10 YEAR JOURNEY FROM SIDE HUSTLE TO COMPANY
SCALING GREAT HEIGHTS
The NQ Scaffolder developing international tech solutions
KEEPING DEFENCE MOVING The maintenance company leading the charge for Defence contracts in the north
ANTIQUE AND UNIQUE
The transformation of Ayr’s old general store into a thriving event space
BONUS INTRA MELIOR EXI ENTER GOOD, EXIT BETTER
TGS.QLD.EDU.AU
08 16 04
04
CHAMPIONING FOR CHANGE
Meet the sisters-in-law who are empowering women across the globe with Strong
13 PROUDLY LAYING THE FOUNDATION FOR SUCCESS
Ray White Munro & Co’s commitment to always achieve the best outcome for their clients.
14 A WEALTH OF VALUE
Menninger Capital shares the key principles of value investing.
16 SCALING GREAT HEIGHTS
NQ scaffolder making a mark in the international tech innovation space with his award-winning app, ScaffPlan.
19 IMPLANTS MADE SIMPLE
Dr Navdeep Singh from My Family Dental explains the revolutionary dental implant restoring patients’ confidence after tooth loss.
20 MOVERS, SHAKERS & CHANGEMAKERS
Updates from the local business community.
21 GROWING YOUR WEALTH
Get a head start on improving your financial health in 2023 with Morgans Financial.
22 FROM INTERN TO EMPLOYEE
Achieving your dream job with JCU’s Work Integrated Learning Program.
24 KEEPING DEFENCE
MOVING IN THE NORTH RGM Maintenance helping to firm up Northern Australia’s line of defence.
26 INJECTING PRIVATE EQUITY INTO YOUR BUSINESS
PVW Partners’ advisory team guides you through the process of getting investment ready.
29 THE PROPERTY GAME IN 2023
Learn how to play with Shannon Willcox from Northern Realty.
30 A UNIQUE TREATMENT
The natural North Queensland product protecting families from headlice.
31 GROWING TOWNSVILLE THROUGH SMARTER DIGITAL CONNECTIONS
Council’s investment into a smart parking experience for the CBD.
32 MAKE YOUR IDEAS A REALITY WITH GRANT FUNDING
Guest Contribution article by Renée Madsen from Create and Evaluate.
BDMAG ABN 77 899 099 507 M. 0415 908 896 www.bdmag.com.au EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING
ENQUIRIES E. info@bdmag.com.au CONTRIBUTORS Kate Banville, Meghan Boland, Georgie Desailly, Julie Johnston, Luke Lum, Elisabeth Silvester FRONT COVER Bianca Kawoot Brackenridge, Photography by Phil Copp, Phil Copp Photos BDMAG PHOTOGRAPHERS Phil Copp, Phil Copp Photos DESIGN Mak Media PRINT Hastings Printers
We acknowledge the Bindal and Wulgurukaba peoples as Traditional Owners of the land on which we operate and pay respect to Elders past, present and future. BDmag is committed to providing a media platform that is diverse and inclusive.
All contents of BDmag are subject to copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from the publisher. The views and opinions of the authors and advertisers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of print, the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or subsequence including loss or damages from reliance on information in this publication. BDmag is printed on FSC certified, sustainably sourced paper.
Scanning through the articles in this issue, it occurs to me that it really is time regional Australians drop their inferiority complex and recognise that our skills and talents are just as competitive as our metro counterparts.
Our cover story celebrates Bianca Kawoot Brackenridge’s 10 year anniversary of BRACKS Indigenous Clothing. Bianca is proud to honour her culture, and her unique designs have seen her side hustle grow into a booming company on track for national expansion.
Scaffolder Simon Boyes is revolutionising the scaffolding industry with his award-winning 3D modelling app, ScaffPlan. His innovative approach to reduce the time and cost in design and engineering resulted in breaking into the international market on their second customer.
Sisters-in-law, Amie and Stacey Raymond from Strong Girls Co. are making a global impact with their commitment to sustainable and ethical clothes manufacturing. Working collaboratively with women of all shapes and sizes to design their activewear pieces, the duo is committed to inspiring conversations about female empowerment and positive mental health.
Few people would have realised the role that RGM Maintenance played in preparing the Bushmaster vehicles that were gifted to the Ukrainian government from Australia. With plans to build a new facility worth $22 million, and a proven track record in maintenance for the ADF, they are one of the companies spearheading the push to move more Defence support elements to the North.
There’s no shortage of skilled professionals in our region, and in this issue you can learn more about injecting private equity into your business, wealth creation strategies, and tips on how to write your next grant application. We also hear how we are retaining our brightest talent, with James Cook University’s Work Integrated Learning program successfully providing mutual benefits to students and employers.
So, let’s all agree to not respond with surprise next time we hear of an innovative, new businesses emerging from North Queensland, rather, we take it as a given that a globally competitive business can start up right here in regional Queensland.
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EDITOR & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGERSisters-in-law, Amie and Stacey Raymond, are championing for change with their new fitness apparel label, Strong Girls Co., which produces quality activewear pieces designed to empower women across all corners of the globe.
It was their shared love of fitness and desire to build a community focused around empowering women that first inspired Amie and Stacey to establish the brand.
“The fitness world is overwhelming and the sheer number of options and choices for women’s fitness apparel is no exception,” recalls Amie.
“Both Stacey and I have struggled with our own mental health and so our purpose with Strong Girls Co. is to create a community of likeminded people who value health and wellness while also bringing some quality and sustainable pieces to the fitness industry.”
The pair also use their brand, which launched in May last year, as a platform to start important conversations around positive mental health and overall wellbeing. As part of this community-focused mindset, Amie and Stacey work collaboratively with real women to design and create their activewear pieces.
“Apparel is mostly mass produced then ‘hyped’ and sold by social influencers; you can never be sure that what you’re getting is genuine quality,” affirms Amie.
“Instead of having a network of influencers promote our brand, it was more about bringing in individuals who would help us create our items. The idea is that our products are created by the community for the community.
“Each woman we work alongside also gets to choose a charity they
want to donate a percentage of the collection's profits towards.”
The brand’s activewear is sustainably and ethically sourced through an Australian Social Enterprise operating from Cambodia known as Avodah Global, which works with Cambodian rescue organisations to provide training, employment and micro-business opportunities for women rescued from trafficking.
“We believe that there is enough abundance in the world for everyone. We don’t need to be in competition with each other, and we really wanted to work with people who held similar values,” says Amie, who was passionate about ensuring their ethos also extended towards the women making their activewear.
“Since Stacey and I have never owned a business before, the team at Avodah Global have really guided us and shared their business expertise which has been very helpful.
“Our hope is that women will wear our activewear and not only feel part of our community but know that their clothing was made by other incredible women in an ethical and sustainable way.”
Stacey and Amie are both continuing to grow the business while maintaining their individual full-time jobs, however, they agree perseverance has been the key to the brand’s success.
“Everything is new. Everything is a learning curve. You tend to learn the same lessons over and over. We’ve learnt that momentum is going to fluctuate and that it’s important to use the support of other people as well,” continues Amie.
“In the future, we hope to have more lines coming out. The vision has always been about the community so we’ll be looking at ways people can further engage with one another and work towards continuing to start conversations around female empowerment and positive mental health and wellbeing.”
Exciting promotions have seen four long-term highly motivated staff rewarded with management positions within Coutts Redington, adding an extra layer of expertise, direct points of contact and quality control for clients.
Director Greg Redington says the number of longterm accounting staff and internal promotions is a testament to the work environment, variety of work and regular staff training the firm provides.
“We would like to congratulate and introduce our recently appointed managers, Tamara Flemming, Victoria Glazier, Evie Stark, and Craig Smorfitt, who combined, have over 43 years of service at Coutts Redington,” Greg says.
Tamara specialises in multi-generation familyrun businesses and is interested in estate and succession planning, business restructuring and litigation support.
Victoria specialises in the not-for-profit sector, software set-up/implementation and the construction industry, as well as managing our bookkeeping team.
Evie works closely with clients throughout the year to aid in running their business successfully, particularly with cashflow and debt management and strategies to minimise tax.
Craig specialises in compliance and business advisory and is also interested in management accounting business advisory.
“Our new managers are supported by our senior management team Andrew Towers, Amanda Pickers and Kirwan manager Joeline Elmes who together also have a long history with the firm with over 60 years combined service,” Greg says.
“Personal development and training is critical in this industry, and our regular in-house training and external professional training, maintains our accountants’ up to date knowledge of tax and accounting matters.
“At Coutts Redington, our highly qualified staff are always focusing on you and your business from your first steps to success and beyond.”
“This team is dedicated to the accounting profession, holding university degrees and either CA or CPA qualifications.”Back row – left to right: Andrew Towers, Amanda Pickers, Joeline Elmes, Craig Smorfitt. Front row – left to right: Victoria Glazier, Tamara Flemming, Evie Stark.
Townsville locals love Whites Corner Store for their market-style selection of high-quality meats, deli goods, salads, gourmet dishes, fresh produce, grocery items and of course, CJ’s pies, but they’ve also started to create a buzz as caterers of choice for private and corporate functions.
Family-owned and operated Whites Corner Store in North Ward has crafted a reputation for convenient and nutritious meals that taste homemade and look as though they’ve jumped from the pages of a food magazine. This
extends from their grab-and-go meals (for lunch on the run), their ready fresh meals (for when you’re out of time to cook dinner), to a full-service catering experience.
“
“In 2018 a friend mentioned to me casually over coffee that she needed her 50 th birthday catered.
Leeann, my manager, thought it would be fun to do and so here we are today, countless events later, with a full-service catering business that’s grown purely from word-of-mouth and repeat clients.”
Whites caters for events of all sizes, from large weddings to intimate private dinners, at locations all around town, including your own home. Whites’ catering arm is also fully licensed, and with dedicated wait staff to ensure their amazing food is matched with amazing service.
“Leeann’s passion brings a fresh approach to our catering menus, to offer beautiful, honest and elegant food, from small-bite canapés to plated dinners.”
Whites Corner Store catering also offers a range of platters, including beautifully boxed sandwiches, hot food platters, grazing platters, sweet platters, fruit platters and breakfast boxes to mention just a few.
“Platters are very popular with our corporate clients, and people hosting small events at their homes,” says Kerrie.
“For busy families and people working throughout Townsville, Whites’ ready-made meals, such as our lasagne is second to none. Our popular pizzas are made on an amazing Italian base.
“This is a way of giving your family the joy of a home-cooked meal when you know you won’t have an hour or two to spend cooking it.
“We love that food brings people together.”
For more info about Whites Corner Store catering, visit whitescornerstore.com.au/catering, or email catering@whitescornerstore.com.au.
Inevitably our catering service has really grown,” shares owner, Kerrie White.
Transforming Ayr’s old general store into a thriving event space has been a dream come true for Burdekin local Justina Wilson.
After losing her husband of 17 years in 2005, Ms Wilson was forced to downsize her home. She says this meant finding a new purpose for her much-loved antique furniture and fine dining crockery.
“I always loved old furniture so when I lost my husband I went from a big Queenslander into a small house and all of my antique items didn’t fit in my new house,” she says.
“So, I had to do some culling but some things I couldn’t part with so I thought I should keep them and start up a little business and use them as hire items.”
Ms Wilson soon started Vintage Rose Event Hire from her backyard shed offering event styling and antique furniture for hire.
Over the last seven years, the business has gone from strength to strength with Ms Wilson realising she wanted to expand the business to a brick-and-mortar shop.
“I grew up living one block away from the general store so I always had my eye on the store and I said if it ever was up for sale, I knew I wanted to buy it and refurbish it.”
Ms Wilson says the best part of the refurbishment was planning the landscaping.
“There was nothing in the garden except bindis and thorns and a large cactus in the middle of the yard,” she says.
“It now is a dual garden event space complete with an assortment of tables and chairs, beautiful flowers, lush lawn, a rustic shed and outdoor bar.”
Running Vintage Rose Event Hire takes a full inventory of antique and unique items including furniture, crockery, 150 sets of English china, lace tablecloths, crystal glasses and silver cutlery.
The 55-year-old says she is happy to know she can give old items a new life.
“Some of my items would be 60 to 80 years old and it really is just an incredible feeling knowing that you have given some of these items a second chance,” she says.
“I do always have my eye out for new items and it is exciting when I find a new piece.”
After officially opening the store in September 2021, Ms Wilson says the response from locals and out-oftowners had been “overwhelming”.
“It still does feel a bit surreal that it has finally come together because it has taken some time but it has been so satisfying and rewarding,” she says.
“I’ve had such beautiful comments and I honestly would never have imaged Vintage Rose Event Hire would ever be like this.”
Ms Wilson says the shop was rundown when she purchased the property and spent nine months renovating the space at the beginning of 2021.
“As I was transforming the shop at the start, I threw my arms in the air and thought, what I have done,” she says.
“But as it transformed and as time went on, you could see the beauty back in the building.”
The renovations included a full repaint, polishing the floors, adding air-conditioning, a new bathroom and kitchen.
“I now have a main formal dining area and separate tea rooms to hold private events and high teas.”
By Luke Lum
Starting out as a home-based side hustle, Bianca Kawoot Brackenridge recently celebrated 10 years in business with BRACKS Indigenous Clothing. Her clothing and accessory range, all featuring original designs by Bianca herself, sell out across sporting carnivals, shows, expos and events. The growth of her business shocked even her Shopify consultant who built the BRACKS website, putting it in his top five performing online stores, a significant feat for its first year online.
Australian Defence Force (ADF) have all contributed to the success of BRACKS whose loyal supporter base has come mostly via word-of-mouth.
“My website caught the eye of an Indigenous guy down south, he rang and asked if I had the capacity to take on a contract with Ergon Energy to design a First Nations shirt because the new boss was right into Indigenous engagement,” Bianca says.
“Then I had David Boyd from the ADF come and have a look at our trailer during the Bindal Sharks All Blacks Carnival and said I had to ring him. A few months later after we met for coffee, BRACKS became the first Indigenous vendor for the Australian Army.
“Any one of them can jump online and place an order for PT uniform. I just did the first ever Indigenous ties for ANZAC Day and I’ve also done the Indigenous football kits for 1RAR.”
“I purchased a basic plan with Shopify and he said I’ll be ringing him back soon to upgrade it again at the rate we were doing business. Sure enough, within six months that’s exactly what I did. A lot of it had to do with the big corporate contracts I had secured.”
Those corporate contracts with Ergon Energy, Queensland Corrective Services and even the
The last 12 months has seen exponential change within the business in both physical and financial terms. Bianca has had to move her small business out of her home into her first warehouse in April (which she has already outgrown) and as of the new financial year, in which the business more than doubled its profit to over $500,000, has had to look at changing the status of the small business to a company.
“He couldn’t believe it; it just went boom!” Bianca explains.
“My tax agent shook his head and said, ‘forget about the tax return for the moment.’ He sat me at the table, pulled out the whiteboard marker and said, ‘we’re talking about a company now,’” she recalls.
“I’ve had to read up on constitutions and how to be a director, which I have no idea so I’m learning very fast. I’ve also got to bring on full time staff!”
The business growth is testament to Bianca’s work ethic and dedication, making time to design and sell BRACKS merchandise despite working 14–16 hour shifts at the Townsville University Hospital in Palliative Care, a job which she has recently resigned from to pursue her dream of becoming a train driver.
“I waited two years for this traineeship opportunity to become available. The business (BRACKS) went boom at the same time I got the traineeship, and there was no way I was going to give up either so I’m doing it all at the moment,” Bianca says.
Bianca attributes much of BRACKS’ appeal down to her colourful nature and designs as well as the way she honours the three flags: Aboriginal, Torres Strait and South Sea Islander.
“From day one, I’ve honoured all three flags on my shirts, I’ve been told I’m very bright and people just love my designs. People know if I haven’t designed something,” Bianca continues.
“There’s a couple of Indigenous artists in Townsville, I love their artwork and I’ve been approached about collaborations, but my artwork is what makes BRACKS uniquely BRACKS.
“I’m also grateful for the support of my current partner, Davina who taught herself to use Adobe
Illustrator and has been taking care of all the graphic design over the last three years. It’s saved us thousands of dollars by being able to do this ourselves. She has been the biggest support and without her we would not be where we are today.” With all the growth of the business, Bianca is very proud to be able to bring Indigenous culture to the forefront.
“Before I left Darwin, after four days at the show, I had people sending pictures and messages saying, ‘look at all these kids wearing your designs! BRACKS is everywhere now in Darwin because of you!’ So, I’m leaving a footprint and I’m keeping this culture alive.
“When I have non-indigenous people ask me if they can wear one of my shirts, I say I don’t care what colour you are, it doesn’t matter. It’s all part of reconciliation.”
BRACKS’ presence was felt at 38 events over the last 12 months, making 2022 the biggest year since the brand launched.
“Next year we’re going bigger. I want to get into the Northern Territory and Western Australia for NAIDOC Week.
“I know we’re going to get bigger and bigger and who knows where I’ll end up next year.”
“I know myself, doing what I’m doing, I’m honouring and keeping my culture alive everywhere I go,” she states.
Aspiring caravanners in North Queensland now have easy access to one of Australia’s leading brands, Snowy River Caravans.
The Snowy River RV Townsville dealership opened on Woolcock Street, Hyde Park, in November, and Sales Executive Lee Maudsley says the award-winning brand has already been incredibly well received by locals.
“We’re already seeing strong sales, with 11 Snowy River vans sold before we had officially opened,” Lee says.
“Snowy River is a well-established brand that offers quality and value for money, and securing this brand fills a gap in the North Queensland market.
“The Snowy River Caravans suit all budgets and needs. From small couples’ caravans to familyfriendly tourers, recently launched pop tops and All Terrain models, there are layout options to suit every traveller and adventurer.”
The Snowy River Caravans brand was introduced in 2015 by one of Australia’s fastest growing caravan manufacturers, Regent Caravans, whose extensive inhouse knowledge and experience helped develop the brand with local conditions and savvy Australian customers in mind.
“The caravans are built to last with fibreglass reinforced composite wall panels, an aluminium frame and insulation foam sandwich panels,” explains Lee.
“These caravan bodies are constructed using state-of-theart methods in China and shipped to the Snowy River and Regent Caravans’ factories north of
Melbourne, where appliances are installed, the suspension is fitted, electrical wiring is completed to CE certification, and the water supply is finalised to Australian Watermark standards.
“Since launching in 2015, they have won numerous awards for their innovative designs and highquality craftsmanship, including the ‘Best Value for Money’ Award from 2019 to 2022, so it’s exciting to be able to now offer this brand to North Queensland caravanners.”
Snowy River Caravans is quickly overtaking their competitors and increasing their brand exposure, most notably through their partnership with Tickford Racing to secure naming rights sponsorship of James Courtney’s No.5 Ford Mustang in the V8 Supercars.
“It’s absolutely fantastic to have our brand associated with a high profile sport such as the V8 Supercars,” enthuses Lee.
“James Courtney is a proud ambassador who is genuinely engaged with our brand, and last year he and his family enjoyed a two week caravanning trip in a Snowy River SRC22F in the lead up to the Townsville 400 event.
“As part of Snowy River’s sponsorship, we are looking forward to welcoming James to our local dealership for our launch and signing events to meet with local fans.”
The Snowy River RV Townsville dealership has a solid foundation for success, as it is owned and operated by the experienced team from The Caravan Hub in Currajong who take pride in offering quality advice and after sales service.
“Although Snowy River RV Townsville will operate as an independent dealership, it will be well supported by The Caravan Hub management team with decades of caravanning industry experience and the after sales service our team is renowned for,” says Owner and Managing Director Josh Mullock.
“All caravan servicing and repairs will be referred to our large workshop at The Caravan Hub in Horwood Street, Currajong, where we have specialist equipment and highly trained technicians to allow us to provide all mechanical servicing and repairs on all makes and models of caravans, including Snowy River.
“The strength of our organisation structure will also enable us to facilitate travelling roadshows and attend regional caravan expos to service our primary marketing area, which extends north of Rockhampton to Far North Queensland and out west to Mount Isa.
“With every caravan we sell at The Caravan Hub and Snowy River RV Townsville, our priority is to ensure that we have helped our customer select a van that suits where they’re going and what they’re towing it with, so they can make caravanning memories without the headaches.”
Josh adds that Snowy River Caravans’ recent introduction of the standard freight levy has levelled the playing field for regional dealers.
“Our location in North Queensland has previously meant that we’ve had to pass on significant freight costs to customers, but after much lobbying, manufacturers are starting to support regional dealers by implementing a nation-wide freight subsidy which means the retail price is consistent and regional customers are not disadvantaged when they buy from their local dealer.
“This is a win for everyone involved, as it means regional dealers can offer a choice of vans for consumers, and builds a solid relationship during the customer journey so we can offer better after sales service and prompt assistance for any warranty issues that may arise.”
Morgans Financial Townsville celebrated the Morgans 40 th Anniversary in true Townsville style at the Rockpool Pavilion. They were joined by their Directors, extended team, clients, local members and industry colleagues for an evening of meeting new people and sharing old stories. Image credits: Sweet Mary Photography
Menninger Capital recently held their 10-year Anniversary celebrations at The Ville Resort-Casino, in partnership with Porsche Townsville. A silent auction was held as part of the festivities, with proceeds donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia. Image credits: Phil Copp Photos
Jon Sieben, Ben Lonergan
Glenn Buttler, Rebecca Gravelle, Natasha Buttler
Claire Bradshaw, Dimity BullenNicholas, Lewis Brown
Lydia Canovas-Saiz, Jamie Fitzpatrick, Cassandra Cazzulino
Jason Collins, Gary Robinson, Mike Rice
When determining which real estate agency to align themselves with, Jools and Errol Munro knew instantly they wanted to hitch their little “yellow” wagon to Ray White, an Australian family-owned brand which is synonymous with experience and quality.
Ray White Managing Director, Brian White, his son Dan and the White Family are hungrily hunting the world’s best platforms for their people. Brian is known to ask business leaders and their employees “Are you proud of this sale?”
“This simple notion of feeling proud of what we do has set a strong foundation for our business, our team and the outcomes we deliver for our clients,” says Ray White Munro & Co Co-Owner, Jools Munro.
“Asking ourselves if we feel proud forces us to consider others’ viewpoints, opinions and goals whilst working for the client.
“When I personally debrief an outcome, I search for the internal sensation of pride. If I feel proud of my actions, I know I have done my best. My best is the best way to live life in service to others.
“This of course does not mean I am faultless, but evaluating how an outcome was achieved and ascertaining the intentions behind my actions enables me to grow personally and professionally.”
“The team working together, collaborating all of the years of life and professional experience, ensures we supply the best to our clients,” says Jools.
“Having people within our business who embrace their shortcomings, actively seek personal development, humbly welcoming the knowledge and skills of their colleagues into their individual decision-making process assures us that our clients are getting the best!”
Jools says that she and Errol are committed to providing the platform for employees to achieve the best in themselves for themselves and their clients.
The team of professionals at Ray White Munro & Co all possess a very similar characteristic – they strive for the best outcomes when undertaking their roles.
“Hand on heart, I am so proud of our team, of their intentions and their commitment to dig for the best outcomes. Together our business is in the best position to help our clients overachieve… I am so proud of this!”
“Hand on heart, I am so proud of our team.”
Popularised by billionaire investor Warren Buffet in the 1950s, the term ‘value investing’ refers to a longterm investment strategy whereby investors seek to buy quality businesses when their share prices are below their ‘intrinsic value.’ But what exactly does this mean? And how does value investing differ to alternative approaches to investing?
“Value investing presents a straightforward way to apply proven investment principles, spot great deals and produce extraordinary returns,” explains Matthew Smith, Founder and CEO of local investment management and corporate advisory firm, Menninger Capital.
“There is more than one way to determine the value of a company. For instance, markets let you know what other people are willing to pay for a company’s shares. However, value investors will make their decision to buy (or sell) based on their estimate of intrinsic value versus the market price.
“Intrinsic value measures the value of a company based on its assets and cash flows and provides a deeper, more informed insight into a company’s value. Intrinsic value is also estimated by analysing a company’s fundamentals to determine its true worth.
“As a result, this investment strategy isn’t dictated or bound by market
conditions like other investment strategies, meaning we have generated decent returns for our Investment Partners during rising markets and even better returns during falling markets.”
Having celebrated 10 years in business last October, Menninger Capital, manages exclusive global investment funds for private groups of Investment Partners. Over these 10 years Menninger has become one of Australia's leading investment managers based on its investment returns.
The company’s flagship global growth fund, Marathon, aims to achieve long-term capital growth by investing primarily in quality companies, which Matthew remarks provides investors (who he refers to as Investment Partners) with access to the company’s unique value investing approach.
“There is no way you should invest in a company unless you understand that company inside out. This is one of the core principles of value investing,” he continues.
“Within Marathon, there are an array of companies we invest in, we understand them completely and they are heavily aligned with our core values.
“Our broad investment mandates allow us to invest in all asset classes and geographies. We get to uncover the very best investment opportunities for our Investment Partners.
When it comes to value investing, there are two simple rules. Rule 1: Never lose money. Rule 2: Never forget rule number one.Lloyd Hirst, Daniel Ryder, Matthew Smith, Declan Rush, Andrew Robinson, Tomas McMahon, and Chris Rockemer. Image credit: Rosana Kersh Photography
Whilst value investing has a reputation for being a ‘safer’ option, Matthew reiterates the importance of engaging with Investment Partners who have a thorough understanding of the principles associated with value investing.
“Value investing is considered less risky because you’re focused on investing when there’s a margin of safety, which is the difference between the intrinsic value and the price you’re paying for a company. You’re also focused on the long-term goal of consistently creating wealth over a prolonged period of time,” says Matthew.
“There is a lower risk of losing your initial investment compared to other types of investment strategies. However, in saying this, it is crucial to work with experts who are experienced in determining a company’s intrinsic value.”
In addition to their distinctive value investment approach, Menninger Capital is also known for their unique service offerings in the corporate advisory space, focusing largely on the merger and acquisition of companies.
“We have advised on over A$350 million of corporate transactions and are driven by our passion to be a partner of world-class businesses and our corporate advisory capabilities complement our investment management activities,” adds Matthew.
“As such, we seek long-term client relationships and often take a seat on our corporate clients’ advisory boards to contribute further to the strategic vision and growth of their business.
“As a partner, we can employ corporate advice skills and have influence over the direction of the business. We aim to support management teams and boards in creating long-lasting shareholder value and ensure business success for years to come.”
• Understand the business
• Seek businesses with a competitive advantage
• Meet and get on the same page with the management team
• Estimate the intrinsic value of the company
• Invest when there’s a margin of safety
$
The information contained in this article is intended to be general in nature and is not personal financial product advice.
“ At Menninger, we invest alongside our Investment Partners and we live by the philosophy that we eat our own cooking, meaning we only recommend investments that we invest in too. ”
Townsville, North Queensland might be more than 11,000 kilometres away from California’s Silicon Valley but a North Queensland scaffolder is making his mark in the tech innovation space.
ScaffPlan is the award-winning brainchild of Simon Boyes, the Managing Director of Benchmark Scaffolding, one of Queensland’s leading industrial scaffolding companies. The revolutionary 3D modelling solution for scaffolders was recently recognised at the 2022 Tekla Global Building Information Modelling (BIM) Awards, a biennial competition showcasing the world’s most advanced construction projects using the Tekla Structures platform.
“I didn’t like any of the design programs on the market. I’d used all of them and they just didn’t do what I needed them to do,” Simon explains.
“Designing a scaffold is unique and specific to each job. Every project has different requirements, entry points, it needs to go around structures, and take into consideration every aspect of a project from start to finish. ScaffPlan gives us the ability to consider all the pain points of a purpose-built structure that other programs don’t.”
ScaffPlan is the culmination of three years of development, working in synergy with scaffolders, engineers and software developers to create a product that ultimately saves time,
money, and makes things easier for all the key stakeholders of a project.
“ScaffPlan was created mainly because of Simon’s love of scaffolding. Simon is a scaffolder, it’s what he does. Building businesses and solving problems in an inventive way, is him. He doesn’t like to follow the flow; if
ScaffPlan was created mainly because of Simon’s love of scaffolding.
there’s a way to do it better, he’ll have a go,” says Aimee Schafer, Chief of Operations for ScaffPlan.
“Previously, our drafters were building scaffolds stick-by-stick which takes a lot of time. When your structures get to a certain size, or depending on which company is building or requiring the scaffold, it needs to be engineered. Engineering costs a lot of money.
“With ScaffPlan, it has the engineering built into the program but to be compliant it still needs to be signed off by an engineer. So once your design is built in ScaffPlan, you can run a report, send off the fully engineered drawing to the engineer and get that signed off for a few hundred dollars, instead of the thousands
it costs to get an engineer to do every drawing.”
With ScaffPlan existing on the Tekla Structures 3D modelling software, it would be safe to assume that international uptake of the program would follow, especially given its intuitive user experience and the cost savings benefits the software provides. Neither Simon nor Aimee could have predicted it would only take their second customer to break into the international market.
“We released in Australia and New Zealand initially because our engineering specs are set up for Australia and New Zealand. We didn’t think it would go worldwide straight up, but it did,” Aimee laughs.
Going global so quickly posed another set of problems for ScaffPlan and that was setting up international support.
“Globally, the biggest hurdles that we face is the communication between Tekla re-sellers and clients. Because the program is licenced through Tekla, it has been a little difficult but it’s a relationship we’re working on,” Simon says.
“Then there’s the time differences; sales, support and marketing are all based in Australia so that’s been a bit of a challenge but we’re thankful that the clients have been supportive.
“They know we’re Australian based and we don’t hide it. There’s a great understanding that we’re growing and scaling and we are working on getting support in their time zone. Many of our international customers were already Tekla users and they haven’t really needed us too much anyway.”
“Then there’s our Sales & Partnerships Manager who has got us into the door with Tekla so we can discuss a potential OEM (original equipment manufacturer) model. No other company in the world has one with them. A start-up software company in Townsville is meeting with a multibillion dollar tech giant and they’re taking notice of us.”
With such rapid growth happening with the company, Simon and Aimee both agree that there are no plans to move ScaffPlan or Benchmark Scaffolding from its Townsville base.
“Simon likes his barra fishing far too much!” Aimee laughs.
“We are the only two in Townsville now. Initially we couldn’t find the right fit for what we were looking for in Townsville but we also didn’t have the connections. One of the things that has happened is Smart Precinct NQ have hooked us up with so many people in Townsville now.”
“Townsville will always be home,” Simon adds.
“It’ll always be the home and birthplace of Benchmark Scaffolding, it’ll always been the birthplace of ScaffPlan and it will probably be the home of ScaffPlan for as long as we can see.”
“We have a very impressive team. In the last four months, our Support Manager has built an entire online video help library with nearly 200 modules,” Simon remarks.
Simon credits much of the success to the team he and Aimee have built around them.
Dr Navdeep Singh from My Family Dental is improving the oral health of his patients by giving back their confidence, thanks to dental implants that have revolutionised the field of dentistry.
Darren, a 43 year old Sales Executive, opted for a dental implant after losing a tooth while playing football.
“After chatting with the team at My Family Dental, they offered an implant as a solution and it was the best thing I have done,” Darren says.
“I was self-conscious when talking with my clients, never smiled, and it made it difficult to chew.”
Dr Nav says a gap between teeth can cause other teeth to shift out of place, which can lead to further tooth loss and gum disease no matter how good your oral hygiene is, and dental implants are becoming a popular way to replace missing teeth.
“Unlike dentures or bridges, which rely on surrounding teeth for support, dental implants are anchored directly into the jawbone. This makes them much more stable, improving your bite and making it easier to eat and speak,” explains Dr Nav.
“They also look and feel more like natural teeth, so you can smile with confidence, and they help to deliver the same bite power which means you don’t have to miss out on eating your favourite foods.”
Dr Nav says that despite good oral hygiene, people
an implant is a great solution.
“As in Darren’s case, teeth can fall out due to traumatic injuries, infections and other health concerns such as cancer treatments. The best oral hygiene will not always prevent tooth loss and an implant is a great solution,” he explains.
“Implants can be used to replace both top and bottom teeth and have a 97% success rate, are strong, durable and are easy to care for. Brushing twice a day and regular use of floss or an interdental brush is all the care they need.”
Darren is delighted with the results of the dental implant, and is back to playing footy (with a mouth guard!) and smiling with confidence.
“ No-one would even know it’s not my tooth, it looks exactly the same as the rest,” he says.
“The procedure was comfortable and I had little time off work, I even went to a meeting later that day. The best thing is I can eat a steak again without having to cut it in to tiny pieces!”
Leigh Caldwell, from Grady Homes and founder of Happy FEAT Inc, has recently launched her book: Hope, Grit and Gratitude
Two events were held to mark the occasion, one at Flinders Lane, Townsville CBD, with performances by the Happy Featers, a book signing with Leigh, and Triple M’s Pricey as the MC. The second event was held in Ayr at the Burdekin Library, with an additional book signing at Woods Newsagency.
The Townsville Business Women's Circle (TBWC) is excited to announce their 2023 Management Committee:
• Renee Bennett (President)
• Kirsty Keyes (Vice President)
• Naomi Seymore (Secretary)
• Tracey Mayhew (Treasurer)
• Emma Mooney
• Andrea Hughes
• Gina Rahmel
• Claudia Smith
• Rebecca Dubois
• Shantelle Scovell
Townsville Chamber of Commerce has welcomed incoming CEO Michael Kern and Alana Hopkins (Memberships) to the team.
Michael says he has enjoyed getting to know members and is looking forward to working toward some big ticket items in 2023; including fighting for competitive and affordable insurance premiums in NQ, growing and supporting the membership base and working with government to secure incentives and discounts to benefit existing business owners and operators, and encourage new owners and operators to the region.
The past few years have seen many of us take a seat on the sidelines when it comes to growing our wealth. But if growing your wealth was one of your New Year’s Resolutions, it is time to jump in and take stock of your financial situation. By taking the time now, certain moves could give you a head start on improving your financial heath in 2023 and beyond.
Building your wealth and maximising your savings starts with making a financial plan. That means taking the time to identify your goals and map out how you can accomplish them. Stephen Gulbrandson, Senior Private Adviser at Morgans Townsville, suggests that superannuation contribution strategies are a good starting point to growing your wealth.
“Tax effective superannuation contribution strategies can provide a free kick to help your position grow when you are unable to find room to save in your personal name due to costs of living pressures,” he says.
“You can then use those savings to build long term asset positions, and you may be surprised how this wealth can build over time to offer you a comfortable retirement.”
“The key is knowing the risk that you take and understanding what you need to do in times of market volatility.”
“We have heard ‘buy low and sell high’ to be successful, but it is surprising difficult to get this right. Generally, when the market is being sold off, there is the herd approach to follow. If you understand what you are investing in, these moments can provide opportunities.”
With share market volatility remaining high and a barrage of negative media perpetuating this, finding a discount to traditional valuations has never been easier.
“There are also low-risk options that can help your cash grow more than just keeping it in a savings account. A good portfolio acknowledges risk, plans for it, and has strategies in place to take advantage of opportunities. We can’t control market forces, but we can help to benefit from these.”
1. Invest in diversified assets such as stocks, managed funds or property
2. Supercharge your superannuation
3. Get a helping hand from a financial adviser to determine what the risks and the rewards are
Disclaimer: This is general advice only and is made without consideration of an individual’s relevant personal circumstances.
There’s no substitute for hands-on experience, which is why JCU’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Program is so successful. Just ask JCU alumni who’ve gone on to achieve their dream careers as a result…
As a Supervising Solicitor at Townsville Community Law, JCU alumni Michael Murray is living his dream of defending the vulnerable.
“We represent vulnerable clients in a range of areas, including family and domestic violence law, consumer protection and insurance law, elder abuse and coronial investigations and inquests,” Michael says.
“I completed Work Integrated Learning (WIL) at Townsville Community Law through the fourthyear subject Clinical Legal Studies. My experience introduced me to the intersection between poverty and the justice system, and to areas of law I’d never considered working in, such as human rights law.
“The subject had such a profound impact on me that I now practise primarily in human rights law and, after a brief run in private practice, I returned to work at Townsville Community Law. I now also lecture at JCU and supervise the next generation of Clinical Legal Studies students.
“Students have the opportunity not only to learn legal theory around practice legal work, but also conduct interviews with real clients and perform legal work under the supervision of experienced lawyers. You see real and tangible outcomes with the clients you’re assisting and learn a range of essential legal skills, such as drafting legal or Court documents.
“While good results at university are important, in my experience as both a junior lawyer and now an employer – experience is key. Approximately 75 per cent of our staff are JCU graduates.”
JCU’s Head of Law, Associate Professor Jamie Fellows, says students have a wide variety of placement opportunities available to them. These range from private law firms to Legal Aid, government departments such as Queensland Police and State/ Commonwealth prosecutions, as well as legal practice in a community legal centre.
“I can’t count the number of firms who’ve hired our graduates after they’ve completed their WIL program with them. Many of these students are now senior practitioners.”
The same is true for JCU Business and Commerce students, who complete a minimum of 100 hours of work with a real-world company aligned with their future employment interests.
“We have several valued industry partners who have hosted students in recent years,” says JCU Associate Professor Laurie Murphy.
“These include PVW Partners, Carey Group, North Queensland Cowboys, GetBranded, Port of Townsville, Menninger Capital, Townsville Enterprise and the Townsville Chamber of Commerce.”
Industry partners who invest in hosting student interns appreciate the fact they have first access to emerging talent.
“Just as the opportunity provides students with the chance to explore whether they would enjoy a role in public accounting, it also allows us to see whether they may be a long-term fit for our firm,” says PVW Partners’ Chief Operating Officer Fiona McGill.
“We’ve uncovered some fantastic additions to our team through our WIL partnership with JCU and we hope that it opens students up to the fact they don’t need to leave North Queensland to gain a role with great opportunity for advancement.”
Local marketing and events consultants GetBranded couldn’t agree more.
“We’re proud to be local and employ local,” says GetBranded Director Madonna Simmons, who is also JCU alumni (with a Master of Business Administration degree).
“We’ve been working with JCU’s WIL program for over a decade. The opportunities are endless for the students as they get to work on real projects, make contacts in the industry and achieve joint goals.
“Our GetBranded team member Tanya Brown (Bachelor of Business, Marketing major) has been with us for seven years now, since being a part of the Townsville Fashion Festival through JCU’s WIL program. She has now basically stepped into my shoes and, for those thinking of poaching her, she’s not available!”
in Marketing and Sports and Events Management) has also scored a dream start to his career with Queensland Country Bank Stadium thanks to JCU’s WIL program.
After completing an internship with Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Matthew was offered a position as an Events Officer and is now combining his passions for sports entertainment and events management in the role.
“So far, the highlights have been the sold-out games when the Cowboys faced the Broncos, Panthers, and Eels in the semifinal,” Matthew says.
“I also had the privilege to be invited to One SQ in Brisbane, where all the stadiums operating under Stadiums Queensland come together once a year. This was an amazing experience where I also appreciated the networking aspect.”
If, like Matthew and the other alumni featured in this story, you’d like to study Law or Business at JCU, including experiencing the WIL program, find out more about the courses offered at www.jcu.edu.au/courses/study/business-law-and-finance
“The subject had such a profound impact on me that I now practise primarily in human rights law.”
– Michael Murray
By Kate Banville
North Queensland is a little player in the big game of Australia’s defence industry, but the opportunities are growing according to some industry stakeholders.
There’s been a push in recent years to move more support elements to the north as Australia’s spear tip in its line of defence.
The argument is centred largely around cost saving for the public purse and firming up the support structures of force elements based in Northern Australia.
Among the companies spearheading the movement is RGM Maintenance.
The heavy vehicle overhaul and servicing company began its operations two decades ago at the back fence of Enoggera Barracks in Brisbane before expanding nationally and basing its headquarters in Townsville 15 years ago.
The company is hoping about a quarter of that will be funded by the state government as part of its ‘Industry Partnership Program’.
“A lot of the work to service military vehicles goes south which doesn't make a lot of sense in terms of supporting force posture in the north,” says Michael Ferguson, RGM Business Development Manager.
“You have units losing platforms for a long time that they can't train with because of long transit times to get maintenance work done.
“Part of our pitch is to be able to do it in the region and we’re even seeing it with Army now where they’re looking at contracts and asking ‘why are we doing it this way?’”
His comments are backed up in part by Australia’s 2020 Force Posture Plan which highlights a ‘more durable supply chain and strengthened sovereign industrial capabilities to enhance the ADF’s selfreliance’.
This is not to be confused with the new Labor Government’s ‘Defence Force Posture Review’ which will ‘prioritise spending’ based on its findings surrounding the force's structure and preparedness to handle emerging national security challenges.
The interim report landed in the hands of Defence Minister Richard Marles in early November but will not be made public until the full report is due in 2023.
Mr Ferguson stresses it’s not just stakeholder companies which would benefit from growing an industry to support Defence in the north.
“This isn't about one company,” he says.
“All the supporting data is saying if we open this and we bring in the business that’s 100 new full time jobs in Townsville.
“We've also got a heap of local businesses in our supply chain that we send work to, and support us with work.
The former Army logistics officer says repair times would be a lot quicker and put vehicles back in the hands of soldiers sooner if it was to be done in North Queensland.
There’s no doubt this is a company in motion. RGM recently penned a major deal with Rheinmetall Defence Australia to work on its Medium Heavy Capability services for logistic vehicles as part of the Land 121 program.
And it came just months after another milestone moment for the family owned and operated business.
You’d be hard pressed to find a person who hasn’t seen Australia’s Bushmaster vehicles used in battle against Russia right now – but few would know it was RGM Maintenance which helped get them to Ukraine thanks to a longstanding relationship with the vehicle’s creators, Thales.
Staff had just 48 hours to strip and repaint them before they were on a C-17 from Amberley to Ukraine.
“We do a variety of work for Thales and when they got the tap on the shoulder from the Government to send those as a gift to the Ukrainian Government we were asked to prepare those vehicles,” says Mr Ferguson.
“RGM has really made its name by doing reactive maintenance for the ADF.”
An Australian Government-donated Bushmaster protected mobility vehicle bound for Ukraine is loaded onto an Antonov AN-124 cargo aircraft at RAAF Base Amberley in Queensland. Image credit: Department of Defenceup about 30 percent of its work at present but it's confident this will increase with plans to build a new facility in Townsville worth $22 million.
In the modern age of evolving and fast-growing companies, timely access to debt or capital funding can be determinant of whether a market opportunity is won or missed. The revitalisation of genuine relationship banking in the big banks is welcomed, but not all business growth strategies sit within their acceptable risk appetite. This is understandable. Banks don’t participate in the upside of improved enterprise value in a successful business, but if the business fails, they are heavily exposed to the downside of a failing business. Where bank debt financing is unavailable, business owners have the option of scrambling for alternative, potentially expensive, funding or letting growth opportunities pass by. Bringing in a co-investment partner is a genuine option which can be quite rewarding, but also carries potentially significant risks.
• Moving away from mediocrity and making your organisation all it can be, while maximising enterprise value and shareholder returns
• Cash for new growth projects
• Exposure to new ideas, new products, and new markets with the input of a ‘smart
Assuming the company structure is correct with a clean balance sheet free of major related party transactions, embarking on the private equity path generally starts with getting the pitch right. Owners need to know their business and easily describe what they do, how they do it, and why they do it. The value drivers and growth opportunities need to be clearly articulated, along with being realistic about downside risks and thoughtful mitigants. Owners also need to know their numbers backwards: top performing products and services, margins, assets maintenance costs, overheads, capacity and run rate.
Unwinding a private equity arrangement is difficult and often expensive. Business owners need to consider the ‘fit’ in terms of culture and attitude to business and return on investment generally. The co-investor needs to believe in what the owner’s objectives and plans are. People should do business with people they like. Partnering with private equity is far more likely to be successful if the parties enjoy each other’s presence.
For a private equity injection to work both parties need to agree in advance on business strategy, reinvestment and dividend policies, and the shape and timeline for an exit. A shared understanding of the inputs of the private equity investor is also critical. Will the co-investor inject ‘smart money’, whereby they contribute proactively to business strategy and even operations? Or is the business owner chasing passive investment monies only? Good fences make good neighbours and having the relationship workings documented in a shareholders’ agreement or similar document reduces risks.
Reverse due diligence on the potential private equity partner and their ability to invest and contribute over the long term, and steps for investment readiness shouldn’t be rushed. The arrangement could be a big play, with big risk and also big reward.
“Business owners also need to manage the distraction of preparing for and negotiating the injection of private equity,” says Colin Ryan, Partner at PVW.
“ It can be difficult trying to cut a deal without making mistakes while maintaining the current run rate of the business. Business owners need to be prepared for the additional time, effort and mental energy that goes into such a project.”
Benefits and pitfalls of injecting
• Assemble the team: key personnel + advisors with relevant experience
• Prepare Pitch Document
• Sign Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with potential investor and release Pitch Document
• Respond carefully to initial due diligence (DD) questions
• Negotiate key deal terms and construct non-binding term sheet
• Setup a data room and step through second round intensive DD
• Contract construction, updated for DD outcomes
• Finalise legals and execute
When exploring the potential for an injection of private equity into your business, it’s essential to assemble an advisory team with the experience and skills to maximise the new relationship and impact on enterprise value and minimise risks of dispute and value leakage.
PVW Partners has the largest dedicated advisory team in regional Queensland with a proven track record of helping clients start, grow, or exit their business. They achieve valuable outcomes for their clients as they work through their major milestones and challenges by leveraging the breadth and depth of experience of senior professionals at every step of their client engagements. To learn how our advisory team can assist your business, contact PVW Partners for an obligation free discovery chat with one of our Senior Advisors.
The first quarter in a new year is such an exciting time. If any of your New Year’s Resolutions or 2023 goals involve property, you may want to understand a little bit more about the Game of Property and how to play this year.
There is no denying that the level of urgency for both buyers and sellers has decreased. So, what does the game look like and what direction is it heading in?
Days on market remain relatively low, with demand far outweighing supply. Interest rates have been on the rise but are expected to remain stable throughout 2023. The region also remains in a rental crisis, due to the high costs of construction, supply chain issues and a shortage of labour and materials. All these factors make it an exceptional time to play!
It is important to know who else may be participating in this game. In terms of Buyers, they are always motivated in the first quarter! Investor interest is still strong, as is interest from Southerners participating in the ‘Great Migration to Regional Australia’. First home buyers who believe in ‘time in’ market, not ‘timing’ the market are still present. Additionally, downsizers are a lot more willing to play, as they will still achieve
a great result for their sale, whilst not paying a premium for their new abode.
For Sellers, those who are solely profit motivated are eager to play, as properties in highly sought-after suburbs continue to sell quickly, and sales prices in general remain high even for those properties spending longer days on market. The remaining players are most likely those who have been impacted by a life event, including up/downsizers, separations, re-locations, and investor retirees.
It is recommended that you speak to your trusted Real Estate Agent, ideally three months before you are ready to sell. They will complete a sales appraisal and present you with marketing strategies and recommended property improvements to ensure you achieve the best result, without overcapitalising. No matter how you play the game, 2023 is shaping up to be a brilliant year for property!
“Sales prices in general remain high.”
A 100% natural, non-toxic product made in North Queensland is providing parents a safer choice to terminate headlice and protect the entire family from future infestations.
Kellie Crowhurst, owner/operator of NRG Devine Reiki Therapeutics and an Essential Oils Safety Advisor, began formulating The Liceorator when her kids were around six and seven years of age, the prime age for headlice infestations.
“My children were in grade one and two and that’s when we first started having problems with headlice,” Kellie explains.
“It was a constant problem and I was wasting so much money and time treating their hair with products that didn’t work. I decided that I was going to fix it myself with my own concoction I made with my formulaic background (in essential oils).
“Other mums started asking for it but because it’s a headlice product, you can’t just freely sell it, it’s got to be regulated because it’s a pesticide. Even if it’s natural, it’s still considered a pesticide.”
This took Kellie on the journey to getting the product approved, retail ready and listed with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
“That took forever because I’m self-taught; other companies usually get a sponsor or mentor who can take care of the process for you, but they also charge you a lot,” she says.
“About four years ago in 2018, it was approved by the TGA and I’ve spent the last three years getting it trademarked ready and retail ready.
“I was still supplying it but not many people in the community knew about it and I was more focussed on structuring the business for longevity, rather than marketing and selling the product.”
Relying mostly on organic and word-of-mouth reach, The Liceorator has caught the attention of
the Indigenous community who have taken to the all-natural ingredients that have come from the land.
“I’ve been talking with Indigenous Elders in both Townsville and Mount Isa who are supporting The Liceorator and promoting it within their community as well,” Kellie continues.
“In those indigenous communities where headlice can become a widespread problem, when they hear about the product, they want to know what’s in it and if they can use it.
“From there I’ve also ended up speaking with (nurse, midwife and Bindal Elder) Gracelyn Smallwood who put me onto some other contacts and now we’re talking about how we can make the products available within the health system.”
Currently, The Liceorator is stocked online and in a handful of specialty and general traders around Townsville and Adelaide with plans for wider reach in the new year.
“For me, one of the biggest challenges is just getting the product and the name out into the market. I’m not a marketer by any means,” Kellie says.
“My expertise is in the ingredients and knowing what works well together. Now that the product formula is done, I just want to get it out there and into homes and that’s the focus now.”
“The ingredients in it have been carefully selected for people with sensitive skin and all hair types.”
While a council’s core business is commonly seen as providing the services it takes to run a city, Townsville City Council is committed to the long-term vision of growing Townsville.
To do this, the organisation is providing the services and investing in infrastructure to enhance liveability and enable Townsville to develop seamlessly into the future.
In 2023, parking in the Townsville city is set to look a little different, with Townsville City Council rolling out a new parking experience with the addition of more than 100 new parking meters.
The new Australian-manufactured smart meters will replace the current French-built assets which were installed in 2010. The new meters will enhance the user experience with bigger colour LED screens, a new paperless ticketing system and a smartphone app payment option.
This investment is about delivering value for ratepayers which will inherently pay for itself while limiting our environmental footprint and work towards Council’s corporate plan goals.
The asset replacement cycle means Council has the ability to harness the latest industry innovations to
make finding and paying for parking in Townsville as easy and efficient as possible.
The installation, which is expected to be complete by early 2023, will consist of two types of solar powered parking meters, including selected coin / card operated 2P meters. As for 4P and 8P parking spots, card compatible meters will be installed and will feature a 17-cm colour touch screen LED display. Accessibility will be enhanced through time saving number plate identification rather than printed tickets, and payment will be available through the staged app rollout, which will mean car park users can pay for parking remotely.
This investment is a massive step towards providing smarter digital connections that will build upon our unique North Queensland identity, enhancing our lifestyle through the provision of first-rate infrastructure and services to position our city as a powerhouse for modern industry which embraces science and technology.
I know dozens of people who’ve gone from not knowing how to write a grant application to getting some tips, giving it a go, and being successful. One Townsville roof painting business received $10,000 to release a new service that they’d been dreaming about for the past two years. Another local not-for-profit received the same amount to run a domestic violence awareness campaign they’d been planning for some time. There are thousands of people using grant funding to make their ideas a reality, so how can you join them?
What would you do with a $10,000 grant for your business, sports club or creative hobby?
I’m sure you have no shortage of ideas!
SIGN UP FOR FREE SERVICES THAT NOTIFY YOU WHEN GRANTS ARE AVAILABLE.
That’s right! No more hearing about grants the day before they’re due. Simply enter your email address and your areas of interest and you’ll be emailed as soon as new grants are available, at no cost to you.
Townsville Grants Hub townsville.grantguru.com.au
Regional Development Australia Grant Finder
rdanwq.grantguru.com.au
The grant guidelines are a document that accompanies every grant application form. Every grant is different, so the guidelines tell you what this grant will pay for, what it won’t pay for, and what documents you need to attach to your application. For example, a lot of business grants will pay for a business coach or specialist equipment, but they usually won’t pay for everyday expenses like rent, staff wages and work vehicles.
The grant guidelines are often written in wordy bureaucratic-speak and several pages long, so many people choose to skip reading them and go straight to filling in the application form. Be warned – if you do this, you may waste your time by asking for something the grant won’t pay for, or you won’t attach the right documents and your application will be discarded before it even gets assessed. Don’t let your time and effort go to waste –read the guidelines!
Instead of going after any grant opportunity that comes along, think about what your business or organisation really needs, and what your priorities are. Then look for grants that match that need. There are hundreds of grants out there, so this kind of thinking beforehand will save you time by narrowing down your grant search, and make the application a lot easier to write. While you’re waiting for that perfect grant to come along, create a ‘wishlist’ of ideas that you want to pursue and think them through in as much detail as possible. What exactly do you want to do? What’s required? What do resources do you already have (cash, people, equipment) and what do you want the grant to pay for? What are the longer-term benefits from doing this project?
If you’ve done this thinking ahead of time, writing the grant application will be a breeze. You’ll also be able to hit the ground running and start your grant project immediately when the money comes through, which is important if you only have a short time to complete the project.
Take action on these tips and you’ll be ready to start kicking goals with grant funding!
RENÉE MADSEN is a grant writing specialist whose training courses have helped people win over $117,000 in grants – and that’s just the ones she knows about. To supercharge your grant writing skills, sign up to Renée’s online course at createandevaluate.com.au
