about guaranteed to help find new leads and you get to enjoy the process too. Networking looks simple but there are some important practices: Plan to meet new people.
Look for “door openers” as well as decision makers. Establish the relationship first, do business later. Have a short “personal commercial” or elevator pitch ready. Gain interest, by being interesting. Use reciprocity by offering an idea or solution with no strings attached. Have the best quality business cards that you can afford. Let me know how these ideas work for you. I’d also like to hear what topics are of interest in future columns. Stephen Pead has significant experience in sales, sales management and general management. His company Sales Solutions specialises in providing training and coaching for salespeople and sales managers. Visit: www.yoursalessolutions.com.au
29 Smith Street, Parramatta E: parramatta@mbe.com.au W: mbeparramatta.com.au P: 02 9891 1144
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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
WSABE 2013
www.wsba.com.au
WSABE 2013 attracts largest entry pool ever HE Parramatta Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the biggest and most successful Western Sydney Awards for Business Excellence (WSABE’s) to date. The awards which were originally branded the Parramatta Awards but have grown now to encompass Western Sydney have been running for 23 years. In 2013 the awards attracted the largest number of entries to date. There were over 340 entries spread across Western Sydney with a geographic stretch across Liverpool, Campbelltown, Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Penrith, The Hills, and Parramatta. This year the awards ran for a six month period and culminated in a gala night supported by a record number of 450 people, held at the WatervieW in Bicentennial Park. Guests included finalists, winners and sponsors, a number of VIP guests from both state and local government and of course the families, colleagues and friends supporting the finalists. The night was a celebration of business in Western Sydney showcasing the diversity, ingenuity and business growth that exists in this quickly growing area of NSW. This is encapsulated in the overall winner, Matthews Folbigg Lawyers. “The Chamber would like to thank all the sponsors for their support particularly the Commonwealth Bank and the CBA Women in Focus group that made the success of these awards possible,” said Chamber president, Roger Byrne. “A big thank you must also be extended to Parramatta Council and Mayor John Chedid who have been consistent supporters of the awards since their inception.” “We have already begun planning for the 2014 awards with many of our sponsors already committing to join us and next year our awards will be aligned with the NSWBC
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Scenes from the 2013 WSABE gala event. PHOTOS BY MELINDA HIRD. PHOTOGRAPHER.
and most category winners will go on to represent Western Sydney in the NSW Business Chamber awards.”
Award Winners 2013 • Hope Media Excellence in Community Service – Wesley Apartments (Paramatta Mission). • WatervieW in Bicentennial Park Excellence in Hospitality - Glenorie Bakery. • Parramatta City Council Excellence in Retail – Dive Action. • School of Business, UWS, Excellence in Business Services – Nepean Regional Security. • Fairfax Media Excellence in Human Resources and Recruitment – Residential Gardens for Spanish Speaking. • Snap Phillip St, Excellence in Manufacturing – Precision Metal Group. • Champion Legal, Excellence in Starting a New Business - On Road Driving • The Parramatta College, Excellence in Education – MWLP Linking Youth. • Western Sydney Wanderers FC, Excellence in Sport and Recreation – Tania’s
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
Strictly Dancing. • Parramatta Chamber of Commerce Excellence in Property Sales and Management – Australian Unity Retirement Living Services. • Business Clarity, Excellence in Sole Trading – More Than Curtains. • Events Excellence in Sustainability (in a business not in the environmental industry) – Dive Action. • Price Waterhouse Coopers Excellence in Export – RBK Nutraceuticals.
High Achievers • Commonwealth Bank, BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Matthews Folbigg. • Commonwealth Bank, Women in Focus, BUSINESS WOMAN OF THE YEAR Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security. • Commonwealth Bank, ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR David Mumford RBK Nutraceuticals. • Commonwealth Bank, YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR Marco Fahd Versatile Group.
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FOR SALE
MODULATED FLATS OFFER A HIGHER STANDARD OF LIVING
Modules better known as granny flats, offer additional living space for family members or increase your return of 10% plus on existing lots, must meet statutory requirements. Modules delivered to suite clients requirements • • •
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Module sizes up to 60m2 Turn Key packages delivered on site within 12 weeks Builders add to your product list, minimal outlay with quick turnaround, increase your cash flow. Flat pack DIY Solutions for the Owner Builder Property Managers, increased income from additional managements
To discuss your requirements, site suitability contact F1 Real Estate on 0414 694 338 or Email tony@f1realestate.com. au. To help us deliver you fast prompt assessment of your needs please provide the following information. • • • • •
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Call 0414 694 338 PO Box 8122, Werrington County NSW 2747 E: tony@f1realestate.com.au www.f1realestate.com.au 42
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
DUE TO POPULAR DEMOND, VENDOR AGREED TO RELEASE FURTHER 3 UNITS
UNIT 15: 3 Bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2nd Floor, Fully furnished, 138 sqm Price Indication $543,840 UNIT 20: 3 Bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2nd Floor, Fully furnished, 138 sqm Price Indication $543,840 UNIT 25: 3th Bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2 Floor, Fully furnished, 120 sqm Price Indication $611,820
All prices are subject to BANK VALUATION Vendor wants to sell, sell, sell All Prices Negotiable
23 Beach Road, COOLUM BEACH, QLD, 4573 ce Entran
Looking for an investment opportunity virtually fitted with all your investment criteria BEACH ROAD
Lift Entry
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way
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Swimming Pool
LIFT
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Gazebo BBQ
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SEASIDE II UNITS 9-26
ay
Pathw BBQ Area
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SEASIDE III UNITS 27-42
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Coolum Seaside offers 44 luxuriously appointed one, two, three and four bedroom apartments with large sunny terraces. Penthouses with private roof terraces, barbecues and spas are also available.
BBQ
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PERRY STREET
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This is a rear opportunity to pick up quality investment property in a blue chip location (Coolum Seaside). Coolum Seaside Sunshine Coast Queensland is where luxury meets the sea, is perfectly positioned for you to take full advantage of the Sunshine Coast's natural scenic beauty and holiday attractions. Close to restaurants, beaches and shops, Coolum Seaside is the only 5 star AAAT rated resort complex in town. These investment apartments could be used as holiday rentals or residential rentals. Either way generates great rental income.
SEASIDE I UNITS 1-8
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UÊÎä¯ÊPAYABLE ON BBX (Interest Free Credit) UÊ , AT RENTAL RETURNS UÊLOCATION UÊ " RAPHICS UÊQUALITY OF CONSTRUCTION UÊ -9Ê /RY TO PURCHASE UÊ - AND LIFE STYLE UÊ 8/RA INCENTIVES
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SEASIDE III UNITS 43-47 To B
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There is also a fully compliant apartment for people with disabilities. Coolum Seasideresidents can relax in style and enjoy on-site facilities, which include three heated swimming pools and four spas, tennis court, gym, internet lounge and poolside barbecues all set in tropical landscaped gardens etc.
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Property information, rental returns, levies and other information will be emailed on request For more information contact: Saviz Savisyar: 02-94991127, saviz@ebbx.com WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
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Once in a lifetime opportunity 3 Bedroom, Dual Key Apartments $290K less 30% Interest FREE deposit 2 Oaks Lagoons Langley Road Port Douglas Qld 4877 MODERN THREE BEDROOM RESORT DESTINATION Modern dual key properties with featuring professional on-site management, lush gardens and fantastic facilities. Ideally positioned with-in the popular Oaks Lagoons Resort this attractive property could be your own Port Douglas holiday retreat or the next addition to your investment portfolio. Comprising three genuine bedrooms with built in robes, modern kitchen over looking meals and living room, main bathroom, European laundry and outdoor entertaining area overlooking resort pools. Additionally the studio apartment features an open floor plan, bedroom, kitchenette, bathroom and private balcony with luxurious spa bath. Other features include split system air conditioning, modern decor, stone bench tops, stainless steel appliances, feature lighting, tiled living areas, Austar TV and plenty of storage. Located in close proximity to the stunning Four Mile Beach; and with local shops, cafe, supermarket and two golf courses just minutes away this modern property won't last long and is priced to sell today.
10 units available The buildings only 5 years young. Valuation $290,000 to $320, 000 Previously sold for $400, 000 - $500, 000. Estimate NET return $12k to $13.5k letting out long term. Contact Saviz Savisyar. P: 02 9499 1127 E: saviz@ebbx.com 44
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
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Charles Batt
Pat Cirillo
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Principal
T 02 8860 6585 M 0402 445 556
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F 02 8580 6290 E patcirillo@brentmorerealty.com.au
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Level 5, Nexus Norwest, 4 Columbia Court BAULKHAM HILLS NSW 2153
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RETIREMENT Roger Byrne Director
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121 Cobham Avenue Melrose Park NSW 2114 Tel: 0414 892 854 Fax: (02) 8088 7157
John Drury Principal
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45
SPORT
www.wsba.com.au
Gloria Jean’s Coffees NSW Open in full swing ITH a summer of golf fast approaching, preparations are heating up for the 2013 Gloria Jean’s Coffees NSW Open to be held at Castle Hill Country Club on November 21-24. With the majority of Australia’s leading players returning home after competing on the various tours around the world, Gloria Jean’s Coffees NSW Open organisers are liais-
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Australian golf stalwart Peter O’Malley.
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ing with all to lure them to Castle Hill as a key part of their preparations for their tilt at the Australian Open title the week after. Some major player announcements are expected shortly, which are sure to attract not only golf fans but followers of top class sport. With the final playing field to be determined in the coming weeks, several notable names have
already signalled their intention to compete. Queenslander Adam Crawford, who narrowly missed qualification onto the 2014 PGA Tour, will be back from the US keen to defend his title. Joining Crawford from the Web.com Tour will be former PGA Tour players, James Nitties and 2003 US Amateur champion Nick Flanagan, who will both be looking to kick start their 2013/14 seasons. One player who can never be discounted is the 2010 champion and Australian golf stalwart Peter O’Malley, who will be keen to add another professional title to his long list of achievements. He’ll be joined by another former champion in Aaron Townsend who will take his place in the field after regularly competing on the Japanese and OneAsia tours throughout 2013. Two-time Australian Masters champion Bradley Hughes has also confirmed his entry into the event. His 4 round score of 268 in 1998 is still the lowest over 72 holes in Masters history. Hughes will be looking to add one of Australian golf ’s most historical and coveted trophies to his two gold jackets. Gloria Jean’s Coffees is also getting into the swing of the event with a range of promotions and activities planned for the week. Spectators will be able to not only enjoy Gloria Jean’s Coffees range of beverages on course, but will also be able to relax in their chill out zone.
Former PGA Tour players, James Nitties.
Gloria Jean’s Coffees Executive Chairman, Nabi Saleh, said: “All of us in the Gloria Jean’s Coffees family are extremely proud to be actively participating in the NSW Open – an event which has seen so many legends of the game compete for the title. We are a local business with a strong global presence.” Along with Gloria Jean’s Coffees, many other local businesses have jumped on board in support of the event. With a range of hospitality and access to unique golfing benefits on offer there are still some fantastic opportunities available for corporate partners. Pro-Am spots which may include playing with one of the
marquee players, on course and surrounds signage, VIP hospitality are just some of the opportunities. Gloria Jean’s Coffees charity partner Challenge is also set to benefit with various fundraising activities set to take place across the event. Challenge charity ambassador and PGA Tour player Jarrod Lyle will also be in attendance, which is sure to warm the hearts of not only those involved with the charity, but all those at tournament. Go to www.nswopen.com for more information. Come and watch some of the best golfers on one of NSW best golf courses. Most importantly, spectator entry is FREE.
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
Come and watch some of the best golfers on one of NSW best golf courses
Castle Hill Country r Club
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013
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Welcome to the Village of relaxation
for mind and body that we are proud to present the ancient Traditional Thai Massage, a unique form of bodywork that incorporates Hatha Yoga, acupressure, reflexology and meditation. Its roots go back about 2,500 years. We have learned from generation to generation until now, Thai Massage is an ancient healing art that we combine Traditional Thai massage technique with aromatic oil, herb and Swedish massage together which can be deeply relaxing and is an antidote for muscular tension, spasm and stress.
With almost 4 years experience in the business of Traditional Thai Massage “We have learned that most people work very hard, have busy lives and face many stresses, we are happy that our business is part of their lifestyle which helps creates a healthier quality of life. Now Thai Village Massage has 3 branches, at Rose Bay North, Merrylands and full spa service at Parramatta” Thai Village Massage and Spa, we promote wellness and alleviate distress from illness and aging by offering you a variety of Thai body treatments such as Traditional Thai Massage, Foot Reflexology, Thai Herbal Hot Compress Massage, Aromatherapy Thai & Hot Oil Massage, Pure Cocoa Body Butter Massage, Body Scrub and Treatment, Facial massage, Thai herbal Steam Room, and Ear Candle.
Welcome…Ladies and Gentleman…
The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly. Get away from the stress and anxiety of everyday life and relax your body and mind with us.”The way is not in the sky, the way is in the heart” Open 7 Days 9:30AM – 8:00 PM Thai Village Massage & Spa 18/421 Church Street Parramatta NSW 2150 CALL 02 86269248 WWW.THAIVILLAGEMASSAGE.COM.AU 48
WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS OCTOBER 2013