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Champions Magazine 1 - 2026

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Founder Steve Loe’s book launch

The

You

AND NEWCASTLE REGION

At the heart of our business lies an unwavering commitment to ommunity. We understand that our success is intricately linked to the well-being of the neighborhoods we call home. Our purpose is grounded in a holis o community support that extends be

At the heart of our business lies an unwavering commitment to nurturing and uplifting our community. We understand that our success is intricately linked to the well-being of the neighborhoods we call home. Our purpose is grounded in a holistic approach to community support that extends beyond traditional business boundaries.

assistable provides safe, supportive living environments tailored for individuals who need extra care and independence. We focus on comfort, community, and personalised support to enhance everyday living.

Our services are designed to empower participant while ensuring peace of mind for families.

With a people-first approach, we create homes where individuals can truly thrive and we believe "everyone deserves to live in a place to call home."

• MTA Medium Term Accommodation

• SDA Specialist Disability Accommodation

• SIL Supported Independent Living

• STR Short Term / Respite

P: 0493 642 629

E: info@assistable.com.au

W: www.assistable.com.au

Facebook: www.facebook.com/assistableofficial

Instagram: www.instagram.com/assistable_official

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/assistable-official

CHAMPIONS PROGRAM FINALISTS ANNOUNCED Pinnacle event for small business

THIS year marks the 28th consecutive year of the Awards, recognising and celebrating the finest of Australia’s small businesses across 106 categories, including retail, hospitality, services and manufacturing.

The outstanding calibre of this year’s finalists demonstrates the vital role small businesses play in our nation’s prosperity.They drive the economy, support communities, enrich culture and bring people together.

Steve Loe, Founder of the Australian Small Business Champion Awards and Managing Director of Precedent Productions which produces the Awards, says the program provides us with an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the very best of the small business sector.

“These Champion Awards honour the hardworking, spirited and successful Australians behind these small businesses. This is what the Champion Awards are all about. We look forward to celebrating in spectacular style this May,” adds Mr Loe.

Winners of the 2026 Australian Small Business Champion Awards will be announced at two National Presentation Evening events at Sydney’s The Star on 1st and 2nd May 2026.

“The entire team behind the Australian Small Business Champion Awards congratulates these small business owners and commends them on representing their local community in this national program,” adds Mr Loe.

The Awards are proudly supported by Major Part-

ners; Westpac, NOVA Employment, VJB Group, MyHR, Xcllusive Business Sales, Castaway Forecasting and Big Clean.

Major Partner Westpac has extended their support for the Australian Small Business Champion Awards in May.

Anthony Matthews, Managing Director of SME & Small Business at Westpac, says: “Every small business owner knows the early mornings, late nights, and sacrifice it takes to build a business. Being named a finalist in the 2026 Australian Small Business Champion Awards is a well-deserved moment to celebrate what that commitment has built.

“Westpac is proud to extend our partnership with this prestigious awards program.”

For more information about the 2026 Australian Small Business Champion Awards, visit: www.championawards.com.au

Last year’s gala event.

419 The Entrance Rd, Long Jetty, New South Wales 2261 Australia 0291000619

AJeweller crafting timeless pieces

LONG-established Sydney jeweller is continuing to shine in Australia’s competitive luxury market, combining decades of craftsmanship with a strong focus on bespoke design and customer experience.

Midas Jewellery, with boutique locations across Sydney including Bondi Junction, and Miranda and has built a reputation as a destination for high-end engagement rings, wedding bands and custom-made pieces.

With roots dating back to 1969, the business reflects a multi-genera-

Ftional commitment to jewellery design, blending traditional techniques with contemporary styling.

At the heart of the brand is its bespoke service, where clients work closely with master jewellers to create personalised pieces tailored to their vision. From selecting ethically sourced diamonds to refining design details, the process is designed to turn significant life moments into lasting keepsakes.

Midas Jewellery is particularly known for its craftsmanship and attention to detail, with collections featuring certified diamonds, rare gemstones and

Helping clients avoid mistakes

OR many investors and business owners, the biggest financial risk is not poor performance—but decisions made without the right structure.

Based in Sydney’s Norwest, UP! Accounting & Tax Solutions works with clients navigating complex financial situations, where tax outcomes, ownership structures and long-term planning can significantly impact wealth. Rather than operating as a traditional accounting practice, the firm focuses on helping clients make informed decisions before key financial events—such as purchasing or selling

different entities.

Many clients only realise the impact of their structure when it is too late— often after a sale or major transaction—when opportunities to optimise tax outcomes have already passed.

In practice, we regularly see situations where a different structure, if set up earlier, could have resulted in significantly better outcomes.

UP! Accounting & Tax Solutions works with business owners, property investors and clients with more complex circumstances, providing clarity on available options and the implications of each path.

but for confidence in the direction they are about to take.

With experience across both public practice and commercial environments, the firm brings a practical, decision-focused approach—helping clients understand not just what needs to be done, but why it matters.

In an environment where tax rules continue to evolve and financial decisions carry increasing consequences, the role of a trusted advisor is becoming more critical—particularly for those looking to build and protect long-term wealth.

custom designs that balance timeless elegance with modern aesthetics.

Customer experience also plays a central role, with consultations—both in-store and virtual—aimed at guiding clients through what can often be an emotional and important purchase.

As demand grows for personalised luxury and ethically sourced products,

Midas Jewellery continues to position itself at the forefront of the industry—helping Australians celebrate life’s most meaningful moments with pieces designed to last a lifetime.

Visit: www.midasjewellery.com.au

176B Grange Ave, Schofields www.careconnection.org.au info@careconnection.org.au https://www.facebook.com/share/1CkkfUmRUd/?mibextid=wwXIfr

WE’RE BOXER BRANDS

A strategic brand and packaging design agency built to make decisions easier.

Using behavioural science, sharp strategy and bold creative, we create brands that connect and packaging that gets picked. From global names to ambitious challengers, we help brands cut through the noise and win on shelf.

17+ years building brands that last Trusted by many leading FMCG brands like Woolworths, Kraft Heinz & Nestle

• Great Place To Work certified

ASYDNEY-based creative agency is shaping the way Australians shop, with its behaviour-led approach to branding and packaging helping products cut through increasingly crowded retail environments.

Boxer Brands, headquartered in Newtown, has built a reputation for blending behavioural science with bold design to influence real-world purchasing decisions.

Founded in 2008, the agency partners with major FMCG players and emerging brands to create packaging that not only looks

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Bringing clarity to packaging Navigating the world of finance

AWESTERN Sydney-based mortgage and finance brokerage is helping Australians navigate the often complex world of lending, with a personalised approach that puts clients’ goals at the centre of every decision.

ER Financial Services (ERFS), headquartered in Sydney Olympic Park, has built its reputation on delivering tailored finance solutions rather than a “one size fits all” approach to borrowing.

With more than 15 years of combined industry experience, the team works closely with clients ranging from first

appealing but drives sales.

The firm works with a client list that includes household names such as Woolworths, Nestlé and Kraft Heinz, alongside challenger brands looking to gain traction on supermarket shelves.

At the core of Boxer’s approach is a shopper-first mindset, using insights into shopper behaviour to simplify choices and create strong brand connections at the point of purchase.

Designing for distracted, timepoor shoppers, Boxer Brands focuses on clarity over clutter, making decisions easier in the moments that

matter most.

Recent projects highlight the impact of this strategy. In one case, a redesign delivered a 90 per cent increase in sales within the first year, underscoring the commercial power of effective packaging.

With a growing portfolio and nearly two decades of experience, Boxer Brands continues to position itself as a strategic partner to FMCG brands, helping businesses turn everyday products into standout performers in competitive retail spaces.

Visit: www.boxerbrands.com.au

home buyers to seasoned property investors, guiding them through every stage of the loan journey—from initial planning through to settlement.

The company offers a broad suite of lending services including home loans, construction loans, investment loans, car finance and personal lending, along with specialised solutions such as SMSF lending for property investment through superannuation.

At the core of ERFS’s approach is a strong emphasis on education and strategy. By taking the time to understand

each client’s financial situation, the firm develops customised loan structures and works with a wide panel of lenders to secure suitable outcomes.

Having facilitated hundreds of loans and more than $150 million in lending, ER Financial Services continues to grow its footprint, positioning itself as a trusted partner for individuals seeking clarity, confidence and better financial outcomes in an evolving property market.

Visit: www.erfs.com.au

Central Coast favourite Il Toscano

AFAST-growing dining destination on the Central Coast is winning over locals with a simple yet powerful formula—authentic Italian flavours, handmade pasta and an uncompromising commitment to quality and consistency.

Il Toscano, an artisan pasta bar with locations in Terrigal, Long Jetty and Gosford, has built its reputation on fresh, madeto-order dishes inspired by traditional Tuscan-Italian cuisine.

Founded during the COVID-19 period as a home delivery concept, the brand quickly evolved into a thriving dine-in experience, driven by a clear vision: bringing genuine Italian food culture to the region.

At the heart of Il Toscano is its founder, owner and chef, Matteo Piccardi, originally

from Florence. Every dish on the menu has been personally created and refined by Matteo, drawing from traditional Italian recipes and techniques passed down through generations.

This hands-on approach ensures that each plate reflects not only authenticity, but also a deep respect for Italian culinary heritage—something rarely found outside Italy.

The menu centres around handmade pasta and carefully crafted sauces, with signature dishes including slow-cooked ragù, fresh seafood pasta and timeless classics, all prepared daily using high-quality ingredients.

Unlike many conventional restaurants, Il Toscano proudly defines itself as a

specialised pasta bar—where everything is made fresh and cooked to order, delivering what the team describes as “as Italian as it gets.”

Set in vibrant coastal locations, the venues offer a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, complemented by Italian wines and warm, genuine hospitality.

As demand for authentic, experience-driven dining continues to grow, Il Toscano is carving out a distinctive niche—bringing a true taste of Tuscany to the Central Coast and transforming everyday dining into a memorable culinary experience.

www.ILTOSCANO.com.au

www.facebook.com/iltoscanoau

Islamic financier reshaping investing

AGROWING financial services firm is helping reshape the way Australians approach wealth creation, offering an alternative model built on ethical and faith-based principles.

Meezan Wealth, founded in Sydney in 2020, has emerged as a key player in Australia’s Islamic finance sector, providing Shariah-compliant solutions across home finance, superannuation and investment portfolios.

The company’s core mission is to help individuals and families grow their wealth without compromising their values.

Its services are designed specifically for Muslim Australians seeking financial products that avoid interest (riba) and align with Islamic principles.

A standout offering is its halal home finance model, based on the Ijarah structure, where clients

effectively lease a property before transitioning to ownership—providing an alternative to traditional interest-based loans.

Meezan Wealth also delivers Shariah-compliant superannuation and investment options, including diversified portfolios screened to meet strict ethical and religious standards.

With more than 5,000 clients and a growing national presence across major cities, the firm reflects the rising demand for ethical financial solutions in Australia’s increasingly diverse population.

As awareness of Islamic finance continues to grow, Meezan Wealth is positioning itself at the forefront of the sector—offering Australians a pathway to financial security that balances performance, transparency and deeply held values.

Visit: www.meezanwealth.com.au

Sarah wins multiple awards

SARAH MacRae of 24/7 Care Disability Services has been named winner, taking home the Gold for Best Micro Business of the Year and Silver in the Disability Inclusion Award at the 2025 Women Changing the World Australia and the Pacific Awards. These awards celebrate and recognise women achieving outstanding success in areas such as sustainability, humanitarian work, leadership, advocacy, education, health, and innovation.

They honour the growing number of women leading the way toward a better world, inspiring others to step forward and make a difference.

Sarah MacRae is the Founder and Director of 24/7 Care Disability Services, a nationally recognised provider delivering innovative, community-driven support for people with disabilities across all ages and needs.

With nearly three decades in the sector, Sarah began her career in 1997, discovering the purpose and determination that shaped her life’s work. From a young mum juggling multiple jobs to an award-winning leader and advocate, she has remained fiercely

committed to creating safe, empowering, and joyful spaces for people who are too often overlooked.

Under her leadership, 24/7 Care Disability Services has grown into a vibrant ecosystem—home to social groups, day programs, life-skills development, family support, crisis respite, and community events that break isolation and build belonging.

Sarah is widely recognised for her hands-on leadership, innovative programs such as the Friday

Social Mixers and the Phoenix Hub community, and her dedication to creating a service that feels less like a system and more like a family.

With deep lived experience as both a parent and a professional in complex disability and mental health, she approaches her work with equal parts heart, grit, and hard-earned wisdom.

In recent years, Sarah has been honoured as a finalist in multiple local, state, national, and international awards and is a contributing author in several books amplifying women who lead with courage, purpose, and impact.

Her work reflects the same determination that shaped her life — when the world said “slow down,” she built something bigger instead. Today, Sarah continues to champion inclusivity, connection, and high-quality, ethical care, ensuring every person who walks through her doors feels seen, valued, and safe.

Visit: www.247careservices.com.au

Real support and real heart

ASISTABLE is a dedicated NDIS-registered disability support provider based in Western Sydney, delivering personalised care and accommodation solutions designed to feel more like family than a system. Built by a husband-and-wife team, Assistable was founded on a simple belief—there is a better, more human way to support people living with disability.

Specialising in supported living, accommodation and daily care, Assistable offers a wide range of services including personal support, household assistance, community participation, life skills development and transport support.

As an approved provider, the organisation operates across multiple NDIS registration categories, ensuring participants receive flexible, tailored care

aligned to their individual goals and needs.

What sets Assistable apart is its commitment to genuine relationships and transparency. Every participant is treated with dignity, respect and consistency, with families given confidence through open communication and a hands-on, personalised approach.

Rather than focusing on volume, Assistable prioritises quality—creating safe, comfortable homes and support environments where individuals can thrive.

With a strong emphasis on independence, inclusion and wellbeing, Assistable is redefining disability support—offering not just services, but a trusted partnership that empowers people to live fuller, more connected lives.

Visit: www.assistable.com.au

Beauty, wellness and confidence

ABOUTIQUE Sydney clinic is redefining the modern beauty experience, blending advanced cosmetic treatments with holistic wellness to help clients feel confident at every stage of life.

Cosmetic Clinic & Co has positioned itself as more than a traditional aesthetic clinic, offering a diverse suite of services that span cosmetic treatments, beauty therapy and wellness support. From dermal treatments and PDO threads to eyelash extensions, teeth whitening and specialised hair spa experiences, the clinic delivers

personalised solutions tailored to each client.

Led by experienced cosmetic nurse Sarah, who brings more than a decade of industry expertise, the clinic places strong emphasis on individual care and natural-looking results.

Clients are guided through tailored consultations designed to enhance their unique features rather than follow onesize-fits-all trends.

A standout feature is the clinic’s dedicated menopause service, reflecting a growing demand for integrated health and beauty support.

Carescan has a patient first approach to results

CThe program combines medical insight with lifestyle guidance, addressing hormonal changes that impact skin, energy and overall wellbeing.

As Australia’s cosmetic industry continues to expand, clinics like Cosmetic Clinic & Co are responding to consumer demand for safe, personalised and experience-driven care. By combining aesthetics with wellness, the business is helping clients not only look their best—but feel it too.

Viist: www.cosmeticclinic&co.com.au

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Driving the future of digital dentistry

AWESTERN Sydney-based dental laboratory is positioning itself at the forefront of a rapidly evolving industry, combining advanced technology with precision craftsmanship to support dentists and improve patient outcomes.

NovaDent Labs, located in Yagoona, is a modern dental laboratory specialising in digital dentistry, offering services ranging from crowns and bridges to implant restorations and custom dental appliances.

The business is built on a vision of integrating cutting-edge technology with human-centred care. Led by

industry expert Dr Sanad Al Murayati, the lab brings decades of clinical and laboratory experience, with a strong focus on innovation, accuracy and efficiency.

At the core of NovaDent’s offering is its embrace of digital workflows, including CAD/CAM design and seamless integration with intraoral scanning technology.

This allows dentists to submit cases digitally, reducing turnaround times while improving consistency and precision in restorations.

The laboratory also produces a wide range of custom solutions, including

retainers, splints and implant-supported prosthetics, all manufactured using premium materials and compliant with strict Australian safety standards.

With nationwide delivery and a growing network of dental partners, NovaDent Labs is helping reshape how dental practices operate—making treatments faster, more accurate and more patient-friendly.

As demand for digital solutions accelerates across healthcare, NovaDent Labs is emerging as a key player in modern dentistry, delivering smarter workflows and better outcomes for both clinicians and patients.

Visit: www.novadentlabs.com.au

Plumbers building trust through reliability

ASYDNEY-based plumbing business is earning a strong reputation for dependable service, combining fast response times with a commitment to high-quality workmanship across residential projects.

QA Plumbing Services operates across Sydney, providing a wide range of solutions including emergency plumbing, hot water repairs, blocked drains, burst pipe repairs and gas fitting. The company’s core focus is on delivering fast, reliable services that address urgent household issues while preventing long-term damage.

Founded by director Joe, who brings more than 20 years of industry experience, the business has grown steadily since its launch in 2020. Built on a “lead by example” philosophy, the company places strong emphasis on training, teamwork and delivering consistent results for every client.

SQA Plumbing Services positions itself around a simple but powerful promise—“High Quality, Builds Trust”—a message reflected in its structured approach to every job. From detailed inspections through to repairs and preventative advice, the team aims to provide long-term solutions rather than quick fixes.

The company also supports strata management and renovation projects, reflecting growing demand for skilled trades across Sydney’s expanding residential sector.

With a professional team, strong customer feedback and a focus on reliability, QA Plumbing Services continues to build its presence—helping homeowners across Sydney protect their properties and maintain essential services with confidence.

Visit: www.qaplumbingservices.com.au

These are high quality sunshade solutions

UN Shade Australia® has established itself as a trusted leader in the design and construction of high-quality shade solutions for schools, communities and commercial environments across Australia.

Established in 1997, the Australian-owned company has built a strong reputation for delivering durable, custom-designed structures that prioritise safety, functionality and visual appeal.

Specialising in large-scale installations, Sun Shade Australia creates tailored solutions for a wide range of outdoor settings including playgrounds, sports courts, assembly areas and public spaces. Their innovative “superspan ™” designs allow for expansive coverage with minimal support posts, maximising usability while maintaining clean, open environments.

Every project is engineered to meet strict Australian Standards, with experienced structural engineers

Aensuring each installation is site-specific and compliant with the Building Code of Australia.

Using premium-grade steel and advanced shade fabrics capable of blocking up to 99% of harmful UV rays, the company delivers long-lasting protection built for harsh Australian conditions.

Beyond installation, Sun Shade Australia offers ongoing maintenance and refurbishment services, helping clients protect their investment and extend the life of their structures.

With decades of experience and thousands of projects completed, the company continues to create safer, cooler and more comfortable outdoor spaces for communities nationwide.

Visit: www.sunshade.com.au

Properry management services redefined as demand grows

BOUTIQUE real estate agency based in Sydney’s Hills District is reshaping traditional property management, offering landlords a more personalised and hands-on alternative to larger traditional agencies.

The Managed House, led by experienced property specialist Amanda Taket, focuses exclusively on delivering tailored management services built on trust, transparency and long-term relationships.

With more than 27 years in the real estate industry, Amanda has built a strong reputation for helping property owners protect and grow their investments.

Unlike many high-volume real estate agencies, The Managed House operates without call centres or multiple handovers, ensuring clients deal directly with a dedicated expert who understands their property and their goals.

This one-on-one approach is a key differentiator, allowing

for faster communication, proactive management and more strategic decision-making.

The business provides a full suite of services including both property management and residential sales, all designed to maximise returns while minimising stress for their clients.

With a strong local focus, the agency has successfully leased and sold dozens of properties across the Hills District & Western Sydney areas, building a large loyal client base that values consistency and care.

At its core, The Managed House is built on a simple philosophy—treat every property as if it were their own.

As demand grows for a more personalised service in real estate, this agency is proving that smaller, client-focused models can deliver powerful results in a competitive market.

Visit: www.themanagedhouse.com.au

Dental with personal touch

AHILLS District dental practice is redefining patient care by combining advanced technology with a strong focus on personalised treatment and comfort.

Located in Winston Hills, Infinity Dental Care has built a reputation for delivering comprehensive dental services for patients of all ages, from young children through to seniors. The clinic offers a full spectrum of treatments including general dentistry, orthodontics, cosmetic procedures and complex restorative work such as dental implants and oral surgery.

Central to the clinic’s philosophy is a commitment to tailored care. Dentists take the time to understand each patient’s goals and concerns, developing customised treatment plans that balance function, aesthetics and long-term oral health.

Infinity Dental Care also embrac-

Sydney's leading chiropractic group in Bonnyrigg, Doonside and Earlwood. Their signature Health Blueprint™ Protocol goes beyond symptoms to find the root cause, using advanced diagnostics and evidence-based care trusted by thousands of Sydney families.

We Don't Guess, We Test.

(02) 9138 9393

Website: www.adjustingtohealth.com.au

Facebook: facebook.com/adjustingtohealth

Instagram: @adjusting2health

es the latest innovations in dentistry, including computer-guided implant procedures, digital imaging and minimally invasive techniques designed to reduce recovery times and improve outcomes.

Patient comfort remains a key priority, with services such as sleep dentistry available to ease anxiety and ensure a relaxed experience. The clinic also emphasises ongoing education, ensuring its team stays at the forefront of modern dental practices.

With a focus on trust, transparency and long-term relationships, Infinity Dental Care continues to position itself as a leading provider in Western Sydney—helping patients achieve healthier smiles and greater confidence through high-quality, patient-first dentistry.

Visit: www.infinitydentalcare.com.au

Smarter wealth building

INVESTVISE is a Sydney-based property investment consultancy helping Australians build long-term wealth through strategic real estate decisions.

Specialising in both residential and commercial property, the team provides end-to-end guidance—from portfolio strategy and market selection through to acquisition and post-purchase support.

Founded on real-world investment experience, InvestVise has evolved into a trusted partner for investors at every

stage, from first-time buyers to seasoned portfolio builders.

With more than $300M in property transactions guided, the business has built a strong reputation for delivering data-driven strategies that consistently outperform market averages.

What sets InvestVise apart is its personalised, strategy-first approach. Rather than chasing trends, the team focuses on identifying high-growth opportunities backed by research, economic fundamentals and long-term planning.

Clients benefit from tailored investment roadmaps aligned to their goals, risk profile and financial position.

With access to off-market opportunities, deep industry connections and ongoing portfolio support, InvestVise positions itself as more than a buyer’s agent—it’s a strategic partner committed to helping Australians invest with confidence and achieve sustainable financial growth.

Visit: www.investvise.com.au

Trusted contractor for house removal

GABBRAEL House Demolition is a trusted Sydney-based contractor specialising in residential demolition, asbestos removal and site preparation, with more than 30 years of industry experience.

Established in 1995, the company has built a strong reputation for delivering safe, compliant and efficient demolition services across the Sydney metropolitan region.

The business offers a complete endto-end service, managing every stage of the demolition process—from initial site assessment and council approvals through to asbestos removal, demolition,

waste disposal and final site levelling.

This turnkey approach ensures clients receive a seamless experience, with their property left clean and ready for construction.

Gabrael House Demolition is fully licensed and insured, including Class A asbestos removal certification and significant public liability coverage, giving clients confidence that all work is completed to strict safety and regulatory standards.

The company has also earned national recognition, winning the Australian Trades Small Business Champion Award and being acknowledged for excellence in asbestos abatement services.

Known for professionalism, transparency and reliable project delivery, Gabrael House Demolition continues to be a preferred partner for homeowners and builders seeking quality demolition solutions backed by experience and industry expertise.

Visit: www.gabraelhousedemolition.com.au

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Get fair compensation with Gajic Lawyers

GAJIC Lawyers: Western Sydney's compensation firm, helping injured Australians get back on their feet

When something goes wrong — a car accident, a workplace injury, a fall in a public place — the last thing you should be dealing with is a legal system that feels designed to confuse you.

Gajic Lawyers was built around a different idea.

Founded in 1985 by principal lawyer Rad Gajic, the firm has spent over 30 years doing one thing: helping injured Australians get the compensation they're entitled to. No family law. No

Iconveyancing. Just compensation — and the full weight of that specialisation behind every case.

Based in Parramatta and Cabramatta, the firm handles claims right across NSW and beyond — motor vehicle accidents, workplace injuries, public liability, medical negligence, and more. And because the entire process is digital, clients never need to set foot in an office. Wherever you are in Australia, the team can help.

The firm's No Win-No Fee model means you can pursue your claim without upfront financial pressure. Your job is to focus on recovering. Gajic Lawyers

handle everything else.

That's not marketing language. It's how the firm has worked for four decades — with clear communication, no legal jargon, and a genuine commitment to getting clients fair outcomes while reducing the stress that too often comes with making a claim.

Thousands of successful cases later, the approach hasn't changed. The technology has — but the commitment to the person on the other end of the phone hasn't.

gajic.com.au | (02) 9890 5885 | No Win-No Fee | Free Case Assessment — No Obligation.

Empowering people to rise

NSPIRE All Abilities (also known as Inspire and Rise for All Abilities) is a purpose-driven disability and mental health support provider committed to empowering individuals to live with independence, dignity and choice.

Based in Western Sydney, the organisation focuses on delivering person-centred services that are tailored to the unique goals, needs and aspirations of each participant.

At the heart of Inspire All Abilities is a strong belief in inclusion and community. The business works closely

with individuals, families and support networks to ensure every person feels heard, valued and supported in shaping their own life journey.

Its mission is not just to provide care, but to create meaningful outcomes that enhance quality of life and foster confidence and connection.

The organisation offers a comprehensive range of services, including disability support, mental health assistance, support coordination, in-home care and community participation programs.

TThese services are designed to help participants build independence, engage socially and access the resources they need to thrive. Respite care and domestic assistance also provide vital support to families and carers.

With a focus on innovation, compassion and real-world impact, Inspire All Abilities is building a reputation as a trusted provider in the sector—one that is dedicated to empowering people of all abilities to lead fulfilling and self-directed lives.

Visit: www.inspireallabilities.com

Teatro at the Italian Forum – A New Stage for Sydney’s Cultural Future

EATRO at the Italian Forum is emerging as one of Sydney’s most exciting cultural destinations, bringing world-class live performance to the heart of Leichhardt. Located within the iconic Italian Forum precinct—long regarded as the centre of Sydney’s Italian community—Teatro is redefining the local arts scene with a bold, contemporary vision.

Designed as a vibrant, state-of-the-art theatre space, Teatro hosts a dynamic program of professional productions, community performances and educational workshops throughout the year.

Its mission is simple yet powerful: to inspire, challenge and connect audiences through the magic of live theatre while keeping the arts accessible to all.

With a 300-seat venue and leadership from internationally experienced theatre creatives, Teatro

Sis positioning itself as a new home for high-quality musical theatre and performance in Sydney’s Inner West.

From major productions to emerging talent showcases, it offers a platform where creativity thrives and stories come to life.

Beyond the stage, Teatro plays an important role as a community hub—supporting artists, fostering collaboration and creating opportunities for audiences to engage with the arts in meaningful ways.

As Western Sydney and the Inner West continue to grow, Teatro stands out as a cultural beacon—celebrating performance, community and the enduring power of storytelling.

Visit: www.teatroitalianforum.com.au

Helping connect people to services

ERENITY Care Connection (SCC) is a grassroots initiative started by Mirna and Samey during what is arguably one of the toughest cost of living crisies in Australian history.

Operating mainly across NSW and Victoria the organisation supports between 70 to 400 families daily from school breakfast programs, to community outreach initiatives such as their exclusive V.E.S.P.A program (Veterans, Elderly, Students, Parents and Aborigines) as well almost daily food distribution pop ups events.

With a strong focus on personalised support,

SCC offers a wide range of services during these truly challenging modern times - more than just food.

The organisation also plays a vital role in helping individuals and families navigate the often-complex local, state and federal resources that are available, while providing clarity and guidance every step of the way towards assisting families get back on track.

What sets SCC apart is its commitment to choice and independence without the need to rely on constant support but rather know the services are there in times of need.

As a not-for-profit, SCC reinvests its resources into improving services and outcomes for the community, rather than generating profit. This purpose-driven approach underpins its reputation for compassionate, reliable care and ensuring families can get back on their path of independence.

At its core, SCC is about enabling people to live the life they love—on their terms, with the support they need to thrive, not just survive, and knowing others can assist in times of need, if the need arises.

Visit: www.careconnection.org.au

Book Launch

CHAMPIONS CELEBRATES UNSUNG HEROES

New book honours the stories, struggles and successes of over 100 small business owners from across Australia.

BEHIND every café, butcher, jeweller and corner shop lies a story of grit, dreams and determination. Champions: The Legacy That Shaped Small Business for a Nation, a new book by Australian author Matthew Manahan and published by Precedent Productions, captures these stories in vivid detail and honours the man who has spent more than four decades putting small business owners in the national spotlight.

At the heart of Champions is Steve Loe, founder of the Australian Small Business Champion Awards, whose own journey started stacking shelves in his family’s corner store in Enfield. From those humble beginnings, his lifelong mission has been to recognise and celebrate the backbone of Australia’s economyits small business community.

“Small business isn’t small at all,” says author Matthew Manahan. “It’s the beating heart of Australia, and this book is living proof.”

From Sponsorship Tool to Legacy

Originally envisioned by Loe as a corporate sponsorship aid (a tool he could walk into any corporation with and say, “This is what we’re about”), the project quickly took on a life of its own. What was planned as a six-month endeavour grew into a three-year passion project.

“As they say in Toy Story, you can’t rush art,” Manahan says. “It’s grown from a sponsorship prop into a true legacy piece.”

The result is a 403-page, large-format keepsake showcasing more than 100 stories from small business owners in every corner of Australia, from Darwin and North Queensland to Melbourne, Sydney and beyond. Some stories will make readers laugh, others may move them to tears, like the tale of a young dyslexic boy who started a candy business as a child and is now thriving as a teenage entrepreneur.

“I just want to share these stories with people who don’t really understand small business,” Loe says.

“We’re the ones keeping this country moving.”

The “Oscars” for Small Business

Much of the book’s spirit is inspired by the Australian Small Business Champion Awards, which Loe affectionately calls “the Oscars for small business”, complete with custom-designed trophies proudly displayed on winners’ websites and social media.

Since its inception in 1999, the awards have blossomed into a national celebration covering more than 100 categories, presented across multiple nights with Broadway-style production values.

“We want a winner’s name announced in front of a huge applause, giving them confidence they can take back to their business.”

That confidence can be life-changing.

“A lady once told me, ‘You’re the cause of my success.’ She said winning the award changed not only her business, but her life,” Loe recalls.

Stories, Laughter and Legends

Manahan, embarking on his debut book, interviewed award winners from all industries, from trades to creative arts, uncovering their resilience, innovation and community spirit.

“I didn’t want to write a corporate book. I wanted a legacy piece with heart. You can pick it up any Sunday morning, turn to any page, and be inspired,” he says.

The book also captures unforgettable behindthe-scenes moments, such as the night former Prime Minister John Howard attended and “nearly caused a riot” of well-wishers, and the time Loe converted the Sydney Fish Market auction floor into a glamorous ballroom (he threw out his suit afterwards when the seafood smell proved impossible to remove).

Why Now

With small businesses still navigating the aftershocks of recent economic challenges, Champions serves as part history, part celebration and part rallying cry for Australians to support local enterprise.

“Small business people are opening their shops before sunrise, employing locals and giving back to their communities,” Loe says. “They deserve a national platform, and this book continues that mission.”

About the Book

Title: Champions: The Legacy That Shaped Small Business for a Nation.

Author: Matthew Manahan.

Publisher: Precedent Productions.

ISBN: 978-1-923225-53-4..

Publication Date: 2025

Available: Leading online and local bookstores, and via www.precedent.net

About the Author

Matthew Manahan is an Australian writer dedicated to capturing stories that celebrate community, culture and enterprise.

About Steve Loe and Precedent Productions

Steve Loe is the founder and director of Precedent Productions, creators of the Australian Small Business Champion Awards. For more than 40 years, he has been a tireless advocate for excellence in small business and a champion of community achievement.

Author Matthew Manahan.
Founder Steve Loe and general manager Chris Jamgotchian.

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