Southwest biz volume 42 Oct/Nov by bizmag

Volume 42 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

FREE!

Northpoint The return OF

BUSINESS + FOOD + MUSIC + PROPERTY + HEALTH + COMMUNITY

PUBLISHER'S NOTE DO YOU HAVE A MENTOR OR A TRUSTED ADVISER? IF NOT, THE QUESTION MUST BE "WHY NOT?" Throughout my career (thus far) I've drawn on the expertise and advice of many different mentors. They have each contributed something different to our exchanges, but all have been a source of inspiration and learning for me. They've brought unique perspectives, have challenged my thinking and, in some case, they have acted as champions and allies. In this month's edition of BIZ, we explore mentoring in some depth and ask a bunch of successful regional businesspeople to share the best business advice they have ever received. We hope it gives you some inspiration to go out and find yourself a mentor... or to become one! This edition, we also celebrate the very welcome return to "village shopping" with a special feature on Warrnambool's Northpoint Shopping Centre. There is something quite lovely about knowing your local baker, pharmacist or cafe owner. So, in the interests of helping you get to know them a little better, we've profiled the

people behind the Northpoint businesses. (Well, half of them - you can meet the rest next edition!) Don't forget to take a look at our Diary to see what's happening around the region over the coming couple of months. There are plenty of ways for you to stay connected and well networked. Or you could, of course, hop on over to our Facebook page which is always fresh and up-to-date. And did you know that we're blogging weekly? Swing by our website - www.swbiz.com.au - for some thought-provoking and occasionally funny reading. Finally, this month we are delighted to be able to introduce you to the uber-talented and very funny Chris Allsop who we have welcomed to our team as Business Development Manager. He's only too happy to pop out and say hi armed with a coffee and donuts, so drop him a line! We hope your spring is off to a wonderful beginning.

Karen Foster

WELCOME CHRIS! WE'RE DELIGHTED TO INTRODUCE OUR NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Chris Allsop.

A professional photographer and communications professional, Chris brings his strategic eye to his new role. Already, he's relishing the chance to chat with SouthwestBIZ and o2 Media clients about all things marketing, media, communications and Netflix.

Publication dates SouthwestBIZ magazine is published bi-monthly and distributed in the first week of every second month in 2015. Advertising bookings close two weeks prior to publication. Email biz@swbiz.com.au to request a rate card or to reserve your space! December/January edition deadlines Advertising bookings: close of business, Fri 20 November Editorial: close of business, Fri 20 November Published: First week in December

BIZ ONLINE Our website provides you with 24/7 access to your favourite regional business magazine. Featuring stories and articles from our printed publication, the website will also include special tips and resources that will only be available online. www.swbiz.com.au SouthwestBIZ 2/102 Lava Street Warrnambool Vic 3280 Phone: (03) 5568 3095 Publisher: Karen Foster Editorial: Karen Foster Brigid Auchetti Beth Gibson editorial@swbiz.com.au Photography: Sheree Dubois Leanne Pickett Laura Mahony Chris Allsop Production Manager: Jody Miller jody@swbiz.com.au

Advertising: Chris Allsop Phone: 0400 457 689 Office: 5568 3095 email: chris@swbiz.com.au Web: swbiz.com.au Social facebook.com/swestbiz southwestbiz @southwestbiz

Our cover: Brad and Jodie from Silver Fox Photo by: Sheree Dubois This document was produced from fibres that were sourced from endorsed certified well-managed plantations and is manufactured under the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System.

He's already been anointed as our resident "ideas guy". It seems his imagination knows no bounds! When he's not working with our clients, Chris can be found with his wife, Kristy, and two spunky young sons, or indulging his penchant for English history and Shakespeare! (True story!) Chris can be reached on chris@swbiz.com.au or 0400 457 689.

southwest

- Logos, brochures and more - Submissions and tenders - Customer service training - Marketing, Public Relations o2media.com.au

ISSUE

THE RETURN OF VILLAGE SHOPPING AT NORTHPOINT

GOOD VIBES FOR INNOVATION at eRESOURCES

HIDER HEALTH AND

10 SWIM AND SURVIVE WITH ROS AT AQUAZONE

13 MIXED APPROACH AT SPARTAN MMA

UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL WITH A MENTOR

APPOINTING A POWER OF ATTORNEY

LOCAL BUSINESSES BAND TOGETHER

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY

RIESLING ON THE RISE AT KILLARNEY

GARAGE BARISTA AT ALLANSFORD

WHAT THE BUILDING INDUSTRY DOESN’T WANT YOU TO KNOW!

THE CASE FOR WORKPLACE

START YOUR UNIVERSITY DEGREE WITH SOUTH WEST TAFE

volunteering

VITALITY

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The return of

o p h s p e i g ng a l l i V

THE RISE AND RISE OF ONLINE SHOPPING HAS CHANGED THE FACE OF RETAIL FOREVER. BUT IT HAS ALSO HAD AN UNEXPECTED SPIN-OFF – A RETURN TO “VILLAGE CENTRE” STYLE OF SHOPPING. Centre manager for Warrnambool’s Northpoint shopping centre David Turner attributes this to the convenience factor. “In a way, it’s like one big, general store. It’s very accessible and convenient for locals to come here,” David says. The increasing patronage of local centres like Northpoint is consistent with global trends. It seems consumers are seeking out experiences that they can’t get online. They are also favouring businesses that actively support and give back to their community. “Our commitment is very much about being a part of the local community and contributing to the community,” David says. “After all, we are a part of all that – we are run by locals, owned by locals, serving locals.”

A recent change in ownership at the complex has enabled management to contract out a number of jobs to local people. “We’ve started to introduce local people back to the centre,” David says. “With the new private investors comes a more intimate management of the centre for the future. It’s going to have a lot more caring and intimate approach.” Already, David’s management role has given him a great appreciation for the sense of community that has evolved within Northpoint. “People don’t realise all that goes on behind the scenes. There are people that open the centre at 5am and close it at 11pm. We have cleaners, security guards, plumbers, electricians, gardeners and that all takes a bit of coordination and connectivity,” he says. “Our commitment is genuinely very much about being a part of the community and contributing to it.”

Northpoint property manager David Turner.

DISCOUNT CHEMIST OUTLET For Pharmacist Kelly Tong, it’s the people who motivate and inspire her most as a business owner. The face behind Northpoint’s Discount Chemist outlet, Kelly says she draws energy from the constant interaction with her customers. “I take inspiration from seeing what the industry needs and what the community needs,” Kelly says. “We get a lot of people coming in here with certain ailments and we have a certain category of customers so we try to tailor to their needs, so that inspires me to make things better for them.” Kelly, who took over the established business three years ago, has a clear customer service focus. 4

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She particularly loves the community feel of being a part of a neighbourhood shopping centre.

“The people who we serve as well the great team I get to work with in this environment are just great.” “Serving customers and making sure they are happy with the service and then seeing come back and say ‘thankyou’, because we have helped them, is a great motivation.” When asked what she loves most about her job, Kelly’s cheerful response is, unsurprisingly, all about the people.

Kelly Tong from Discount

Chemist Outlet

“we are run by locals, owned by locals, serving locals.” SILVERFOX COFFEESTORE AND EATERY A love of design and a gap in the market was all the inspiration Jodie Everall needed to bring Silverfox Coffeestore and Eatery to life. With her husband, Brad, Jodie has been managing Silverfox at Northpoint for just over two years. It marked a shift in direction for the former Visual Merchandiser and Food Stylist. However, she has since had opportunity to put her skills to great use, creating a visually beautiful

space and presenting food with flair! “This is our local shopping centre and we were sad we couldn’t get a good coffee here, so we thought why not open up a café?” Jodie said. For her ever changing array of savoury and sweet treats, Jodie takes her inspiration from seasonal food, drawing on creative ideas from chefs such as Jamie Oliver and Donna Hay to create little master pieces every day. She cites social media

site Pinterest as one of her favourite online haunts. Brad acknowledges the variety of people that visit Silverfox each day. “WE LIKE BEING IN

CONTACT WITH PEOPLE AND IT’S REALLY REWARDING WHEN PEOPLE ARE ENJOYING THEMSELVES IN OUR SPACE,” he says. “Then we feel like we’ve achieved our goal of creating a really nice café.”

BRUMBY’S BAKERY:

ahon from

David McM

Brumby's

Bakery

There are few more comforting smells than that of freshly baked bread, still warm from the oven. It’s an aroma David McMahon is well used to, after seven years as owner of the Brumby’s Bakery franchise at Northpoint. At the time, the notion of being his own boss and working his own hours was a strong motivator for him. Today, he enjoys the tightknit community feel that comes with being a part of the Northpoint Centre.

“Working in the Centre you get to know a lot of people. We have a lot of locals and a lot of regulars, which is really good.” David’s team is also of paramount importance to his business. He says he takes a great deal of pride in the fact that he can employ local people, further cementing his business’ role in the community. “It’s good employing people. “It’s also great owning your own business and being able to support

yourself as a business owner.” As with many industries, there is a clear peak in the Brumby’s Bakery annual calendar – Easter! The Thursday before Easter is the business’ busiest day by far, with hundreds of locals hungry for hotcross buns. “It’s a big day and all the staff work hard, but it’s also a great day,” David says.

HARRY’S FISH AND CHIPS Everybody has their favourite fish and chip shop. For many people in and around North Warrnambool, it’s Harry’s. Harry’s Fish and Chips is one of those little gems that the locals try to keep a closely guarded secret. And had it been like the fish and chip shops of our youth, most of which were next to a milk bar in a suburban street, Harry’s might well been just that. Instead, this shop is right by the supermarket in one of Northpoint’s

highest traffic areas. During his 40 years of cooking fish and chips – yes, 40 years – Harry has been a patient witness to the changing face of shopping. “SUPERMARKETS

DOMINATE THESE DAYS. IN THE OLD DAYS, FISH AND CHIP SHOPS WERE NEXT TO THE MILK BAR, BUT TODAY WE HAVE TO BE NEXT TO THE SUPERMARKET,” Harry says. One of the things he loves most about owning and running his own

business is that he gets to cook for others. For Harry, who’s not averse to the odd chat and genuinely enjoys the company of his customers. It’s a combination of a couple of his favourite things. Despite four decades of cooking fish and chips, Harry has no plans to slow down any time soon. “I will be 67 next birthday and I’m still enjoying the work. I have no plans to retire.”

Harry and Yv onne from H

arry's Fish an

d Chips

Continued on page 6

southwest

The return of

Village shopping CONT.

DOMINO’S PIZZA Sure, they make great pizza. But what many people don’t know about Jason and Lindsay Tod – franchisees of Domino’s Pizza at Northpoint – is that they are huge supporters of the local community. This year, they have quietly made contributions to a range of community organisations, including Lifeline, Relay for Life and local schools and sporting clubs. With the help of their customers, they also helped to raise $800 for the victims of the Nepal earthquake. It’s all part of their keen interest in making meaningful connections with their community. “We raised around $800 for Nepal and Lifeline this year and this is something we wouldn’t be able to do as individuals,” Lindsay says.

In fact, this is a business built around people – not only customers, but their staff, many of whom are quite young. “WE HIRE A LOT OF YOUNG PEOPLE

HERE. WATCHING THEM GROW AND DEVELOP… IT IS EXCITING TO SEE THEIR GROWTH AND CONTRIBUTE TO PEOPLE’S LIVES,” Lindsay says. In fact, the couple has been involved with the Domino’s brand since they were both youngsters themselves. Lindsay had her first job there at age 16 and Jason has been a part of the company for 12 years. They chose to make the business their career largely because of the respect they had for the franchise and the business model, which they describe as innovative and exciting.

Jason and Lindsay Tod – franc

hisees of Domino’s Pizza

They have invested a great deal of energy into their team as they seek to grow their business. “As a new business, we have put a lot of effort into growing the people and growing the business. We are looking forward to taking a step back and enjoying the business,” Lindsay says. “Having a business is fun and challenging some days, but we think we’re up for the challenge!”

NORTHPOINT LOTTO AND GIFTS Anne Marie Quinlan, with her sunny personality and quick wit, is a favourite Northpoint character. Anne Marie established Northpoint Lotto and Gifts four years ago after a 20-year career in marketing and events. “I wanted to do something on my own and my brother Jack was in a position where he was wanting to do something new as well, so we came up with Tattslotto,” she says. Her changed career path brought with it its own trials, not least of which was learning a whole set of new skills. “I’d never done anything in merchandising before, so learning how to merchandise things properly and well so that it sells has been a bit of a challenge.” But the decision has been a great one for Anne Marie and her family, with more flexible hours and all the stimulation that comes with learning new things.

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hpoint Lotto and Gifts

Anne Marie Quinlan from Nort

“I LOVE DOING ALL THE BUYING FOR THE SHOP – IT’S FUN AND STIMULATING,”

she says. “I do all the bookwork, too, so that keeps the brain ticking away. During her travels, Ann Marie will often find herself drifting into gift stores to see how others are doing things.

“Whenever we go away, I always check out other gift stores to see what others are doing, what they stock and how they are displaying it.” But it is her customers who provide Anne Marie with the greatest gifts. “We do have a good rapport with the customers. We have a chat and they tell me all the gossip for the day. They keep me motivated!”

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WELCOMES George Savery has been appointed as Aussie Broadband's Business Development Manager.

George Savery brings regional knowhow to Aussie Broadband

IF YOU HAD ANY DOUBT ABOUT GEORGE SAVERY’S KNOWLEDGE OF INTERNET AND PHONE SERVICES, YOU NEED LOOK NO FURTHER THAN HIS TRACK RECORD TO BELIEVE THAT HE KNOWS HIS STUFF. Though the newly appointed Business Development Manager of Aussie Broadband may have only joined the team in the last month, his long and illustrious IT career spans decades. From humble beginnings at the pre-Deakin Warrnambool Institute, to IBM, Telstra, and

the Warrnambool Telephone “I love being able to visit and Company, George can confidently get to know local businesses in the say he knows a thing or two about area,” George said of his new role. providing telecommunications to The merger of Wideband the southwest. Networks and Westvic Broadband As a saw Aussie Warrnambool “Our customer contact Broadband open boy from way its doors in is more personal, more Warrnambool back, George appreciates in July 2008, knowledgeable." getting to as a privately understand the needs and support owned, regionally-based required to help the local residents telecommunications carrier. and business owners with their With a wealth of knowledge, phone and Internet requirements. George says what sets Aussie

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Broadband apart from other carriers is the excellent customer service they provide. “Our customer contact is more personal, more knowledgeable. We are all based in Australia, with directors and staff living and working in Morwell, Warrnambool and Adelaide.” George hopes to be heavily involved in the ongoing growth at Aussie Broadband and in understanding regional needs. He is committed to providing quality services to customers.

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FOCUS

Swim & Survive with ros

INCE THE 1960s, IT HAS ALWAYS STOOD AS A SWIMMING COMPLEX, HOWEVER ONLY IN THE LAST 13 YEARS HAS IT CARRIED THE NAME SYNONYMOUS WITH SWIMMING IN THE SOUTHWEST REGION, AQUAZONE. Not many can say they have been with the aquatic centre since its inception in 2002, but Swim and Survive instructor Ros Fitzgerald has been there every stroke of the way. “I was changing my life path,” Ros explains, as teaching swimming and water safety to children was something new to her. Stemming from a love of helping others in her previous career as a police officer and then as a support worker at Emma House Domestic Violence Services, Ros began teaching swimming with local swim coach Ross Price. It didn’t take 10

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her long for Ros to progress to her current role at AquaZone, loving every minute since. Contrary to what may be common beginnings for a swim instructor, Ros didn’t grow up with a love for swimming, or being exceptionally good at it. “I could get from A to B, but I was not a good swimmer. I wanted to have a crack at triathlons, but I was not a swimmer, so I had to learn.” Several triathlons and swim teaching qualifications later, Ros joined the AquaZone team which, along with hundreds of grateful parents, is thrilled that she plunged into the deep end and took up swimming. After plenty of waterlogged ears, screaming kids and more pool noodles than you can count, Ros says she feels rewarded in her ability to teach kids to be safe in the water.

“To get those AquaZone is of Being a lover really scared Warrnambool’s ing, fitness, swimm and timid kids only aquatic thers, o g in lp e h d n a who can’t put leisure and ming their face in recreation Ros enjoys co d n a rk o w the water or let centre into elf their feet float providing considers hers y. k c off the bottom indoor and lu pretty of the pool, to outdoor heated the point where they pools for fitness and are floating, swimming, play, a large gymnasium, and independent and safe in the spin bike studio and fitness water; to have them swimming and programs. saying ‘look at me’ - that’s pretty Being a lover of fitness, satisfying.” swimming, and helping others, AquaZone won the 2012 Ros enjoys coming into work and Victorian Swim and Survive School considers herself pretty lucky. “It’s a of the Year and now has swimming great place to work, I’m pretty lucky classes for all ages and abilities. to have the work that I’ve got here.” Their nationally recognised ‘Swim The AquaZone Swim and and Survive’ program caters for Survive program includes a swim babies aged six months through to membership to swim any day of the the completion of the program. week. Registrations for the Swim and Thirteen years after its opening, Survive program are open now.

AWARD WINNING

LEARN TO SWIM PROGRAM is now taking enrolments. Swim and Survive is a national swimming and water safety initiative of Royal Life Saving that seeks to increase the swimming and water safety skills of Australian children in order to prevent drowning and increase participation in safe aquatic activity. Wonder - A water familiarisation program for parents and their children aged 6 to 36 months. Courage - A program that builds water confidence for preschool aged children between the ages of 3 and 5 years. Active - A swimming and water safety program for school aged children between the ages of 5 and14 years. With two custom-built Learn to Swim pools, AquaZone caters for the little ones just starting out, through to more the advanced swimmer. And with our unique “Stay and Play” deal, your child can gain extra water confidence each day – all whilst you sit back and enjoy a coffee in our café.

STAY PLAY!

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TO ENROL contact Joanne Wilkinson

Ph: 5559 4500

or aquazone@warrnambool.vic.gov.au

Rod Brugman (left) and Steve Cope outside their newly renovated Fairy Street premises.

and showroom will enable the company to expand, as well as showcase IT solutions for business in a simulated environment. This takes the customer experience to a whole new level, says Rod. “We’re all about finding the right solutions for businesses of looking for and just brought the all sizes - from large corporates whole story alive.” to home operations,” he said. The Begleys built “Our new space allows the house in 1929 us to demonstrate and moved in as advanced t We’re all abou honeymooners – solutions t h g ri e th g the very same in like video find night the conferencing, solutions for ll a Ozone Coffee f o smart boards, s e business Palace (Hotel 3D printers e rg sizes - from la Warrnambool) and ‘cloud’ home corporates to burned down. technology, operations. As a mechanic which eliminates at a time when the need for on-site automobiles were servers.” becoming part of Australian Rod said, like Begley’s life, Begley was quite the pioneer. enterprise, eResources was growing in Rod Brugman reckons Begley response to customer needs. left some “good vibes” at the “One of the biggest demands address, with eResources continuing right now is from tradies and familythe tradition of an innovative local run businesses,” he said. “They need business that really cares about calendar and email information sent its customers. in real time to their smart phone to Its brand new offices, workspace help plan their day.

GOOD VIBES FOR INNOVATION AT eRESOURCES

IF THERE’S SUCH A THING AS A ‘LUCKY BUILDING’, THEN 78 FAIRY STREET, WARRNAMBOOL IS IT. It seems that its current occupant eResources isn’t the only aspiring business that’s taken up residence in the 86-year-old former private residence. It was once the home business of car mechanic Arthur Begley who was recognised for excellence in customer service and innovation – much like eResources. Director Rod Brugman said Begley’s story was inspiring to his passionate team of IT experts and they were thrilled to accept the baton. “I always knew there was a story here, but for the life of me I couldn’t find much information,” said Rod. “When we were doing the renovations this year, Arthur Begley’s daughter Dorothy randomly walked in the door. She gave us all the answers we were 12

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"Making businesses ‘portable’ and ‘accessible’ is becoming more and more popular. Eventually everything will be in ‘the cloud’.” And, undoubtedly like Begley, the guys at eResources genuinely get a kick out of providing expert solutions to the diverse needs of customers. “We’ve just replaced a heap of computer servers for a major client and the results have been mindblowing,” said Rod. “The new servers are faster, smaller and take less time to back-up. In all, the new hardware is saving them about 35 per cent on power. It’s fantastic to see such efficiencies and the smiles on people’s faces.” The similarities between eResources and its mechanic predecessor don’t stop there. When selecting a quote for the new boardroom wall, the eResources team chose one of its favorites by Henry Ford: “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” At the time, little did they know the Begley family would provide a photo of a 30s Ford V8, which is now a feature in the board room.

David Gibbs from Spartan MMA

TAN SPAR MIXED MARTIAL ARTS MIXED APPROACH AT SPARTAN MMA He looks like someone you wouldn’t want to cross and has a black belt to match, but local martial arts teacher David Gibbs has a gentle soul. After five years in Adelaide fighting competitively at a professional level, David returned to his hometown of Port Fairy in 2011 to open martial arts studio Spartan Combat Systems in two locations: Warrnambool and Port Fairy. “A lot of martial arts companies run with an Asian theme, but I wanted to step

away from that a little, and I have always liked the Spartan thing,” David says. Aptly named ‘The Hot Gates’ after the narrow coastal pass in Greece where the Spartan Battle of Thermopylae occurred, the Warrnambool location offers classes for a range of ages and abilities. “It is a pretty mixed bag,” David admits. “A saying we have here is that we are not just about building great martial artists, more importantly it’s about developing great people.”

David’s love of the sport began when he joined his local taekwondo club at the age of nine, obtaining his black belt at 15. “I have been exploring and growing ever since, it is an ever evolving thing for me.” Opening the studio was a way of combining his two passions, martial arts and providing support for disadvantaged youth. Having previously worked at Brophy, and now with his Warrnambool studio located at Wave School - an alternative learning space for disengaged youth - David is able to share his martial arts knowledge, which ranges from Muay Thai to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

MUAY THAI Brazilian Jiu Jitsu MMA - MMA FIT KIDS CLASSES CLOSE QUARTER COMBAT 1 ON 1 PERSONAL TRAINING

72 Henna St Warrnambool PHONE DAVID ON 0401 729 837 www.spartancombatsystems.com

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otential with a p r u o y h nleas

MENTOR U

IF YOUR BUSINESS COULD DO WITH THE CARING TOUCH OF A MENTOR, IT’S TIME TO PUT THE FEELERS OUT.

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your business or bringing in experts. “In order for a business to be a complete success, staff need to be performing at the highest level,” he said. “Keep check that your staff know what they are expected to do. Make sure they’re constantly developing professionally and are happy personally.” Camperdown’s Peter Conroy, a leading consultant with Australian nutrition company Juice Plus +, said mentoring is a major component of his business. Peter’s background in personal training and karate coaching has

you’ve just started.” “A good mentor makes time for you,” he said. “They’ll sit down and ask you what you want and when. They’ll encourage small, realistic goals and keep you accountable and focused.” Like Peter, mentoring is part of the daily ethos in Dion Griffin’s Warrnambool-based business Ability2Drive. A program to help people with special learning needs, a disability or who have been disadvantaged to gain their license and employment, Ability2Drive is all about excellence

“ The key is to align your company with

people who are in the forefront of your industry.

molded him as a natural mentor and he’s currently responsible for guiding 18 representatives (known as Transformation Coaches) in South West Victoria, Sydney and New Zealand. He’s is in regular contact with his coaches via telephone, social media or Skype and catches up with them at regional seminars. “We go into the subjects very deeply, from product knowledge to business development, management and marketing,” said Peter. “It’s rewarding that our coaches are not only achieving a healthy lifestyle, they’re growing a successful and profitable business.” Peter believes that a mentor is someone who “has run the race that

“

MENTORS ARE PASSIONATE FOLK, WHO GENUINELY WANT TO IMPART THEIR KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS IN LIFE AND BUSINESS. Mentors are all around you. They’re at work, industry events, the footy club and on social media. There are also a multitude of professional mentors who work alongside every imaginable industry. In any capacity, a good mentor will challenge you as a person first and foremost. They’ll help you identify any personal barriers that can often hold you back from running a successful business or climbing the professional ladder. Former Warrnambool man Phil Hunt took this approach when rolling out his mentoring program for aspiring managers at the Commonwealth Bank. “Participants attended a mix of seminars, workshops and one-onone sessions,” said Phil. “But it was in the one-on-ones that the real work was done. We ran personality and behavioral profiles and talked about personal issues that may be blocking them from moving forward. This approach was a proven success because nine out of the 12 participants went onto business management.” Phil believes every business should implement mentoring programs to benefit all levels of management and staffing. He suggested nominating champions in

in mentorship. “We hold their hand and help them get to where they want to be,” said Dion. “We don’t do the work for them, but rather give them the tools to do it themselves with lots of support and encouragement. We might impart our own experiences, get in industry speakers or place them in a work environment.” He said on the other side of the coin, passionate mentors were apparent at almost every point of his business’s development, including

stakeholders across community and government. “The key is to align your company with people who are at the forefront of your industry.” There are also plenty of industry experts to surround yourself with through the not-for-profit Small Business Mentoring Service (SBMS). Connecting businesses from all industries with mentors, SBMS facilitates around 6,000 sessions a year. Most consultants are retired or semi-retired, with loads of experience in their field, including the founders of Forty Winks and Autobarn. They can help to set business objectives, write business plans, develop effective marketing strategies, increase sales and profits and identify new opportunities, according to SBMS CEO David Gregory. “Most businesses know what needs to be done, they just need clarity, confidence and a sense of direction that allows them to go and do the job themselves.” So how does one find a business mentor? “Look who’s been successful in your field, then make contact!” adds Phil Hunt. “Pick their brain and learn from them. If they are successful, over time, you will be too.”

For more information visit

www.business.vic.gov.au/support-for-your-business/ grants-and-assistance/small-business-mentoring-program

Standing TALL IN THE COMMUNITY

What’s the

best BUSINESS advice

you’ve ever received?

have two ears and one mouth “ You – use them in the same ratio.

“

(Advice from a trusted mentor) - Todd Knight, McDonald’s Portland

“

Support, educate, encourage and mentor your team correctly and you will make yourself obsolete. - Veronica Bryant, Cleanskins Warrnambool

most valuable asset in business is “ The the people who support you. Remember

“

to respect, nurture and build those relationships for future success. - Shantelle Phillips, Dunkeld Delights, Dunkeld

be the best at one “ Wething.don’tButtrywetowant to be second best at everything!

“

- Robert King, King’s Catering

“

You must turn over 70 per cent for a brand to be viable. - Lizzie Gapes, Lizzie’s Labels of Love

“

involved some responsibility. “It’s all about relationship building, giving these kids someone else in their life and someone to talk to,” Matty says. Matty says his biggest motivating factor is making a difference. “I get a big buzz out of giving back to kids who are maybe a little less fortunate or need a bit of a help in life”. When questioned about future aspirations for the Standing Tall program Matty enthusiastically talks of plans for expansion of the program to different schools. “We’d love to get some more schools and in turn some more participants involved, that’d be sensational. But for this to happen, funding is desperately needed. And this is a role that also falls to volunteers. Recently, the Standing Tall program in Warrnambool held a trivia night in conjunction with Rotaract, raising a healthy $5200. Next year, Standing Tall is looking to hold a walk for the mentors and students where money will be raised for the foundation through sponsorship. “There is no better feeling than seeing some great results at the end of the program.” Standing Tall has groups in Hamilton, Camperdown, Colac, Warrnambool and Heywood. Those who are interested in getting involved are welcome to visit: www.standingtalliw.com.au.

“

LOCAL MEDIA IDENTITY MATTHEW ‘MATTY’ STEWART HAS AN EASY GOING AIR ABOUT HIM. It’s almost hard to tell that he’s so in demand. He is a busy man, balancing his gig on breakfast radio show Monkey, Loggy and the Big Fella, running his own business and an active family life. Despite this, he still finds time to give back to the community through the Standing Tall program. “It’s easy to juggle my busy schedule because [Standing Tall] is a great way to give a little back to people who need it most,” he says. Matty has recently taken over the role of program co-ordinator at Standing Tall in Warrnambool after 14 months of affiliation with the program. Standing Tall is an early intervention, school-based mentoring program working with students who are displaying signs of disengagement at an early stage in their school life and ultimately ‘at risk’ of leaving school without a proper education. Matty says the program is all about keeping kids engaged in school. “We take the kids on with oneon-one mentoring every week with someone we match up with them.” There is a diverse range of mentors, from 89-year-old retirees to business people and young professionals. At present, there are 43 mentors and students actively engaged in the program. Matty says becoming involved is totally voluntary, giving the kids

You may ask accountants and tradesmen their opinions of a property you are considering buying, but NEVER ask them IF you should buy it! That’s a decision only you can make. - Garry Lockett, Lockett’s Real Estate

Share your best advice with us on facebook! southwest

1st Birthday marks

THE START OF SOMETHING

BIGGER

The Port Fairy and District Community Bank® has marked its first birthday with $10,000 in grants for the local community. Belfast Community Enterprises Ltd Chairman Peter Langley said the performance of the Community Bank® Branch had exceeded expectations in its first year of operation. With "business on the books" increasing by $31.33 million, the branch had effectively broken even. Mr Langley said the better than expected result had enabled the branch to invest around $50,000 back into the community in grants and sponsorship over the past year.

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Branch manager Ashley King said the $10,000 "birthday grant" had been provided to groups and not-forprofit organisations who applied to share in the Port Fairy and District Community Bank® Branch first birthday celebrations. Mr King said all local organisations that applied had received funding from the reverse birthday present. "The Community Bank® Branch can only support the community to the extent that the community supports us," he said. "The strong support we have received to date really demonstrates our point of difference in what we are doing for the community."

The successful applicants were: • Port Fairy Community House $1000 to support a workshop on financial awareness at the 2016 Women’s Weekend Festival ($500) and development of their Community Garden ($500). • Port Fairy Petanque $600 to support a newly formed group introducing a new amenity for the community and to assist building a Piste. • Kirkstall Recreation Reserve $500 to help purchase and install an electric BBQ at the Recreation Reserve. • Port Fairy Angling Club $1000 to assist rebuilding their operations centre as a permanent facilities upgrade. • South West Working Equitation Club $750 to support a newly formed group introducing a new amenity for the community and to help acquire a purpose-built trailer.

• All Abilities Equestrian $250 to support a very important community activity. • Port Fairy Playgroup $600 to support a newly formed group introducing a new amenity for the community to enable the purchase of educational toys. • Port Fairy Consolidated School $300 towards awards for a new swimming competition and developing water safety skills. • Port Fairy Tennis Club Inc. $5000 to assist upgrading a sporting facility integral to the amenity and wellbeing of the community by re-surfacing four asphalt courts and providing lighting at Southcombe Park sporting complex. All made possible by the customers of Port Fairy and District Community Bank® Branch.

BALANCE

Naturopath Sarah Porter

HIDER HEALTH

& VITALITY

There’s a new kid on the block and she has grand plans to make Warrnambool a little bit healthier – one person at a time.

Natural Medicine Clinic

aturopath Sarah Porter is the proprietor of the newly established Hider Health and Vitality. Inspired by the improvement she experienced in her own health after seeing a Naturopath as a younger woman, Sarah has a particular passion for working with women and children. “Being a new Mum myself, I understand the importance of family health care,” she says. “I have a special interest in treating women’s health concerns including menstrual complaints, menopause, infertility and adolescent health issues.” Returning to her home-town Warrnambool from Melbourne where she worked under the tutelage of renowned Naturopath Ruth Trickey, Sarah is keen on creating a similar experience for local people. “Natural medicine looks at treating the cause of the disease, rather than simply masking the symptoms,” she says.

“My focus is on considering the person as a whole – taking a holistic approach to treatment.”

Sarah cites her parents as being her greatest inspiration when it came to striking out in her own business. “Mum and Dad have been a big inspiration to me. They have always owned their own business and have been a big part of my decision to start my own business.” Hider Health and Vitality will operate from a “beautiful room” at the front of Sarah’s home – a move she hopes will make it easier for her to juggle the demands of taking care of four-month-old Knox and running a business. “The joy of owning my own business allows for the freedom to work around Knox, rather than having to go to the workplace on particular days for set hours,” Sarah says. “And my partner Josh and I are very lucky that all our family are local, so we have plenty of helpers!” * re Pri ba va te te sa H va ea ila lth bl e

Specialising in women’s and family health - Natural fertility - Preconception/pregnancy care - Hormonal regulation - Fatigue - Stress management - Immune support - Detox and weight loss - Digestive complaints - Children’s health

Sarah Porter -

Naturopath & Herbalist B.H.Sci (Nat), mNHAA

62 hider street | warrnambool VIC 3280 | p: 5562 4876 | www.hiderhealth.com.au southwest

Appointing a POWER OF ATTORNEY - IT’S NOT ABOUT BEING OLD. IT’S ABOUT BEING CERTAIN.

HAVING A VALID WILL AND APPOINTING A POWER OF ATTORNEY ARE MATTERS THAT EVERY LIVING PERSON SHOULD ADDRESS; IT’S SURPRISING HOW MANY PEOPLE AREN’T ACROSS WHAT IT MEANS TO HAVE THESE – AND WHAT IT COULD MEAN IF THEY DON’T. FIONA GIBLIN, MANAGING PARTNER OF MADDENS LAWYERS, OUTLINES WHAT IS INVOLVED. Maddens Managing Partner Fiona Giblin.

hile a Will itself is, in theory, a straight forward concept – it is a document that determines what happens with your most treasured possessions when you pass away – what a Power of Attorney can and should do on your behalf tends to be less known and understood. A Power of Attorney is about what happens when you’re alive, and grants another person (or people) permission to manage certain affairs, if and when necessary. This usually relates to financial matters, medical affairs or living arrangements that have to be managed in the event you are too unwell to make the decisions yourself. It is something that provides you, and the important people in your life, direction, certainty and peace of mind - it’s effectively saying that

someone else can manage your life and personal affairs when you’re not able to. That’s a big thing! That is why on 1 September this year, new legislation has come in to play to better protect the person donating the Power of Attorney, referred to as ‘the Principal’. What the new legislation now makes clear, is, among other details, what Power of Attorney cannot do. For example, they can’t dissolve a marriage. A Power of Attorney cannot revoke a will. And they can’t control a Principal’s children. As strange as it may seem, before 1 September 2015, it was never made explicit that a Power of Attorney could not do this (although one would have hoped common sense and ethics always prevailed!) The changes also clarify what a Power of Attorney is required to

MAKING A WILL AND GRANTING POWER OF ATTORNEY Personal Professional Efficient Essential 18

southwest

do in carrying out this role. One of the duties is that if and when you are required to act as a Power of Attorney, you must keep meticulous records of all you do on behalf of the Principal. Payments you make, transactions undertaken on behalf of the Principal, or arrangements you might make to help the Principal in their day to day life (such as appointing a cleaner, or renting a new property) must be carefully and meticulously noted – and penalties apply if they are not. Similarly, a person being appointed Power of Attorney cannot have been found guilty of a dishonesty offence, or have been bankrupt. They also can’t be the Principal’s care worker, health provider or accommodation provider (eg: their landlord.) These circumstances would make a Power

of Attorney invalid, putting us right back where we started – no Power of Attorney, no certainty.

Importantly, having a Power of Attorney is not just a duty or role that should be considered when one is old or has been diagnosed with an illness.

is important for the peace of mind of yourself, and those you love.

professionals who are here to help explain the new laws, and if and how they affect your personal situation. We can also review what you currently have in place, to ensure everything is in order in case the unthinkable ever happened.

We can make it a simple and efficient process, that will provide you with peace of mind.

1800 815 228 | maddenslawyers.com.au

Maddens Lawyers has a

large team of experienced legal

Maddens Lawyers offers uparalleled experience and expertise when it comes to preparing a Will and Power of Attorney.

Contact Maddens today – we’re here to help.

We never know when something

is going to happen – being prepared

LOCAL BUSINESSES

BAND TOGETHER

Warrnambool is home to many talented people, and when SouthwestBIZ heard about these particularly talented six young business owners who were collaborating we couldn’t help but find out more. After a chance meeting earlier this year, wedding photographers Laura Mahony and Chris Allsop

decided to catch up for coffee. They quickly discovered a mutual love of coffee and, more importantly, of collaborating. “We wanted to bring some renewed enthusiasm to the area,” explains Chris. “Not just weddings but small business and we decided the best way to do that was collaborate on a mock wedding.”

It didn’t take long for Laura and Chris to find four other like-minded businesses to work with them to set up the shoot. They joined with Lizzy Waterson of Elizabeth Jean Weddings to assist with managing the event with her extensive planning experience, Lauren McHutchison of Where Love Blooms, who designed the arrangements and styling, and Sarah Jellie of Make Up by Sarah for her expertise in all things beauty. For a venue, Laura and Chris found GingerKitchen, a hidden gem at Deakin University, who gladly joined in. “GingerKitchen was just perfect,” says Laura, “It has beautiful gardens and lawns for ceremonies and a reception venue overlooking the Hopkins River.” Planning a real wedding can be daunting so you can imagine how overwhelming it was to plan, stage and photograph a fake wedding within three weeks. “It wasn’t easy,” laughs Chris, “but everyone involved put in a huge

effort and we each have a folio of amazing photos that show what we’re capable of achieving.” Having seen the end result from this exciting collaboration, SouthwestBIZ could only exclaim “WOW”. If you would like to see the results for yourself - and we highly recommend you do - then jump on the websites and Facebook pages below. Photography: Laura Mahony – lauramahonyphotography.co Chris Allsop – chrisallsopphotography.com.au Event Planning: Elizabeth Jean Weddings – facebook.com/ElizabethJeanWeddings Floral Design: Where Love Blooms facebook.com/wherelovebloomsfloraldesign Make Up & Beauty: Makeup by Sarah facebook.com/makeupbysarahjellie Venue: GingerKitchen facebook.com/GingerkitchenDeakinWarrnambool

Fine Art Wedding & Fashion Photography.

For wedding or commercial enquiries contact Laura or Chris hello@lauramahonyphotography.co chris@chrisallsopphotography.com.au

southwest

BUSINESS

KEEPING IT

THE FAMILY

This issue we turn our focus to the growing

collection of family businesses across the southwest. Each issue we will bring you the story of a local family business, their tips for success, the steps they took to get there and mistakes they made along the way. Two ladies who understand the logistics of family businesses better than anyone - Family Business Australia CEO Robin Buckham and Boards by Design principal Marion Truman - have provided us with a few answers to their frequently asked questions.

Family Business Australia CEO Robin Buckham is helping businesses build strength and enduring success. After recently celebrating National Family Business Day on September 19, we spoke to Robin about her take on the future of family businesses and how Family Business Australia is making a difference.

Marion Truman works closely with all types of businesses, and public

Who is Family Business Australia? Family Business Australia is the peak body for family business in Australia, a sector that accounts for almost half a million businesses and 50 per cent of the Australian workforce. We aim to contribute to the longterm success of family business by facilitating and engaging resources that promote success and foster sustainability and longevity.

Is your Family Business realising its potential? Family businesses are different. They have unique and defining attributes which can contribute to business success, or conversely lead to dysfunctional or even destructive outcomes. Success stems from family commitment in building a sustainable business and a sense of pride and identity, with a long-term focus on passing on a viable business for the benefit of successive generations. Conversely, some family business dynamics present challenges, requiring careful attention to mitigate the potential for dysfunction, damage or even snowballing to a breakdown in family and business relationships. Succession planning is a key challenge - a leader might resist change or have difficulty ‘letting go’ and trusting the next generation. Failure to transition may put the business at risk of an unforeseen disaster. Relationships between family members working together, or alongside non-family staff, may become dysfunctional and damaging to the business. Favouritism, lack of commitment, or inability to distinguish between business owner, director and beneficiary roles, are all potential causes of relationship

What services do you provide for family businesses? We offer quality services to assist family businesses in their pathway to success, through events, peer-topeer learning, forums, professional development opportunities and resources to engage family businesses in best business practice. In your opinion, what makes a successful family business? Success comes in all shapes and sizes, and can only be defined by the goals set by individual family businesses. By capturing that passion and supporting it with professional strategies, family businesses can achieve their version of success much easier. A family business that can balance those two things will be successful. What is the biggest issue facing family business today? Statistics show us that less than half of all family businesses survive the transition of leadership to the 20 southwest

next generation. With 20 per cent of CEOs being 65-years-old and over, and 41 per cent of CEOs not having a retirement plan, family businesses need to start thinking about their transition today, even if it is still several years away. What local resources are available to family businesses? I know there are expert and experienced legal, accounting advisors and consultants like Boards by Design that can help family businesses. Richard Montgomery from Crowe Horwath advises family businesses on structures, ownership, and succession issues. Whilst their Financial Advisor Stephen Crowe advises on all the personal asset and investment side of things. It can get quite complex with so many “political” issues to sort out, so they facilitate round table family discussions to work through issues. If you had one piece of advice to offer family businesses, what would it be? Take time out of the business to work on the business. It can be easy to say, ‘I don’t have time to step away from the business to think about governance, because I need to be on the floor making sure things are done.’ However, family businesses often cite time spent looking at the bigger picture as the key to their long-term success.

sector and not-for-profits organisations. Whilst their purpose, focus and complexity varies, she says, the same principles of good planning, culture and process apply. breakdown in family businesses. Good planning and policy can effectively mitigate such potential risks, and provide key attributes for success. A capable board and good policy can make a difference! Often family business directors are also shareholders and/or employees. Occasionally they may hold the title of director for legal reasons only, or to preserve family control. It is evident that a board does not function effectively when directors wear multiple hats, are unsure about the role of the board, or perhaps do not fully understand their own duties. Successful family businesses take a strategic focus on planning and policy to optimise business success and reduce risk, and understand that good governance enhances performance and brand reputation. A capable board, preferably with independent directors, can provide this, bringing ‘fresh eyes’, an objective perspective and the ability to distinguish business priorities from competing family interests. An effective board and a focus on good policy can add value by: • promoting good culture and values • providing strategic direction and oversight • implementing agreed standards and processes for good management.

EXTRA

Business in Heels dips toe in the water

The Business in Heels organisation is stepping out into southwest Victoria, with a launch event planned for October 14. Business in Heels is a global women’s networking organisation with branches throughout Australia. South West Victoria Branch Director Bron Levett said the aim was to stage events that created an atmosphere in which women could create their own opportunities.

“There is a real emphasis on fun. We work hard to create events that make it easy for women to connect with other like-minded ladies over a glass of bubbles,” Bron said.

The launch event will be held at Lady Bay

Resort’s lounge on Wednesday 14 October, 6.30-8.30pm. Guest speaker will be former Warrnambool City Councillor and active community leader Glenys Phillpot who will explore the role women play in our community. Attendees are invited to bring business cards to enter door prize competitions. “And, of course, we encourage ladies to wear their most fabulous pair of shoes because a ‘Best Heels’ prize is a regular feature of Business in Heels events,” Bron said. Tickets to the launch event are $40 which includes a glass of sparkling wine on arrival and canapés. Bookings via the Business in Heels website or email: southwestvic@businessinheels.com.

TIMBOON TOYBOX Beautiful toys for imaginative minds! Toy store that offers wonderful toys, games & puzzles that stimulate imagination, fascination and concentration.

1/11 Curdievale Road, Timboon | Find us on Facebook (03) 5598 3798 | Monday-Saturday, 9-5

K C O T S NEW W O N E R O T S N I phone (03) 5568 2160 email shop@mangowood.com.au web www.mangowood.com.au 1/27 Sackville Street. Port Fairy 3284 southwest

FEAST

Riesling on the rise AT FORGET CHARDONNAY AND SAUVIGNON BLANC. THIS SUMMER, RIESLING WILL BE THE WHITE WINE OF CHOICE IF CURRENT TRENDS ARE ANYTHING TO GO BY. And being part of Australia’s coolest wine growing region has given Killarney’s Basalt Vineyard a distinct leg up in the Riesling department! Basalt’s founder, Shane Clancey, explains that the cooler climate and longer growing season builds greater complexity and finesse in Riesling grapes. The tiny highwayside vineyard with the big heart has just unveiled its fifth commercial release – a Henty Region Riesling. This is from the fruits of the vineyard’s original 2003 plantings

22 southwest

and, given Australia’s growing love affair with this particular variety of white, the timing could not have been better. “If you look at some of the top restaurant lists around Melbourne and Sydney you’ll notice that Riesling is red hot right now,” Shane says. “But gone are the days of those over-sweet, cloying whites – today’s Riesling is all about being fresh and light.” Shane pairs his new “Rizza”, as he affectionately calls it, with a surprisingly inventive Tapas menu at the rustic Basalt cellar door. Among the more popular choices are the local smoked eel with home-grown, pickled beetroot, wild rocket and crème fraiche. There is also a good variety

of local cheeses, including the perennially popular Shaw River Buffalo Cheese. Tucked away behind the vineyard, which is grazed by a handful of friendly lambs, the cellar door is undergoing something of facelift this spring in readiness for the busy wedding and Christmas party season. Whilst Shane assures us that it won’t lose any of its rustic charm, the improvements will create a little more space and seating to accommodate slightly larger groups. Basalt Vineyard is open daily. For more information or for group bookings phone 0429 682 251 or visit www.basaltwines.com.

“I bring something unique to the area, an inner city hole in the wall style coffee bar, something unexpected in small town Allansford.”

Like Russell Crowe, the Pavlova and Phar Lap, Bek Barnes from Matchbox Espresso Bar in Allansford is another New Zealand success story that we have claimed as our own. The thought of a garageturned-espresso bar, started out as a bit of a joke between Bek and her husband when they moved into their Ziegler Parade house two and a half years ago. But in April last year after a thumbs up from the council, Bek decided to put her 18 years of hospitality experience and her love of quality coffee to good use, opening the take-away style

TaKe - AwAy BoUtIqUe CoFfEe TrEaTs & EaTs

GARAGE BARISTA IN

Allans for d

coffee bar in her garage. “I have a strong local following,” Bek said of her regulars, which include parents doing the morning drop off at the Primary School over the road. “They were one of the reasons I decided to set it up,” Bek explains, “ I thought, they could all be potential customers.” Her love of hospitality began in New Zealand, but developed when she moved to Australia, and more specifically its coffee capital, Melbourne. “I’ve been making coffees since I was 15 years old,” Bek laughs.

After 10 years managing bars and cafes in Melbourne, Bek decided to bring her coffee knowledge and love for the quirky take-away style bar to the southwest. “I bring something unique to the area, an inner city hole in the wall style coffee bar, something unexpected in small town Allansford.” Providing good quality products is one of Matchbox Espresso Bar’s many draw cards, along with an experienced barista delivering service, and hot coffee, with a smile.

OpEn MoNdAy - SaTuRdAy 32 ZIEGLER PARADE ALLANSFORD 3277

PH: 0419 548 873

SI NC E 1 9 9 8

Made to order Christmas Hampers NOW AVAILABLE!

CELLAR DOOR NOW OPEN THURS - MON, 11AM - 4PM

Order your Newtons Ridge Christmas Hamper NOW! In addition to our delicious hand made wines you can also choose from local olives & olive oils, glass markers & wine savers, superb Belgian linen tea towels, branded glasses & a range of tried & tested gardening gloves.

1170 Cooriemungle Rd, Timboon, Victoria Susie: 0438 985 442 Carla: 0419 952 370

www.newtonsridgeestate.com.au

MICKEY BOURKE'S KOROIT HOTEL • Accommodation • Open 7 Days Lunch and Dinner • Takeaway meals now available • Guinness on Tap • Book now for your Xmas Function • Regular Live Music

Sat 31 st

Buffet Din Oct ner an Show Wit h top Irish d Band.. O

ld Melb ournE Road

& ATM O S P T F E

PH: 03 5565 8201

101 Commercial Street Koroit www.mickeybourkes.com.au

LOOKING FOR AN ENJOYABLE AFTERNOON FULL OF FUN, MUSIC AND FANTASTIC FOOD? Join us in Pierrepoint Vineyard and Cellar Door Sunday 25th October 2015 for just that! George John is returning for his bi-annual Western District fix so don’t miss out! 271 Pierrepoint Rd, Tarrington 12-4pm Meals from $18 Cover Charge $10 BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL PH: 5572 5553 | 0439 476 198 southwest

FEAST

Perfect partners

on a night out

SOME OF OUR FINEST LOCAL CHEESES WILL GO HEAD TO HEAD WITH SOME BIG COONAWARRA WINES AT ALLANSFORD'S CHEESE WORLD IN LATE OCTOBER. The cheese and wine matching events will provide opportunity to learn from professional cheesemakers and vignerons. The evening will feature the decadent, soft ripened Limestone Coast Cheese Company alongside the sharp and tasty Warrnambool Heritage Cheddars. These will be expertly matched with wines from the renowned Katnook Estate, Coonawarra. The $20 ticket prices includes six cheese tastings, six wine tastings, one glass of sparkling wine on arrival. The cheese and wine will also be available for purchase.

Warrnambool Show 2015~ Show Me South West Produce Hall & Apprentice Chef Challenge

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THE CREAM OF SOUTHWEST VICTORIA’S APPRENTICE CHEFS WILL AGAIN VIE FOR CULINARY GLORY IN THE ‘SHOW ME SOUTH WEST’ COOK-OFF AT THIS MONTH’S WARRNAMBOOL AGRICULTURAL SHOW. The Apprentice Chef Challenge sees first, second and third-year apprentices compete in a live cooking competition that calls upon them to create their own signature dish. This year’s Show Me South West program also includes an inter-school Team Scone Cook-off, a Barista of the Year Award and the 2015 Taste of South West – Warrnambool Show launch on Thursday 29 October. The Taste of the South West will feature local food teamed with regional beers, wines and ciders. Guest speaker will be Dedy Friebe, of Warrnambool and District Food Share, and $5 from each ticket sold is being donated to Food Share to support its work locally. The inter-school Scone Cook-off invites students from Warrnambool and district secondary schools to demonstrate their

Bookings for the event, on Wednesday 28 October at 7:30pm, are essential. Phone Cheese World on 5565 3190 or email cheeseworld@wcbf.com.au.

team-work and scone cooking techniques. The southwest’s love of good coffee will be acknowledged with the inaugural Barista of the Year competition. The ‘Show Me South West’ and the ‘Taste of South West’ events are staged by a small band of volunteers intent on creating opportunities for young people and aspiring chefs. Organisers have received a number of entries for the competitions, but have called upon regional baristas and apprentice chefs to join in the fun. Entry is free and entry forms can be downloaded from the Warrnambool Show website, www.warrnamboolshow.com. Tickets for the Taste of South West launch event on Thursday 29 October at the Wannon Rooms, Warrnambool Showground, are also available on the website, or phone 5562 3633. The events are supported by a range of local organisations including the Flying Horse Bar and Brewery, PFD Food Services, Warrnambool City Council, South West TAFE, CoastFM/3YB, The Warrnambool Standard, the Warrnambool Greyhouse Racing Club and SouthwestBIZ magazine.

HABITAT

What the building industry doesn’t want you to know! With Clinton Krause // Architect

avvy consumers would be aware of the warranties and guarantees available for common household appliances or even new vehicles. It may come as an unpleasant surprise to know that the extended warranty on your new Asian-made car is likely to be longer than the one on your newly built home! Government legislation of the Building industry change almost as frequently as our Prime Ministers, so it’s important to know your rights and risks upfront...

The Builder Selecting your Builder is the most critical aspect of the process. Obtaining the ‘best ’ (cheapest) price may be appealing, but the cost to rectify workmanship issues that may arise could exceed variance between quotes. Reputation, experience, administrative competence and affability are key qualities that will ensure the best outcome. If something does go wrong, start by talking the issue over with your Builder. Make sure you understand what the Industry standard of workmanship is for your project. A useful publication available to download from the AIBS is the ‘Guide to Standards and Tolerances’. The HOW HOW – or Home Owner Warranties insurance – is the mandatory domestic building

insurance taken out by the Builder on your behalf for all works greater than $16,000. However, homeowners can only claim through this policy if the Builder is unable to rectify defects for specific reasons – ie if the Builder has died, disappeared or gone bankrupt! In any event, the maximum payable claim is $300,000 for up to six years (major structural defects) or two years (non structural). The Building Permit Nearly all building works will require a Building Permit obtainable from your local Council or from a private Building Surveyor. The Building Surveyor is responsible for ensuring that your project satisfies the National Construction Code for building practice. Whilst part of the Building Surveyor services includes a number of inspections of the works during construction, the Surveyor cannot

be held accountable for issues of defective workmanship. Likewise, the issue of a final Certificate of Compliance for completed projects does not ensure that the works are defect-free, but only that construction standards have been met. The Building Contract The building contract between owner and builder is extremely important when legally resolving disputes between parties, but costs associated with proper legal advice and representation to obtain a ruling on a dispute can be extremely prohibitive. VCAT and Consumer Affairs If the Builder has not died, disappeared or gone bankrupt and negotiations have failed to resolve a complaint, owners can resort to Building Advice and Conciliation Victoria for free advice, representation, conciliation services and technical

inspections and reports. If this fails to resolve things, an application can be made to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). Whilst essentially a free service, VCAT’s quasi-judicial environment usually requires applicants to engage legal representation along with consultant reports and even expert witnesses. The Architect An experienced Architect can help avoid the potential pitfalls of defective building work and the protracted and exhausting avenues of recourse outlined above. With considerable knowledge of the Building industry, ongoing collaboration with Builders, an understanding of quality construction along with a regular presence on site, your Architect is your representative and advisor throughout from design to completion.

WANTED! CLIENTS SEEKING INNOVATIVE HOME DESIGN

FOR FURTHER DETAILS CONTACT CLINTON J KRAUSE ARCHITECT P 5562 1527 M 0488 204 673 E CLINTONKRAUSE@SCTELCO.NET.AU WWW.WARRNAMBOOLARCHITECT.COM

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HABITAT

Human Bower Birds! THERE COMES A TIME IN THE LIFE OF A PROPERTY LISTING WHERE YOU HAVE TO ASK YOURSELF WHY NO-ONE IS INSPECTING IT OR WHY IT HASN’T SOLD.

WITH GARRY LOCKETT // FROM LOCKETT AND CO., PORT FAIRY

nterestingly, some properties can sit unsold on the market for lengthy periods for no valid reason (other than being over-priced) in Port Fairy. However, there are other reasons why this might be happening. The agent should ensure that the listing doesn’t become a “wood duck” and go cold by refreshing the listing and getting people through the property.

But this doesn’t always happen. Bower birds, lyre birds and even magpies collect things to put in their nests; things they don’t even want or want to use. And, that sounds really silly! There are also human bower birds that collect things they don’t need, use, or want and sometimes, those people are real estate agents. These agents collect listings of homes they have no serious intention or inclination of selling. Why? Usually the answer is because they believe that if they have all the listings, then no one else can have any. This is a really good reason why you should shop around if you find yourself in a position of having a property that hasn’t sold, even after being on the market for some time. I have known properties that are with bower bird agents to sit on the market for months and even years.

I have dealt with owners who, after finding themselves in this position, have become impatient and listed their property elsewhere. They are amazed at the wonderful treatment they receive, the action that happens and the fact that buyers are suddenly inspecting the property. Not long ago we inherited two properties that had been “collected” by a bower bird agent for a collective period of more than THREE years, but within two months we had sold both. Maybe it was a case of being in the right place at the right time (i.e. we happened to have buyers looking for such listings), but the reality was that the bower bird had gained the listings simply by suggesting a price that is way more than the properties were really worth (and obviously more than any other agent had quoted). So, why do vendors leave their listings with bower birds for so long? I asked one such owner and he replied: “Because I was threatened with a large bill for advertising if I gave it to another agent.” Of course, this is against the law – a vendor can only be charged for the exact cost of the advertisements. They also have the right to request a copy of all the adverts, the agent cannot make a profit on the advertising, and such costs must also be contained in the original authority.

Unlike almost all other agents, they can create a loss of professional standing within the industry as we don’t charge a cent for any costs they try to entice owners to break other than the agreed selling fee engagement contracts and “jump when it is sold. It is a ‘no sale – no signs” (which is industry talk for fee’ arrangement, which is a great pinching another agent’s listings – incentive for the agent to ensure they totally prohibited of course). sell it otherwise it is a loss for us. Thankfully, nature usually sorts If a property has been on the out these cowboys/cowgirls and they market for a while, it can sometimes soon leave the industry for various pay to take down a “for sale” sign if other (sometimes dubious) pastimes one has been in place for a long period where they don’t have to worry because it gradually becomes about standards and part of the scenery and regulations. no one even notices d o o g lly I think an agent it after awhile. a re a This is u who has been Some time ago, o y reason why in the industry a local character d ld shop aroun u o sh for a long time scribbled “free rself in if you find you is prima facie sex here” on such aving evidence of their a position of h a long exposed t a th y rt e p ro integrity and of sign AND no one p a . ld their successful even noticed it! hasn’t so time in real estate, That was all the proof and the younger, eager I needed to ensure it didn’t agents’ representatives are happen to me, and to keep the usually easy to assess within a few listings fresh. minutes of banter about what they Contrary to public opinion, I think they can do for you. maintain that most agents are Vendors are not fools and they honest and that they try their very can usually spot a “horse manure” best for their clients but there are type salesperson after listening to always a few loose cannons who them for a short time. If unsure, ask obviously don’t know the rules of an older agent from another office … the Estate Agents Regulations. They but understand there will be a handful tend to be found out by the public in the end. In the meantime though of salt in the reply.

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Supporting VOLUNTEERS

The case for workplace

volunteering

and community groups across the Great South Coast

Is your organisation a good corporate citizen?

Donating your time to help others isn’t just a nice thing to do – it’s good for you too!

The Archie Graham Community Centre 118-130 Timor Street (PO Box 198) Warrnambool VIC 3280

P 03 5559 4920 E volunteering@warrnambool.vic.gov.au www.warrnambool.vic.gov.au/volunteering

For the employer, it has been shown to make work more meaningful for employees, leading to higher organisational engagement, productivity and less absenteeism and turnover. Workplace volunteering programs are also a powerful marketing opportunity and have been shown to improve community perception of organisations. For the employee, volunteering can result in new skills and capabilities, improved motivation and a greater sense of personal satisfaction. For the community, there are multiple benefits, including direct targeting of community needs, improved community health and development and an enriched

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28 southwest

community, generally.

In a recent Commonwealth

Government survey, one in three people said they would like to volunteer through their workplace. Workplace volunteering has been shown to boost the pride and loyalty employees feel for their company whilst at the same time heightening positive recognition by consumers.

Some of the other benefits include

improved workplace morale and reduced absenteeism and turnover.

With these things in mind,

Volunteering Warrnambool can match workplaces with suitable not-for-profit organisations within the Great South Coast region. Specific services include: •

Finding roles that suit volunteers' skills, interests and availability

•

Training volunteers and organisations

•

Providing advice on all things volunteering.

We will help make your organisation one that volunteers brag about!

OVER 100 ACTS • 20 STAGES • 4 HUGE DAYS TICKETS NOW ON SALE

THERE IS A VAST AMOUNT OF RESEARCH TO SUGGEST THAT WORKPLACE VOLUNTEERING IS GOOD FOR THE EMPLOYER, THE EMPLOYEE AND THE COMMUNITY.

Volunteering Warrnambool can be reached at the Archie Graham Community Centre, 118-130 Timor Street, Warrnambool. Ask for Bernadette Northeast on 5559 4920 or email volunteering@warrnambool.vic.gov.au.

BIZ buzz WANT TO KNOW WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE SOUTHWEST? GET ALL THE BUZZ HERE!

Bid for more maremma guardians A fundraising drive has begun in earnest to buy and train new maremma dogs to protect the Middle Island penguin colony in Warrnambool. The drive is part of a succession plan that will see the long-serving maremmas, Eudy and Tula, move into retirement as they replaced by two new puppies. The first puppy will be trained on Middle Island alongside Eudy and Tula. In the second year, another puppy will join the first-year dog. The Middle Island Maremma Project Working Group aims to raise $25,000 for the project. More information is available at www.warrnamboolpenguins.com.au.

Aus Music Festival Aussie musicians are among the best in the world, and there are still tickets available for you to see some of the finest established and emerging artists live. A variety of national and local talent, covering a smorgasbord of genres, will be showcased at the upcoming Aus Music Festival, held in Warrnambool from Friday 30 October to Sunday 1 November. Come and revel in the festival atmosphere, enjoying performers such as Tex Perkins & Charlie Owen, Archie Roach, Neil Murray, Robbie Bostock Band, Raised By Eagles, the Germein Sisters, and The Motorvastors, who are reforming for the festival, at the Lighthouse Theatre and a multitude of undercover venues in Warrnambool. The festival will also include an Aus Music Forum, presented by Music Victoria, with panel discussions featuring key speakers from the Australian Music Industry, talking everything from professional development, to dealing with the media. Panelists include Music Victoria CEO Patrick Donovan, music journalist Andrew Mast, plus Warrnambool locals Tim Northeast and Leah Senior. For the full line up and ticket prices, visit ausmusicfestival.com.au.

Prize for top app Corangamite Shire has taken out first prize in Technology and Innovation at the recent Municipal Association of Victoria Awards. The Roadside Weed Mapping and Works Tracking app is the Shire’s innovative new approach to mapping roadside weeds and the work being done to deal with those weeds. With more than 2200 kilometres of roadsides to take care of, the app is helping Council staff to save time and money. The app is believed to be the first of its kind in Victoria.

Cruise ship scholarship A new scholarship program will give one lucky South West TAFE tourism student the inside running on the cruise ship industry. The student will spend a month in Sydney working with Cruise Express International gaining new insights and knowledge to bring back to the local community. The scholarship, which includes an induction to all aspects of a travel agency business and $1000 towards expenses, is offered just as Portland prepares for an upswing in cruise ship visits in early 2016. South West TAFE, Cruise Express International and Glenelg Shire Council have partnered together to offer the scholarship which will be awarded to a top student from the Certificate III or Diploma courses in tourism.

Calling all consultants! Are you a consultant operating in the Great South Coast region? In the hope of promoting home-grown talent, the Great South Coast Group is compiling a register of consultants that operate from the Great South Coast – an area bounded by the Shires of Glenelg, Southern Grampians, Glenelg, Moyne, Corangamite, Colac Otway and the City of Warrnambool. The group’s Executive Officer Karen Foster said the register was open to consultants from any discipline and would be publicly available on the Great South Coast Group website in due course. Ms Foster said the register would also be promoted via regional networks. To apply for a free listing on the register, email kfoster@greatsouthcoast.com.au.

New online “ meeting place” .

Glenelg Shire and Warrnambool City Council residents have access to new online “meeting” places – the first of their kind in Australia. The Connect Glenelg and Connect Warrnambool online portals utilise the power of online communitications to provide residents with new ways to meet, communicate and connect. The online communities include dedicated websites, directories of local groups and clubs and Facebook pages. Visit www.connectglenelg.com.au or www. connectwarrnambool.com.au to learn more.

Portland welcomes new General Surgeon Portland has welcomed new resident General Surgeon, Mr Turab Pishori. Mr Pishori has moved from Perth with his wife and two younger children. His older children will join them after the finish of the school year. Mr Pishori came to Australia from Pakistan on a specialist pathway and completed his two-year Australian registration requires for international graduates at four tertiary hospitals in Perth. Over the past six months he has worked primarily in colorectal surgery, but will also be doing general surgery in Portland. “I welcome the opportunity to move to a regional town. I’ve been in a big centre and I think here I will be able to realign my surgical commitments and family and lifestyle balance,” Mr Pishori said.

Portland's new resident General Surgeon, Mr Turab Pishori.

BIZ DIARY Got something on? Let us know – editorial@swbiz.com.au

OCTOBER WEDNESDAY 7TH OCTOBER, 6PM - 8PM MARKETING BASICS This Small Business Victoria seminar explains how to set marketing goals and takes you through the steps to create a sound marketing budget and plan, covering traditional and online marketing. FREE. Where: South West TAFE, Timor Street, Warrnambool. Contact: Warrnambool City Council’s Economic Development Unit, ecodev@warrnamboool.vic.gov.au or 5559 492

SUNDAY 18TH OCTOBER, 11AM - 2PM BABY AND CHILD BONANZA Huge range of new and second hand baby and children’s clothes, accessories, toys and furniture. Where: St Pius Hall, Morris Road, Warrnambool. Contact: Emma Fry at ababonanza@gmail.com or 5562 1121 WEDNESDAY 28TH OCTOBER, 7:30 - 9:30PM CHEESE AND WINE MATCHING EVENING Allansford’s Cheese World hosts a night of cheese and wine matching, featuring the decadent Limestone Coast Cheese Company cheese range alongside the Warrnambool Heritage Cheddars. Cheeses will be expertly matched with Coonawarra’s Katnook Estate. Tickets $20, includes 6 cheese tastings, 6 wine tastings and a glass of sparkling on arrival. Where: Cheese World, Allansford Contact: 5565 3190 or email cheeseworld@wcbf.com.au

SUNDAY 11TH OCTOBER, 11AM-2PM AUSTRALIAN BREASTFEEDING ASSOCIATION BABY AND CHILD BONANZA New and second-hand baby and children's clothes and accessories, toys and furniture. Coffee available, sausage sizzle, monster raffle and face painting.

WEDNESDAY 28TH OCTOBER, 6PM - 8PM GO ONLINE: A START UP GUIDE FOR BUSINESS This Small Business Victoria seminar explores the benefits of being online, from setting up a website to dealing with suppliers, engaging with customers via social media and putting an e-commerce framework in place.

Where: St Pius Church Hall, Morris Road, Warrnambool. Contact: Australian Breastfeeding Association, email ABAbonanza@gmail.com or visit www.warrnamboolbreastfeeding.org.au.

Where: South West TAFE, Timor Street, Warrnambool. Contact: Warrnambool City Council’s Economic Development Unit at ecodev@warrnamboool.vic.gov.au or 5559 4925

WEDNESDAY 14TH OCTOBER, 6.30-8.30PM BUSINESS IN HEELS SOUTH WEST VICTORIA LAUNCH EVENT With an emphasis on fun, Business in Heels is a networking and professional development event for women. Guest speaker is regional leader, Glenys Phillpot, who will explore the important role women play in our community. Don’t forget to wear your most fabulous shoes – there is always a prize for the “Best Heels”! Tickets $40, includes canapés and a glass of bubbles on arrival.

FRIDAY 30TH OCTOBER 11AM – 3PM KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY BUSINESS CONSULTATIONS Expert advisors are available for FREE 1 hour discussion on family business issues. Open to business owners or their entire families involved with farm-based or commercial businesses in any industry sector. Bookings essential -

Where: Lady Bay Resort (the Lounge), 2 Pertobe Road, Warrnambool Contact: Business in Heels Branch Director South West Victoria Bron Levett, southwestvic@businessinheels.com.

30 southwest

Contact: Crowe Horwath - P: 5564 2100 E: warrnambool@crowehorwath.com.au or Boards by Design - P: 0429 189 055 E: info@boardsbydesign.com.au.

FRIDAY 30TH OCTOBER - SUNDAY 1ST NOVEMBER WARRNAMBOOL SHOW The 162nd Annual Warrnambool show is packed with entertainment for the whole family and exhibits the local talent our region has to offer. Where: Warrnambool Showgrounds, Cnr Koroit & Hyland Streets, Warrnambool Contact: Michael Farrow at warrnamboolshow@ bigpond.com or 5562 4644 FRIDAY 30TH OCTOBER - SUNDAY 1ST NOVEMBER AUS MUSIC FESTIVAL UNDER THE MILKY WAY This inaugural festival focusses on music and songs produced and played in Australia and provides opportunities for networking with Australian music professionals. Where: 185 Timor Street, Warrnambool Contact: www.ausmusicfestival.com.au

NOVEMBER TUESDAY 3RD NOVEMBER BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL WOMEN SOUTH WEST ‘Flying for Business’ tour of the Warrnambool Airport with Sharp Airlines, followed by dinner in Koroit. Where: Warrnambool Airport Contact: Kylie, 0437 623 715 THURSDAY 5TH NOVEMBER, 5.30PM - 7.30PM WARRNAMBOOL GREEN DRINKS Have a social drink with people who work, volunteer or have an interest in all things environmental, NRM, sustainable or otherwise ‘green’. Where: The Last Coach, corner Timor and Kepler streets, Warrnambool Contact: Emma Hill emma.hill@dedjtr.vic.gov.au SATURDAY 21ST NOVEMBER NOORAT SHOW A traditional country show, featuring animals, craft, cooking and plenty of family fun! Where: Noorat Recreation Reserve

Early Childhood Educator Laura Hill completed the TAFE to Uni’ Pathways Program at South West TAFE

Start your

universi t y degree WITH South West TAFE

If university is on your radar but you’re not sure it’s in your reach just yet, South West TAFE offers a great way to find your feet in the world of tertiary education.

outh West TAFE’s ‘TAFE to Uni’ Pathways are an excellent alternative for

high school leavers who might be concerned about starting university straight away due to cost, ATAR score or confidence.

Early Childhood Educator Laura

Hill completed the ‘TAFE to Uni’ Pathways Program at South West TAFE by building up her course credits with a diploma before transferring to university for a bachelor degree.

Laura says starting her studies at South West TAFE not only built her confidence, it gave her hands-on learning through work placement, reduced the cost of her degree, and shortened the amount of time her degree will take.

Laura began her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education in Hamilton and then went on to study her Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, and is now working at Good Shepherd Early Learning Centre in Hamilton as a result of her placements throughout her course. She is also completing her degree qualification while working, giving her a truly practical insight into her study. “My diploma counted as the first year of my Bachelor of Early Childhood, which means I saved 12 months of fees, plus I had hands-on experience within the industry before starting, which gave me so much confidence” she says. “The subjects I completed during my diploma were a fantastic introduction to the majority of my units at university, which has made the transition between high school

"I saved 12 months of fees, plus I had hands-on experience within the industry before starting, which gave me so much confidence."

and university a much easier process.” Laura hopes to become a qualified kindergarten teacher after completing her Bachelor of Early Childhood. “The diploma course really opened my eyes to the many pathways and careers that I never knew existed in the industry,” she says. “By completing my diploma before university I have opened more career opportunities for myself whether it’s working in family day care, long day care, occasional care, kindergarten or primary school once I finish my degree.” Good Shepherd Service Leader Christine Sanders says having an employee who is also studying is a win-win for all. “It is especially difficult in rural areas to find qualified early childhood

staff – the higher the level of qualification, the harder it becomes,” Christine says. “But if we can help our existing staff upskill while they are working, they build their skills and we can also meet our quotas of qualified staff. “Having Laura completing her bachelor degree while working also means she is able to earn an income while studying and her learning is more powerful as she is constantly putting it into practice.” The ‘TAFE to Uni’ Pathways Program at South West TAFE means students gain recognised qualifications, build strong industry relationships, and are better prepared for the university environment. Students may also be eligible for VET FEE-HELP, making studying even more affordable.

For more information about South West TAFEs ‘TAFE to Uni’ Program, visit www.swtafe.vic.edu.au/courses/university-pathways or phone South West TAFE on 1300 648 911. southwest

IS YOUR CHILD ABOUT TO FINISH YEAR 12? Are you worried about the costs of tertiary education? Not sure what the next steps might be? We have some great solutions!

JUST GET A JOB!

Our courses are developed with getting a job as the end game. Our graduates finish their course job ready, with a combination of quality skills and knowledge gained from experienced teachers in employment relevant training facilities.

A UNIVERSITY DEGREE IS YOUR ULTIMATE GOAL.

We have a range of Diploma courses with guaranteed entry pathways to a Deakin University Degree as well as credits on offer to a range of other Universities programs. You will save time and money with a TAFE to Uni pathways option. Nursing, Early Childhood Education, Management, Commerce.... so many options are covered here. Often our students using this option gain employment as a result of their TAFE qualification and can ‘earn and learn’ while they take up undergraduate programs.

SO WHY WORRY - TAKE A LOOK AT ALL YOUR OPTIONS.

Your child can stay local, save, access a supported quality education program and start a pathway towards an inspirational career.

DEAKIN UNIVERSITY GUARANTEED ENTRY PATHWAY COURSES Advanced Diploma of Visual Arts (CUV60211)

Bachelor of Creative Arts (Visual Arts)

Diploma of Accounting (FNS50204/FNS50210)

Bachelor of Commerce

Diploma of Community Services Work (CHC50612)

Bachelor of Social Work

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50113)

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

Diploma of Graphic Design (CUV50311)

Bachelor of Creative Arts (Visual Communication Design)

Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled/Division 2 Nursing) (HLT51612)

Bachelor of Nursing

Diploma of Screen and Media (CUF50107)

Bachelor of Creative Arts (Film and Television)

Diploma of Visual Arts (CUV50111)

Bachelor of Creative Arts (Visual Arts)

Advanced Diploma of Computer Systems Technology (ICA60511)

Bachelor of Information Technology

WILLIAM ANGLISS PATHWAY COURSES Diploma of Events (SIT50212)

Bachelor of Events Management

MONASH UNIVERSITY PATHWAY COURSES Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50113)

Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood/Primary)

RTO: 3120

For more information on TAFE to Uni pathways visit www.swtafe.vic.edu.au/courses/university-pathways

LAURA HILL Graduate of Diploma of Early Childhood Education at South West TAFE Studying Bachelor of Early Childhood Education at Deakin University Employed as Childhood Educator, Good Shepherd Early Learning Centre