We need to reassess the model with the RBA being the primary lever to manage inflation. The current situation is demonstrating that the system is broken and now is the time to reassess.
Currently increases in interest rates are leading to increased mortgage repayments leading to higher rents and higher inflation thus requiring higher interest rates.
Until we come up with a new model, some rules should be put in place to govern their actions.
We should as a minimum limit consecutive rate rises. This will allow the impacts of the previous rise to be felt through the economy before the next decision is made. It would also allow for more business and consumer certainty and allow for longer-term budgetary planning.
We all need to ask ourselves if this is the only appropriate mechanism or lever to control inflation.
BILL PARASIRIS WSU - Director
WALLY MEHANNA CBCC CEO
JASON ARRAJ Forward LegalPrincipal Solicitor
GEOFF GAYMER TAFE NSW - Manager
SANDRA DUARTE Sandra Duarte Consulting - CEO
ANTOINETTE KHALIL Khalil LawyersPrincipal Solicitor
TRACY MINETT Minett Group - CEO
JESSICA WEHBE Kleanwell - Director of Client Relations
WallyMehanna
4 SPOTLIGHT MAUREEN RIZK
T A B L E O F CHAMBER ACTIVITIES 23 NEW AND RETURNING MEMBERS 28 WOMEN IN BUSINESS 32 FROM OUR MEMBERS 50 54
NOTICES JOIN THE CHAMBER
Maureen Rizk is a humanitarian who is passionate about giving her all to help others in need. Inspired by her late father, Maureen’s fundraising work began after meeting Professor Les White again in 2014 at a charity function at the Arab Bank Australia. Professor White had been in charge of the Sydney Children’s Hospital when her son, Anthony, was hospitalised for a benign brain tumour in 2003. Despite the many years that had passed, Professor White still remembered Maureen and her husband, Joseph Rizk AM, and their son Anthony.
With her fundraising partner, Raghida Younes, the Arab Bank, and catering partner, George Khouzame, Maureen held her first Charity Brunch in 2015 at Breakfast Point with a ‘room full of women who raised $80,000 for the Sydney Children’s Hospital’.
Since then, Maureen’s efforts have gone from strength to strength. 100 attendees have grown to 350 attendees. $80,000 has tripled to $255,000. A room of ladies has become a room that includes government officials and corporate sponsors. Maureen and Raghida partnered with George Khouzame for the last time in 2021 and began a new partnership with Ramzey Choker, founder of the Grounds of Alexandria, in 2023. The list of organisations she supports has grown to include My Westmead, Westmead Medical Group Foundation, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The Brain Cancer Group, Charlie Teo Foundation, The Zero Childhood Cancer Program, and the
Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Recently, Maureen was recognised for her efforts with a ‘Medal of Order of Australia’ (OAM) in the King’s Birthday 2023 Honour List. She is grateful to be recognised by her community, and particularly thanks Professor Fadia Ghossayn for her nomination, and John Gulesserian, who was instrumental in her nomination process as well as the OAM nominations for her husband, Joseph Rizk AM.
Despite the recognition, Maureen stays humble through it all, and her motivations to continue supporting medical work and research remain the same.
‘You don’t know you need the hospital until you’re there,’ shares Maureen. ‘When you see families trying to be strong for their children but don’t know if they’ll lose their children. When you feel like you might have to bury your own child, that is the hardest thing to experience’.
MAUREEN RIZK is a humanitarian, Fundraiser and OAM awardee.
In an era of convenience and rapid technological advancements, the allure of online shopping and large retail chains can be difficult to resist. However, it is crucial that we recognise the immense value of shopping local and supporting the businesses that form the backbone of our community.
Building Stronger Communities: When you shop local, you invest in your own community. Local businesses are often owned and operated by individuals who live right here, raising families and contributing to the local economy. By supporting these businesses, you help create a virtuous cycle of economic growth, job creation, and increased opportunities for everyone. The money spent within the community circulates and benefits local schools, infrastructure, and services, ensuring a thriving environment for all.
One of the greatest advantages of shopping local is the opportunity to discover a plethora of unique and independent businesses. From artisanal craft stores to family-owned restaurants and boutique shops, these establishments offer a distinct charm that sets them apart from generic chain stores.
Small and medium-sized enterprises are the lifeblood of any community, providing employment opportunities for local residents. By choosing to shop local, you contribute to job creation and economic
stability. These businesses often hire local talent, offering a chance for individuals to work close to home and contribute to their community's growth.
The importance of shopping local cannot be overstated.
As residents, we hold the power to shape the destiny of our community by consciously choosing to invest in the local economy.
So, let us celebrate the unique charm and diversity of our region by embracing the essence of community and making a commitment to shop local.
Together, we can build a stronger and more prosperous Canterbury Bankstown for generations to come.
We are delighted to announce our recent membership as a bronze member of the Supportive Employer Program (SEP).
The SEP is a commendable initiative that recognises and supports employers who actively encourage and assist Australian Defence Force (ADF) reservists in fulfilling their duty to our nation.
At CBCC, we firmly believe in the shared responsibility of all Australians when it comes to our national security. We recognise the importance of a capable
and resilient Australian Defence Force with both permanent and Reserve components.
Through our participation in the Supportive Employer Program, we proudly demonstrate our unwavering support for our employees and students who serve our country as ADF reservists, as well as the employers who stand behind them.
DELIVER YOU THE INAUGURAL
MENTORSHIP AND COMMUNITY GROWTH
PANEL DISCUSSION
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
SPARKLING DRINKS ON ARRIVAL FINGER FOOD PROVIDED
BOOK NOW ON
SATURDAY From 11 AM to 2 PM 22 JULY
The William Inglis Hotel, The Barn Function Area 155 Gov Macquarie Dr, Warwick Farm NSW 2170
FREE for members, $20 for non members
Director, Future Student Engagement
Western Sydney Universiity
BENEFITS OF MENTORSHIP
Knowledge transfer
Personal and professional growth
Networking opportunities
Increased confidence and motivation
Personalised guidance
MISSION
Function room, Level 8
Western Sydney University
Bankstown City Campus
74 Rickard Road
Bankstown NSW 2200
AUGUST 2023
6PM - 8:30PM
R E G I S T E R T O D A Y
ceo@cbchamber.org.au
Bankstown Sport Club, Grand Ballroom
8 Greenfield Parade, Bankstown NSW 2200
Saturday 18 November 2023
Start 6.00 PM - 11.00 PM
Black Tie Event.
Drinks on arrival.
Enjoy a sumptuous 3-course meal, accompanied by a live band (inclusive of beer, wine, and soft drinks).
MEMBERS $230 / NON-MEMBERS $250
Table of 10 is $2,200
All prices are inclusive of GST.
BOOK NOW ON
Empowering our youth is powering our community
inspiration we are given.
Small commitment. Four hours each trimester. Big impact. Widen the horizon of a local kid.
3 Meeting 6 weeks a part
Anyone over 50 welcome to attendmembers, families and friends. Classes will be facilitated by Collappor8, so secure your seats now and get online.
Register your interest.Register your interest.
Are you over 50 and interested in learning to use the Internet, but don’t know where to get started? The Internet can help you in day-to-day life in many different ways, and we would like to help you make the most of it.
The CBCC will be holding three free workshops where you can learn Digital Basics, Get Online and Stay Smart Online. We will cover the following topics:
Digital Basics
Using a Touch Screen
Using a Computer
Get Online
Intro to the Internet
Using a Web Browser
Navigating a Website
Staying Smart Online
Password Safety
Make Payments Safely
Avoid Scams
Keep Safe from Viruses
Please bring your own device to the workshop. Our lessons are designed with smartphone use in mind, but you may bring a tablet or laptop if you prefer.
We are supported by Good Things Foundation and the Australian Government to help build digital skills in older Australians. Email: ceo@cbchamber.org.au for next class details.
At ARC Renewables we’re dedicated to helping our clients assess, reduce and control their electricity usage. Our comprehensive range of services will add value to your business or embedded network.
Arc Renewable Group is the renewable energy arm of Arc Energy Corporation. Founded in 2017, Arc Renewable Group has bought together a wide range of expertise in recognition of the vital role that renewable energy plays within the energy sector of the 21st Century.
Our core business is the provision of specialised engineering services in the renewable energy sector and the aggregation of energy generating and energy saving services. Our holistic approach ensures an optimised solution that delivers maximum benefits to our clients.
Arc Renewable Group has a team of specialised renewable energy engineers and industry experts, making us ideally placed to add value to our broad client base and ensures our clients have unprecedented visibility into new developments in the renewable energy space
Co-founded in 2011 by Camille Lattouf, Jessica Zeait (Née Khoury), and Julia Lattouf, Lebanese Film Festival (LFF) Australia is a NSW registered non-profit and 100 percent volunteer-led organisation, based in Bankstown
Governed by the Lebanese Film Festival Association Incorporated, the festival made its debut in 2012 and has since flourished into a national arts and cultural event, drawing in a diverse audience of thousands from all corners of Australia to celebrate Lebanese cinema.
With the esteemed support of Australian Film icon Bryan Brown AM as Patron, key Government partners including Create NSW and City of Canterbury Bankstown, and longstanding sponsors and partners, the LFF Association is managed by an enthusiastic Committee of eight members, all deeply committed to the arts, culture, film, community, and grassroots initiatives
The association's primary objectives include showcasing Lebanese Cinema across Australia, dispelling misconceptions about Lebanon, its people, culture, and traditions, and establishing an iconic film program and event in Western Sydney with a focus on Bankstown as a vibrant and diverse city centre
Furthermore, LFF Australia aims to support local and emerging film makers; foster connections and support Lebanese participation in film and creative arts; promote environmentally friendly and socially responsible behaviours, and advocate for accessibility and inclusivity in the arts
LFF Australia also actively engages in an inspiring schools program, showcasing international cinema to thousands of school-aged students through school-based partnerships and events
To date, LFF Australia has screened over 300 films from various parts of the world, either filmed or based in Lebanon, or produced by Lebanese filmmakers from Lebanon, Europe, Africa, the Americas, Australia, and beyond. In 2022, the festival proudly celebrated its 10th Anniversary edition, attracting over 17,000 patrons nationwide.
Every year, the LFF Association challenges itself to curate and deliver a world-class edition that inspires, challenges, and captivates the audience's cinematic imagination, nurturing the art of Lebanese storytelling at its finest
Nortured beginnings
TAD
RSAC Inc
ComputerWerx
Kingsgrove Community Aid Centre
Autonomous Energy
Minutemanpress Condell Park
Rainbow crossing Inc
KAA Australia
MPERS International
Daystar Real Estate
Shead Lawyers
The Mill Hotel Milperra
One and Only Locksmiths Pty Ltd
Australian Care Solutions
Chinchilla X-Press
4SP GROUP PTY LTD
Canterbury BMW
Staff Domain
Australian Mutual Bank
Inteck IT
Max Employment
Drake Australia Pty Ltd
Silver and Young Private Wealth
Onyx Aesthetic
Precision Garage Doors & Gates
Leadership Creativity
Global Skills
STORM ELECTRICAL AND SOLAR PTY LTD
Cass Care Limited
Fairclove Pty Ltd
RMJ Lawyers
Wellbeing Psychology Online
Green Garden
Create Connect
Hello Broker
Premium Tax Services
Life guidance psychology clinic
CT BOOKKEEPING
Careflight
Progress Services Group
Topsite
Find Your Way to Work
Work Happy
Icons of Sport
Think B.I.G International Students
Advisory
Arena Hotel
J.F Electrics
Top Fruit Market Greenacre
IFUNDU
EPSILON SECURITY PTY LTD
Department of NSW | SEP RIEP
AB BEYOND INVESTMENTS
The trustee for Rashays Cafes & Restaurants Unit Trus
LASALLIAN MISSION COUNCIL
SK Solutions Group
GeckoRec Australia
Elders Real Estate Bankstown
The Balance Technique
TAG AUTOMOTIVE Tony & Charlie
Statewide Restorations Pty Ltd
The Mindset Daily
Busy Bookkeeping
Easy Step Investing
Karem Photography For The Tenant
McGrath South West Pty Ltd
PNP Constructions
The Rotary Club of Padstow
King Cleaning Services
Invictus Solutions
Candy Drop Australia
Hazen Agency
HIIT Nation
McGrath Estate Agents Bankstown
JT Blue Investments Pty Ltd
I Want To Build
Spectrum Thinkers
Little Wings
Mister Tech Pty Ltd
Alpha coding
Community Care
CANE Financial
IT Cosmic
Ray White Bankstown
Vision China Times
B Thriven
engagemate
Raine and Horne Concord/Strathfield
BeFMCG
Bankstown Basketball Association Inc
PCS Australia Pty Ltd
Software Solutions
Diab's cleaning services Pty Ltd
Bob Jane T-Marts
Afford Employment
Hello Broker
Taylor Nicholas
Canterbury and Western Suburbs Cricket Association
SWR 99 9 FM
Trilogy Foundation Canterbury
Bankstown
Commonwealth Bank - Bankstown
Central
DIYPT
T & Thy Insurance
Zenith Coaching
Ultrafade
Unito Property Group
Dyna Constructions
NECA Training and Apprentices
Nutroasters
EduTech Australia Pty Ltd
Connect Global Communications
Artvision Creative Services
Avail Business Solutions
Tony Tran
PSYCHORIUM
Zen Concierge Services
Skiant Holdings
World options Inner West Sydney
IMB Bank
Abu Links
HopePoint Preschool
Get Property Informed
KFP Cafe Investments PTY LTD
Louisa Chan Creative
Indian squad women’s association
Jim's Bookkeeping Sylvania
Elkhair florist
Forefront Cleaning Services
HealthPlex
Lao Oz Incorporated
My Sat Pty Ltd
Sydney Concierge
NAGAM HAMAD
Forestlyn
Bankstown-Auburn Community Radio Inc
SpruceMySite
Bankstown Wome's Health Centre
Helping Hands Sydney
LeaseData
Fox Coaching
Ucidity
Doha Bank
Sydney Business Web
AE Wide Accountants
La Royale
Tam Tran
Lailas Beauty & Laser
Doltone House Group Pty Ltd
FDC Industries Pty Limited
Children's Festival Organisation Inc
Acqua Accountants Pty Ltd
Gatos Pastizzi
Stay U
Melkite Charitable Foundation
The Business School
Organix Solutionz
Integrated Wellness Group
The Financial Training Centre
DFWLife
Formula for Success
Monkey Mania
We are thrilled to announce the launch of the BRAVE - Return to Work Program, an initiative empowering CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) women in Canterbury-Bankstown.
As proud recipients of a prestigious grant, we are committed to breaking down barriers and championing diversity in the workforce.
The BRAVE - Return to Work Program aims to equip CALD women with the skills, confidence, and resources needed to thrive in today's job market.
Through tailored support, training, and mentorship programs, participants will have access to a wide range of services that enhance their professional journey.
Networking opportunities, job placement assistance, and ongoing guidance will ensure a seamless transition back into the workforce.
This program goes beyond traditional approaches by fostering an inclusive and supportive community. Participants will have a safe space to connect, share experiences, and uplift one another.
Through empowering workshops, seminars, and events, we aim to build a strong network of CALD women who inspire each other throughout their careers.
We are grateful for the generous grant that has made the BRAVE - Return to Work Program possible.
Join us in celebrating this transformative initiative and be a part of shaping a brighter future for our community.
Stay tuned for updates and opportunities to get involved!
Unconscious bias in the workplace is causing more women to leave their jobs, hindering their progress and access to leadership roles.
This bias is not limited to gender but also extends to age, gender identity, and disability. Unconscious bias refers to the automatic cognitive process that leads to preferences or biases based on upbringing, culture, and personal values.
Although biases are a normal brain function, they can reinforce stereotypes and negatively impact recruitment and decision-making.
To create an inclusive workplace, it is essential to recognise, acknowledge, and challenge unconscious bias.
This article discusses various types of biases, including gender, racial, disability, and age bias, and provides strategies for combating unconscious bias in the workplace.
By acknowledging biases, providing training, aligning with a code of conduct, and redesigning HR processes, organisations can work towards creating a fair and inclusive environment.
WOMEN'S HEALTH: USEFUL LINKS
$40k grant for ‘Matilda’ app to assist women with endometriosis
Multicultural groups win funding to counter domestic violence
The ABC To Hire 'Cultural Guidance Advisors' To Tackle Racism And Discrimination
We're doubling our cash prizes, giving away a share of $500 cash every sunday & a $10,000 travel voucher at the end of july!!
by improving liveability and transforming community spaces
Up front costs to improve buildings, grounds and equipment leads to derilection. We design and look after approvals.
Grants for infrastructure can be a completed and time consuming process. We handle the application process with ease and in collaboration.
We are specialist in delivering high quality safe buildings and play areas. Upfront known cost. No hassle. On time. On budget.
Date: Friday, 30 June 2023
After five impressive and impactful years, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research CEO Darryl Harkness is retiring. Darryl’s strategic leadership has been far reaching and leaves a lasting impact on the Institute, its people and the community.
Throughout his five years at the Ingham, Darryl has fostered important and integral relationships to deliver on the Institute’s bold expansion plans including the construction of new research centres across South Western Sydney at Liverpool, Campbelltown and Bankstown. His close collaboration and partnership with the South-Western Sydney Local Health District, the University of New South Wales and Western Sydney University, has helped the Institute finalise agreements for the highly anticipated Ingham Institute Macarthur, opening in 2025.
Darryl led the Institute through one of the most challenging health crises of our generation, the COVID-19 pandemic, in which his strategic thinking, deep care and professional calm ensured the team continued with important research, clinical trials and community support.
Ingham Institute Chairman Terry Goldacre says,
“Darryl should be incredibly proud of his achievements during his time at the
Institute. He has built a very capable team with a positive ‘can do’ attitude, has supported new research teams addressing key health challenges for the community, has brought in new industry and community collaborators, and brought life-saving drugs and devices through our clinical trials to the communities of South Western Sydney and beyond.
I would like to personally thank Darryl for his impeccable leadership to the Institute, our people and our partners. Darryl will now embark on his well-deserved retirement which will enable him to spend more time sailing with family and friends. On behalf of everyone, I wish Darryl every success, happiness, and great safety, as he embarks on this exciting new adventure.”
The Institute has introduced Stephen Thompson as the new CEO who commenced in May in preparation for Darryl’s retirement. The Institute is excited to welcome Stephen at this pivotal phase in its history.
We are excited to offer options for all members to advertise in the Monthly Newsletter. Prices vary depending the Ad Size you are looking for. The prices are for any member wishing to advertise more than what is allocated in the membership level.
1/4 Page Portrait
1/2 Page Landscape
Full Page A4
Use it or Lose It! The following Membership Levels include newsletter contributions below:
Corporate Partner
Silver Member
Bronze Members
Full Page, A4 Monthly A5 Landscape Quarterly A5 Landscape Annually
Due to the overwhelming interest in our members wanting to be included in our Newsletter, we now ask that our members provide a JPEG. PDF will no longer be accepted. Files can be 72dpi - 300dpi.
The CBCC magazine is a reputable publication, that attracts business leaders, policymakers, and professionals in various industries.
By advertising in the magazine, you can increase brand awareness, generate leads, and enhance your reputation among this influential audience.
Business listing on website
CBCC Logo use per level
Article in the CBCC Monthly Magazine
to Round Table Support
discounts to all ticketed events
to CBCC networking events
Showcase your business at networking events
Video ad on website, magazine & social media
Prime logo recognition on website
Inclusion in a group Shop Local video
Award at Annual Gala Dinner *tickets purchased separetly
Don't hesitate to contact us for any enquiries. We highly appreciate your suggestions and opinions.
0416 012 747
ceo@cbchamber.org.au
