Saturday, May 3, 2008

17 Mar 2008

Warm and Sunny Greetings Reader,

Last Thursday morning’s Hastings BEC Networking Breakfast was a great success, with 75 people attending to hear several very interesting addresses.

The recently appointed administrator for PM-H Council, Mr Dick Persson provided a very interesting introduction of himself, his excellent qualifications for the job, and his views on moving forward. Dick is, without question, a very capable gentleman and his admirable record as administrator in Warringah provides great reassurance for the Port Macquarie community. We sincerely thank Mr Persson for taking time during this hectic introductory period to speak with us, and we look forward to an ongoing close working relationship with the administrator.

Mr Trevor Sargeant, economic development manager for PM-H Council, spoke on the strong economic growth being experienced by this region and the healthy outlook for continued investment and growth, and supported his talk with solid statistical evidence.

Mr Gerard Thomson, publisher of The Pictorial magazine and former editor of Port Macquarie News, provided an interesting and, at times, highly amusing account of some Port Macquarie history. Gerard also left the administrator in no doubt of the magnitude of his task in reuniting a community still strongly divided over the issues leading to the dismissal.

Greater Port Macquarie businesses can draw several positive conclusions from the talks. First that the region is still experiencing strong economic growth, with consequent increasing demand for goods and services; and second that the Council is being administered by a capable and pragmatic manager who has assured us that he will consider proposals on their merits without interference. The shire should be able to anticipate a period of good and stable business conditions – at least as far as local factors are concerned.

Panthers Australian Ironman 2008

Panthers Australian Ironman is a huge event for Greater Port Macquarie, bringing as it does very large numbers of people and incalculable promotional attention to the region. During past years, visiting athletes have been warmly welcomed and have developed a very positive opinion of Port Macquarie. So have organisers of the event. We want this to continue, and you can help.

As of this morning, of the almost 1,700 competitors, more than 320 athletes have registered for the Adopt An Athlete program. This is an indication of the fantastic success of this program in previous years.

Now we need local businesses to provide hospitality for these athletes. Adopting an athlete will cost you very little, in time or dollars, and can provide a valuable experience for everyone concerned. We ask that you introduce yourself to “your” athlete(s), welcome them to the area, and provide them with a point of contact with a friendly local who can help them with any questions they may have. You may, by arrangement with your athlete(s), have them provide personal appearances at your business, possibly speak to your staff about goal setting, motivation and commitment, and of course you get to display posters (supplied) promoting your athlete(s).

Businesses are permitted to adopt up to 10 athletes – depending on your ability to provide support for them. Adoption is definitely not restricted to large businesses. Individual operators are also encouraged to take part in the program. It’s a win – win! The athlete’s receive a welcome and some local assistance, and businesses gain promotion and goodwill for minimal outlay.

Please register your business’ willingness to adopt athlete(s) by email to ironathlete@iinet.net.au or by contacting Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce on (02) 6583 4412 or email: admin@portchamber.com.au

Many athletes are already in Port Macquarie (and surroundings) and arrivals will peak in the next 2 weeks, so please register now!

On with this week’s activities:

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Port Macquarie Community College

TRAINING FOR THE WORKPLACE

Enquire about customised training for your workplace.

Update the skills of your staff and management.

We are happy to customise training for your needs at your premises or

in our classrooms at a time to suit.

Contact the Program Co-ordinator, Cheryl Eslick at 6583 7288 to discuss your needs.

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Panthers Australian Ironman, Sunday 6th April 2008

Volunteers are invited to help operate Aid Stations for the event. Working on an aid station involves a long day helping to provide food, drinks and other assistance for competitors in the Ironman. It’s tiring, hectic, and one of the most enjoyable and rewarding days you will ever experience. Hastings BEC is supporting the Settlement Point Aid Station, where athletes will pass twice during their run. We will be the second-last aid station for the course, so you will see first hand the power of determination as athletes near the finish.

Please contact me if you are able to help on the Aid Station on Sunday 6th April. admin@hastingsbec.com.au

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Hastings BEC Networking Breakfast, Thursday 10th April 2008

Our next Networking Breakfast will be hosted by Paul McCarthy Advertising, so we can anticipate a fascinating presentation.

Put it into your diary. Thursday 10th April, 7.00 am at Panthers Pier One restaurant.

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Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce Member Information and Networking Night - Wednesday 19th March

Speakers:

Rob Turner – Vice President, Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce – Update of Chamber Activities

Carey Ramm – AEC Group Ltd – A briefing on the Social Impact Study, commissioned by Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce, into the benefits of an enhanced Port Macquarie Promenade concept from Town Beach to Settlement City

Date: Wednesday 19th March 2008 Time: 6.00pm for 6.30pm

Venue: Quality Resort Sails, Port Macquarie

Cost: $10.00 per person

Drinks and savouries will be provided on the night

Non-members and guests are most welcome

For catering purposes please RSVP by 3:00pm Tuesday 18th March 2008

(02) 6583 4412 or Email: admin@portchamber.com.au

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NSW Business Chamber Networking@Night, Thursday 27 March 2008

The best way to expand your business network is to meet face to face with other businesses. Networking@Night is your chance to make contact with business owners and managers from a wide variety of industries.

N@N March is proudly sponsored by Rayner Sunset Gallery & Framing.

Date > Thursday 27 March 2008

Location > Sunset Gallery and Framing, 15-17 Sunset Parade Port Macquarie

Parking > Free parking on Sunset Parade and Murray Street

Time > 5.30pm – 7.30pm

Cost > FREE

RSVP > Tuesday 25th March 2008

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Dancing Under The Stars – A Masked Ball

In Wauchope’s beautiful Bain Park on Saturday evening 29th March 2008 .

In support of Wauchope Hospital and the Make A Wish Foundation.

Tickets: $75 per head, includes a 3-course dinner

Tickets (and masks) may be purchased from Raine & Horne, Wauchope

Bookings for tables of 10 are available.

RSVP (by 15 March – whoops!) and inquiries to Neroli Reid on 0417 473 459

Dress: Formal, with masque

Proudly sponsored by Hastings Gazette and Raine & Horne Wauchope.

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EastCoast Training are presenting Certificate IV Workplace & Assessment Training

Starting 5th May 2008

Cost $1,050

RSA & RCG Both for $160.00 run every month

Safe food Handling Course $85, runs every Month

Numerous Courses in many areas

Please contact : Terrie Honeysett, EastCoast Training (02) 6584 3333

Email : terrieh@hgtaust.com.au

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Invitation to the Business Industry Showcase 2008 - Port Macquarie Racecourse Thursday 15 May 2008

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS - CONNECT WITH POTENTIAL NEW EMPLOYEES

In these changing times where job roles are evolving and new employment opportunities are identified in response to the growing needs of business and industry, it is often difficult to connect with potential new employees.

Download the full information brochure and application form from www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/BIS2008.pdf

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And that’s about it for the week before the autumnal equinox.

Word for this week: Latitudinarian. There’s not enough of us left!

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