BDmag Apr-Jun 2022 Edition

VR IN DEFENCE ISSUE 12 April - June 2022

Giving soldiers a very real lethal edge

SWIMWEAR WITH PURPOSE Local designer making a sustainable splash

WORKPLACE INCLUSION How your business can benefit

THE GOLDEN ERA RETURNS Local and national retailers driving the Charters Towers economy forward

Seas OV E R T H E

What the return of international travel means for NQ

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CONTENTS

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14

30

04 MAGGIE ISLAND BREWERY

The right brew for development

06 WATER Northern Australia’s best natural asset

09 MOVERS, SHAKERS & CHANGE MAKERS

Updates from the local business community

10 WHAT GOES AROUND, COMES AROUND

How the commercial furniture industry is investing in circular economy principles

13 SOCIALS FEATURE North Queensland’s business event highlights

14 SIMULATION ENABLED TRAINING

Giving soldiers a very real lethal edge

16 BIG PLANS FOR PLANT The diversification of a NQ chemical producer that led to essential water treatment solutions

17 OUR CITY’S ASSETS Townsville City Council’s project plans

18 BUSINESS ADVISORY An essential service for every family-owned business

20 WORKPLACE INCLUSION

How it can benefit your business

22 BORDERS ARE

OPEN. NOW WHAT? What does the opening of borders mean for NQ Tourism

26 COLLABORATION: THE BUSINESS SECRET WEAPON

A look at how collaboration can give businesses a boost

28 TOWNSVILLE GRAMMAR

Welcomes the new head of Junior School

32 PROJECT MANAGE YOUR BUSINESS

Reasons why studying an MBA can help grow your business

34 BELLCO LAW Welcomes senior lawyer

36 RETURN TO THE GOLDEN ERA

The new Charters Towers retail development bringing a new buzz to the regional town

39 SMART

AUTOMATION HUB OPENS ITS DOORS High-tech advances for the NQ region

40 5 WAYS TO CREATE A CRACKING CAPABILITY STATEMENT

How to win potential clients so you can get on with the job

30 KAMARA AUSTRALIA Local swimwear brand makes a splash

BDMAG ABN 77 899 099 507 M. 0415 908896 www.bdmag.com.au EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES E. info@bdmag.com.au CONTRIBUTORS Kate Banville, Georgie Desailly, Julie Johnston FRONT COVER Debbie Rains, Claudia Brumme-Smith, Lydia Forsyth; Photography by Sonia Warrell, Hello Muse Photography BDMAG PHOTOGRAPHERS Phil Copp, Sonia Warrell DESIGN & PRINT NPS Print Co. 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 nessecarily 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.

LETTER FROM THE

EDITOR This issue wraps up our first financial year of print. There was certainly some scepticism about the viability of print publications in the post-Covid landscape, and what was originally planned as a 28 page magazine has exceeded our expectations in the advertising support and the variety of content we have been able to produce.

Over four issues, we’ve delivered free editorial content to over 60 businesses, with a commitment to proactively providing a media platform that is diverse and inclusive.

In addition to showcasing the region’s entrepreneurs and innovators, we strive to educate and inspire the North Queensland business community, and this month we spoke to Ricky Esterquest from Towards Better about the benefits of an inclusive workplace.

I believe most of us genuinely want to be inclusive, but without lived experience with a disability, it’s easy to make assumptions about the type of roles that could be allocated to a person, and at times, we inadvertently ‘devalue’ the person in our attempt to be inclusive.

Every time I chat to Ricky, I learn something new and I am inspired by his knowledge and passion for creating meaningful employment opportunities for people with a disability.

Being open to learning more and challenging our assumptions is a great first step, and while we’re only scratching the surface with our article on Workplace Inclusion in this issue, we hope that it acts as a conversation starter in your organisation that leads to further education and positive change.

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Enjoy this issue, and be sure to visit our new website at www.bdmag.com.au and follow us on socials to stay up to date in between issues.

EDITOR & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

BDmag is designed and printed locally by family owned and operated business NPS Print Co. on sustainably sourced paper.

bdmag.com.au

03

Picnic Bay the right brew for development.

A love of Magnetic Island and a conversation over pizza and beer in 2019 were the catalyst for James Permezel and Mick Grimshaw to invest in a Picnic Bay arcade and transform it into a microbrewery and food hub.

Mick had been visiting the Island for over 30 years and had suggested to James, a keen sailor with whom he shares a cattle farm in Flinders Island in the Bass Strait, that he should compete in Magnetic Island Race Week, where he too fell in love with the Island and could see the potential for development.

“We were sitting at Mama Roma having a beer and pizza, and said we need an excuse to spend more time on Magnetic Island,” says Mick.

“The waiter said, ‘you should buy the arcade,’ and so 24 hours later, we did!”

The arcade shops have been refurbished and Maggie Island Brewery established in the back two shops. The brewery will complement the existing eateries and retailers in Picnic Bay, creating a family friendly atmosphere for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the sea views.

“It’s a modern, new design for the Island, and the vision is for it to become like a food court and beer garden,” says James.

“We’ve got an American style BBQ food van, you can get pizza from Mama Roma, and we’re looking at having one of the shops for juices and ice creams. There’s a barber shop in the arcade, so you can even have a beer while you get your hair cut.

04

“There’s nothing else like it on the Island, and the whole thing supports each other.”

Jordan Dahl has been appointed Head Brewer, and James says local input will determine the brews on tap.

“The locals are important to us, and we will have a membership so they can receive discounts, and a local’s club where they can come down on Tuesday night and taste the beers,” says James.

“We’ll have four set beers, and rotate two different flavours which the Club members will help select.

“They can even put up their own recipes, and if it works we’ll put it on tap.”

The development will be a welcome boost for Picnic Bay, which has struggled to retain retailers since the ferries started operating out of Nelly Bay Terminal in 2003.

“Picnic Bay is a beautiful place with a special feel to it, and we think this development will go a long way to kickstarting Picnic Bay again,” says Mick.

“I think it is one of the nicest beaches, and as part of what we’re doing, we’d like to support the lifesaving club to make it a great place people can come to enjoy the Island,” says James.

Head Brewer Jordan Dahl

“It provides different options from the other bays, so it gives some variety to visitors and locals,” says James.

Both James and Mick admit to feeling nervous about the opening of the brewery which has been plagued by delays due to Covid and most recently, the floods in South East Queensland causing supply issues, but are confident the magic of Maggie combined with investment and well thought out development will pay off for them.

“We’ve spent over $800,000 on the fit out and refurbishment, using local contractors wherever we can, and I think it’s the biggest investment on the island in a long time,” says James.

“There’s a risk involved but I think it is worth it. I’ve sailed the whole east coast of Australia, and Magnetic Island is one of the easiest to fly in, get on the ferry and be on an island with so many places to go and things to do. There’s not many places in Australia like it.”

“The great thing about Maggie is it is really humble for an island destination, but it has such amazing topography and beaches,” says Mick. “The locals are really nice people, and I love it.”

BY JULIE JOHNSTON

Water Northern Australia’s Best Natural Asset

Townsville is in a very good place to capitalise on the use of water in the 21st Century. One natural asset that most developed countries once took for granted is water and as the driest, inhabited continent on Earth, it is something Australia should not be doing.

The southern part of Australia is quite dry and by comparison, Northern Australia is blessed with water. Of course, major parts of Northern Australia endure droughts and we often miss rain when we need it, but the facts are that a lot of rain falls across Northern Australia and, according to the Bureau of Meteorology, we can expect rainfall across Northern Australia to increase in coming decades.

Unfortunately, the counter balance to this is that less rain is anticipated to fall in south west Australia and south-east Australia, meaning Northern Australia has opportunities that may steadily be lost from the southern parts of our nation.

Water is essential for our lifestyle, for sustainable food and fibre production and the processing or manufacturing that food and fibre products require, as well as for extracting and developing natural resources. While arguments can be had regarding how water should be stored, the likelihood is that Northern Australia is in the fortunate position to have sustainable access to water for both lifestyle and for economic pursuits.

The regions most likely to benefit from this opportunity are the Darwin region and the Townsville region (including West to Mount Isa) with the most obvious likely benefits to be found in: 1.

AGRICULTURE

A sustainable water supply provides opportunities for irrigated agricultural development across Northern Australia, including the value adding processes that can enhance product for export. So, both the production and processing of agricultural products may become more viable across Northern Australia in years to come by comparison with Southern Australia and access to Asian markets can be made more efficient given Northern Australia’s proximity. Of course, Darwin and Townsville have the major sea port facilities accompanied by major airport infrastructure.

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2.

Photo credit: Megan Mackinnon

MINERALS AND RESOURCES

According to Geosciences Australia, Australia is ranked in the top 4 for sources of supply for the 21 primary minerals in demand internationally... and nearly all are situated across Northern Australia. Having a water supply that allows efficient and sustainable extraction, and hopefully processing, enhances Northern Australia’s longterm capacity in the Resource sector. Again, the sea ports of Townsville and Darwin create the best opportunity for viable production of all resources, including the critical elements that are now emerging as the new necessities for hightech development internationally.

3.

NEW ENERGY

Let’s focus on just one source – Hydrogen.

Potentially nine litres of water could be required to produce one kilogram of Hydrogen, so the National Hydrogen Strategy indicates up to one third of the amount of water currently used by our Mining Industry could be needed for Hydrogen Production by 2050.

So, the continuing availability of water across Northern Australia creates a series of dynamic opportunities. As each of these opportunities will require access to markets to become viable, Townsville and Darwin are able to benefit most from these commercial opportunities through the 21st-century.

Our region must be focused on the benefit of water and the opportunities it provides. There will likely be significant social and political pressure to transport water from Northern Australia to areas in Southern Australia to maintain industry. This is reasonable and necessary, but the infrastructure developed for this to occur should also be developed to Northern Australia’s advantage.

With change occurring, be confident in your knight franK team.

. . . .

Water is essential for our lifestyle, for sustainable food and fibre production and the processing or manufacturing that food and fibre products require, as well as for extracting and developing natural resources.

Project Marketing Valuation and Advisory Sales and Leasing Asset Management Services

As North Queensland experiences the impact of exciting and innovative investment. Let’s live, work and enjoy being local.

There is plenty to read and review about the movement of water and how areas that may not have sufficient access to water in future decades will sustain themselves. Transporting water, desalinating sea water and other activities to produce potable water require a sustained high cost input.

.

With so little investment needed in accepting rain, the production of water supply for Northern Australia is a critical commercial advantage.

CRAIG STACK Managing Director of Knight Frank’s Townsville and Mackay offices.

Your business means something to us.

Craig leads a team of 43 property professionals who are among the best in what they do in Regional Queensland.

The Knight Frank team consistently deal with nearly 1,000 North Queensland based businesses every month.

Knight Frank Townsville.

Your Partners in Property. bdmag.com.au

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169 INGHAM ROAD, WEST END PHONE 0423215899

N E W

A P P O I N T M E N T S

PVW Partners has welcomed Dean Tuckey to the team in the role of People and Performance Advisor. Dean will be working not only with the PVW Partners team but also a range of organisations throughout Queensland.

Huda Ammar has recently been appointed as the new CEO of Everglow. Huda has been with Everglow for 10 years and says she is looking forward to continuing to work closely with North Queenslanders to help them remain in their community.

From Hong Kong Disneyland to the Australian Public Service, Associate Professor Carmen Reaiche has extensive project management experience and joins the team at JCU College of Business, Law & Governance as the academic lead for the new Graduate Certificate of Project Management.

Townsville based Investment Management and Corporate Advisory firm Menninger Capital have recently appointed respected local finance professional Dan Ryder as Head of Distribution.

Chief Executive Officer of Menninger Capital Matthew Smith says Dan’s appointment further expands their team and accelerates the company’s growth.

Local women’s sexual wellness brand, happymash, is now available through Australia and New Zealand’s largest online retailer of sex toys, Wild Secrets. happymash owner and founder, Anna Walsh, who started her venture two years ago, says she hopes the association with such a large and diverse retailer will see her brand reach a much wider audience, and that it is proof that regional businesses can still attain success and catch big contracts.

Happy Vibes Café and Nursery is a new social enterprise that aims to provide supported and inclusive employment for people with disabilities and will be located alongside not-for-profit organisation, Shed3. They’re looking for suppliers who share the same vision, and there’s a Go-Fund Me account to help get the initiative up and running. Follow Happy Vibes Café on socials for more information.

GOT SOMETHING NEW & EXCITING TO SHARE? VISIT WWW.BDMAG.COM.AU FOR SUBMISSION GUIDELINES.

bdmag.com.au

09

What goes around, comes around.

Circular economy mindfulness is changing the commercial furniture industry, for the better.

HERMAN MILLER Aeron chair, made from sea-bound plastics

A

s we scroll through our feeds, the news we hear and read can make it feel like we are living amongst a world of chaos. In particular, getting a lot of attention is our planet’s declining environmental health. A frightening reality for us all, especially considering it is the only home we know.

At times it can seem that us humans are the cause of a large sum of the world’s woes, but excitingly we are also capable of finding the solutions to them.

As end consumers, the scale of the problem can seem an overwhelming task for the tools we hold in our hands. The good news is that accumulative lifestyle and purchasing choices of individuals within the greater population can make a big difference to the larger picture impact.

Thanks to a rising tide of product manufacturers acknowledging their power and position to enact a desperate change in the course of our environmental future, the ability to do some good is now much more accessible.

Cleverly conceptualised technologies, initiatives and processes from manufacturers means the ability to make responsible choices for consumers can now be facilitated through everyday purchasing decisions.

Choosing to purchase with brands that align themselves with credible environmental standards and processes can grant customers peace of mind that we are all playing our part in righting some of the world’s wrongs.

If environmental mindfulness has been a longstanding priority of yours, you may already be familiar with the term ‘circular economy’. Adopted by manufacturers, the circular economy mode of operation helps them, and their customers focus on new ways to design, produce, and consume products that won’t deplete finite resources or cause harm to the environment.

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This practice is defined by three main principles: eliminating waste; keeping materials in use; and the regeneration of natural systems. Compared to a more linear economy where materials are taken, made into a product, and then left to waste as they fall out of use; circular economy links the start to the tail end of the consumer cycle to reduce pressure on the environment.

Amongst the responsible manufacturers signing up to the circular economy movement are furniture brands who, by looking at their materials and production processes, are providing stylish and credible ways to help our planet for generations to come.

Furniture Choices for the Environmentally Minded Here’s a look at just some of the quality Australian and international brands tackling the issue of waste and employing circular economy in furniture design.

What makes these brands so impressive is their ability to maintain innovative and functional design whilst respecting our environment.

HERMAN MILLER is a founding member of NextWave Plastics, an association of brands seeking to develop the first-ever global network of ocean-bound plastic supply chains. By integrating repurposed plastic into Herman Miller’s products, they positively reduce the volume of plastic waste on the planet. Combining their pioneering efforts in ergonomic design with their target of reducing their impact on the environment, Herman Miller products such as the classic Aeron chair are now made with ocean bound plastics and with the future in mind.

FLOKK has built a strong reputation on their mindfulness toward environmental impact that flows into their design and manufacturing processes.

Flokk’s 5III Principle defines how every product is designed and manufactured. Their five circular design principles are: low weight; fewer components; correct materials; long lifespan; and design with disassembly in mind. These are tied into their three focus areas of climate, resources, and health, providing a holistic furniture design approach.

A SUSTAINABLE CHOICE

THINKING WORKS’ EONA (Everything Old is New Again) modular table exemplifies this circular economy within its design. Manufactured from post-consumer recycled material, it boasts outstanding environmental credentials coupled with a sleek and timeless design. EONA utilises 100% post-consumer recycled aluminium to produce the legs and leg inserts and has been designed for complete disassembly, ready for recycling at the end of its life.

A well-delivered design that will be making a positive impact for years to come.

Acoustic product manufacturer AUTEX are taking big steps to ensure that sustainability is intrinsically tied to every aspect of their operations, from supply chain to production and transport. Boasting impressive environmental certifications Autex’s 2021 Sustainability Report details their goals and actions including maximising the use of repurposed raw supplies with products across their range being made from 60-80% recycled materials.

HÅG Tion Chair

bdmag.com.au

11

GO L CAL

THINK SUPPORT CELEBRATE

YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS PODCAST SERIES TUNE IN Tune in. It's free to subscribe on your preferred podcasting app, just search 'Townsville ChamberCast'

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Proudly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA)

Socials Feature

iActivate Cohort Pitch Night Local social entrepreneurs have pitched their idea at the completion of Smart Precinct NQ’s iActivate program, run in partnership with CQU. Keesha Booth, Sexually Healthy Cities Combating abusive and coercive relationships and domestic violence, in a university landscape.

Laura Carcary, My Money Means Empowering young people and marginalised adults with financial literacy, for a confident and fulfilling life.

Megan Colwell, The Training Academy Support student massage therapists via a finishing academy, to ensure quality and successful providers can develop to meet local skills shortage.

Kristina Ihme, Happy Vibes Cafe Providing inclusive employment for people with intellectual impairment and/or developmental disabilities.

Kate Osborne, Life Out Loud – NQ Providing a platform for North Queenslanders to craft and tell real-life stories to live audiences, promoting connection, courage and kindness in the community.

Laura Carcary, Anna Walsh, Kate Osborne, Loretta Woodford, Steve Williams (CQU), Keesha Booth, Kristina Ihme, Megan Colwell

Anna Walsh, Pleasure Able Designing and locally manufacturing accessible sex toys for people with disabilities, to promote better physical and mental health.

Loretta Woodford, Parentmedic NQ Providing free and discounted baby first aid sessions to disadvantaged communities, as part of a wider first aid training business.

If you’ve got an idea that benefits people or the planet that you’d like to turn into a reality, apply now for the next iActivate program cohort at info@spnq.org.

Panellists Ricky Esterq uest (Social Enterprise Ne twork Townsville & NQ), Kerry Spina (Kids in Harmony) and Teresa Hudson (Community Information Centre)

TBWC International Women’s Day Luncheon The Townsville Business Women’s Circle International Women’s Day Luncheon was held in The Ville Pavillion.

ABC North Queensland Chief of Staff Paula Tapiolas facilitated the panel discussion with Rebecca Dubois, Dean Tuckey and Sherren Edkins to discuss how we can #BreakTheBias in the workplace. Over $10,000 was raised

Dr Jon Hodge, Dr Christina Nguyen, Dr Donna Dowling, Dr Ashe Coxon, Dr Alisha Thomson

for the Telstra TBWC Education Bursary to advance and support educational opportunities for women and girls in the Townsville North Queensland region.

Bursary applications close 27 May and can be found online at www.tbwc.com.au.

Jo Anne Cavanagh, Jacqui Francis, Karolien Kern, Pamela Griffiths, Emma Mooney, Kate McCurley, Jasmine Apap, Leisa Leon, Jennifer Blackshaw, Rachel Mahoney

Libbie Linley, Gabby Dockray, Liz Cassin Leah Barlow-Thompson, Kylie Peters, Rebekah Barrie, Suzanne Auris, Raelene Eves, Josie Gabrielli, Leo Canapi

Sherren Edkins, Rebecca Dubois, Dean Tuckey and Paula Tapiolas

Image credit: Matthew Allen Photography

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13

IS GIVING SOLDIERS A REAL LETHAL EDGE

With one third of Australia’s military combat power based in Townsville it could be easily assumed that so too are the bulk of Australia’s Defence industry companies. But it’s quite the opposite.

Cubic Defence Australia has been the only company to be headquartered in North Queensland since 2007, despite a huge injection of cash by the Federal Government to grow defence capability, assets and workforce.

And, with a long history operating as a forward mounting base for military operations, Director of Strategic Development Mark Horn says Townsville is an ideal location to achieve its service delivery.

Mark goes further to make an argument that being based in Northern Australia is only going to become more important as greater political focus is placed on the Indo-Pacific region.

“As a contractor you can sort of lose touch with what the Defence Force is doing but working with the Combat Training Centre on Lavarack Barracks we’re constantly exposed to the highest end of collective training who have access to the best (military) training areas in the country,” says Mark.

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BY KATE BANVILLE

“There are logistic considerations but also Townsville has a really high veteran workforce and we have a need, and an interest in employing and developing veterans.

“We put an investment into people and we have to you cannot become qualified to do a Cubic technical role with a certificate or a specific degree. It needs to be a blend of military, civilian, tech because it takes quite a while to understand the methodology of technical and training outcomes at that level.”

The programs crafted by Cubic are a blend of synthetic and live action immersive tactical scenarios to safely and realistically train soldiers to respond to adversaries in crisis, says Mark.

The futuristic approach to combat training also allows Defence to monitor, collect and analyse data from defence personnel and adapt training accordingly.

It’s been compared to a fitbit, only military grade.

But even then Mark says it’s a little more complex.

Not only is Cubic’s software unique to Defence but so too is the company’s relationship with the Australian Army where it has staff working alongside uniformed members at Townsville’s Combat Training Centre to develop and to run major national and international exercises.

Work that will only increase following Cubic’s recent awarding of a $320 million contract to support the Australian Army’s Combat Training Centre Live Instrumentation Simulation, Range Instrumentation, and Information System (CTC-LIS).

“We operate an exercise control system and it consists of a number of pieces of software, those software items are based on commercial technology adapted for military training,” says Mark.

“Defence needs to create a really strong, realistic battlefield, and of course do that safely.

“So replication of things like artillery and aircraft strikes, but also more modern effects like intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

The project would bring together the regional science, defence, health and knowledge expertise in Townsville to create an advanced environmental simulation facility, to be built in Douglas between James Cook University, Townsville University Hospital and Lavarack Barracks.

A recent business case identified that construction of the facility would inject around $255 million into Australia’s economy, with about $170 million going directly into the Townsville economy.

“We can fly unmanned air vehicles and look at things to simulate the activity of radar, detecting missiles and rockets. And so those things need to be replicated in simulation in a manner that does not require soldiers to perform any activity other than the actions they would normally take in a realistic combat setting.”

As outlined in the 2020 Defence Strategic Update and Defence Budget 2021, the Australian Defence Force has set ambitious targets to grow its workforce and capability in order to stand a chance against “major power competition, military modernisation, disruptive technological change and new threats are all making our region less safe”.

Defence’s whopping $44 billion budget combined with major projects such as the Greenvale Training Area in the works, and future possibilities to fill skill shortages in technical trades including ICT, Cyber, data management and systems integration provided a unique opportunity for North Queensland to host a Defence Industry footprint to match, says Mark.

As foundation tenant of the proposed North Queensland Simulation Park (NQ Spark), Mark says Cubic Defence Australia is not only keen on growing its own business but defence industry at large.

bdmag.com.au

15

BIG

Plans

for Plant

BY GEORGIE DESAILLY

A

North Queensland industrial chemical producer has diversified and expanded to manufacture an essential high-tech water treatment product which will be the first of its kind in Queensland.

Formed in 2015 to purchase the operations of priorowned company, Bay Chemicals, the business, now known as Cleveland Bay Chemical Company, has been producing and supplying chemical solutions to the local government authorities of North Queensland since its inception in 2003.

“When my father took over the company in 2015, we began looking at additional ways we could add value to our region’s products,” says Business Development Manager, Nicholas Whebell.

“As a North Queensland based chemical manufacturer, our raw materials are sourced locally and manufactured into chemicals for domestic or industrial use, and we supply across the region from Mackay up to Cooktown.”

After receiving support from the government’s $50 million Essential Goods and Supply Chain Program last year, the company is now in the process of manufacturing aluminium chlorohydrate (ACH), a compound used to treat drinking water and wastewater.

As COVID-19 continues to impact imports of various essential products, Nicholas says the plant is set to support the Queensland market demand for ACH, replace the need for foreign imports and add value to locally sourced raw materials.

“Currently we have to import ACH from overseas or interstate which was, and continues to be, a challenge due to COVID-19 as the disruption meant supply essentially became non-existent,” says Nicholas.

“The ACH will be manufactured using Queensland materials, including aluminium from Gladstone, and provided to industries and councils for water and wastewater treatment.

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“This will significantly expand our offer of water treatment products and allow us to explore new market opportunities.”

In addition to supporting other local manufacturers and essential workers in the supply chain, Nicholas says the project will also enable them to upgrade key infrastructure and employ additional staff to construct the plant, which is estimated to generate around 2000 tonnes of ACH. “We have access to all the raw materials to manufacture here in Townsville and this, in turn, makes everyone else in the supply chain more competitive,” says Nicholas.

“Being located on the Port Access Road is also highly beneficial as it means we have access to all the major transport routes.”

The company's commitment to the region and its customers is what Nick says has enabled them to be a “small but competitive fish in the sea,” and with the emergence of new projects – such as the Hydrogen Hub and Battery Plant - their footprint is only expected to grow.

“Despite being a small company, we are very agile in what we are doing, and we support numerous essential industries and large customers, such as Sun Metals, that would otherwise have to source interstate,” continues Nicholas.

“There is enormous opportunity in North Queensland, and Townsville in particular, as there are numerous new industries that are developing alongside a lot of existing ones, so this is certainly a step in the right direction.”

OUR CITY’S ASSETS Townsville City Council owns, operates and maintains more than $7 billion worth of assets that make this city one of the best places in the country to live, work and explore.

The assets that Council manage include the water treatment plant, roads, footpaths, parks and gardens, art galleries, libraries, buildings and Councilowned land.

Mayor Jenny Hill says it is imperative for each asset to be managed efficiently to keep the city running smoothly.

“As a local government, Council allocates a significant amount of its budget each year to maintaining, operating, improving, replacing and growing assets for the betterment of the city. This includes more than $7 billion worth of assets that Council maintains,” Cr Hill says.

“Our population is expected to pass 200,000 in the next 12 months and it’s essential for our city to keep up with that growth in order to serve the community and support expansion across the city.

“That’s why Council keeps a keen focus on the maintenance of our assets, ensuring that our residents and visitors have the best services available.”

Cr Hill says there have been a number of notable Council asset management projects during the past few months.

“Council is often looked at as the service that provides rates, roads and rubbish, but the reality is that Council provides much more than that to the city of Townsville,” she says.

“Council has delivered several large projects for the city recently, including the Southern Suburbs Rising Main, the Mount Louisa Walking Track car park, and the Corcoran Park netball court upgrades. The scope of these projects ranges from essentials for wastewater capacity as the city grows right through to sports and recreation to increase the amenity of our local parks.

“That’s because all the pieces matter in the way we run this city – we want locals to have the essentials and to also enjoy living here both now and into the future.”

Townsville is a dry tropics city, resulting in variations in rainfall and making water security a topic of importance at Council.

“Water is a precious resource and it’s essential that every Townsville resident understands that we need to make the most of this important natural resource,” she says.

“Council is continuously replacing household water meters as they reach the end of their asset life to ensure that we’re accurately tracking how much water is being used. These replacements are capable of providing realtime data to households thanks to new technology, giving residents a better understanding of how they’re using their water and ways they can be more water smart.

“This is just one way that Council prudently manages its asset replacement cycle, ensuring new technology is integrated into our city and offering improved sustainability across Townsville, which is a key focus at Council.

“Council will continue to assess the current and future needs of the city while managing assets across the city, making sure the choices made are benefiting our residents while continuing to prepare for future growth.”

Cr Hill says it is more important now than ever to be water smart across the city as the population continued to grow.

Growing a city for tomorrow.

Serving our community.

townsville.qld.gov.au

Business Advisory

An Essential Service for Every Family-Owned Business COVID-19 has introduced the term ‘essential service’ into our everyday language.

For the Business Advisory Team at PVW Partners, the concept is relatable.

The operators of family-owned businesses often need to develop and deploy a wide variety of skills as they oversee all aspects of the business from administration to operations. But it’s difficult to be prepared for every scenario that arises in the lifecycle of a business.

Colin Ryan, who leads the Business Advisory team says, “PVW Partners works with some 1500 family groups. At some stage every one of them will require a piece of specialist advice. That advice could be a light touch, where we provide guidance on a potential solution to a tough decision or challenge the business or the owners are facing.

In other circumstances, our client will ask us to step in and work closely with them on complex issues from start to finish. On some projects, we work with our clients over a number of years.”

The PVW Partners Business Advisory team specialises in providing innovative solutions and practical advice to help businesses grow and develop.

Services requested by clients range widely from: • • • •

advice on complex tax matters business sales and purchases succession planning general business strategy

The Business Advisory team within PVW Partners continues to grow its ranks, which Colin says has a renewed focus on not just improving the ability to deliver the current service offering but also bringing in personnel with new skills and ideas to expand the service offering to clients.

“It’s a credit to the whole team at PVW Partners that our firm is a great place to work and has a great reputation as an employer of choice. We continue to be able to draw exceptional talent into the Business Advisory team,” continues Colin.

The real beneficiaries of this expanded service offering are the clients of PVW Partners.

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The McMurray family started working with Colin and his team in 2016. At the time, Chris and Rosa McMurray had a successful road transport business but wanted to maximise cash flow returns and start planning for an exit from the business.

Over the course of five years, Colin worked with Chris and Rosa to almost double the size of the business and more than triple the bottom-line financial performance. The growth in both size and profitability made the business more attractive to potential buyers, with the family eventually selling the business to another Townsville transport operator in 2021.

Chris McMurray explains how Colin spoke to them about the business in a way they hadn’t experienced before.

“We spoke about everything from key customers to what was happening in the workshop. If he visited and there was a truck parked up, he wanted to know what was happening with it,” says Chris.

“We really wanted to set ourselves up financially and hand over the business in good shape to someone else so we could retire to the family farm.

It was a lot of hard work, but we achieved what we originally set out to achieve in 2016.”

“It’s a credit to the whole team at PVW Partners that our firm is a great place to work and has a great reputation as an employer of choice. We continue to be able to draw exceptional talent into the Business Advisory team.”

Townsville | Innisfail | Cairns

Regional Australians Growing Regional Australia

From L to R: Colin Ryan (PVW Partners), Rachael Geary & Matthew Geary (BMR Logistics)

The Business Advisory Team are now working with another transport operator, BMR Logistics, which is owned by Matthew and Rachael Geary. BMR Logistics is growing and PVW Partners believe Matthew and Rachael have the smarts to build a truly successful business.

• Business Advisory

Rachael Geary says, “PVW Partners talk with us about every aspect of our business. At a recent strategy meeting, we discussed profit margins, dealings with particular customers, team management, and assessing growth opportunities.

They know our business and they know what we want to do with it. They’re our trusted advisors.”

• Tax and Accounting

“So far, so good,” says Colin. “They’re doubling the business every year while still improving their interactions with customers and their people.

Matthew and Rachael work hard, work smart and are really great people. We love working with them.”

• Agribusiness

• SMSF • Bookkeeping www.pvwpartners.com (07) 4721 8500 Scan For More Info

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WORKPLACE

BY GEORGIE DESAILLY

What would your workplace look like if it employed people of all abilities? Diversity and inclusion in the workplace has been a defining issue in the global business sphere.

Although the introduction of numerous Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) policies has seen some progress occur, many organisations are still erring on the side of caution when it comes to employment of those with disabilities.

“The employment of someone with a disability and the business benefits it can provide, both socially and economically, continues to be overlooked by many companies,” explains Ricky Esterquest, owner of local consulting business, Towards Better, whose mission is to connect and empower businesses to employ inclusive workforce practices.

“There is a common stereotype amongst employers that people with disabilities present more costs than benefits but in fact, it is quite the opposite.”

According to the 2018 Social Inclusion in the Workplace Report, at least five million people with a disability living in Australia were seen to be potentially excluded from business, even though they control over $40 billion of annual disposable income. In Townsville alone, approximately 18,720 people with disabilities are unemployed. This is more than twice the rate of unemployment in comparison to those living without a disability.

“That is a huge untapped market of talent,” states Ricky. “There are over 12,000 registered businesses in Townsville and if 50% of these employed just one person with a disability, it would reduce unemployment by 20%.

“As workers, they can ease talent shortages and add to the organisational diversity that drives better decision-making and innovation.

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“Their insight is increasingly needed to meet the needs of diverse customer bases, and of course, a workplace representing the diversity in the community will then be seen by consumers as part of their community.”

As Ricky points out, diverse workforces can boost innovation and problem solving, but most importantly, ensure businesses can represent the needs of different consumers. You only have to look at established companies such as Apple and H&M who, as also noted in the Social Inclusion in the Workplace Report, have utilised the expertise of diverse teams, including staff with a disability (HERE) to create more accessible goods and services.

So, how can organisations expand their diversity and inclusion initiatives to include those with disabilities?

“It needs to be underpinned by management strategy,” answers Ricky. “It is important for staff to see that inclusion is a priority for their CEO and board, because they are the movers and shakers in the organisation; if they aren’t doing anything to take ownership and drive accountability, then nobody in the organisation will.”

Whilst Diversity & Inclusion policies are a starting point, they are limited in being able to provide specific insight and understanding. Therefore, Ricky says Social Role Valorisation (SRV) training and other forms of action learning can be highly beneficial in helping organisation’s break down their own bias and misconceptions surrounding minority groups.

“SRV helps to understand the life experience of marginalised people and why people with a disability are ‘devalued.’ It also helps organisations understand inclusive language and highlight that accessibility is individual; two people with a similar disability will have different needs,” he adds.

There are over 12,000 registered businesses in Townsville and if 50% of these employed just one person with a disability, it would reduce unemployment by 20%.

: “This type of thinking can also be applied to issues such as age, gender, culture and language, and can provide further insight on other inclusive practices the organisation may need to implement. This could include the ability for parents to leave work early for school pick up or having a dedicated area where those from religious backgrounds can pray.”

Disability Employment Statistics

4.4M AUSTRALIANS WITH DISABILITIES

17.7%

of our population

Yet in order to attract and retain a diverse workforce and reap the economic benefits it provides; organisations must start by rethinking their hiring practices.

“When employers include, often unconsciously, sub-optimal criteria in job requirements, they miss out on numerous skilled candidates,” says Ricky.

“It is important to consider things such as the application format, online accessibility, and even the language of job descriptions.

“Even try to think outside the box about how you can take all the smaller tasks that either never get done or aren’t an effective part of one role and collate them into another potentially parttime role that an employee, for example one with a disability, could do extremely well and add massive value to the business.

“We think that inclusion is as simple as having more physical accessibility. Consider as well, is your workplace fully accessible, both in terms of the physical environment to work-day structure, to hiring and recruitment and technology.

“Whilst these are all important to think about, having inclusion on your radar and in workplace discussions is a fantastic first step.”

In 2018 there were:

(ABS 2018)

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE for people with any type of disability is:

10.3%

More than twice the rate for people without disability:

4.6%

(ABS 2018)

SKILLED WORK done by employed workers with a disability as reported by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2012):

Clerical & Administrative

14.1%

Business Owners

11.6%

Technicians & Trade Workers

15.2%

What is Social Role Valorisation? (SRV) SRV is a framework that helps us understand human relationships and the life experience of marginalised people, and why people with disability are ‘devalued.’

Professionals

19.9%

Work from Home

33.7%

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? t a h W w o N

BY GEORGIE DESAILLY

Photo Credits: Townsville Enterprise Limited

It’s been just under two months since the country watched in awe as the first international flight in almost two years touched down in the Gold Coast, marking the reopening of Australia to the world.

Whilst this has triggered excitement in the tourism industry and given locals the chance to start marketing and scaling their businesses once again in preparation for the return of travellers, many are eager to see what this highly anticipated reopening will mean for the region’s economic recovery.

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It’s no secret that the northern tourism industry has taken a hit over the last two years. According to the Queensland Tourism Industry Reference Panel, there were 11.3 million less visitors who travelled to and within Queensland during 2020, representing a loss of $12.3 billion in Queensland’s overnight visitor expenditure.

“Even though only 10-20% of our pre-COVID market was made up of international tourists, we have many businesses across the region who, over decades, have built their business and experience on international markets – the likes of wildlife parks, backpacker accommodation, Magnetic Island and reef operators,” says CEO of Townsville Enterprise, Claudia Brumme-Smith, who also notes the critical role the reopening will play in bridging the gap in the regional workforce.

“The temporary international workers are an important part of the local labour force in North Queensland, particularly in the tourism, hospitality, and agricultural sectors. The border opening is a step in the right direction to starting to address some of these challenges.”

Now that international borders have re-opened, we have been inundated with enquiries for international travel. There is definitely a pent-up demand for travel and people are now looking to make up for lost time.

The return of international travellers can’t come soon enough for the Burdekin Shire, whose lack of backpackers and seasonal workers has dramatically impacted the region’s horticultural industry and economy.

“Pre-COVID, the Burdekin had, on average, over 500 international workers in the Shire,” explains Burdekin Mayor, Lyn McLaughlin. “With an insecure workforce, some farmers were left with no choice but to leave fruit and vegetables in the paddock to rot.

“This shortage of international workers has had a negative flow-on effect through our economy, with both less workers in the region to pick and pack crops and less money being spent at local businesses. The opening of borders will welcome these working holidaymakers back into the Shire to support industries.”

Owner of Travel Associates, Debbie Rains, agrees that the opening of borders is certainly a “welcomed relief” for travel agents and the entire tourism sector alike, particularly since international travel is now quickly gaining back its momentum.

“Whilst the opening of international borders is great news for our business and business recovery, it was an extremely difficult time for our industry,” acknowledges Debbie.

“Now that international borders have re-opened, we have been inundated with enquiries for international travel. There is definitely a pent-up demand for travel and people are now looking to make up for lost time.”

transfer charters for visiting cruise ships in Cairns, Townsville and Airlie Beach. With borders no longer a barrier, General Manager of SeaLink North Queensland, Chris Briggs, says they are “quietly optimistic” the region will eventually return to pre-COVID levels of international visitors.

“We are expecting after the northern hemisphere summer and in the latter half of this year, that we will see improved international visitor numbers which is expected to further strengthen into 2023,” exudes Chris.

“We see a number of opportunities emerging from the reopening of international borders as travel desire to Australia remains high for many of our important markets in Europe, the UK and America.

“We expect that this will start small given we are a long-haul destination but will improve once there is more confidence for travelling long distances.”

Pre-pandemic, Magnetic Island was swarming with international tourists, making up between 20-25% of visitation throughout the year. According to the Magnetic Island Economic Analysis conducted by Townsville Enterprise in 2019, there were 89,508 overseas visitors to the Island recorded in that year alone. Despite experiencing an immediate 95% reduction in business overnight at the start of the pandemic, Chris says the strong support from North Queensland is what has kept Magnetic Island tourism afloat, with short-stay options being increasingly inhigh demand.

CONTINUE OVER PAGE 

Surprisingly though, travellers aren’t being called towards the air but rather the sea, with cruising now defying the odds and fast becoming one of the more popular modes of travelling for out-bound tourism.

“We have seen a real spike in travellers wanting to get back to cruising,” adds Debbie.

“With cruise lines introducing new safety innovations and successfully operating all over the world, river cruising is popular at the moment and common locations for expeditions currently include Antarctica alongside New Zealand and the Kimberly.”

This increased interest in cruising is further being propelled forward on home soil, with SeaLink North Queensland recently investing $14 million into new vessels, which will also see the return of ‘Ship to Shore’

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We are in a fortunate position that as a destination we do have new stories to tell, we are one of few locations to launch globally significant tourism experiences during the pandemic and we have continued to see positive global media attention as a result.

But, in the same way that Australians enthusiastically embraced domestic adventure during COVID, the same has been seen in many overseas markets, and whilst everyone in the local tourism sector are optimistic for a full recovery, they’re also cautioning that it won’t be something that happens immediately.

“While we have been waiting for this moment for over two years, we need to acknowledge that international tourism will take some time to rebuild,” continues Claudia.

“There are external constraints like the levels of confidence in the inbound traveller markets, and the lead time between planning a holiday and getting on the plane. This means we’re not likely to see an immediate return of international visitors to pre-COVID levels.”

Mayor McLaughlin echoes this and says despite a transition period being “inevitable,” it is difficult to predict what this will look like and how long it will last.

“The Australian Government has incentives in place to encourage working holiday-makers, but it is uncertain if workers would holiday first, rather than starting work,” acknowledges Cr McLaughlin.

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“This period will also be extremely competitive with other regions in Australia and other reopened countries also wanting to attract this market.”

Despite the brewing competition, Townsville Enterprise has already found new opportunities to future-proof our region and our destination brand to capture “this new age of traveller.” New and iconic establishments such as the Museum of Underwater of Art, the refurbishment of Reef HQ and the new $80 million hotel development next to The Ville Resort Casino also come under this overarching plan, playing a crucial part in raising the profile of the region in a competitive marketing landscape.

“We are in a fortunate position that as a destination we do have new stories to tell, we are one of few locations to launch globally significant tourism experiences during the pandemic and we have continued to see positive global media attention as a result,” adds Claudia.

“We are currently undertaking a destination brand review, a tourism master plan for Magnetic Island and are working closely with the Townsville Airport to continue to build our aviation access.

“This suite of work will put our region in good stead as the world enters its next phase of travel.”

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Collaboration:

The Secret Business Weapon?

BY GEORGIE DESAILLY

Collaboration is quite a buzzword at the moment. Gone are the days where businesses are keeping their cards close to their chest, with many instead now choosing to openly embrace this concept of the “shared economy,” which, through the creation of dynamic and innovative partnerships, is enabling businesses to achieve significantly greater reach.

Local Business Growth Consultant and Author of Big Little Business, Jayne Arlett, says collaboration has become a core strategic component for local businesses, with the region seeing a peak in such partnerships over the last year.

“Collaboration in its simplest form is working together for mutual benefit,” explains Jayne. “It can be a powerful way to improve your customer’s experience, your knowledge and your business revenue.

“Many businesses can also benefit from a long-term relationship with a non-competing business that serves a similar market.”

This has been the case for electrical professionals, Michael Cazzulino and Thomas Raggatt, who started their business, RCG Consultants last year, to provide their industry with quality electrical estimation and project services for commercial and industrial projects.

“It started with an idea and many coffees,” laughs Thomas.

“There are numerous niche areas in the construction industry such as electrical estimating, project design and tender/bid submission services, that are in high demand.

“We saw this as an opportunity to combine our areas of expertise and establish a business that effectively assists the larger industry body with an array of tailored electrical construction services.”

With a combined 25 years experience in the industry, the pair have collaborated with small to large-sized contractors within the commercial, industrial and mining sectors to solve some of their biggest challenges.

“For many small to medium size enterprises, it isn’t feasible for them to be hiring a full-time electrical estimator or trying to squeeze in the time to write tender and bid submissions,” adds Michael.

“Our service enables our clients to operate more efficiently; it gives them an alternative option that is both cost and time effective. It’s a win-win situation.”

According to a recent Deloitte Report, Australia’s collaborative economy is worth about $46 billion per

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year. So, how can businesses work towards creating more collaborative opportunities and unlocking these business benefits?

“It's important to consider the complete needs of your ideal customer - what does your business offer at a high standard and what are the service or product gaps that your customer will need to look elsewhere for?” continues Jayne.

“You may also develop a team of other businesses that you collaborate with on a regular basis for the benefit of your customers and for your own business growth.”

This customer-centric approach is something Karissa Chase understands all too well. Her business, Renegade Handmade, has been built off collaborating with local artisans to offer consumers a wide range of quality products.

“Renegade Handmade is really an umbrella; it bridges the gap between local makers and consumers, who enjoy having a central place to purchase quality, local and unique handmade items,” says Karissa.

“This collaborative approach also trickles down and I always love seeing local artisans who have been connected via Renegade Handmade go on to collaborate together on different projects.”

The economic benefits from this collaborative business approach shouldn’t be underestimated. Since 2013, Karissa has gone on to open a second store in Townsville and started the Renegade Handmade Mega Markets, which last year, generated around $250,000 of revenue in a single weekend.

“Many people certainly underestimate the role collaboration can play in generating revenue and building a business around this,” she continues.

“Between 70-80% of shop sales goes back to the local makers and the Mega Markets really highlighted that there is a huge demand for this.”

Whilst collaboration certainly does provide multiple economic benefits, Jayne also notably points out that these partnerships act as much more than simply a transaction.

“At the end of the day, meeting other business owners with different skill sets frequently stimulates great conversations and innovative thinking that may present new opportunities you didn't even realise were there,” she adds. “And who wouldn’t want that?”

Tips for business collaboration:

Local Collaborations

Source Credit: Jayne Arlett.

The best collaborations are customer centric - what’s in the best interests of my customer?

APRICUS HEALTH Local businesses Access Therapy Services and Helping Hands merged last year, rebranding as Apricus Health and combining their 25 years experiences to further bolster Allied Health Services in the north.

Join business networking groups like the Townsville Chamber of Commerce and the Townsville Business Women’s Circle to connect with other businesses and understand their offerings.

Relationships are key, make sure your values and intent are well aligned.

Remember that collaborations are a mutual exchange, not a one-way referral.

Ensure clarity of the roles and responsibilities of the collaboration.

To avoid misunderstandings, have a written MOU or partnership agreement (even for small collabs).

DESIGN WORKS APPAREL & SUPPORT LOCAL TOWNSVILLE These two powerhouse brands collaborated to produce a Support Local Townsville T-Shirt, featuring a list of local businesses on the shirt.

What is the sharing economy?

A sharing economy is defined as an economic system in which assets and services are shared between private individuals.

RCG CONSULTANTS

up to provide niche RCG Consultants have teamed ses in the industry. electrical services for busines

New Head of Junior School

Townsville Grammar School has welcomed Martin Tait to the community this year, as the new Head of Junior School.

Moving from Sydney, Martin and his wife Monika have settled in quickly to the North Queensland lifestyle, describing the local community as very welcoming.

“Everyone says hello here,” laughs Martin. “That was one of the first things we noticed, how openly friendly the people are in Townsville. When we walked The Strand for the first time, just about every person we passed said hello – that’s quite a difference to living in a big city.”

Martin says the appeal of regional Queensland was one of the attractions of the position with Townsville Grammar School.

“We saw the position advertised, and, with our sense of mid-life adventure, it seemed very appealing to move North,” laughs Martin. “On further investigation, we learned more about the School’s reputation and it’s values – which seemed very aligned to my own values as an educational leader. I love the School’s motto – Bonus Intra Melior Exi, which translates to ‘Come in good, go out better’. This really resonates with me, and I am already witnessing this in action across the School, with the underlying mantra, ‘personal best’ - something that all students hear regularly.”

Martin comes to Townsville Grammar School with a wide breadth of experience, having worked at Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School, Sydney Grammar School, and the Avondale Grammar School in Singapore.

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His most recent position was Principal of Masada College in Sydney.

“Grammar schools offer a particular style of education, and I am very keen to further strengthen our Junior School offering,” said Martin. “A Grammar education is a broad and liberal education, and the Junior School sets the foundation. The early years have an intensive approach to numeracy and literacy, and from Year 3, students are introduced to specialist programs that lead into the Grammar secondary experience.

“Our Junior School education provides an incredible learning foundation for children. It works exceptionally well, with a continuity of teaching in line with the Grammar commitment to providing an exceptional education.

“The dual-campus situation of the Junior School was also one of the appealing elements of this role. I spend time at both campuses, Annandale and North Shore, engaging with each community, whilst continuing to work on our one-school approach.

“I am so pleased to see that the values of the School are so evident in daily life. Students are respectful, they are taught to value ‘personal best’, they are encouraged to develop a service-mindset and they are supported in discovering and considering the wider world community. These are the values that we need to fully develop in this generation of children who will become the community and business leaders of our future.”

DISCOVER THE GRAMMAR DIFFERENCE PRE-PREP TO YEAR 12

North Ward | Annandale | North Shore

After enduring two years of intense COVID restrictions in Sydney, heading north almost felt like an escape - until they arrived in Townsville just as the COVID situation ballooned in North Queensland, resulting in a delay to Term 1. “It’s been an unusual start to the school year, I will say,” laughs Martin. “However, through this, I could very quickly and clearly see the sense of community that exists in our school and in Townsville.

“The people we’ve met so far are genuine and authentic, and Townsville seems like a very tight community.

I think that says a great deal about regional communities – people look out for each other and seem to take an interest in others. It’s definitely a more relaxed way of life and we are really embracing everything Townsville and the region has to offer – how wonderful is Magnetic Island!”

The one thing that perhaps will stand in Martin’s way is the fact that he is a Sydney Roosters fan, deep in Cowboys country. “I’ve already poked the bear,” jokes Martin.

“I turned up to school wearing a Roosters face mask and then wore it to our first online assembly. I think our families were too polite to really push back at that point, but I guess at State of Origin time that might be a different matter!”

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TGS.QLD.EDU.AU

BY GEORGIE DESAILLY

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With the sun always in full swing here in North Queensland, Townsville based swimwear brand, Kamara Australia, is reimagining sun

“North Queensland celebrates an outdoors lifestyle, we wanted to honour the laid-back beach vibe and showcase the region that inspired Kamara’s beginnings,” says Naomi.

protection through their latest line of ethical and sun-conscious swimwear that is putting the region in the national limelight all the while paying homage to the brand’s Indigenous roots.

Powerhouse sisters, Kirsty Parnel and Naomi Collings, who are behind the iconic Australian-made swimwear label, first came up with the concept of Kamara five years ago after Naomi received a shock Melanoma diagnosis that left both sisters reeling. Their goal? To create gorgeous, sunconscious swimwear for a country that has some of the highest skin cancer rates in the world.

“Townsville has some beautiful places that represent Kamara’s culture perfectly and we also wanted to shine a spotlight on our region for our large Victorian and New South Wales audiences.

“We would be super happy if our shoot inspired travel to North Queensland through sharing some of our favourite local places that were made for our Kamara pieces.”

In 2020, Kamara was recognised as a globally in-demand product, securing an ongoing partnership to sell through the popular online brand, The Iconic. But success is more than sales to Naomi, who is hoping to inspire businesses to think about how they can operate more sustainably.

“Business success can look different depending on who you’re talking to. It’s not always equal to profits, and it’s especially not equal to profits when operators are inconsiderate, manipulating customers or destroying the planet and our resources,” she continues.

“We use bold prints, unique designs and rich protective fabrics to deliver ethical swimwear through the most luxurious sun protection available, and it is made right here in Australia.”

With a strong focus on sustainability and manufacturing onshore, Kamara has since grown into one of the nation’s most sought-after specialty beach brands. Their cultural designs and collaborations with First Nations artists are influenced by their own connection to Country, and have been featured in Mercedes Benz Fashion Festival, Brisbane Fashion Month, Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival and the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, alongside multiple internationally renowned publications.

Their latest line JOY comes with an increased commitment to protecting the planet, with the brand introducing Econyl into selective swimwear pieces – a nylon rescued from cleaned waste found in fishing nets, fabric scraps, carpet flooring and industrial plastic that would otherwise go to landfill.

“We don’t pump out multiple collections all year round carelessly contributing waste, manipulating buyers into excessive purchasing, and eventually adding to the cycle of oversupply and discounting mass amounts of stock,” continues Naomi.

“We rarely reproduce in a print, making our pieces limited edition, and our buyers appreciate that exclusivity and our responsible methods used to create high quality products that will be loved for many years to come.”

The photoshoot for Kamara’s latest collection took place in our own backyard, putting the region’s pristine locations - such as The Ville and Magnetic Island - on the national stage, which Naomi hopes will spark tourism and investment opportunities.

“It’s about protecting our customers’ skin and spreading important skin health awareness through everything we do.”

Since launching, the brand has donated a portion of each sale to the Melanoma Institute of Australia as well as multiple Indigenous foundations. Going forward, Naomi says they will continue to look for ways to further contribute sustainably to the fashion industry, fulfill their responsibility to heal Country and expand their brand internationally.

“The next phase for Kamara is about capitalising on our U.S and Europe interest, progressing our influencer and collaboration partnerships, progressing our First Nations collaborations, and looking for more opportunities to work with and support our chosen charity organisations,” says Naomi.

“The future is exciting for the label. We will continue to create gorgeous swimwear and share the sun protection message with women around the world.

“While our headquarters here in Townsville is away from the bustling epicentre of Australian fashion, we are only a short flight away.”

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The workplace as we know it is changing – fast – with career experts predicting tomorrow’s employees will need to be critical thinkers, who upskill regularly in order to solve complex problems.

“Employers will expect their employees to have the capacity to redesign in systems and sustainability terms,” says newly appointed Master of Business Administration Director Damian Scanlon.

“They will need to be able to demonstrate practical leadership in complex, transdisciplinary environments, which is why James Cook University’s Master of Business Administration degree focuses on teaching the skills needed to achieve this.”

With more than 15 years of executive experience working for major Australian publicly listed companies, Damian knows the business world well. Since leaving the corporate environment in late 1998, he has successfully pursued a number of entrepreneurial opportunities in the aquaculture, software and property industries, both as a shareholder and Executive Director.

“In my role as Director of James Cook University’s Master of Business Administration program, I’ll be focused on students’ personal development, helping them sharpen their critical thinking, take a global outlook and embrace teamwork,” Damian says.

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Alumni of James Cook University’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree include Aaron Newman, who is Group Chief Executive Officer of Queensland Country Bank and Queensland Country Health Fund. At the time of his studies, Aaron was in a management role.

“I found the ability to directly apply the knowledge gained valuable in not only performing my role but also thinking more strategically about the business,” Aaron says.

“The program was led by lecturers with real-world experience, who provided context to the theoretical concepts that enriched the learning experience. And the ability to connect with emerging leaders in the business community, who were also completing their MBA at the time, provided valuable networking opportunities.”

Those keen to enrol in an MBA should also consider completing JCU’s new Graduate Certificate of Project Management, which consists of four subjects that count towards the MBA. This means you would only need to complete the remaining eight subjects to graduate with your Master of Business Administration.

The first university-level qualification in Australia to emphasise skill development in asset management, the Graduate Certificate of Project Management offers students hands-on experience with corporate projects and only takes six months fulltime (or part-time equivalent) to complete. A student is also able

enrol in the MBA to gain a broader range of management skills and take up specific subjects in Project Management as part of their program of study.

“With the Graduate Certificate you’ll be equipped with the skills identified by the Project Management Institute as essential for managing projects and contributing to the prosperity, health, safety and sustainability of tropical communities,” says Associate Professor Carmen Reaiche, who leads the program.

Carmen has held a number of management positions where she’s designed and supervised the implementation of project management systems and strategic project plans for businesses like General Electric, Mobil and Centrelink.

Passionate about passing her skills onto students, she has supervised project management research not only in Australia but also Venezuela, Hong Kong, China, Singapore and Malaysia.

“The beauty of project management is that every project, and every day, is different,” she says.

“This provides you with the opportunity to think outside of the box on a daily basis – a skill increasingly in demand with employers.”

TOP 5 REASONS TO DO AN MBA

EXPAND YOUR NETWORK

1

In the world of business it’s who you know as well as what you know. While undertaking a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at James Cook University, you will develop lifelong connections.

This is your opportunity to establish an extensive business network that includes fellow students, academics, industry professionals and JCU alumni.

2

DEVELOP A MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH Gone are the days where complex economic and managerial problems are solved with single discipline, linear-thinking mindsets. The world of business is competitive and you have to be able

REFINE YOUR LEADERSHIP SKILLS Develop management skills across the breadth of business-related areas, such as people, marketing, financials, operations, innovation, entrepreneurship, and change, as well as building critical thinking and collaborative problem-

Graduate Certificate of Project Management

solving skills.

4

RISE IN MANAGEMENT OR CHANGE CAREER Many students pursue MBAs to increase their earning potential, advance to an executive level or change the industry they’re working in.

5

Designed in conjunction with industry professionals, our courses instil future leaders with life-long practical skills.

Master of Business Administration

to quickly adapt to the changing environment.

3

JCU College of Business, Law & Governance

Bachelor of Business Bachelor of Commerce Bachelor of Laws

ACTIVATE CRITICAL THINKING Within an MBA you’ll be working alongside peers from diverse backgrounds, each with their own stories to tell. Having diversity within the classroom will provide you with the opportunity to see problems from multiple perspectives.

EXCITED ABOUT EXPANDING YOUR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES? To discuss your journey further, email Associate Professor Carmen Reaiche regarding the Graduate Certificate of Project Management at carmen. reaiche@jcu.edu.au and Damian Scanlon regarding the Master of Business Administration at damian.scanlon@jcu.edu.au.

Experience has no substitute. jcu.edu.au

BELLCO LAW

Welcomes Senior Lawyer.

With offices located in Townsville and Brisbane, Bellco Law has been at the forefront of legal practice in Queensland since its establishment in 2015. Now, in a year of growth, the firm has recently welcomed renowned private solicitor and prominent Townsville local, Mr Tim McKee OAM to the team, who brings with him almost forty years’ experience and insight in the legal sector.

Tim, who previously ran his own law practice, has been a solicitor in Townsville since 1983, and says he is thrilled to have joined a young and progressive firm in a role which still enables him time to pursue his service and charitable interests as a member of the Rotary Club of Townsville.

“I have been a solicitor in private practice for 39 years, all of them in Townsville, where I’ve had the privilege to help hundreds of people with their legal needs continuously over that time,” explains Tim. “I had previously worked on several legal matters with Bellco Law, and the team impressed me with their efficiency, care for clients and their practical approach to problem solving.

“I am very pleased to be part of this firm and to be able to contribute to its success with the experience and knowledge I have gained from my time in the legal profession in the North.”

In his new role as Special Counsel, Tim will provide Bellco’s clients with timely and practical advice in the areas of small business, commercial and rural property and business and estate planning.

“I still relish the challenge of legal work and with the help of Bellco support staff, I will continue to provide the best care I can for the legal needs of my clients, both new and old,” continues Tim.

“I also aim, through both mentoring and by example, to imbue the young lawyers at Bellco with the need to ensure client care is always their paramount consideration in legal practise.”

Bellco partners, Shaun Campbell and Melanie Costi, say Tim’s addition to the team will play a vital role in growing the firm and mentoring their younger staff members; something Tim is very much embracing.

“It has been an absolute pleasure to have a lawyer of Tim McKee’s calibre and standing on board with us at Bellco Law,” says Shaun.

“Tim brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in commercial and property law.

“He is very well known and respected in the Townsville Community, and we look forward to Tim sharing his wisdom and experience with us and helping us to train our young staff.”

Photo credits: Phil Copp Photography

FOCUSING ON YOU & YOUR BUSINESS WHO WE ARE?

WHAT WE DO?

Two words are very important to us -

We work closely alongside business owners

Diversity & Specialised and we value both.

to bring more clarity, direction and support,

Offering a diverse range of services and

improving elements of your life beyond

specialising in a few key industries.

just the business.

TAX & ACCOUNTING

BUSINESS CONSULTING

Help with the tax & accounting issues that stress you out.

Guidance & direction you need to build a stronger business

LIFESTYLE & FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS

SPECIALIST SERVICES

Work towards your ideal lifestyle now & in the future

The legal help you need for planning ahead

CONTACT US (07) 4796 0888

AITKENVALE OFFICE

KIRWAN OFFICE

mail@couttsredington.com.au

278 Ross River Road Aitkenvale QLD 4814

127 Thuringowa Drive Kirwan QLD 4817

www.couttsredington.com.au

Return

to the golden era

Tony and Rosie Titley

Regional communities such as Charters Towers want to ensure that not only visitors shop in the area, but locals as well. The township of Charters Towers is drenched in history due to its gold-mining fame.

Settlers travelled from all over the world and from within Australia for their chance in a share of riches.

To support a growing settlement, supplies need to be bought and sold, thus the establishment of trading in stock and goods started succeeding during the mid-1800s to the early 1900s. It is here that famous names of the region such as Titleys and Hollimans made their mark.

Titleys, now in its fourth generation, was originally established as a bootmaker in 1926 and has recently stepped into the future with a large new retail offering at Goldtower Central. The move to the Goldtower retail precinct has given W.Titley and Co. a total floor area of 1376m2. The floor area allows the opportunity to have all the Western Wear under one roof. Stocking the leading Australian brands; Akubra, R.M Williams, Thomas Cook, Pilbara, Just Country, and Statesman.

As well as global brands such as Ariat, Cinch, Panhandle and American Hat. It is fair to say that anyone living in the Charters Towers region and neighbouring towns would have purchased a pair of jeans or two at Titleys.

“The first few weeks of trading in the new premise has been overwhelming, and the response from the community has been nothing but sensational.

The comments have been so positive, and it is very humbling to now be providing hundreds of brands in western wear in this new store,” says the owner, Tony Titley.

Goldtower Central is now ready to make its mark in the supply of commercial, industrial, and retail areas to support the next phase of growth in the region.

An announcement on the horizon is that Hollimans originally founded in 1904, will combine their current outlets to give their customers a one-stop shop, with Hollimans Rural Mitre 10 signing a recent lease.

Goldtower Central importantly is now home to many new and existing businesses in Charters Towers

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including Hello Pretty Skin and Beauty, Queensland Rural, Right at Home, Adiktd Dance Studio, Phoenix Home Care, and Lamont Graphics. These tenants are in the first stages of the development with other new buildings set to be developed. Each of the tenants knows that shopping locally is key to keeping the region strong and with that comes employment and growth opportunities.

Other news that has been abuzz in the community is the opening of Harvey Norman, Australia’s leading retailers of furniture, bedding, computers, and electrical who are taking a large retail footprint at Goldtower Central. Three new owners will operate each of the separate departments, investing in the future of Charters Towers.

“Harvey Norman will employ up to 40 persons,” said Paul McIver owner of Goldtower. “This shows a strong faith in regional communities from an iconic Australian brand, and it is bringing a new range of quality products to not only Charters Towers, but to communities who travel from Hughenden, Julia Creek and surrounding areas for shopping.”

With Australians on the move to regional areas, Charters Towers can only prosper into the future, and just like its forefathers who went about searching for gold, Goldtower Central will create a trading precinct deserving to a booming western town.

Internal Titleys Store

Hello Pretty Skin and Beauty

More agents, better results.

When you sell with Ray White Townsville, there is not only one agent allocated to assist you... there are eight! Our sales agents collaborate as a team so our clients receive support, knowledge and expertise from all eight of our sales agents.

Julie Munro 0407 352 276

Wendy Litster 0438 232 788

Mark Pritchard 0419 705 796

Selling or renting your home?

Experience the Ray White Townsville experience.

Errol Munro 0417 798 522

Varun Pinto 0499 911 901

Jonathan Chalhoub 0421 913 658

Ray White Townsville | 4421 5900 | townsville.qld@raywhite.com

Haylee Tickle 07 4421 5900

Natasha van-Vegche 07 4421 5900

raywhitetownsville.com.au

Smart Automation Hub Opens its Doors

BY GEORGIE DESAILLY

Imagine being able to use your voice to control the television, summon the vacuum with your phone and turn your AC on while driving home from work. These high-tech advances may still seem like something from a dystopian world but thanks to a new state-of-the-art educational facility that has recently launched in Townsville, local automation company, CleverLife, is changing the way we operate within the home.

Manufacturing over 30 smart home products - from fans and down lights to sensors and cameras CleverLife is an electrical product manufacturer founded two years ago by Ben Casley after he identified the benefits technology could bring to the domestic housing industry whilst working as an electrician.

“I was first attracted to the home automation industry in 2015 after I attended a trade show and witnessed the early developments of this technology,” says Ben, who has 15 years’ experience in the electrical industry working with High Voltage Automation and Control Systems.

“We took a trip to China in 2018 where we visited some factories and other trade shows and came back with a whole new vision for CleverLife and haven’t looked back since.”

Built around a connected system of computer devices, known as IoT (the internet of things), CleverLife has since become one of the largest

suppliers of home automation and remote-control products in the market, and is quickly establishing itself as the leading Australianowned smart home automation brand.

The company, which currently sells their devices nationally through their online store and marketplace, has recently gained global traction for their technological innovation and are working to capitalise off this interest to target overseas markets.

“As it stands Australia has the highest level of compliance in the world; this makes it quite easy for us to move into overseas markets with our devices – providing the voltage operating specs are the same which does sometimes limit the countries we can sell into,” says Ben. “We are also really pushing to get a range of our devices into the Electrical Wholesale market, which would see us start to distribute nationally on a B2B scale.

“We have seen some interest from lighting wholesalers in Tasmania as

well as South Australia, so this is all a really promising sign of things to come.”

Despite this being a large industry, Ben says much of the technology is still relatively unknown to many people. Therefore, their new educational automation hub, which opened its doors to the region in January, uses showrooms to replicate the home environment and highlight how the technology operates in the domestic sphere.

“The CleverLife automation hub has areas set up like your own home, where you can sit and talk to the team, and get a true idea of what automation can do for you and see first-hand the benefits of integrated-living,” continues Ben. “This innovation hub will now put Townsville on the map as one of the national leaders in automation technology as it is a first of its kind.

“There are certainly exciting things in the works for both CleverLife and the region.”

bdmag.com.au

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One

Have you noticed that everyone who’s anyone is asking for a Capability Statement right now?

You know your business and you know you can do the work so here are my top 5 tips to create a banging Capability Statement so you can get on with getting the job done.

KEEP IT SHORT AND SWEET Your Capability Statement should be around 2-4 pages (think both sides of 1-2 pages of A4). The front page should include all the pertinent details of the business including logo, tagline, ABN and ACN, address, telephone numbers, website, and social media handles. If your business has powerful vision and mission statements, they can be included on the front page too. Your core capabilities should come next so brainstorm with your team and if the list is long, group them. If you are short on space, you don’t need to include company values. If you operate in a sector that is very values driven, then keep it in.

• BULLET POINTS ARE YOUR FRIEND Particularly in technical industries such as construction and science when more detail is required, use bullet points or tables to cover core capabilities, services offered, certificates held, and major clients. If these lists are still too long and need cutting back, only use information that applies to the audience you are writing for. Your Capability Statement should be tailored with the reader in mind.

SHOW THEM WHAT YOU CAN DO A good indicator of future performance is (generally) past performance. Consider the audience of your capability statement and tailor accordingly. For example, if you are using your Capability Statement to apply for a government tender, include other government projects or projects of a similar value in your portfolio. If you are using your statement to become a preferred supplier for another business, show other successful relationships you’ve maintained of a similar nature. Use testimonials as social proof of your business capabilities. Again, these should be short and sweet and answer the questions; what was life like for your client before using your product or service?

And what is life like now? Include awards received or other ways the business has been recognised.

Four.

DOES IT LOOK GOOD?

A Capability Statement is a marketing and business development tool and should be treated as such. The document should tie in with your business branding so make sure the colour scheme, font pairings and logos are in line with your style guide. If you are planning on providing a hard copy of your statement then choose high quality, thick, glossy paper.

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GET YOUR CAPABILITY STATEMENT PROOF-READ Last but not least, ask someone to proofread your Capability Statement. Your proof-reader should consider readability and flow, grammar and spelling, the general visual of your document, and most importantly, does it answer the questions; what do we do and how well do we do it?

NATALIE DUKES Natalie Dukes is the founder and owner of Red Copy, a writing service based in North Queensland. Red Copy’s mission is to inspire, create and strengthen your business’ relationships through authentic, thought-provoking and engaging copy. You can connect with Natalie at redcopy.com.au

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