Alliance Airlines Magazine - July/August 2020

JULY/AUGUST 2020

A real Australian business magazine

THE ART OF PERTH

Get into the back streets and history of WA’s cool capital

HIT ROCKHAMPTON

Fishing is big, but it’s not the only adventure to be had way up North

Outback Adventure From Windorah to Birdsville

Welcome.

WELCOME ABOARD

Since my last editorial we have all become aware of COVID-19 and the incredible impact this has had on all of us. We have been introduced to social distancing, home isolation and a world of hardships that many of us have never previously experienced.

At Alliance I am very proud of the way all of our staff has stepped up to meet the challenges with COVID-19, and the leading role we have played in ensuring our services to the mine sites and regional towns of Australia has been maintained.

This has not been easy at times, but with our many clients and airports we have been able to meet every request, even taking into account flying between states and the associated isolation required by our staff outside of their duty hours.

Within three days of restrictions being introduced we were able to relocate three aircraft and associated crew to new bases to meet the needs of our clients and their social distancing policies. In particular, I would like to thank the crew who relocated at such short notice.

On a further positive note, we have finalised an agreement with South32 to be the sole provider of air charter services for the next 10 years. Alliance has been providing services to the Cannington and Gemco mine sites since 2009.

As part of this new contract we will also be undertaking Gemco’s charters between Darwin and Groote Eylandt. This will result in a significant increase in our permanent presence in the Northern Territory, which in turn should provide significant new opportunities for Alliance, particularly in tourism.

We have also been introduced to a number of new clients that have previously flown on commercial services and are now enjoying the benefit of our charter services.

Like all of you we have worked hard to respond to COVID-19 and are hopeful that in the coming months life returns to some sort of normality – and that life becomes more enjoyable.

Lee Schofield Chief Executive Officer

JULY/AUG 2020

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26 20 AusBiz.

In this issue. upfront

Features

9 Alliance News

20 Rockhampton

Alliance share their experience on the Hangar2Hangar charity ride, plus the latest industry news.

16 Out & About

New restaurants and bars sure to tempt you

18 Get to Goulburn Achieve your business goals in this vibrant, growing region with all of the services of a major regional centre.

Check out AusBiz. at the back of the magazine.

SPECIAL FEATURE The phenomenon that is coral spawning

Keen to join the one-metre club? Even fishing novices can join in on the fun.

HR & RECRUITMENT Employment in the renewable energy sector

26 Outback adventure

LOGISTICS The lowdown on Australia’s trucks

A road trip from Windorah to Birdsville reveals unexpected encounters, a ghost town, and miles of stunning red landscapes.

FARMING Why everyone loves Australian truffles

30 Arty Perth

Over the past decade Perth has transformed itself into a Mecca of the arts.

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SMALL BUSINESS Modern dating in today’s day and age

JULY/AUG 2020

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PUBLISHER’S

Although there have certainly been some dark periods over the past few months, I’ve been really proud to call Australia home. Not only did we do well on keeping COVID-19 largely at bay, we also came together as a nation and supported one another.

From Facebook groups such as Bin Isolation – where more than one million people chimed in to have a laugh over putting the bins out – to groups forming to support people facing mental illness, there were days when I could clearly see that this crisis has been a good thing for the human race.

It made us all spend more time with ourselves, and it made me think about what people tend to spend their time, money and energy on, and how we can do better for others and for our country.

We need to start supporting local businesses more than ever if we are going to sort out the economy and get those who are now unemployed

EDITORIAL

Publisher: Michelle Hespe publisher@publishingbychelle.com Art Director: Jon Wolfgang Miller Assistant Editor: Tatyana Leonov Sub-Editor: Shane Cubis

ADVERTISING Travel Sales Manager: Linda Wortel linda@publishingbychelle.com AusBiz Sales Manager: Effe Sandas advertising@publishingbychelle.com

CONTRIBUTORS

back into work. So while we’ve been busy putting Alliance magazine together, we’ve also added Aussie Made to trulyaus.com, with the hope of encouraging more people to buy what they need and want locally.

The future is looking bright, and we are super excited that Alliance is now flying to the Whitsundays.

Imagine finishing a hard week at work and then jumping on a plane to paradise? Yes please, book me in...

Kerry Heaney Jo Stewart David Levell Lisa Smyth Tatyana Leonov Ian Lloyd Neubauer

PRINTING

Blue Star PRINT 81 Derby St, Silverwater NSW 2128

Alliance is published by Publishing ByChelle (ABN: 78 621 375 853 ACN: 621 375 853) Level 1, 3 Westleigh Street, Neutral Bay NSW 2089 publishingbychelle.com The reproduction of any content, in whole or part without prior written permission by the publisher, Michelle Hespe, is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed in the content are those of the contributors, and not necessarily those of the publisher. All information in this magazine was believed to be correct at the time of publication, and all reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. Publishing ByChelle cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are sent to the magazine, they will not be returned. We apologise if we don’t get back to your email, as we do receive a large volume of communication via various online channels. Some images used in Alliance are from iStock and Getty images, and we make every effort to credit all contributors.

MICHELLE HESPE

If you would like to read the digital version of Alliance, please be our guest!

Simply go to trulyaus.com – which is dedicated to exploring and celebrating all things Aussie, giving travellers the lowdown on the best places in regional, rural and outback Australia.

TRULYAUS.COM JULY/AUG 2020

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Inflight Services Australia, an Australian company with experience delivering aviation catering, has partnered with Alliance Airlines since 2002 Sky Snacks proudly supports Banish the Black Dog Charity Bike Ride, The Cure Starts Now, Food Relief NQ, Endeavour Foundation, Hangar2Hangar - Breast Cancer Network Australia, Rosies - Friends on the Street, Food Harvest, St Vincent de Paul Society, Rotary Australia, 42for42 www.inflightservicesaustralia.com.au

* Image features business class aircraft and catering

Route Map.

Where we fly.

Alliance Airlines is Australasia’s leading provider of air services.

CHRISTMAS ISLAND GROOTE EYLANDT W E I PA

CAIRNS

CENTURY

TOWNSVILLE

PORT HEDLAND W H I T S U N D AY C O A S T

K A R R AT H A

CANNINGTON

CAPE PRESTON

M A C K AY MORANBAH ROCKHAMPTON GLADSTONE BUNDABERG

MOOMBA

SUNSHINE COAST

ROMA

BRISBANE

POR T MACQUARIE

K A LG O O R L I E

PERTH

SYDNEY

ADELAIDE

NOTE: MAPS ARE NOT TO SCALE

key Private charter flights Alliance Airlines & Virgin Australia commercial flights

JULY/AUG 2020

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Perth Airport is proud to support Western Australia’s vital FIFO operations.

The coronavirus outbreak has created a world of uncertainty for businesses across Australia.

One thing that remained an absolute certainty was that now more than ever, Western Australia would need its powerhouse resources sector to continue to drive economic growth and generate income for both the State and Federal Governments.

Perth Airport, Alliance Airlines, resource companies and the WA Chamber of Minerals and Energy moved quickly to transform the Terminal 2 FIFO operations to ensure the FIFO workforce could continue to travel safely to work sites dotted across Western Australia.

Additional signage, seats blocked off, more PA announcements and floor markings at key areas such as check-in, security screening and boarding gates were immediately rolled in.

Alliance Airlines implemented a row-by-row boarding process to remove any congestion at the gates.

And you, our passengers, gave us your co-operation, patience and understanding during this challenging time.

This team effort has paid off.

The new process is so simple that it’s now second nature to FIFO flyers and, just as importantly, the continued operation of WA’s resources sector during the coronavirus crisis is guaranteed.

Thank you for the important role you undertake for Australia’s resources sector and for your continued support.

Alliance News.

Alliance News.

Stay in the know with what’s happening with our airline and in our industry.

Cycling for a great cause dressed in pink lycra... what a sight for sore eyes that would have been for the residents of Kangaroo Island.

A ride of a lifetime Over one’s work life there will always be a number of highlights that one reflects on with great pride and achievement. Earlier this year Alliance Airlines undertook its second threeday charity bike ride to raise money for Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA). For many of these riders, Hangar2Hangar will be one of theirs.

During two of these three days we rode on Kangaroo Island through areas devastated by horrific bushfires

and through some of the most beautiful landscape and coastline in the world.

Lee Schofield – “The only way to describe the event is unique and memorable, as no description can adequately capture all of the emotions and experiences from the ride. This was the second H2H for many and that fact that we couldn’t run it to the original script actually added to

the event. I was able to experience first-hand the devastating impact of the bushfires, contribute to the local economy, meet resilient and inspiring locals, take in the beauty of the native flora and fauna, and spend a few days riding my bike and getting to know colleagues that I otherwise wouldn’t come across. Most importantly, I played a part in raising a significant sum of money for a very deserving organisation in BCNA. JULY/AUG 2020

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Alliance Airlines proudly raised over $100,000 for Breast Cancer Network Australia Thank you to our Hangar2Hangar 2020 cyclists, sponsors, supporters, staff and community who helped us achieve our fundraising goal for Breast Cancer Network Australia www.hangar2hangar.com.au

Alliance News.

Leanne McGregor - Hangar2Hangar was not only about weeks of training leading in to the ride to ensure I was fit enough to take on the challenge; it wasn’t only the messages of encouragement from a team of wonderful Alliance staff members telling me I could do it; it wasn’t about going to Kangaroo Island and supporting the community there with our spirit and commadery, and of course eating the wonderful produce from the island ... it was all of that and so much more! Raising funds for BCNA to help them provide their important services to women across Australia was what Hangar2Hangar is all about and I was so privileged to be able to share in that experience. The most memorable experience of all was arriving back at the Alliance Hangar in Adelaide and being cheered over the finish line by members of the BCNA community!

Andrew Morgan - There have been many highlights, but being able to participate in both Hangar2Hangar events have definitely been up there.

Alliance has a strong culture across the organisation. I particularly enjoy the fact that all parts of the business are represented on these rides. These rides are challenging, but that is part of it as the people we are riding for are going through much greater challenges than cresting a hill. This year we also met some incredible and resilient people from KI post bushfires. They welcomed us into their community as if we were family.

Beautiful place heightened by its fabulous residents.

The bikers were met with some incredible vistas as they pedalled and pushed their way around beautiful Kangaroo Island.

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MAKE EVERY MOMENT BRIGHTER Interflora is synonymous the world over with the feelings and sentiments that only flowers can evoke.

We make a good moment great, bad ones a little lighter and everyday moments a reason to be thankful. From expressions of love, to celebrations of success; from shared sorrows, to saying “I’m sorry”.

For over 65 years we have always been trusted to play a unique part in the lives of our customers. If it’s important to you, it’s important to us.

Our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our business – from the beauty of a handcrafted floral arrangement to the delivery to your door – has only strengthened during our long and proud history in Australia. And we’ll continue to do so, well into the future.

We don’t just deliver flowers, but a feeling, a moment and an emotion. Because the act of giving and receiving flowers makes every moment brighter. Always.

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Alliance News.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Riding through bush land ravaged by fire; Enjoying our lunch stop at Vivonne Bay General Store with owner Michelle and some of the military helping restore services on Kangaroo Island; Lee Schofield at the finish line with Kirsten Pilatti BCNA’s CEO and two of her colleagues; The Alliance team enjoying the company of Bob Teadsdale, Deputy Mayor of the Kangaroo Island Council.

Heidi Theunens - I thought nothing would beat the inaugural Hangar2Hangar, but then we went to Kangaroo Island. I went on Hangar2Hangar hoping to make a difference to people’s lives, and I came away from it forever changed.

I was humbled by the strength, resilience and kindness of the Islanders. I can only hope that I have even a touch of their character. Seeing the first specks of green in the burnt

land was symbolic to me, because the land was rising up and healing just like the community was. It gave me hope.

Russell Bryant - Following on from the initial Hangar2Hangar in 2018, I had no hesitation to put my hand up to participate in the 2020 event in South Australia. The first event took all of us by surprise, and had many positive outcomes, both personally and also in regard to our contribution

to a worthy cause in BCNA. The Kangaroo Island event was special because of the people we met on the Island as well as the team building that took place among many Alliance employees from across Australia and some of our special supporters.

Hangar2Hangar will always hold a special place in my memories of many days training in preparation for a gruelling three days of riding as well as our contribution to BCNA. JULY/AUG 2020

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WIN 1 of 8 x Floral Bouquets

Head to

TRULYAUS. COM/ INTERFLORA to enter online

The world needs small acts of kindness now more than ever, so Interflora and TrulyAus have teamed up to help eight lucky people make someones day.

WIN 1 of 8 x $200 Interflora vouchers to send a bunch of flowers to a loved one.

Head to trulyaus.com/interflora and tell us in 25 words or less, who deserves a beautiful bunch of flowers, and why.

Note: prize includes free delivery Australia-wide.

By entering, you agree to receive Interflora’s newsletter, blooming with weekly floral inspiration, as well as our very own TrulyAus email blasts.

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ALLIANCE MAGAZINE

TRULYAUS.COM Truly Aus is dedicated to exploring and celebrating the real Australia, with a focus on our regional and outback gems, as well as shining a spotlight on Aussie stars and Australian-made products.

Image: Destination NSW/Jem Cresswell

Regional News

Australia is ready for you to come play and stay Destinations around Australia are preparing for an influx of domestic travellers as restrictions around the country are eased. And now is a great time to explore, with many special promotions available to incite Australians to begin travelling again.

Road trips are a great starting point, with self-driving a popular

option with those taking a cautious approach. Staycations, too, offer those not wanting to travel far a way to support tourism without having to travel far.

As interstate travel restrictions ease we are also seeing a growing interest in people wanting to fly to their next holiday destination, and in turn

airlines responding to this surge of interest by scheduling more and more flights.

Where to next? Why not plan for 2020 to be the year to really get to know Australia, and choose to visit places you haven’t visited before and support the Australian tourism industry at the same time.

NEW FACES AT TARONGA ZOO

GO FOR GOLD! First AU will soon acquire control of Victorian gold project centred on Haunted Stream historical gold workings in East Gippsland, including newly interpreted orogenic gold and porphyry copper targets. The VicGold Project is in the southern extent of the Lachlan Fold Belt of Victoria’s East Gippsland region.

Taronga Zoo Sydney is officially open again, and for the first time in 20 years guests will be able to see a giraffe calf on their next visit, with six-month old Ebo and mum Kito making the trip from Taronga Western Plains Zoo during the closure to join Jimiyu and Zarafa in a brand new giraffe exhibit overlooking Sydney Harbour.

The zoo’s top priority is to ensure guests are safe, and the daily visitor numbers will initially be lower than normal capacity, and guests required to register their visit online before attending. taronga.org.au/sydney-zoo JULY/AUG 2020

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Out & About

GET HANDS ON AT PIZZA FRITTA 180

Fried pizza? Yep, it’s a thing, and you can get it in Sydney. Pizza Fritta 180 opened in Surry Hills this February – it’s all about friendly fun and goodtasting pizza. The casualcool eatery is inspired by founder and head chef Luigi Esposito’s Neapolitan heritage. The dishes here pay homage to the flashfried street-food pizza of his childhood, which is best eaten with your hands, ideally with a beer or Aperol Spritz handy.

Reminiscent of the lively bar scene you’ll find in Naples, diners should expect a fun, welcoming atmosphere. pizzafritta180.com.au

fleur making waves in Perth

Following the reopening of Perth’s historic Royal Hotel, the venue’s new restaurant – fleur – opened its doors this January to rave reviews.

The menu is a delectable mix of Japanese flavours and dishes made with West Australian seafood and produce – including Abrolhos Island octopus and scallops, Donnybrook marron, Wagin quail and Margaret River Wagyu beef. The wine list is predominantly Australian, with European and New Zealand influences, and sits alongside a small selection of saké from some of Japan’s leading distillers.

Meanwhile, the cocktails at fleur complement the atmosphere to a tee. Think rich, colourful hues (pastel yellows and hot pinks) served in quirky, apothecary-like jars with cute little flowers tumbling out. theroyalhotelperth.com.au/fleur

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ALLIANCE MAGAZINE

Out & About

SOUTH SYDNEY’S NEW KOGARAH CLUBHOUSE Comprised of three contemporary options – The Pearl Asian Eating House, Blake Street Kitchen and Clubhouse Bar – Kogarah Clubhouse is a destination venue offering entertainment and dining for locals and visitors alike. Established in 1947, the iconic southern Sydney RSL has been proudly serving the local community for more than 60 years.

Catering to contemporary tastes while retaining its status as a local favourite serving classy RSL grub, Kogarah Clubhouse has perfected the blend, offering a host of new dining options across multiple in-house venues – each with its own playful identity: • The Clubhouse Bar is the main social hub at the heart of the new redevelopment. It offers a welcoming, sophisticated space with high, exposed ceilings and curved architecture, so members and guests can grab a drink in the company of family and friends, while enjoying light snacks from the bar menu.

• Blake Street Kitchen, an all-day modern eatery serving from dawn to dusk, offers breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes with a distinctly low-key vibe. The menu features classic club meals and gastropub fare, including an all-day breakfast menu, salads, burgers, schnitties, steaks and market fish.

• The Pearl Asian Eating House features myriad seating options, a private dining area for larger groups, live seafood tanks and a menu of authentic Asian flavours with a contemporary twist. The Pearl also offers a dedicated dim sim menu featuring creative yum cha. kogarahclubhouse.com.au

Sip with Mrs Singh There’s a new lady in town and she has Melburnians talking. Welcome to the scene, Mrs Singh. This Indian-inspired wine bar launched in January 2020, headed up by internationally acclaimed chef and restaurateur J​ essi Singh. Marbled blue floors, monochrome speckled terrazzo, gold and orange accents and a bar in a spectrum of brilliant hues set the scene, while classic ‘70s Bollywood films are projected onto the walls to the soundtrack of party tunes. You’ll come for the vibe but stay for the drinks.

The roaming Champagne trolley will have bubble-lovers all set, while the refreshing cocktails, 300-strong wine list and great beer selection will please just about everyone else. Meanwhile, the small- and full-sized Indian-inspired plates are a delight in modern cuisine. Mrs Singh is about having a good time for a long time. mrssingh.com.au JULY/AUG 2020

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SPECIAL FEATURE

G et to

GOULBURN

Achieve your business goals in Goulburn – the vibrant, growing region located within easy reach of Sydney, Canberra, the South Coast and the Snowy Mountains.

Goulburn offers all of the services of a major regional centre, yet a 10-minute drive in any direction means you can be home with your family, enjoying the quiet peacefulness of a friendly neighbourhood or the region’s beautiful rural landscape.

Infrastructure and service availability are essential to the region’s growth, says Mayor of Goulburn Mulwaree Bob Kirk. “Business based in industrial precincts of Goulburn have access to fast NBN, reasonably priced water, essential sewer services and other

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ALLIANCE MAGAZINE

great infrastructure at the price of between $80-$100 a square metre for vacant land.

“All the while, Goulburn is just an hour from Canberra and two hours from Sydney. If you are looking to move large amounts of product or access export markets, it’s easy to utilise the main southern railway line through to Sydney.”

Population growth in the area is steadily increasing, now with five years of sustained increases between 1.5-2 percent. This is projected to continue for decades to come as people seek a tree change to a location where they can still build a professional career and find work in their chosen trade. Around 30,000 people are expected to call the City of Goulburn home by 2036, while the wider

SPECIAL FEATURE

CASE STUDY: GOULBURN REGION INNOVATION NETWORK AND CO-WORKING SPACES

region will house more than 37,000 residents.

The good news for those families looking to escape the rat race is that the local economy is thriving! The mining and resources industry, particularly in Marulan in the northern part of the region, is the ‘shooting star’ of the Goulburn economy. Significant renewable energy projects within the solar and wind industry are also underway, and will generate huge employment for years to come.

Security of water is a key issue in regional Australia, but Goulburn has been able to set itself apart by ensuring a secure water supply – meaning the city is open for business. This issue was one of the primary reasons Mayor Bob Kirk became involved in the council.

“During the intense drought of the early 2000s, the region’s water level fell to under 10 percent and the population was placed on severe restrictions. The council acted to secure supply by combining with State and Federal Government to invest in the Highland Source Pipeline, which taps into the Wingecarribee Reservoir to ensure the water supply of the region,” says Mayor Kirk.

This security has enabled the region to attract businesses that require large amounts of water, such as Tribe Breweries, one of Australia’s biggest craft beer brewers, and a poultry processing plant which is currently working through the approval process with the NSW Government. These are businesses that simply could not have been established in Goulburn without this water infrastructure.

The region is looking ahead to a bright future – ideally positioned and well serviced by vital infrastructure, yet retaining a ‘country’ feel. Business is booming in Goulburn.

High-speed internet and a computer are all you need these days to work outside the traditional office. Goulburn’s strategic location, along with two co-working spaces, make it the perfect place to relocate your business or start up a new one.

Goulburn Region Innovation Network (GRIN) has been established to support innovation and entrepreneurship to drive social and economic growth. The group includes members from key organisations such as Council and Regional Development Australia, and is driven by the

Chamber of Commerce and local business leaders.

GRIN hosts monthly networking events at The Collective, along with larger events targeted at start-up culture, including the successful ‘Pizza & Pitch Fest’ held in October each year, which offers cash prizes, mentoring and support to the winner.

Hot desks and flexible offices are available at Workspace Goulburn (Clinton Street) or The Collective on the corner of Auburn and Market Streets – just Google them for more info!

CASE STUDY: TRIBE BREWERIES Goulburn ticked all the boxes for Tribe Breweries – a secure water supply, accessible services and an excellent location – providing a long-term solution for the company’s future growth.

Tribe purchased the former Coles-Myer distribution centre in 2014, and over five years have invested millions of dollars to build one of the most advanced breweries in the world.

The first beer was rolled off the

production line in early 2019, and Tribe has its sights set firmly on high growth.

Anton Szpitilak, CEO of Tribe Breweries, says the process in Goulburn has been easy. “I highly encourage people and businesses to engage with Goulburn – and utilise its services for a fraction of the cost. There isn’t another city on the corridor between Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra that can compete with Goulburn.”

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Fishing

Adventurers head to Rockhampton to join the one-metre club Words & IMAGES: Kerry Heaney

DON’T LET THIS ONE

W T G E A AY Check out the glazed, happy face of anyone who has caught a metre-long fish in Rockhampton’s Fitzroy River and you’ll see they’ve been well and truly hooked. The locals see it as joining the one-metre club.

How easy is it? How about flyin, check in to the 4.5-star Empire Apartment Hotel and be out on the river with a line in the water in one hour? This is trophy barra fishing without taking a week to do it.

Rockhampton local Nathan Johnston, who has been fishing these waters for over 30 years, says it’s the perfect solution for dedicated anglers who want an easy but still highly rewarding experience.

The introduction of a net-free fishing zone in the lower Fitzroy River and Keppel Bay has created a mecca for recreational fishers who want to catch Barramundi and King Threadfin.

Barramundi season runs from

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ALLIANCE MAGAZINE

midday February 1 to midday November 1 every year. It is filled with fishing competitions and tournaments.

While winter and spring are the best times to catch a barra, it helps to have someone like Nathan on your side. A qualified aquatic resource manager, Nathan understands the ecosystems of Central Queensland’s fisheries.

As a complete barramundi fishing novice, I didn’t hold much hope of catching anything except some sunburn on a hot Rockhampton day. As I walked down from my room at the Empire Apartment Hotel, Nathan and Amanda Johnston motored up to the rocky riverbank.

Just a quick step onto the flat bow of Infocus II and the fishing fun begins.

It’s hot on the river in the middle 

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Image: Brandon Gifford /Tourism & Events Queensland

Fishing

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Fishing

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: With your own net bitch on standby landing that catch is a cinch, Capricorn Spiced Rum and ginger on the Empire Hotel balcony overlooking Fitzroy River, this 96cm Threadfin proves even a novice can take home a catch.

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ALLIANCE MAGAZINE

of the day, and I quickly appreciate the reason behind Amanda’s head-to-toe sun protection gear, including gloves and a face mask.

The barra must have been feeling the intense heat, too. Despite Nathan’s careful fish-finder sweeps across the river, as there are few to be seen.

Beaten by the sun, we almost give up and retire under the bridge to escape the heat before one last pass, and there they are!

Before I know it, I’m struggling to hold the rod and reel in this enormous fish, which is putting up a damn good fight. Thankfully, my net bitch, Nathan, is on stand-by to swiftly bring this catch onto the deck.

It’s a thrilling few moments.

Later, as I’m sitting on my balcony at The Empire, chef Roel Van Camp turns the fillets into King threadfin en papillote (cooked in a paper bag) with a turmeric sauce. Roel, who usually heads up the kitchen at The Rocks Restaurant at Yeppoon Lagoon, has a strong focus on local produce.

The Saleyards Distillery Capricorn spiced rum, which I am drinking like a local – slowly muddled with half a local lime and topped with Bundaberg ginger beer – is a perfect match.

It’s not only big Barramundi that lives in the Fitzroy River. Craig Robertson of River Cruises CQ takes passengers up and down the Fitzroy River at sunset, but always has an eye on the distinctive crocodile slides that line the muddy riverbanks. When the weather cools, crocs ranging up to five metres in length sun themselves on the mud, gathering warmth to raise their body temperature.

Image: Capricorn Enterprise

Fishing

Today has been hot, and there are only the telltale body imprints to show that the local crocs are definitely in residence.

Come back in winter, says Craig, that’s when you’ll see them.

Time for dinner and a ringside seat for bull riding at Rockhampton’s Great Western Hotel. It’s Wednesday, novice’s night, so the riders are not much more than babies.

It feels strange to be perusing a Texasinspired menu dedicated to meat in all its forms while the brothers of the bounty providers look on. But they are more interested in what’s sitting on their backs than what I’m eating.

When the gates swing open, the first poddy calf walks out with what from a distance looks like a four-year-old on its back. He or she, I really can’t tell, is wearing a helmet and thick padded vest and Dad is walking alongside.

As the calf decides to call it a day and sit down, Dad plucks the child off, and they both walk from the ring unscathed.

The next contestant is older and not quite so lucky. His calf bucks. He bucks a lot and the boy lands hard in the sand.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Bull riding Great Western Hotel Rockhampton; Great Keppel Island; Tasting platter at Pigglettoes Provedore and Monkey Pig Brewery, Yeppoon,

They breed ’em tough on the Capricorn Coast, and while the bull calf is distracted and removed, he bravely walks off limping and close to tears.

On Friday nights the bulls are much older and big enough for the adults who take to the ring to hone their rodeo skills.

While Rocky’s beef origins are still strong, take a look from the air to see how this city has grown!

Daryl Cocker likes to ramp up his Rockhampton Helicopters joyflight thrill factor by starting with a race against a car along the highway. The vehicle has no chance as we swiftly take off for a look at the pristine blue waters around Great Keppel Island and get bird’s-eye view of the impressive Yeppoon Lagoon complex.

The perfect post-flight treat is a tasting platter at Monkey Pig Brewery located in Yeppoon’s industrial centre. Their locally brewed craft beers and sparkling cordials are great thirst-quenchers.

At the end of the day, it’s back to that Empire Apartment Hotel balcony to watch the sunset over the Fitzroy River in style.

Rocky, you’ve changed, and it’s all in a good way.

W H AT’S NE W AT Y E PPOON

Remember playing beach cricket, laughing with your mates and lazing about in the sand? That’s Yeppoon. Now they also have a resort-style infinity-edge pool at Yeppoon Lagoon with The Rocks Restaurant above, an engaging street art trail and their own locally brewed craft beer at Monkey Pig Brewing. You can eat local and organic at Beaches Restaurant or dine on premium Banana Station beef at The Waterline Restaurant, Keppel Bay Marina.

JULY/AUG 2020

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SPECIAL FEATURE

EXPLORE THE BULLOO SHIRE Social distancing is not a new concept in the Bulloo Shire. It’s something they’ve been doing for decades. With so much open space, it’s easy to embrace the new norms.

In South West Queensland, cornered by the New South Wales and South Australian borders, you'll find Bulloo Shire – an understated and underrated pocket of Outback Australia.

Fiery red sunsets that set the clouds ablaze and the kind of night skies that make you feel that if you stare too long, the galaxy might swallow you right up. These are the things few travellers have the privilege of witnessing, and these are the things that Bulloo has in bucketloads.

Exploring the Old Hydro, the Old Hospital and the Old Jail, you’d be forgiven for thinking Bulloo Shire was stuck in the past, but their new approach to tourism is anything but old-fashioned. These attractions are now fully automated, meaning you can take a tour at a time that suits you with as many fellow travellers as the everchanging COVID-19 restrictions permit.

Take a stroll along the five-kilometre walking track that wraps around Pelican Point. Throw a pot into the water and with the right bait and a little bit of luck, come back a few hours later to find it crawling with yabbies and shrimp.

Venture 164 kilometres south of 'Thargo' and you’ll find yourself staring across a vast expanse of outback over a fence no higher than your shoulders.

What was once a mish-mash attempt at keeping the rabbits out is today considered the world’s longest fence, stretching over 5,600 kilometres.

The Wild Dog Barrier Fence runs along the NSW/Qld state borderline

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ALLIANCE MAGAZINE

with the township of Hungerford perched on the northern side. Though only 20-odd residents call this outpost home, hundreds more come to visit during Hungerford's bi-annual Field Day and the Hungerford Horse and Motorbike Gymkhana.

The Royal Mail Hotel is a beloved, corrugated iron staple of the town. Built in 1873, it was originally a Cobb & Co Staging Post where horses were rested and fed before heading out on their next journey. Today it’s a well-stocked watering hole for visitors and locals alike. Although a cold beer and great food are the mainstays of most pubs, appreciation for these simple pleasures is amplified when you are journeying through the real Outback.

Only a short drive from Hungerford, red sand plains and mulga scrubs line the roadside, giving little hint to the lakes, rivers and wetlands that make Currawinya National Park one of Australia’s most important inland waterbird habitats.

Keen twitchers should also include Kilcowera Station Stay on their itinerary.

The property is home to more than 180 bird species, as well as red kangaroos, emus and echidnas. In the warmer months, swimming, canoeing and yabbying in the lagoon helps to quell the intense outback heat.

In the very south-western crook of Bulloo Shire, Cameron Corner allows visitors to be in three different states at once. The town’s golf course crosses three states, giving players something

to brag about even if they don’t take home a win.

Bulloo Shire's most well-known landmarks – the Dig Tree and Face Tree – memorialise the ill-fated expedition of Australian explorers Burke and Wills.

Still standing strong on Nappa Merrie Station, the trees are an enduring reminder of true outback spirit.

Noccundra begins and ends with one building – the historic Noccundra Hotel.

Established in 1882 to quench the thirst of cattlemen droving stock along the Wilson River, the hotel is a cherished reminder of this once-thriving township.

Today you'll find most of the town's inhabitants at the pub, sitting down to a hearty meal, sharing tales of the day's haul on the Wilson – Yellow Belly, Catfish and a few Silver Perch.

Twice-weekly flights on Rex make visiting the Bulloo Shire easy, although packing the 4WD and road tripping there is the more adventurous option.

Make sure things are tied down tightly – you’ll find plenty of opportunities to ditch the bitumen and go off-road.

As for accommodation, travellers can choose from picturesque campsites at the new Bulloo Riverside RV Camp; self-contained cabins and powered sites at Explorers Caravan Park; and comfortable rooms at the Bulloo River Hotel and the Oasis Motel. There are plenty of options for a bite to eat or a hearty meal while you visit or stay in Thargomindah. So take this magazine with you, get going to the Outback and Explore Bulloo!

SPECIAL FEATURE

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Galah at Pelican Point; Cameron Corner State marker; Old Hydro Power Plant; Wild Dog Fence (old rabbit proof fence); Lake Bindegolly; The Face Tree; Sunset at Thargo; Currawinya National Park JULY/AUG 2020

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Adventure Travel

FROM WINDOAH TO BIRDSVILLE A road trip from Windorah to Birdsville reveals unexpected animal encounters, an intriguing ghost town, and miles and miles (and miles) of dusty, red landscapes.

Image: TEQ/Hayley Williamson Photography

WORDs: Jo stewart

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ALLIANCE MAGAZINE

Image: TEQ/Rowan Bestmann

Adventure Travel

I’m definitely not in Melbourne anymore.

Staring out the window of our four-wheeldrive, I see a wedge-tailed eagle peck at some roadkill left lying on the roadside.

In the distance, dead trees stand like skeletons with their arms outstretched.

And in every direction, ochre plains meet the cloudless blue sky.

Trading the traffic, white noise and gleaming skyscrapers of the Big Smoke for the wide-open roads, starry skies and silence of Outback Queensland, I’m on the road from Quilpie to Windorah, with my final destination of Birdsville another full day’s drive away.

While not exactly easy to get to, there are many reasons to be in this remote, flyblown part of Australia. There are road trippers on epic journeys around the country, adventurers keen on taking on the Simpson Desert’s dunes, and big-rig drivers doing supply runs to 

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Adventure Travel

PREVIOUS PAGES: Exploring on horseback around Birdsville; Inside Birdsville Hotel.

FROM TOP: Windorah Solar Farm; Betoota Bus.

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ALLIANCE MAGAZINE

frontier towns. Me? I’m heading to Birdsville with a group of scientists who plan to complete fieldwork in the Munga-Thirri National Park.

Sure, we could save time, skip it all and fly straight into Birdsville Airport – but where’s the fun in that?

W E L COME T O W INDOR A H

Home to a local population of about 80 people, Windorah is found in the heart of Channel Country. Whether coming in from Longreach or Charleville, this tiny town is a welcome sight. After dodging groups of kamikaze emus that streak across the road, running perilously close to our vehicle, we reach Windorah just in time for a sundowner.

Making a beeline for the pub, we’re not disappointed by the Western Star Hotel. What we find is a place that distils the very essence of Outback Queensland. With a corrugated iron roof, wood-panelled walls, a friendly bartender, well-used dartboard and wraparound verandah, the Western Star Hotel is an instant classic. Sitting on the

verandah with an ice-cold beer while a flock of galahs chatter and screech in the distance, I say to myself, “It doesn’t get more Queensland than this.”

In Australia, the smaller the town, the bigger the characters, and Windorah is no exception. Staying at Cooper Cabins, we meet owners and long-term residents ‘Chumpy’ and Di, who treat us to home-cooked rissoles and answer all our burning questions.

Who lives in that tiny, rundown shack at the edge of town? An old, camerashy drover who loves to have a chat.

Is the solar farm we passed on the way in worth a look? The jury’s out on whether the solar project generates enough power – but it sure catches the eye of tourists.

Opened in 2009, the Windorah Solar Farm may not be open to the public for tours, but that hasn’t stopped visitors from turning up to admire the gleaming solar dishes reflecting the bright Queensland sun. The sight of five solar dishes set against a backdrop of red earth below and blue sky above is a photographer’s dream, and in a one-horse town a welcome oddity to check out the next morning before we continue the journey.

BE T OO TA BE CKONS

Hitting the road again with Birdsville in sight, another outback oddity awaits.

After a long drive of about six hours with nothing much on the way except for wide-open spaces and the odd kangaroo or herd of feral cattle, we’re glad to see Betoota in all its faded glory.

Betoota (population: zero) is one of those places that I suspected wasn’t actually a real place. Found just off the Birdsville Developmental Road, this famed ghost town is an essential stopping point for anyone driving from Windorah to Birdsville. Stretching our legs, we take photos of the striking Dreamtime Serpent artwork found on a nearby hill off the highway. Then we explore what’s left of the town, which as a former Cobb & Co changing station

Adventure Travel

Image: TEQ/Charlie Ferguson

FROM LEFT: Outside Birdsville Hotel; Old petrol pump at Betoota.

once had three pubs, a police station, post office and general store.

What remains today is a ramshackle pub once owned by a polish immigrant called Sigmund ‘Ziggy’ Remienko.

Sigmund lived in Betoota for an impressive 51 years until he died in 2004. As the last remaining resident of Betoota, his death plunged the town’s population to zero.

Walking around the property is like wandering through a museum (albeit a very rundown one). Old bottles of scotch line the dusty bar. Despite being completely deserted it still feels like someone could materialise out of thin air to pour a drink or tell a yarn. It’s spooky – you can almost hear the clinking of glasses and rowdy laughter of patrons of years gone by.

Outside, we wonder how an old yellow double-decker bus with smashed windows came to rest in the middle of nowhere, and we try to guess what petrol prices would have been when the old-fashioned petrol pumps were

still in use. After an hour wandering around Betoota, not another soul comes through the town – but that may be about to change.

Recently gaining further notoriety thanks to online satirical newspaper The Betoota Advocate, the ghost town’s mythical status has now been cemented among a new generation of Australians thanks to the power of the internet.

Word on the street is that Betoota’s star is once again on the rise, thanks to a new owner’s plan to resurrect the pub and get XXXX flowing through the beer taps once again. True to Australian form, you just can’t keep a good pub down.

BIR DSV IL L E OR BUST

Just under 170 kilometres away, Birdsville is the Holy Grail so many road trippers quest for. Rattling along sealed and unsealed roads to get there from Windorah, others arrive from all directions to see the little but legendary town.

Groups of weary drivers come in

from South Australia via the famous Birdsville Track, and tour buses make their way from up north using the Eyre Developmental Road. Birdsville’s unique desert-flanked location and rich history as one of Australia’s most remote townships ensures its popularity with all types of travellers.

The young and old, the well heeled and the rough-around-the edges – all come together in Birdsville. By day, the Birdsville Bakery is the place to be.

From a curried camel pie to a lemonmyrtle tart, elements of the outback are ever present.

In the afternoon, Birdsville Hotel is a hotspot for a lazy beer. With mobile phones frowned upon in the front bar (get caught and you’ll have to drop a coin into the Royal Flying Doctor Service tin), I sit on the verandah with a tinnie of Queensland’s finest, watching light aircraft land at the airstrip opposite the pub.

Inside, tourists laugh over pub grub and wine in the dining room, drivers talk about tackling the Big Red dune and a group of elderly patrons have a singalong around the piano, just like travellers would have done back in 1884 when the hotel opened. Where else in the world would you find such an eclectic bunch of people under one roof? Only in Birdsville, of course.

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Cityscape

THE ART OF PERTH

An ultra-modern city built on the architectural memories of the past…not to mention some mighty fine beers.

WORDS: Michelle Hespe

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ALLIANCE MAGAZINE

Cityscape

MAIN IMAGE: Street art in Wolf Lane.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Elizabeth Quay Perth; Elizabeth Quay The Spanda; The State Building’s Postal Hall.

Images: Tourism Western Australia

Looking up from where I sit in a rustic open-air courtyard with a blazing blue sky above, a display of blood red, hot pink and cool blue Asian umbrellas float above like an impromptu artwork.

Covering most of the wall is an enormous, joyous mural of a toddler called Mardi in a bunny suit by Thai graffiti artist Alex Face. I could be in a Bangkok laneway, but I am actually in Perth’s Long Chim restaurant, enjoying David Thompson’s rightfully renowned grilled pork cheek and green papaya salad for lunch.

That’s when it dawns on me: over the past decade Perth has transformed itself into a Mecca of the arts and a master of the kind of laneway-loving fixation that Melbourne always claims as its own. It’s a place where food, wine, craft beer, cafés, live entertainment, galleries, outdoor social spaces, cool hotels and even cooler street art come together to create a city as vibrant as it is welcoming and unpretentious.

With art and history in mind, I head off on an exploration with tour guide Vaughan from Two Feet & a Heartbeat Walking Tours. We kick off in the CBD, with Vaughan making sure from the outset that I look down at what I’m walking on. Hand on my shoulder, he stops me in the street and says, “Meet some of Perth’s former locals.”

I am immediately riveted. Engraved in the stone footpath are the names of some of the city’s former crims and 

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Cityscape

MAIN IMAGE: Couple enjoying cocktails at Long Chim Perth.

BELOW: The Bell Tower, home of the Swan Bells.

vagabonds, once held in captivity below the city street where we stand.

I read out loud, images of these people from the past – knickerbockers, layered skirts, bonnets and hats askew – from the 19th century filling my head. Their rampant crimes, amusing misdemeanours and unruly behaviours stand out like silent rebukes from the past. Mr Callaghan was a carpenter who, on February 8, 1875, was declared a ‘drunkard and disorderly’. In that same year Mr Green was slammed with being a ‘loiterer, rogue and vagabond’. And Mrs Gregory? ‘Her taste of strong drinks is insatiable.’

Speaking of drinks, next stop at midday is dedicated to a cooling ale (all that walking, you know) and nibbles at Petition Beer Corner, tucked into the impressive five-star COMO The Treasury development.

The hotel is housed within the city’s State Buildings, built in 1878. Adrian Fini, one of the four Little Creatures team who sold Australia’s first craft

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beer empire for $362 million, spent 20 years lobbying to have the buildings redeveloped, and now it’s another example of how well Perth does things, architecturally and artistically.

Back to beer. Petition has 18 independent taps and an extensive bottled list, and the aim of the Cicerone Program Certified Beer Servers behind the counter is to ensure patrons enjoy a set of different flavours and styles.

A bespoke beer menu adds another level to the fun, entertaining and informative experience. “I don’t really drink much beer,” I say. The beer guy claps his hands together and smiles at me and Vaughan. “Good! I am here to change that!”

We wrap up my first day in Perth on a sentimental note, visiting the thousands of love locks attached to rails at the base of The Bell Tower.

The padlocks are inscribed with the names of couples to signify everlasting love, and they create a colourful, rustic sculpture bursting with stories of locals and visitors alike. As I wander into the beautiful surrounds of the Elizabeth Quay development, the stunning 29-metre-high Spanda sculpture rising behind me like ripples of water flung eight storeys into the sky, I reckon I might add a padlock myself, with Perth’s name on it.

Gift Guide

Father’s Day gift ideas After a great gift for a great dad?

Try out these creative ideas.

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1. kickin’ it The zip-sided chemical-resistant #982 by Blundstone is ideal for industries where there is a potential risk for caustic or acid exposure. Packed with the latest innovations in safety and comfort, they are perfect for keeping you protected if you’re on your feet all day. For further details visit: blundstone.com.au

Compiled by: haley halvorson

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2. Tackle It Shimano’s backpack with tackle box makes a stylish addition to every fisherman’s collection.

With four included tackle trays, sunglasses case, tool holder and drink pocket, it doesn’t matter whether he’s a diehard fisher or weekend warrior – this bag will have his back. $99, ottostackleworld.com.au

3. master series 16-year-old whisky This premium single malt whisky represents the very best from Tasmania’s Hellyer’s Road Distillery. Selected by the master distiller, it has been drawn from some of the popular distillery’s oldest casks. $282.90, hellyersroaddistillery.com.au

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4. Handmade Shoes These classic above ankle height boots are handmade by master shoemaker Andrew McDonald. They’re crafted using box calf upper from D’Annonay and single leather chestnut tanned soles from Thomas Ware and Sons.

From $795, andrewmcdonald.com.au

Receive a bonus antler shoe horn to the value of $50 if you mention InflightMags Stocks limited!

JULY/AUG 2020

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Gift Guide

5. Sock it to Him Who said socks had to be boring? Who said socks even had to be identical? These ‘odd socks’ are made from sustainable bamboo, which is moisture wicking and anti-bacterial. Meaning, no more stinky feet! $19.95, lambchopssocks. com.au

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6. Get Smart

7. Gentlemen Only

8. hair hero

Carry all you need without the struggle of fitting a bulky wallet into your favourite suit or pair of jeans. Stay efficient and say goodbye to getting stuck when your phone’s run out of battery. KobZ Smart Wallet’s clever design combines storage for cash and cards with a portable power bank. $99, top3.com.au

The Handy Man Tool Kit is a mini workbench in a box. Bringing together all the standard fixer-upper necessities, the solid wooden case holds a hammer, tape measure, wooden ruler, pliers, multi-ratchet screwdriver and a pencil.

Each premium quality piece is strong, ergonomic and made to last. $99.90, top3.com.au

The perfect solution for a dad in need of thicker, stronger hair.

This Hunter Lab Hair Care Kit, which includes an Invigorating Shampoo and Nourishing Conditioner, is packaged within a luxury black gift case. Both practical and indulgent, this gift is wrapped and ready. $84, hunterlab.com.au

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ALLIANCE MAGAZINE

Gift Guide

9. go fish in coral bay, WA Operating out of Coral Bay on Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia, Mahi Mahi Fishing Charters offers fantastic full- and half-day fishing tours in addition to private charters for small groups.

Light game and bottom fishing, as well as heavy game fishing, can all be catered for.

From $225, 08 9942 5874 mahimahifishingcharters.com.au bookings@mahimahifishingcharters. com.au

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10. Sortable & Portable

11. Love the Beard

12. Well-Groomed

This foldable carry-on bag can be compacted into a zip-up pouch when not in use. It’s handy to pop in checked luggage to use as a small day bag when out and about. The bag features a front zip pocket that slips over luggage handles, so it’s easy to transport with the rest of your gear. $14.95, buymythings.com.au

Think of this beard oil as ‘man oil’.

It’s good for all those itchy skin, dry jawline and frizzy facial hair symptoms that most men don’t like talking about.

Whether Dad has got a beard or not, this stuff gets to the bottom of all skin problems, moisturising and healing both his skin and beard. $44, blackchicken.com.au

Turn Dad’s bathroom into a sanctuary of organisation by giving all his grooming tools a home of their own.

The Harvey & Oliver Set by Tooletries will help to ‘shave’ time off his morning or night shower routine. Plus, the steamy, warm water means shaving in the shower is better for his skin. $54.95, tooletries.com JULY/AUG 2020

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THE FISHERMEN ASKED AND VICTORINOX LISTENED

Image:Luke Rutts @Skipperrutts

In response to popular demand, Victorinox has released its Swibo knife range in a Clam Pack. The Swibo collection is the go-to knife for filleting and deboning to perfection and it now comes with a protective sheath.

Prices range from $69.95 for the 16cm curved blade boning knife – (clam pack with sheath) up to to $89.95 for the 20cm curved flexible blade filleting knife.

The Swibo range is now available at bcf.com.au and leading tackle stores across Australia.

Gift Guide

13. All Teched Up The Gaucho Techroll, in racing green no less, is the ideal gift for the man who ‘has everything’. Keep his tech gear and accessories organised with this soft genuine leather mobile tech organiser, which can be personalised with his name. $278.49, giftslessordinary.com

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14. keep Him Cool Keep his drinks cold in Packit’s 9-Can freezable insulated cooler, with a built-in eco-gel liner that lets you take meals and drinks everywhere without the need for ice packs. It keeps contents cool for up to 10 hours, is PVC and lead-free, non-toxic, reusable, and folds compactly in the freezer for storage. $59.95, biome.com.au

15. Get Comfy, Dad This lightweight and ergonomically designed Kikkerland iBED lap desk

is Dad’s answer to comfy use of his tablet or e-reader when on-the-go. Thanks to the roomy, non-slip surface and a sturdy microbead cushion, he can just pop his book or tablet into the slot and be ready to go. $21.99, yellowoctopus. com.au

16. Made with Love These bespoke sterling silver children’s drawing cufflinks from Gifts Less Ordinary are the perfect personalised gift for a new dad this Father’s Day. $228.84, giftslessordinary.com

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Voted the

BEST WHISKY

in the Southern Hemisphere

Limeburners

Margaret River | Albany | Porongurup

www.distillery.com.au

Gift Guide

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17. Get Rolling

The Studio Roller by George & Willy is an innovative way to display information. A simple and functional wall-mounted bracket seamlessly dispenses kraft paper to write ideas, menus, specials and daily tasks. $342.10, hardtofind.com.au

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18. The Finer things in Life The stunning Van Daemon decanter sets (in three designs) include a whisky decanter and four heavybased tumblers large enough to accommodate 5cm whisky stones, cubes or an ice ball. Each set comes in a gift box, which can also store its contents for years and generations to come. $159, freshaustralianstore.com

19. Scented candle Top notes of fresh hay and tobacco leaf combine with soothing and comforting honey and iris for a lovely scent any Dad will love. Then the rich amber base notes seal the deal

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and remind anyone nearby that life is good. This 300-gram soy wax Our Place Scented Candle really does make a home feel like ‘our place.’

$65, southernwildco.com.au

20. A Carry-on for the frequent flyer dad This super sleek Victorinox Connex Frequent Flyer Hardside suitcase has a large packing compartment that expands up to 4cm for extra capacity. It also features an integrated multi-tool inspired by the Swiss Army Knife that includes USB port, SIM card replacement tool, ID tag and pen. Streamlined and strong, it’s the perfect gift for Dad. $639, traveluniverse.com.au JULY/AUG 2020

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Waverley Mills Recycled Grid Charcoal Throw $199.00 (140cm x 200cm) Made from recycled merino wool and designed by BernabeiFreeman.

WRAP YOURSELF IN LUXURY Waverley Mills is Australia’s last remaining weaving mill located in Launceston, Tasmania.

waverleymills.com

wowflowers.com.au

WOW Flowers, created by the Worn Out Wares family is a boutique floral studio that specialises in weddings and events. Located in the heart of Singleton we’re open seven days a week, and by appointment

WOW Flowers. 41-43 George Street Singleton, NSW Ph: (02) 65 721 866 enquiries@wowflowers.com.au Image: Raquelle Loraine Photography

AusBiz.

NEWS+VIEWS | MINING | AGRIBUSINESS | INFRASTRUCTURE

p.8 the phenomenon of coral spawning P.12 HR in renewable energy projects P.18 the australian truffle industry P.22 lowdown on australia’s trucks p.28 profiling mums in business

IF IT AIN’T BROKE, WHY FIX IT? How much money should be spent on upgrading Australia’s trucks? p24

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Contact our team today for more information. +61 8 9258 3900 | info@globalsm.com.au globalcivilandmining.com

AUSBIZ NEWS

Home Improvement The HomeBuilder grant, recently announced by the Morrison Government, is a gamechanger for anyone who is considering buying or renovating, given the criteria (which some are saying is too complex and not very equitable) can be met. HomeBuilder is designed to help kickstart building activity over the next months, with those qualifying for the program being given $25,000. The idea is more people will be inclined to build, and therefore more builders and their contractors will gain work. Construction is Australia’s thirdbiggest employer, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

To be eligible for the grant you must be an Australian citizen and prospective owneroccupier. If single, your salary must be less than $125,000 per year, or if you are part of a couple your combined income must be less than $200,000 per year. The grant can be spent on a new home valued at up to $750,000, or a renovation to an exisiting home valued between $150,000 and $750,000 (with the dwelling not valued at more that $1.5 million before the renovation). The contract for the new purchase or renovation must be signed between 4 June 2020 and 31 December 2020, with work to be commenced within three months of the contract date. If you’re one of the lucky few who fit the bill, now is a great time to upscale.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN TRAVEL

With travel opening up across the states, Australians are keen to get back in the air and on the road. Travel, however, no longer looks the same, with hotels, restaurants and various other hospitality industries now embracing intense cleaning and sanitising processes as part of their normal service — to ensure customers feel both safe and confident in the current climate. Although COVID-19 advice is in a constant change of flux, hotel and restaurant groups around the country are promoting their cleaning programs to reassure guests that the doors are both open and clean. Measures will vary from venue to venue, but some of the common measures you can expect to see include hand sanitiser being readily available, common areas being regularly sanitised and cleaned, more cleaners working within the venues, flexible booking conditions available to guests, and updating measures as the health advice from official government bodies is updated.

JULY/AUG 2020

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AUSBIZ NEWS

QLD Invest deliver valuable property investments to Australian families Let’s face it, working for the man is good for paying the bills, but to really get ahead, we all know that property investing is a must. As a wise old investor said to me years ago: “This property will never be as cheap as it was when you bought it.” Well, I guess that’s why they call it REAL estate.

Where do you start? Seriously!

How much research do you need to conduct before you buy a property?

When navigating all the contradicting property reports out there, it’s easy to follow the herd, simply because that’s what the herd does. Plus, who has the time to drive across the country investigating every nook and cranny, trying to locate that ‘great deal’?

Well, enter Korry from QLD Invest.

The really unique thing about what Korry does is he ‘manufactures’ the wealth into the property design. It’s a concept that takes time to wrap your head around. But once you get it, you’ll probably never buy a stock standard property again. QLD Invest was set up by Korry in order to deliver real wealth, to everyday families, through smart property investments.

KORRY AND ROMA FROM QLD INVEST WITH THEIR DAUGHTERS.

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AusBiz.

Korry explains that his team spends most of their time looking at council zoning, and what would be allowable under council rules. Then designing a building that will deliver a specific commercial outcome to the investor.

“We deliver a complete package.

All the investor needs to do is be prepared to work with the mortgage broker to get the lending in place and sign a few contracts.

“We’ve got dozens of clients currently involved in projects which will provide $80,000-$120,000 in immediate uplift, within six to eight months. Not only that, it provides big tax deductions. It’s hard to beat. And an investor on a normal salary can get into high return property, with around $100,000 equity or deposit.”

Korry explains: “We named the business QLD Invest because southeast Queensland is in fact one of the best locations for investment at the current time and foreseeable future.

“Many of our projects are returning high weekly rents and incredible returns of 6 to 15 per cent each year.

On top of that is the capital growth.

One of our clients who wanted to move up from Sydney, is in fact getting a 25 per cent annual return on the project that we delivered. It’s basically allowed the family’s dad to stay at home. That’s life changing, and that’s when I get real satisfaction from my business. We are a family business, and we pride ourselves in helping families secure a great future.”

QLD Invest makes the investment process seamless. With every step, from initial discussion through to securing lending, managing the project and getting it rented, the team at QLD Invest support the process at no charge to clients.

“We deliver far more than most people would be able to achieve with their own knowledge, and we do it quickly, including high return SMSF property.“ Talking with Korry, you will learn more in three minutes than you may in a lifetime. qldinvest.com.au | 0439 425 855 korry@qldinvest.com.au

AUSBIZ NEWS

EXPLORE REGIONAL NSW

A trip to the Central Tablelands, west of Sydney, wouldn’t be complete without a trip through the lovely Blue Mountains to Bathurst, Australia’s first inland European settlement where rich history fuses with a contemporary landscape.

Highlights here include the Australian Fossil & Mineral Museum, National Motor Racing Museum, Chifley Home and the new Bathurst Rail Museum.

There are plenty of interesting museums located all around country NSW, from the Bradman Museum in Bowral to the Age of Fishes Museum in Canowindra, and the Temora Aviation Museum, which houses a world-class collection of historic aircraft.

Great regional art galleries include MAMA in Albury, Wagga Wagga Art Gallery and Western Plains Cultural Centre in Dubbo.

Keen to support local and regional tourism while indulging in cultural experiences? Start planning your next adventure now.

NOW LEASING NT

Now Leasing NT has been raising the bar in property management in Darwin since opening in November 2015. Joely Sullivan and Jo Griffiths have gone from starting up and running the entire business to now employing a small team, and consider themselves the first choice in property management in Darwin and its surrounding areas.

Recently expanding its office space within Darwin Corporate Park and with an ever-growing team, the company’s success shows that even in a challenging market these ladies are improving their business by thinking outside the box and doing things differently. Joely and Jo are regarded as the most well-informed property managers in the Territory, regularly investing in training and technology.

If you are looking for reliable property management, visit nowleasingnt.com.au or call today on 08 8984 4404.

Edible Wedding Bouquets Who knew that herb bouquets could become a wedding trend? Bundaberg farmer Amanda Giles bunched some sage, parsley, thyme, chives, rosemary, oregano and mint together for a lady who wanted to try all the herbs. “We took some photos, put them on Facebook and Instagram and people went crazy for it, and now it’s an everyday thing.”

Interestingly, Amanda spent 12 years working in the mining industry before moving into herb farming. Together with her husband Chris Giles, she hopes that herb bouquets might become a must-have wedding accessory.

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BUSINESS MENTAL HEALTH

THE IMPORTANCE OF LOOKING AFTER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH Small business owners, senior leaders and managers have been left reeling in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether your business has closed or is still operating, here are some strategies to help you through the toughest of times.  6

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BUSINESS MENTAL HEALTH

Many businesses in Australia have been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic and there is still a long way to go as we move towards recovery. Your business may be facing the immediate financial stress of closing down or a reduced turnover. You may be applying for government assistance (often for the first time) and dealing with the emotional impact of what’s happening to a business you’re invested in. You’re also no doubt concerned about your employees who may be dealing with losing their jobs or a reduction in hours.

The general uncertainty about how the coronavirus situation might affect you and your business in the weeks and months ahead can have a huge impact mentally, emotionally and physically, which is why taking care of yourself now is so important.

Below, we detail some immediate coping strategies, and provide information about where to turn for additional support. It’s always a good time to focus on mental health.

SUPPORT YOUR STAFF It’s natural to be concerned about the ongoing health and wellbeing of your staff, especially those who have been stood down from their role or had their hours cut, those whose roles have been made redundant, and casual workers who you no longer have any work for.

This article looks at various ways in which you can support the wellbeing of your employees during the COVID-19 pandemic.

ENSURE THAT YOU LOOK AFTER YOURSELF Whether you’re a business owner, senior leader or a manager, to be best-equipped to support your employees, it’s important that you prioritise your own wellbeing – both physical and mental.

SOME PRACTICAL TIPS • Try to maintain perspective – there will be an end to the situation.

• Make sure you are getting accurate information from credible sources.

• Structure your days and establish a routine as best you can.

• Establish regular sleeping patterns and make sure to get enough rest.

• Look after your physical health and find a way to stay active.

• Moderate the amount of news you consume each day.

• Try to do something each day that makes you feel good.

• Participate in exercises that you find relaxing, and perhaps try therapeutic activities such as mindfulness, meditation and yoga.

ACCESS EMOTIONAL SUPPORT • Seek out support, both practical and emotional. Talking to other people is one way to help make sense of your situation.

• In addition to speaking to colleagues and others you are close to, consider reaching out to fellow business owners and managers who can relate to your specific circumstances.

• Don’t be afraid to speak with your GP or a health professional if you find it hard to stop worrying.

PREPARE FOR LIFE AFTER COVID-19 Whether your business has closed down, temporarily paused, or you’re working reduced hours, it’s important to remember that there will be opportunities to get back to work. In the meantime, there are ways you can use the time to focus on the future.

• Consider completing any outstanding administrative activities you’ve simply been too busy for, such as tax reporting and updating your business or department plan, so

you are ready for the next chapter in your professional life.

• Enrol in an online training course, conduct online research or delve into background reading on your sector, so that you can return to work with new knowledge and expertise.

• Share ideas with loyal and trusted staff members who may be able to assist you when it’s time to start working again.

• If your business is still operating or could be revived in the future, why not use this time to beef up your online presence, including your website and social media profile. If you’ve always wanted to take your small business online but haven’t had the time, now is an ideal opportunity.

• Maintain contact with your customers via direct email, social media or signage (if applicable).

• Try to share your business journey with your community in order to retain customer loyalty.

Story provided by Beyond Blue, which supports Australians with mental health care and has developed the Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service. coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au JULY/AUG 2020

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CORAL SPAWNING

Image: Rolex©/Frank Gazzola

AN UNDERWATER SNOWSTORM AWAITS.

A STAR IS SPAWN More than a tourist magnet – the Great Barrier Reef’s spectacular coral spawning offers ways to help secure its future.

Words: David Levell

CORAL SPAWNING

Descending into semi-darkness down the anchor line in small groups, we find the bottom readily visible 10 metres below in the dim glow of boat lights and our dive leader’s torch (we all carry one). The extensive coral beds and bommies are glorious, but we’re a bit early for the full majesty. It’s not until the second dive – after a delicious hot meal back on board – that we see some spawning action. Floating upwards from a carpet of staghorn coral, hundreds of small white dots ascend through dark waters as if pulled by invisible strings. Later that night, countless more will join them.

“It’s incredibly beautiful underwater when you see this underwater snowstorm, all these eggs and sperm lifting off the corals and floating gently away in the current,” says Peter, and he’s right.

As spawning peaks, the waves roll with a pink, oily coating of floating spawn. Upon surfacing, the egg-andsperm bundles break up and mass fertilisation begins. A few days later, millions of miniscule newborn coral larvae sink to the bottom of the sea floor and attach to reef substrate.

Feeding and growing, they keep the coral life cycle ticking over.

Amid this outpouring of new life in waters rich in colourful coral, the threats facing the Great Barrier Reef seem deceptively remote. And how to reconcile the global media reports of its death after the 2016-2017 mass bleachings with the mass breeding taking place all around us?

“The Great Barrier Reef is certainly not dead,” Peter says. “But it was significantly damaged by those bleaching events. The greatest impact 

The placid sea contrasts with a busy deck bustling with a mixture of tourist divers and snorkellers gearing up Image: TEQ/ James Hill

Reef sharks, shrimps, octopuses, dazzling varieties of corals and fish… such sights would normally be scubadiving highlights on the Great Barrier Reef. But not tonight – this isn’t just any dive on a coral reef. This is spawning night, one of those few, special nights of the year it snows underwater.

Often likened to a submarine snowstorm, mass coral spawning is the spectacular, simultaneous release of egg-and-sperm bundles by an entire reef of corals. It only happens over a handful of nights once a year – and |only when conditions are just right.

“In late spring and early summer we get warming water which seems to stimulate the maturation of the eggs and sperm inside the coral,” explains Professor Peter Harrison, an Australian scientist who was one of the original discoverers of coral spawning, in 1981. “Then they usually spawn four to six nights after a full moon, which coincides with periods of slack water that increase fertilisation rates.

Spawning after dark means all these fat-filled energy-rich food sources [coral egg and sperm] are only seen by a few nocturnal predators, not by the major daytime predators.”

It’s five nights past November’s full moon and we’ve just spent a couple of hours motoring 55km out to sea from Marlin Marina, Cairns, aboard Tusa Dive’s (tusadive.com) vessel Tusa T6, enjoying the sunset, coffee and briefings. Moored at Coral Gardens dive site on Saxon Reef, the placid sea contrasts with a busy deck bustling with a mixture of tourist divers and snorkellers gearing up, all eager to witness the annual miracle.

Water temperature is an inviting 27°C, warm enough for almost everyone to forgo wetsuits. Even so, we’re all in stinger suits, a standard November to May precaution, although it’s reassuring to hear stinging jellyfish are a coastal menace not usually encountered on these outer reefs.

A SCUBA DIVER STARTS HER DESCENT TO CORAL GARDENS ON FLYNN REEF, GREAT BARRIER REEF

JULY/AUG 2020

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was in the northern parts, but some central parts were also badly hit. Some reefs are badly affected with very few corals left. Many reefs were significantly impacted but patches of coral remain.

And other reef systems that were protected by upwelling of cooler water still have very good coral cover. What we need to do now is use surviving corals as the foundation for breeding the next generation of corals to more rapidly recover coral communities.”

Discovering coral spawning opened a way for Peter – who has made reef recovery his life’s work – to do just that. Since the 1980s he’s been refining techniques for gathering large volumes of larvae spawned from coral that resisted bleaching temperatures, then releasing them to repopulate damaged areas.

His latest innovation involves fortifying larvae with special algae to help bleach-proof them even more.

Bleaching is a stress reaction from the loss – in overheated conditions – of the nutrient-supplying algae in a coral’s tissues. Normally corals can recover, but extreme heatwaves brought by global warming could turn bleaching into a death sentence for reefs everywhere.

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Image: Rolex©/Frank Gazzola

Image: Christian Botella

CORAL SPAWNING

Luckily, however, not all algae overheats at identical temperatures.

Taking a strain better able to handle heat than other types a coral might naturally find in seawater, Peter mixes it with larvae in tubs before settling them on a reef, ensuring they start out better armed against their sea of troubles.

“Combining heat-tolerant algae with larvae from corals that have survived the previous bleaching event is likely to provide extra capacity for the new juvenile corals to survive heat stress in the future,” he says.

Even so, Peter warns that future global warming scenarios could still take coral beyond this enhanced tolerance threshold. “What we’re trying to do is buy time for corals with these new populations we’re creating, in the hope that we’ll get real global action on climate change and greenhouse gas emissions.”

Coral doesn’t know it’s in danger, =of course. All it knows is business as usual – feeding, growing, breeding.

And while there are healthy coral reefs, that will include the incredible spectacle of mass spawning which is, as Peter says, “probably the greatest sexual reproduction event on the planet”.

LEFT: AN EXPOSED TROPICAL CORAL GARDEN IN QUEENSLAND. RIGHT: SCUBA DIVERS TEND TO AN OPAL REEF OFF PORT DOUGLAS.

FAST FACTS • Spawning occurs over several nights because different coral species on a reef release their egg-and-sperm bundles on different nights to avoid producing hybrids.

• Corals also reproduce by brooding (fertilising internally), budding (a detaching part grows separately), bailing out (a single polyp detaches) and parthenogenesis (embryos grow without fertilisation).

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RENEWABLES

RENEWABLES JOBS HEAT UP Wind, water and the sun now supply a fifth of Australia’s electricity, and it’s not just the environment that’s benefitting from the country’s shift to renewables – jobseekers are as well.

Words: Lisa Smyth

RENEWABLES

For the first time, large-scale solar farms have overtaken the hydro sector as the second-largest creator of renewable jobs.

In 2018, 21 percent of the power generated in Australia came from renewables – the highest ever level in our country’s history – largely fuelled by the one in five households that now has rooftop solar.

Plus, investment in large-scale renewable energy projects doubled from $10 billion in 2017 to $20 billion, with 87 projects under construction or financially committed to by the end of 2018. It seems the Australian renewable energy sector has emerged like a phoenix from very clean ashes.

GROWTH IN UNCERTAIN TIMES “Australian employment in renewables has recovered in recent years, though remains below its 2011-12 peak,” explains Callam Pickering, AsiaPacific Economist at online job site Indeed. “Renewables employment has

increased 60 per cent over the past two years, reaching 17,740 people in 2017-18.

“The recent recovery is notable, as too was the steep decline from 2011-12 until 2015-16. The global trend has simply been higher employment year after year, so Australia’s experience is unusual and likely reflects the uncertainty surrounding energy policy at the national level.”

That uncertainty continues, as the Morrison-led Coalition government has yet to outline its plans to replace the National Energy Guarantee policy it scrapped in 2018. And yet, the renewable energy sector, and its need for talent, is growing once again – why?

“It has been two record years for the sector,” says Kane Thornton, Chief Executive of Australia’s Clean Energy Council. “There has been a lot of investment in large-scale wind and solar projects, and a lot of consumer

interest in rooftop solar. Installing rooftop solar panels is much cheaper than it once was, and the cost of fossil fuel-powered electricity has gone up, so renewable energy is making more sense to more people.”

In fact, for the first time, large-scale solar farms have overtaken the hydro sector as the second-largest creator of renewable jobs, while rooftop solar maintains its top position, accounting for 46 per cent of jobs in 2017-18.

Surprisingly, Queensland has the highest number of accredited solar installers (1571), despite the state coming dead last in renewable energy penetration, with only 9.5 percent. Tasmania leads the pack with a whopping 95.9 percent penetration rate, followed by South Australia with 53 percent (Tesla and its giant battery might help explain that number two spot).  JULY/AUG 2020

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RENEWABLES

Image: Thomas Müller

AUSTRALIA HAS SEEN A TREND OF WORKERS MOVING FROM TRADITIONAL FOSSIL FUELS TO SOLAR.

A REGIONAL BOOM While solar technicians and specialists are vital to the renewables industry, it’s actually construction roles that make up the largest portion of jobs in the sector. In the small city of Port Augusta, population 14,000, more than 3000 construction jobs have been created thanks to 13 renewable energy projects.

And, in April 2019, Westpac, one of Australia’s largest banks, announced it would source all of its electricity from renewable energy by 2025 and that it would buy a quarter of the output from the new Bomen Solar Farm near Wagga Wagga to help achieve that target. The project is expected to have a peak workforce of 250 during construction phase.

“Renewable employment is having an impact on the market

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as a whole – there have been 10,000 new construction jobs for large-scale projects in the past 12 months,” notes Thornton. “And this has been a boon for regional and rural areas where suppliers and labourers are sourced from local areas.”

While some local governments have voiced concerns about the reliability of renewable projects, as most require a much smaller ongoing workforce than comparable mining projects, other regional areas are banking on the cost savings that come with renewables to actually prop up other sectors.

For example, Whyalla in South Australia has a population just over 20,000, but plans to triple that in the next 20 years through an ambitious plan to upgrade the steelworks using 1 GW of renewable energy.

OLD DOGS, NEW TRICKS The mining sector slowdown has also had a part to play in the renewables employment boom, with some mining workers looking to get out before they are forced out, and some just looking for jobs that don’t impact their health. One former Queensland coal miner recently told the ABC that he will “live longer doing this kind of work” when explaining his switch to the renewables sector.

Myung Shim, Key Account Director for Q CELLS, Australia’s longest running manufacturer of solar cells and products, says: “In our own hiring we tend to look primarily for experienced, specialised talent from within the solar industry. However, we have seen a trend of workers moving from traditional fossil fuels to solar. Having a knowledge of how the energy market

RENEWABLES

works suggests that these workers have skills that can adapt to the technical nature of the solar industry.”

Thornton agrees: “We have pretty strong capabilities in Australia in most areas – engineering, software development, construction – these skills transfer across from other sectors into renewable energy. Plus, we have a strong and active training sector and universities that are very focused on developing the next generation of renewable workers.

“But there is no doubt the government should be doing more, especially in training. We need strong TAFE programs and a long-term skills strategy. A lot of people want to transfer into the sector.”

FAST FACTS • Six solar panels were installed every minute in Australia in 2018.

• 33 percent of all renewable jobs globally are held by women, compared to a 22 percent average in the oil and gas industry.

Image: Phonlamai Photo

A CLEAN JOB MARKET Certainly Australia has a lot of catching up to do. In 2018, 11 million people were employed globally in the renewables sector. China remains the leading solar employer in the world, with 61 percent of all jobs, followed by the EU, Brazil and the US. “Australia punches above its weight on solar employment, but the renewables sector as a whole still remains a small employer in the context of Australia’s 12.9 million-person labour market,” clarifies Pickering.

Still, a study released in December 2018 by the United Nations’ International Labour Office found that accelerating the transition to clean energy could add 24 million jobs globally by 2030. If Australia wants a piece of that action, it will need to maintain its momentum to ensure the renewables employment sector doesn’t burn out as it did before. Can we really rise from the ashes once again?

JULY/AUG 2020

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Introducing Internet-enabled corrections for your base station • Replaces UHF radios • Works with all brands of GNSS • From $99 + GST per month Buy online today positionpartners.com.au/mirtk

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Position Partners launches MiRTK: an internet-enabled correction service for high accuracy GNSS Intelligent positioning solutions provider Position Partners announces the release of MiRTK – a correction service for GNSS equipment that utilises the Internet instead of UHF radio frequencies. MiRTK is compatible with all brands and models of GNSS from manufacturers including Topcon, Trimble, Leica Geosystems, Sokkia, Hemisphere and more.

“Until now, users that rely on high precision GNSS for applications such as surveying and machine control had no option but to use UHF radios or a network RTK solution,” said Cameron Waters, Geospatial Business Manager at Position Partners.

“Anyone that’s had to rely on UHF radio frequencies will have experienced problems, including interference, range limitations, costly licensing and severe penalties for breaching licensing laws. MiRTK offers an alternative that is refreshingly simple: no repeaters, no line of sight issues and no complex licensing,” he added.

Designed for the geospatial, construction and mining sectors, MiRTK works with every make and model of GNSS equipment via a small modem

that slides onto the accessory slot of the tripod and connects to the base station via a single cable.

Unlike UHF radios, MiRTK is not limited by range from the GNSS base station and does not require line of sight with the survey rover or machine.

It is limited only by the Telstra network, so if a user is receiving emails on their phone the MiRTK service will work.

According to Waters, another benefit is the ability to utilise a single correction protocol across all brands and types of GNSS equipment on site, dramatically reducing complexity and potential connectivity issues. “MiRTK uses NTRIP and a user selectable format such as RTCM3 or CMR, that can be used universally regardless of the brand or model of equipment,” he said. “Users enjoy full speed, full constellation connectivity without the complex radio settings, baud rates, bandwidth or scrambling problems that you get when trying to utilise different GNSS systems with UHF radios.”

Users simply connect the modem to the base station, power the modem on and MiRTK will work for up to 20 hours continuously without charge. Each unit

can connect with up to 10 devices such as survey rovers or machine systems as standard, with unlimited potential to scale up connections as required.

MiRTK offers the first Hardware as a Service (HaaS) for the geospatial sector, covering the hardware, data and warranty in either a 12-month or 24-month subscription.

“The future of UHF is limited with lower bandwidth, higher density areas, increased governance, rising costs and little flexibility,” Waters said. “MiRTK gives customers a new approach to receive reliable correction data in a simple and hassle-free way, whilst utilising their existing GNSS hardware.”

For more information and to buy online visit positionpartners.com.au/mirtk or call 1300 867 266.

JULY/AUG 2020

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AGRIBUSINESS

GROWING BLACK GOLD Truffles are a delicacy most often associated with Old World decadence, but in a surprise twist, the truffles served at the world’s top restaurants today are just as likely to be from Down Under as a country in Europe.

Words: lisa smyth

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Images: Truffle & Wine Co

AGRIBUSINESS

In 2012, hip-hop star Jay-Z visited Alba in northern Italy and went home with more than $20,000 worth of fresh white truffles. Heralded by luxury goods experts as responsible for influencing sales of Cristal champagne and Hennessy cognac before that, Jay-Z once again shone a spotlight on a niche luxury product that would soar in demand over the following years.

To claim that Australia, now the fourthlargest producer of truffles in the world (behind Spain, France and Italy), owes its success to Jay-Z may be a bit of a stretch – especially as it’s the black Périgord truffle that makes up most of the domestic harvest – but there’s no denying that consumer interest has grown exponentially in recent years.

“There is a lot more information available to consumers and a lot more awareness about truffles around the world,” says Alex Wilson, Head of Sales for Manjimup’s Truffle & Wine Co (TWC), the single largest producer of black

truffles in the Southern Hemisphere. “But, while the demand for truffles is higher than it has ever been, production in Europe has decreased dramatically. Urbanisation and climate change have resulted in less wild forests, and it’s just no longer part of people’s lifestyles in France and Italy to regularly go and hunt for wild truffles.”

ISLAND BEGINNINGS The first trees inoculated with truffle fungi were planted in Tasmania in 1995, and Australia’s first black truffle was harvested in 1999 (there is some debate as to which producer actually holds this lofty title).

The first truffières struggled to translate European techniques and methods to the Australian environment, particularly as even the soil fought against growers. European soil generally has a limestone base and is highly alkaline, while Australian soils are mostly acidic.

FUN FACTS OAK

Truffles have a symbiotic relationship with host trees, commonly English oak, holm oak and hazelnut.

300

To make a truffière commercially viable, an average of 200 to 300 trees need to be planted.

DOGS

Truffle hunting used to be entrusted to young pigs, but they are far too fond of the expensive delicacy. In Australia, dogs are preferred.

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AGRIBUSINESS

TRUFFLE HILL WINES IN MANJIMUP, WESTERN AUSTRALIA.

Truffle growers have to add heavy amounts of lime to the soil, raising the pH, at least one or two years before they can plant inoculated trees. Even then, it’s a matter of constantly monitoring the soil as well as ensuring correct irrigation. It’s not easy to get the balance right, but as growers shared their knowledge the industry grew in leaps and bounds.

There are now more than 400 truffières across the country, and it is estimated that by 2020 Australia will be producing in excess of 20,000 kilograms of truffles per year. The industry may be a small player in our agricultural sector, but at $2,500 per kilogram it’s definitely a mighty one. The main driver of success? Seasonality.

“The beauty about Australian truffles is being able to now utilise truffles two times per year,” explains Italian-born Alessandro Pavoni, Executive Chef of two-hatted restaurant Ormeggio at The Spit in Sydney.

“Australian black truffles are some of the best I’ve ever tried – I love to use them.

They are very similar to French truffles, but an obvious difference and benefit is that the Australian ones are fresher when they get to us. Truffles don’t like to travel.”

GLOBAL DOMINATION Despite the difficulty in transporting fresh truffles around the world, Michelin-starred chefs, Chinese billionaires and Saudi royalty are eager for Australian truffles in the European ‘off-season’, early May to September.

TWC supplied black truffles to more than 30 destinations in 2018, including Thomas Keller’s famed Napa Valley eatery, The French Laundry, and British celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal’s restaurant The Fat Duck.

“The export market is really where the potential for huge growth in the industry can come from,” says Colin Carter, Vice President of the Australian Truffle Growers Association (ATGA). “There are many established wholesalers that are always looking for more truffles to export.

Australian truffles are sent to the US and Europe, but Asian countries are much closer and are seeking to purchase truffles.

“We do expect our production to increase 

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AGRIBUSINESS

HISTORICALLY PIGS WERE TRAINED TO FIND TRUFFLES, BUT TODAY SPECIALLY TRAINED DOGS ARE THE MOST COMMON – AND WELL BEHAVED – TRUFFLE HUNTERS.

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AGRIBUSINESS

and possibly move into third spot. The European harvest period is six months out of cycle to Australia’s, so we won’t be competing with them for fresh product. However, we suspect that Chile and other countries in South America that currently have fledgling industries may give us strong competition in the future.”

TRUFFLE GIN, ANYONE?

Images: Truffle & Wine Co

While truffles will always remain part of the fine dining experience, many home cooks and MasterChef aficionados are keen to add the truffle touch in their own kitchen, so the home-front truffle industry is booming.

“The domestic market is rapidly increasing as the home gourmet market is also expanding – in-season fresh truffles can be purchased online and shipped by express post straight to your door,” notes Carter. “There are now several truffle festivals around the country and pop-up shops specialising in truffles in-season.

However, newly producing growers may find the domestic market quite competitive.”

Winter festivals such as the Truffle Kerfuffle in Manjimup, The Truffle Festival in Canberra and Truffle Melbourne keep growing (in normal circumstances) due to increasing consumer interest, and there’s also a diverse range of products that growers are making to supplement the fresh side of their business.

Everyone knows about truffle oil, but truffle honey, truffle cheese, truffle butter, truffle mustard, truffle salami, truffle ice cream, truffle cider and even truffle gin can all be found online, or even at your local supermarket.

Usually made with lower-graded truffles, valueadded products are a more affordable way for most Australians to experience the deliciously aromatic and earthy flavour at home.

“The local truffle industry has changed drastically since I arrived in Australia in 2003. The quality has increased – it is now outstanding world quality without a doubt.

The quantity has increased, as well as the duration of the season. It is more affordable,” says Pavoni. “To me it is all about the intense flavour and smell. It is a unique experience; nothing else is even close to it.”

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TRANSPORT TRUCKS

IF IT AIN’T BROKE, WHY FIX IT? There is fierce debate about just how much money should be spent on upgrading Australia’s trucks.

Words: Ian Lloyd Neubauer Australia’s freight task is growing fast.

Already the fifth-largest in the world, it will grow 75 percent between 2011 and 2031 demand, according to the government projections. Now with COVID-19 accelerated the trend in online shopping, the country’s freight tasks will grow faster still. This means more drivers spending more time on the road.

But is Australia’s truck fleet up to the task? Not according to the Heavy Vehicle Industry Association (HVIA).

The peak body representing truck manufacturers in Australia describes the age of the fleet – 14.9 years on average, one the oldest in the developed world – as “a matter of grave concern”.

Another industry body, the Truck Industry Council, says the same, adding that the fleet is so old that it would take “10 years of year-onyear record sales” just to reduce the average age of the truck fleet by six months. A modern truck fleet with high-tech safety features and energyefficient engines, it hypothesises, would not only improve operational productivity, but deliver far better health and safety outcomes but drivers and the general community. 

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Now with COVID-19 accelerated the trend in online shopping, the country’s freight tasks will grow faster still

TRANSPORT TRUCKS

THE NEW VOLVO GLOBETROTTER XXL. JULY/AUG 2020

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TRANSPORT TRUCKS

SCANIA K&S FREIGHTER.

In this special report, we look at why Australia’s all-important trucking fleet is so old and present the case for – and against – modernisation.

THE ARGUMENT AGAINST

SCANIA ADVANCED EMERGENCY BREAKING.

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“My old truck works fine, so why should I invest in such a huge amount?”

That’s the reason most owner-drivers in Australia have for not upgrading, says Todd Hacking, CEO of the HVIA. “They know new trucks are safer and will probably reduce their running costs, but it’s a low-margin industry and owner-drivers just don’t have that kind of coin.”

Alexander Corne of Scania, a Swedish manufacturer of heavyduty trucks in the 16-tonne and above category, the kind used for long-distance haulage, concurs.

“Traditionally we’ve had quite an old fleet in Australia because of the ‘make do and mend it’ mind frame many of us grew up with, and affordability ties into that,” he says. “It’s expensive to

keep a truck on the road in Australia.

A new truck can cost anywhere from $200,000 to $350,000. Registration and insurance costs are also dear. So even though a new truck will cost you less to operate in the long run, the nature of freight in Australia is that we have a high level of owner-drivers who operate in a competitive industry and who find it hard to justify such big investments.”

Shane Coates of the Glen Cameron Group, a freight company based in Melbourne with about 1,000 trucks, says even large companies like his gag at the expense of the new rigs.

“Today’s trucks have a range of safety features that you would typically find in an expensive German car and can come to a complete stop if someone were to walk in its path. The Euro 6 class of trucks now available in Australia isn’t just a new badge, it’s a second engine that sits alongside the main engine that particles out 99 percent of the exhaust toxins, so what goes out of the truck is nearly as clean as what goes in. But all these new technologies, of course, come at an additional cost.”

However, the one overriding impediment for investing in new trucks according to the dozen-odd industry sources interviewed for this report is the historical lack of government incentives in Australia. “In most developed countries, the uptake of new technology and purchase of new vehicles is more frequent and driven by legislation, which in turn has been driven by carbon emissions reduction targets” Scania’s Corne explains.

THE ARGUMENT FOR It took a global pandemic, but Canberra has finally introduced some of the incentives truckies have been crying out for decades. In April the threshold for instant asset-write offs for business equipment was increased from $30,000 to $150,000.

TRANSPORT TRUCKS

SCANIA PROVIDES NEW TRUCK GENERATION PRIME MOVERS T0 SHOOBRIDGE TRANSPORT.

WHAT’S NEW IN TRUCK TECH? • Advanced Emergency Breaking – If a vehicle gets in the truck’s path and the driver doesn’t react it will stop the truck as quickly and safely as possible • Pedestrian Recognition System – Only just unveiled by Volvo in Europe, it warns the driver if a pedestrian or cyclist comes between the truck and the curb • SEA Electric Truck – Caused quite a stir at the Brisbane Truck Show earlier this year.

“It’s the way of the future especially in the light and medium range,” Hacking says.

The move lit a firecracker under the light commercial vehicle market. “Light commercial vehicles are absolutely flying out the door right now because of the instant asset write-off. Many businesses in the construction industry are taking advantage of it,” says Adam Lewis, sales manager at Suttons Trucks Arncliffe in Sydney.

The threshold is still not high enough for new heavy-duty rigs. But it is high enough to incentives the purchase of ‘newer’ used 16-tonners.

“Now is an excellent time for someone who has a contract to move gravel or bulk materials to go out and buy a newer truck and cleaner truck that won’t break down and has more advanced safety features,” says Corne.

Matt Wood at Volvo Trucks in Brisbane concurs. “The buying model for heavy-duty trucks in Australia is they have their first life on the highways doing long haul and are then on-sold for local roads. Those are the kind of buyers who can benefit from the write-off,” he says. “But even with the pandemic, people are still buying new trucks. There’s quite a bit of cautious optimism in the market,” he says.

Above and beyond what the government can offer, there are endless reasons for investing in new trucks, says Coates of the Glen Cameron Group group, where the average age of trucks is only 3.5 years.

“We buy a lot of new Volvo and Mercedes Benz trucks because they provide us with total life cost solutions – trucks that come with aftermarket support services that keep our fleet on the road,” he says. “Certainly these technology features add to our cost of doing business and convincing our customers that it makes longer term financial sense isn’t easy. However, many of our customers who also have clear environmental directives are very much on board, and our founder Glen Cameron wants his employers working in the safest possible environment.

And to reduce our carbon footprint.”

It is this kind of attitude that will ultimately prevail, says Hacking at the HVIA. “I think within 10 years there will be a modernisation of the Australian fleet because the savings are there in the long run, especially with these new government incentives. It’s basically more money for jam.”

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BUSINESS MUMS

BUSINESS MUMS

MUMS IN BUSINESS words: Tatyana Leonov | illustrations: jon wolfgang miller

Being a mother is no easy feat, and when you look at mothers who also work... well, that is no easy feat. In this issue we celebrate three amazing women who managed to bring up families while launching businesses.

TIFFANY DROGE: JUMPLY Tiffany has always loved the outdoors, often actively exploring regions near her base Melbourne with her husband Nathan. When their first daughter Tanner was born in August 2016, Tiffany didn’t see why she and Nathan couldn’t keep up their active lifestyle.

But it wasn’t so much the newborn juggle that Tiffany found a challenge... more the lack of quality baby products around for active families.

“Tanner was only a few months old when we realised that the baby products that we had purchased were not working for us,” she says.

Tiffany resigned from her full-time job as a health and physical education teacher and started working on a concept she hoped would encourage parents who had been active prekids, to keep living as they had before… albeit with a bit more to carry. Puggle Baby Australia was launched in February 2017.

A Kickstarter campaign was next on the cards, and baby Chase was born while they were in the midst of the whole thing. “But the result was 100 per cent worth it,” she says.

When you look for baby or nappy bags online, hundreds of options pop up, but Tiffany set about creating a product that would have sections for laptops, swimmers, passports and an RFID-protected pocket – to help travelling families stay safe.

As awareness of the brand grew, Tiffany realised rebranding and expanding were the next steps. “We changed the name of the company to Jumply in January 2020, as we wanted the new name to resonate with the idea of parents getting out and about with their kids,” she explains. “Then in mid-January 2020 we launched into Japan.”

In a way, Tiffany and her family encapsulate the Jumply brand. Chase is now 19 months old and running around, while four-year-old Tanner is a proud older sister who loves moving just as much as Chase. And Tiffany and Nathan are showing no signs of slowing down, teaching their kids that an active lifestyle is – at least for them – the norm.

THE STORY 2016: Welcomed Tanner into the world.

2017: Launched Puggle Baby Australia.

2018: Chase was born. Launched a successfully funded Kickstarter campaign for the Adventure Nappy Backpack.

2019: Rebranded as Jumply.

2020: Launched Jumply into Japan.

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BUSINESS MUMS

NAOMI KOROLEW: THE POP UP WEDDING COLLECTIVE It’s a little bit ironic that Naomi Korolew decided to work in the wedding industry after choosing to leave her own marriage in January 2014. “I confess that I’m not the kind of girl who was totally into weddings,” she laughs.

As it turned out, her ex decided he didn’t want to continue living in Australia, and Naomi found herself a sole parent to a one-year-old: “This made continuing my corporate career working as a senior manager in the oil industry impossible – unless I wanted to outsource parenting – which I didn’t.”

Naomi started by assessing her likes and dislikes, taking a good hard look at the opportunities available in her local area.

“This is what led me to becoming a marriage celebrant,” she says. “It ticked all my boxes and was an industry with a low barrier to entry.”

Next Naomi identified couples with kids as a demographic being underserved by the traditional wedding industry, and in July 2016 she launched a local pop-up wedding company with few different levers to create simple, beautiful and affordable occasions.

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AusBiz.

“The average wedding spend in Australia is over $50k, but the pop-up concept can save couples 70 to 80 per cent of the average wedding budget, without sacrificing on quality,” she says.

Local interest grew quickly, then a global shift in attitude towards wedding budgets helped Naomi decide what to do next: “I rebranded, relaunched and expanded our offers in December 2019 to include even more weddings, plus pop-up elopements.”

These days Naomi is living the balanced lifestyle she craved when the idea started coming into fruition. Now that her son, Hugo, is at primary school, she works during school hours and at nights when he’s asleep. Many of her pop-up elopements are midweek, and when she has weddings he has playdates or goes to his grandparents.

Supported by her two virtual assistants, Naomi’s Collective has swelled to involve more than 20 contractors, but family always comes first. She and Hugo take a month off over winter every year to explore a different country together. But she can’t help herself: when she sees an opportunity to make life easier for couples, she takes it – and Destination Pop Up Weddings are coming soon.

THE STORY 2014: Became a sole parent and resigned from the oil industry.

2015: Identified the wedding industry as an opportunity and began studying to become a Commonwealthregistered marriage celebrant.

2016: Soft-launched The Peninsula Pop Up Wedding Co. 2019: Rebranded as The Pop Up Wedding Collective. Expanded pop-up wedding offerings and added elopements.

2020: Re-launched as The Pop Up Wedding Collective.

BUSINESS MUMS

VANESSA WILTON: MANLY SPIRITS CO The story of Manly Spirits Co came to life in late 2015, when Vanessa was holidaying with her husband David in Tasmania. “While driving through the hills of Tasmania on a foodie weekend, we had a light bulb moment,” she says. “I had reached the chapter in my life where the ability to build a scalable business had arrived. I saw the craft beer explosion and the rise of craft spirits globally and decided that we needed more Aussie spirits to grace back bars and bottle shops.”

The business planning stage took the couple six months. Then it took another six months to secure buildings, design the brewhouse, stills, bottles, packaging and cocktail tasting bar. “Our distilling philosophy is that we take the best of tradition and then innovate with the use of native Australian and marine botanicals producing complex modern spirits,” Vanessa explains. “Authenticity and passion are instilled into all our products and brand.”

Although she doesn’t have one favourite product, Vanessa can name a few that customers keep coming back to. There’s Lilly Pilly Pink Gin with its fruity notes, and the internationally awarded Australian Dry Gin made with locally foraged sea lettuce.

The bespoke bottles are decorated with the company’s signature Fibonacci pattern. “It represents perfection and balance in nature,” Vanessa explains.

The kids (who ranged from ages 13 to 18 when Vanessa and David launched the distillery) have all been involved, too. “They have all worked in the business, as cocktail bartenders, IT support staff, sales reps, event staff, bottlers and packers. And some have been fired and rehired from the business,” Vanessa laughs. “They get some pretty good perks, too… mainly being able to have parties at the distillery and cocktail bar.”

The older two of the four, Harrison and Bella, also like to come along to yoga. “I believe in work-life, balance so I launched the Gin Yoga concept in 2018 as a bit of fun at the distillery,” says Vanessa. “There’s nothing like adding the extra challenge of perfecting your ‘crow pose’ whilst sipping your gin with your wheat straw.”

THE STORY 2015: Found soul mate and remarried.

Went on a foodie holiday to Tasmania.

2016: Quit corporate job to focus on the distillery.

2017: Launched brand with gin and botanical vodkas. Opened distillery and tasting bar to the public.

2018: Won double gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Awards.

Won NSW Telstra small business of the year.

Started distributing nationally.

2019: Expanded distribution with duty-free and exports to the UK and Europe.

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PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

18. Lunches or suppers

13. Task-completion date

21. Childhood disease

14. Verve

22. Watery hail

16. Comprehend (4,2)

23. Fine particle

18. Small rugs 19. Indecent material 20. Auld ... Syne

AZALEA CARNATION DAFFODIL DAHLIA DAISY FORGET-ME-NOT FREESIA

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GARDENIA GERBERA JONQUIL LILAC MAGNOLIA ORCHID PANSY

PETUNIA PROTEA ROSE SNAPDRAGON SWEET PEA TULIP VIOLET

U T C G A R D E N I A A J

O L A P R P A H T I L R L

N U M O I N R P I A L E F

E U F L R J E H C D M B H

Y Y U A W A A R E B R E G

G I G R E G C T D E E I O

A U N O S R E O I E E A L

R Q O T O A F T S O I W Y

D N L E R F Z I M N N S S

P O I A A W A A U E I R O

A J A D D E T T L A N K O

N P V I O L E T D E D O K

S Y S N A P A I L H A D T

SOLUTIONS:

11. Spiral pin

S Y S N A P A I L H A D T

17. Took (baby) off bottle

N P V I O L E T D E D O K

10. Italian fashion & design hub

A J A D D E T T L A N K O

6. Teen hero

15. Assess

P O I A A W A A U E I R O

12. Made angry

Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters.

They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally. Theme: PRETTY FLOWERS.

D N L E R F Z I M N N S S

5. Gum sore

R Q O T O A F T S O I W Y

9. Sanctuary

WORD SEARCH

A U N O S R E O I E E A L

4. Manner

G I G R E G C T D E E I O

8. Surpass

O L A P R P A H T I L R L

3. Inscribe

N U M O I N R P I A L E F

2. Witness

7. Happened (upon)

E U F L R J E H C D M B H

1. Repeatable (of speech)

4. Florida city

Y Y U A W A A R E B R E G

DOWN

1. Raise petty objections

U T C G A R D E N I A A J

ACROSS

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