27 Oct 2008

Monday greetings, Reader,

What an interesting time in which we are living. I am particularly intrigued by the current difference of opinion between the two huge economic blocs – on one side the combined might of Europe and Asia, and on the other the USA – about the panacea for our global economic ills. The E/A bloc appear to be supporting a slightly socialist line, while GB’s USA is pushing for more of the same, unrestrained free market. Isn’t that where the trouble started???

I’m feeling a little better, at a personal level. For a while there, I thought I was all alone in not understanding the behaviour of the markets. But I’m becoming convinced that no one understands it, and perhaps the behaviour defies rational understanding. The most difficult thing to find is solid unemotional analysis of the day to day situation, without the headline-grabbing (or headline-creating) hysteria. I was grateful for Rob de Lepervanche’s contribution last Monday, and I look forward to including another contribution from the team at COMPASS financial management in due course.

On Friday morning, 31st October, Peak Partners will provide a free breakfast seminar entitled “Enjoy it – Succession Planning” at Rydges Port Macquarie. This seminar will address the very important issue of business continuation and the transition for business owners into retirement while caring for the ongoing viability of their business. See the item below for a last opportunity to join in.

Response so far to this seminar has been a bit disappointing. This is a topic of critical interest to all business owners – particularly those approaching retirement age. Don’t miss out. See the item below for registration details.

Rydges is a popular venue at the moment. Last Friday night the second annual Six Degrees of Degustation Dinner was held in the stunningly situated Bayside Room. About 100 local business people enjoyed the sensational creations of six of our most accomplished local chefs. Dishes were designed to highlight the best of our local produce, and were accompanied by a selection of wonderful local wines. (Yes the repeated use of the word local is intentional) May I offer a paean to Kate Wood-Foye and “other half” Steve Foye for hosting a splendid event to open Tastings Of The Hastings Week. Congrats also to the staff at Rydges who did a great job servicing a large special event. I hope all the Tastings events to follow will be equally successful.

See the item below for upcoming events including the main event, Tastings of the Hastings at Port Macquarie Racecourse on Sunday 2nd November.

At a time when economics is looming in our day to day lives, we should be taking a second look at the wonderful variety of fresh produce and manufactured products available within our home region. The environmental and economic savings from “eating local” are tangible.

Finally, last Tuesday evening’s Customer Care Mix & Mingle Night was a huge success. The biggest CCM&M attendance to date celebrated the announcement of Douglas Vale Vineyard as the 200th Member of the Customer Care program. Long-time member (and HBEC Member) Karen Woodham, with her business Migrate Now won the main prize on the night, a full-page interview in Focus magazine, to be included in the November issue.

It’s pleasing to see a real energy and momentum building in the Customer Care program, and similarly with the new Journey of Flavour campaign. Great initiatives!

Now for this week’s activities:

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Port Macquarie Community College – skills development for business

GST & BAS
This course will look at the GST - how it is calculated, different GST invoicing formats and completing the BAS. Learn how to complete your BAS manually and through MYOB V17, send the BAS electronically and setup BASlink.
811C001 Tue Nov 4 & Nov 11 2 sessions 6pm-9pm $95

Intermediate Excel Workshop – a spreadsheet is the single most useful business tool.
This workshop is designed for participants who want to extend their basic spreadsheet skills. You will learn about absolute references, charts, more functions, linking and protecting worksheets.
811C002 Mon Nov 10, Wed 12 & Thu Nov 13 3 sessions 6pm-8pm $90

Fashion Colour, Style & Image
"What to wear?" Discover which styles and colours work best for you. Establish your business persona.
Identify your figure type and decide 'what not to wear'. Explore the world of fashion and fashion accessories for work, or just in time for the party season ahead.
810LR004 Sat Nov 8 & Nov 15 2 sessions 9:30am-1:30pm $85

Knife Sharpening – if you have to cut business costs, use a sharp knife.
Learn how to sharpen your knives the way professionals do. You can also sharpen scissors or secateurs. You will save dollars, time and energy, ensuring a much safer kitchen. It may be the most useful time you will ever spend.
811LR005 Sun Nov 9 1 session 10am-1pm $40
812LR002 Sun Dec 7 1 session 10am-1pm $40

French for Travellers – Consider opening a branch office in Paris?
This course is for those who want some basic French skills for travelling. Suitable for anyone wanting to start learning French from scratch or needing to revise their previous knowledge. Topics include learning how to ask for information, how to respond to people, learn to talk about yourself, your family, your work and leisure activities and also learn about French culture and history.
811L001 Tue Nov 11 to Dec 2 & Thu Nov 13 to Dec 4 8 sessions 6:30pm-8:30pm $120

And, for post-office recreation, Boat Licence Instruction
Recently NSW Maritime have introduced more stringent Boat Licence testing. Afford yourself the best opportunity in attaining a pass by enrolling in the General Boating/PWC Licence Weekend Workshop. Learn nautical knowledge, rules of navigation, buoyage, bar crossing and tides. Handbook available from the office for reading before the course.
811LR006 Sat Nov 8 9am-4pm & Sun Nov 9 9am-1pm 2 sessions $130

For more information, and to book for these and other courses, phone PM Community College on 6583 7288.

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Hastings BEC Networking Breakfast – Thursday 13th November 2008

Our next breakfast will be back at “home base”, Panthers Pier One Restaurant.
Remember that guests and potential members are welcome, so invite your business contacts to come and “try before they buy”.
We always have room for more participants, but please RSVP.

As usual, please RSVP by Tuesday 11th November to admin@hastingsbec.com.au

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Home Business Forum

Under the stewardship of Lisa Christie and Renee Bell, the Home Business Forum is doing well, and has room for growth.
If you operate a home-based business or micro-business, give Lisa or Renee a call and find out how taking part in this Forum can help take the isolation out of your life. Networking with other home business operators can revitalise your business ideas.

Renee Bell Photographer Tel: 02 6584 8866 / email: info@reneebell.com.au
OR Lisa Christie Tel: 0438 847 825 / email: lisa@visualedge.com.au

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SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESSION SEMINAR in PORT MACQUARIE ON 31ST OCTOBER AT 7.30AM

As part of the Federal Governments Building Entrepreneurship in Small Business program, Peak Partners will be delivering a series of free Succession Planning seminars throughout Australia commencing in April 2008. Succession Planning is a major issue for small business in Australia with some surprising statistics underpinning the initiative to address this area:

• 51% of small business owners plan to use their business as a PRIMARY source of funding retirement.

• 43% aim for a lump sum and a third expect an ongoing income stream.

• The average age of a family business owner in NSW is 56 years.

• 68% of Principals plan to exit the business in less than 10 years.

• Fewer than 25% have sought any advice on succession.

• The retirement of family business owners will accompany the transfer of approximately $1.6 Trillion in wealth.

Further details are available online at http://www.enjoyit.net.au/workshop.html

The breakfast seminar in this area is to be held on Friday 31st October at Rydges – Port Macquarie at 7.30am

If you hurry, you will be able to secure a place. Please contact Peak Partners on 1300 665 473

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TASTINGS OF THE HASTINGS - A JOURNEY OF FLAVOUR

Take a journey of flavour to Greater Port Macquarie for “Tasting of the Hastings”, a week long celebration of food and wine from Friday 24 October to Sunday 2 November 2008. New events this year include a Farmers Market dinner, SLURP night of wine, an evening with the winemakers at Bago in Bloom, plus favourites from last year, coffee and brewery tours – all culminating in the main event on Sunday 2 November 2008.

On the Sunday some 5,000 gourmands will converge on Port Macquarie Race Course to taste their way through stalls from 50 local food producers and growers, and 20 restaurants. Buy local trademarks such as freshly shucked Laurieton oysters, Lorne Valley macadamia nuts, Ricardoes Tomatoes and strawberries, and wicked Russian style chocolates.

Local and guest chefs will conduct ‘Cooking Demonstrations’ in a kitchen and the inaugural ‘Waiters Race’ at 1pm will be a light hearted test of serving skills. The Tastings of the Hastings Main Event will be held from 8am to 2pm and offers free entry.

For the first time this year patrons can buy a souvenir cook book for $10 which features 30 local restaurants and producers, and is developed from the freshest and the best of the region.

“Tastings Diary”
? Six Degrees of Degustation Dinner (24 Oct) - six local chefs, six wines and a 6pm start at Rydges (Too late. It was great!)
? Mountain Market, Cuisine and Countryside (26 Oct) - the hinterland village of Comboyne will offer a special food market and garden walks from 10am to 1pm
? Peak Coffee Appreciation Nights (28, 29, 30 Oct) - learn from the baristas at the Mid North Coast’s first roasting business
? SLURP a Night of Wine (29 Oct) - perfect for wine connoisseurs, a fun night in the private dining room at The Corner restaurant with local sommelier Renee Baird
? Stunned Mullet ‘Farmers Market’ Dinner (30 Oct) - an evening of food and indulgence with insights from leading local producers
? The Little Brewing Company Tours (1 Nov) - discover the passion and processes behind Port’s pioneering and award-winning boutique brewery
? ‘Bago in Bloom’ at Bago Vineyards (1 Nov) - an evening with the winemakers under the pergola at this picturesque vineyard in the hinterland, ‘the home’ of monthly jazz concerts
? Tastings of the Hastings (2 Nov) – the main event with growers, producers, cooking demonstrations, entertainment and more

A full schedule of events with locations and prices is available at www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au along with travel packages. Or call 1300 303 155.

Our HBEC Patron Member Holiday Coast Credit Union is the official sponsor of Tastings of the Hastings 2008.

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- Advertisement -

Advance opportunity for HBEC Update readers – a promotion from our Patron Member Digital Design & Poster Studio

Technology now moves sometimes quicker than we can keep up with. As soon as a new idea or product hits the shelves, we have version 2 and 3 in a shipping
container already updated or upgraded, produced and ready to go. At Digital Design we’re keen on keeping up to date with the latest products in our field – signs, printing and graphic design. Our available product lines are too many to list but if it’s ANYTHING SIGNS, PRINTING AND GRAPHIC DESIGN, just give us a call.

For any printed PVC banner ordered and printed in the month of November 2008, we’re printing you a second banner exactly the same as the first for no extra charge. That’s the second banner for FREE. Nada. No catches, no gimmicks. Your second banner is no charge. You only pay for the first one.
This offer is only available for the month of November 2008. Just give us a call today on 6583 9577.

Download the brochure for this promotion from www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/DDPSnov08.pdf

- /Advertisement -

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- Advertisement -

For a fun night out, Menopause the Musical - The hilarious musical celebrating women and The Change.

Do you think that 500,000 Australian women could be wrong? ( No, I’m not going there…)
After all, that is the number who have seen this hilarious show over the last two and a half years – and they love it!
Come and see for yourself. We guarantee that you will leave feeling uplifted and joyous.

The Glasshouse presents Menopause the Musical at Panthers Port Macquarie on Friday 28 November at 8pm,
and again for two performances on Saturday 29 November 2008 at 2pm and 8pm

To purchase tickets simply call the Glasshouse Box Office on 6581 8888 or to log onto www.glasshouse.org.au to order online

Why not consider Menopause the Musical for your Social Club or Workplace Xmas Party?
Group bookings of 10+ people qualify for the concession rate of just $40 per ticket.

- /Advertisement –

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I’m still seeking helpers for the Home Street Aid Station, for the Scody Half Ironman on Sunday 9th November.
We provide food, drink and support to competitors during the run leg of the event – and enjoy ourselves a lot along the way.
You are provided with a free T-shirt, cap, and all the sunscreen you can wear!
People who’ve helped in previous events have had a great day (and yes, most do come back again) but we need more helpers.
It’s a lot of fun, and much appreciated by the athletes.

If you can spare a few hours to assist, please call Gregg on 0419 438 194 or by email to admin@hastingsbec.com.au

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From: Riffenbary, J. (2007). No excuse! incorporating core values, accountability, and balance into our life and career. Possibility Press.

If there were ever a time to dare to make a difference, to do something really worth doing, that time is now. Not for any grand cause, necessarily, but for something that tugs at your heart, something that’s your aspiration, something that’s your dream. You owe it to yourself to make your days here count. Have fun. Dig deep. Stretch. Dream big.

Know that things worth doing seldom come easily. There will be good days. And there probably will be bad days. There will be times when you want to turn around, pack it up, and call it quits. Those times come only to tell you that you are pushing yourself, and that you are not afraid to learn and grow. Persist.

Because with an idea, determination, and the right tools, you can do great things. Let your instincts, your intellect, and your heart guide you. Trust.

Believe in the incredible power of the human mind, in the power of doing things that really make a difference, of working hard, of laughing and hoping, of reaching out, of saying ‘I love you,’ of lasting friends, of all things that will cross your path this year. The start of something new rings hope of something great. Anything is possible. There is only one you. And you will pass this particular way only once. Live your dream! Make a difference
(Riffenbary, 2007, p.212).

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And that’s about it for a week in this elysium, Port Macquarie, where we will be occupied by Tastings of the Hastings and that upcoming horse race.

To finish, here are a few more reliable statistics…

7125.0 Agricultural Commodities: Small Area Data, Australia (Additional Material), 2006-07
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/7125.0?OpenDocument

4172.0 Arts and Culture in Australia: A Statistical Overview, 2008 (Second Edition)
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/4172.0?OpenDocument

6401.0 Consumer Price Index, Australia, Sep 2008
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/6401.0?OpenDocument

20 October 2008

Warm Spring greetings, Reader,

The people of Port Macquarie have spoken. Peter Besseling is our new Member in State Parliament, and congratulations to Peter for his win.

The BEC refrained from endorsing any individual candidate for this election. On behalf of BEC members I simply expressed the desire that the successful candidate should be someone who has the determination, skills and experience to stand up for the interests of this community in the jungle of NSW politics. We’ve elected a nice bloke, a good sportsman and recreation club executive. Whether he will prove to be up to the task for our community remains to be seen.

With no local (elected) government, a council staff bleeding experienced senior managers, and neophyte representatives at both NSW and Federal level, one can’t help but feel just a little exposed as a community. Doubly so when you consider the fiscal and moral bankruptcy of the incumbent NSW Government.

Perhaps now, more than ever, is the time for the business and senior community networks to try to take up the slack by focusing on the future direction of our towns and region. Some pretty major decisions are pending, not the least of which is the master plan for redevelopment of our waterfront – all the way from north of Quality Sails Resort to Lighthouse Beach. As business operators, highly dependent upon the strength of tourism, this development more than most should be getting our full attention. Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce has, to their credit, been proactive in pushing the foreshore issue.

I hope that, as a business community, we can learn to exert more influence to shape the development of our region for the benefit of our residents and visitors – not to suit the financial imperatives of individual developers or a Sydney-centric planning minister.

On a brighter note, our BEC member The Observatory has done it again. Yet another award, with the announcement of The Observatory as co-winner of the Customer Service Institute of Australia’s NSW Service Excellence Award for hospitality. Now the Observatory team go on to the national awards in Melbourne. I wish them luck, but I know that Trish, Margaret and Chris, and their terrific team, get there not by luck but by great business operation.

On the subject of award winners, Economic Development Australia has recognised the work of our Council’s Economic Development Team of Trevor Sargeant, Rachel Ross, Wendy Beverley and Wayne Graham, with its Award for Excellence in Regional Development. This is timely recognition of the fantastic job done by this team in implementing and growing a number of regional initiatives. Included among these are the strongly growing Customer Care Program, Tastings of the Hastings and the associated recent development the Journey of Flavour, and of course ongoing support for regional producers through the Farmers Markets. On a more academic level, the team also drives a vision and program for fostering entrepreneurship and building business networks within and beyond our region.

From time to time, a lot of mud is thrown at our Council, so it’s good to have the opportunity to recognise a high performing team. And keep an eye on Wayne Graham, from Trevor Sargeant’s team. This quietly spoken young man has a wealth of skills, experience and ability, and is already making a strong contribution to our community.

OK. On with this weeks goodies:

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Port Macquarie Community College – building skills for business

Negotiation Skills
Are you losing out in a potential win-win situation? Every day we negotiate with our families, friends, colleagues and business contacts. This course will teach you how to recognise and benefit from a win-win negotiation. Areas covered include identifying issues, setting priorities, exploring options, discussing solutions and agreements.
810W009 Mon Oct 27 to Nov 10 3 sessions 6pm-9pm $115

Starting up a Bed & Breakfast
Learn about the daily issues that confront Bed and Breakfast operators. This enables you to understand why B & B is a trend, not a fad and outlines how to be efficient and successful. Stewart is a research lecturer and internationally published author of several books including Getting into Bed & Breakfast in Australia.
811W002 Wed Nov 12 1 session 9am-1pm $55

Starting up a Coffee Shop/Restaurant
Everything you need to know before purchasing or starting a coffee shop, tearoom or small restaurant. Useful information for all aspiring owners or managers, ensuring they don't make expensive mistakes. Learn the importance of market research surveys and answers to questions such as, should we start a new business or buy an existing one? Topics covered include; leases (not legal advice), insurances, staff, pricing, menu planning, design & presentation as well as the kitchen and food safety.
811W003 Wed Nov 12 1 session 1:30pm-4:30pm $40

GST & BAS
This course will look at the GST - how it is calculated, different GST invoicing formats and completing the BAS. Learn how to complete your BAS manually and through MYOB V17, send the BAS electronically and setup BASlink.
811C001 Tue Nov 4 & Nov 11 2 sessions 6pm-9pm $95

Internet & Email
Working in business without Internet skills is working with one hand tied behind your back. Learn to browse, use web addresses, search for information, print, create email, send and receive email, reply to emails, send attachments, manage an address book and more.
810C005 Wed Oct 22 to Nov 12 4 sessions 1pm-3pm $85

And, because business people need to relax too,
Joys of Watercolour Painting
Watercolour painting is one of the most beautiful art forms. Relaxing and rewarding, suited to beginners and those with some previous artistic experience. Learn contemporary techniques that will lead you on a journey of self expression.
811CP002 Sat Nov 1 & Sun Nov 2 2 sessions 9:30am-4:30pm $115

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In these trying times, Robert de Lepervanche, from COMPASS financial management has provided the following informed and up to date observations on the financial scene. Thanks Rob.

A shortish article on things economic and financial.

Well the one thing that can be said about the markets last week was that they were, at least, better than the week before!!

That said, there was still extreme volatility with the US Dow Jones starting the week on Monday with a rise of 11.1%, only to be followed on Wednesday by a fall of 7.9%. Overall the Dow Jones finished the week up 4.7%. The reason for highlighting the US market is because that’s what’s dominating the world. The Australian market isn’t being driven by fundamentals, rather it’s just reacting to whatever happens on the other side of the world……and right now that really is anyone’s guess.

With some trepidation it appears the world share markets have moved on from the Credit Crisis that started all this mess and are now focusing on the severity of the recession in the US. With that in mind, the US reporting season gets into full swing over the next few weeks and this will dictate our markets for the foreseeable future.

Everyone agrees that the earnings will be ordinary, but that’s not the point……what will drive the markets will be the forecasts for 2009 and beyond…..hang on tight.

A positive for the Australian economy is the apparent easing of the ‘liquidity’ crisis. This is evidenced by both ANZ & NAB announcing a recent reduction in their standard variable home loan rates outside of the normal monthly RBA rate cycle. Both “Bank Bill” and “Bond” yield curves are dropping like stones, confirming the easing of liquidity, and the fact that they are now more reflective of a contracting economy. Prior to this position, these yields were showing tight liquidity. We’ve now just got to get banks to trust each other!

Markets are now forecasting the RBA cash rate to be further reduced by 0.50% in November and a further 0.50% by early 2009.

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Hastings BEC Networking Breakfast – Thursday 13th November 2008

Our next breakfast will be back at “home base” Panthers Pier One Restaurant.
Remember that guests and potential members are welcome, so invite your business contacts to come and “try before they buy”.

As usual, please RSVP by Tuesday 11th November to admin@hastingsbec.com.au

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Home Business Forum

Last Friday’s Home Business Forum was a very successful morning. Under the stewardship of Lisa Christie and Renee Bell, the HBF is doing well and has room for growth. If you operate a home-based business or micro-business, give Lisa or Renee a call and find out how taking part in this Forum can help take the isolation out of your life.

Renee Bell Photographer Tel: 02 6584 8866 / email: info@reneebell.com.au
OR Lisa Christie Tel: 0438 847 825 / email: lisa@visualedge.com.au

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Customer Care Mix and Mingle Night – tomorrow night, Tuesday 21st October at Port Macquarie Race Club

TIME: 6pm - 9pm

VENUE: Port Macquarie Race Club, Port Macquarie

COST: $10 per head (payable by either cash or cheque made out to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council upon entry, includes nibbles)

RSVP: ASAP but by Thursday, 16 Oct 08 to Rachel.Ross@pmhc.nsw.gov.au

Highlights of the evening include:
• Guest Speaker - Rodney Nugent (Monday morning "Take 15" staff education and awareness designed to ensure knowledge and service excellence)
• Administrator, Dick Persson welcome and introduction of new General Manager, Andrew Roach and his wife, Amy.
• Introduction of Liz Paine - new Customer Care Trainer replacing part of Geraldine's position
• Introduction of Sue Faulkner - new Customer Care Consultant replacing part of Geraldine's position
• Lucky Door Prize - 1 Free full page interview in the November issue of Focus Magazine
• Announcement of our 200th Customer Care Accredited Member - Special surprise for them!
Craig Freudenstein, Catering Manager of Port Macquarie Race Club will be showcasing his glorious food. Yum!

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Menopause the Musical - The hilarious musical celebrating women and The Change.

Do you think that 500,000 Australian women could be wrong?
After all, that is the number who have seen this hilarious show over the last two and a half years – and they love it!
Come and see for yourself. We guarantee that you will leave feeling uplifted and joyous.

The Glasshouse presents Menopause the Musical at Panthers Port Macquarie on Friday 28 November at 8pm, and again on Saturday 29 November 2008 at 2pm and 8pm

To purchase tickets simply call the Glasshouse Box Office on 6581 8888 or to log onto www.glasshouse.org.au to order online

Why not consider Menopause the Musical for your Social Club or Workplace Xmas Party?
Group bookings of 10+ people qualify for the concession rate of just $40 per ticket.

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SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESSION SEMINAR in PORT MACQUARIE ON 31ST OCTOBER AT 7.30AM

As part of the Federal Governments Building Entrepreneurship in Small Business program, Peak Partners will be delivering a series of free Succession Planning seminars throughout Australia commencing in April 2008. Succession Planning is a major issue for small business in Australia with some surprising statistics underpinning the initiative to address this area:

• 51% of small business owners plan to use their business as a PRIMARY source of funding retirement.

• 43% aim for a lump sum and a third expect an ongoing income stream.

• The average age of a family business owner in NSW is 56 years.

• 68% of Principals plan to exit the business in less than 10 years.

• Fewer than 25% have sought any advice on succession.

• The retirement of family business owners will accompany the transfer of approximately $1.6 Trillion in wealth.

Further details are available online at http://www.enjoyit.net.au/workshop.html

The breakfast seminar in this area is to be held on 31st October at Rydges – Port Macquarie at 7.30am

For further details please contact Peak Partners on 1300 665 473

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TASTINGS OF THE HASTINGS - A JOURNEY OF FLAVOUR

Take a journey of flavour to Greater Port Macquarie for “Tasting of the Hastings”, a week long celebration of food and wine from Friday 24 October to Sunday 2 November 2008. New events this year include a Farmers Market dinner, SLURP night of wine, an evening with the winemakers at Bago in Bloom, plus favourites from last year, coffee and brewery tours – all culminating in the main event on Sunday 2 November 2008.

On the Sunday some 5,000 gourmands will converge on Port Macquarie Race Course to taste their way through stalls from 50 local food producers and growers, and 20 restaurants. Buy local trademarks such as freshly shucked Laurieton oysters, Lorne Valley macadamia nuts, Ricardoes Tomatoes and strawberries, and wicked Russian style chocolates.

Local and guest chefs will conduct ‘Cooking Demonstrations’ in a kitchen and the inaugural ‘Waiters Race’ at 1pm will be a light hearted test of serving skills. The Tastings of the Hastings Main Event will be held from 8am to 2pm and offers free entry.

For the first time this year patrons can buy a souvenir cook book for $10 which features 30 local restaurants and producers, and is developed from the freshest and the best of the region.

“Tastings Diary”
- Six Degrees of Degustation Dinner (24 Oct) - six local chefs, six wines and a 6pm start at Rydges overlooking the Hastings River
- Mountain Market, Cuisine and Countryside (26 Oct) - the hinterland village of Comboyne will offer a special food market and garden walks from 10am to 1pm
- Peak Coffee Appreciation Nights (28, 29, 30 Oct) - learn from the baristas at the Mid North Coast’s first roasting business
- SLURP a Night of Wine (29 Oct) - perfect for wine connoisseurs, a fun night in the private dining room at The Corner restaurant with local sommelier Renee Baird
- Stunned Mullet ‘Farmers Market’ Dinner (30 Oct) - an evening of food and indulgence with insights from leading local producers
- The Little Brewing Company Tours (1 Nov) - discover the passion and processes behind Port’s pioneering and award-winning boutique brewery
- ‘Bago in Bloom’ at Bago Vineyards (1 Nov) - an evening with the winemakers under the pergola at this picturesque vineyard in the hinterland, ‘the home’ of monthly jazz concerts
- Tastings of the Hastings (2 Nov) – the main event with growers, producers, cooking demonstrations, entertainment and more

A full schedule of events with locations and prices is available at www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au along with travel packages. Or call 1300 303 155.

Our HBEC Patron Member Holiday Coast Credit Union is the official sponsor of Tastings of the Hastings 2008.

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If any of you know of any up and coming "Young Leaders" in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region, you may be interested in this.

The Leadership Award, presented by the University of Newcastle, aims to recognise and encourage emerging leaders in the Hunter, Central Coast and Mid North Coast regions. Nominations are invited from individuals aged less than 35 years on 1 January 2008 residing in the following local areas: Newcastle, Maitland, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, Cessnock, Singleton, Muswellbrook, Upper Hunter, Dungog, Gloucester, Great Lakes, Wyong, Gosford, Greater Taree, Hastings, Kempsey, Nambucca, Bellingen, Coffs Harbour and Clarence Valley.

Please note the closing date for nominations is 3 November 2008.

Please download the following documents: www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/leadaward1.pdf , www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/leadaward2.pdf , and www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/leadaward3.pdf

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Half Ironman is here again…

The Scody Half Ironman will be held in Port Macquarie on Sunday 9th November this year. This event (and the full Ironman earlier each year) brings enormous benefits to our town in the form of tourism, promotion and revenue generation for local businesses.

I’m seeking helpers for the Home Street Aid Station. We provide food, drink and support to competitors during the run leg of the event – and enjoy ourselves a lot along the way.
People who’ve helped in previous events have had a great day (and yes, most do come back again) but we need more helpers.
It’s a lot of fun, and much appreciated by the athletes.

If you can spare a few hours to assist, please call Gregg on 0419 438 194 or by email to admin@hastingsbec.com.au

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STAR (Seek, Train, Attract and Retain) quality people

Information and assistance with Workforce Development Program description
STAR is a program that uses workshops, practical tools and support activities to help businesses with training and staffing needs. It is particularly designed to assist small and medium sized employers.

The STAR Program involves the local network of training and business support providers (eg Registered Training Organisations, Industry Training Advisory Boards and recruitment specialists). In this way STAR addresses your business needs within the context of an industry or regional solution.

The workshops, presented by experts in organisational and skills development, tackle skills needs and workforce gaps particular to a business type, industry and location. STAR workshops are customised in consultation with the businesses involved.

Specific program aims
The aim of the program is to give employers tools and solutions to answer these questions:
• Where is my business heading and do I have the people to get there?
• How can I attract and keep good people?
• Do my people have the right skills and how can I improve the skills of my workforce?

Who can apply?
Employers, or anyone formally or informally representing industry, can apply to have a STAR workshop run in their area.

Registered Training Organisations, industry associations, Industry Training Advisory Boards and other training and recruitment services can register to attend workshops for service providers.

When are applications accepted?
Applications are accepted throughout the year.

The application process
Contact us on the number below for an information pack or to discuss STAR in more detail. You will also be able to get more detail on the STAR website which will be available from this page towards the end of August 2008.

Contact details
Martina Rienzner
Phone: (02) 9244 5396
Email: Martina.Rienzner@det.nsw.edu.au

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If, after reading Rob’s financial overview (above), you’ve decided to invest your squillions into objets d’art, rather than the crock market…

Port Art Fest will be held at St Paul’s Multipurpose Centre, Ocean Drive Port Macquarie
Opening night Friday 24th October, 7.30 till 10.30pm

Entry of $15 includes 2 drinks, canapes, music and a great art exhibition.

The Art Exhibition continues all weekend, so check out the new talent available for investment.

Major Sponsors of the Port Art Fest include Bago Vineyards, Macquarie hotel, Dr Nick Stanley Dental Surgeon Laurieton, Mantra Quayside, Sovereigh Hills, Spotlight, and Stacks Finance Port Macquarie.

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And for your weekly dose of numbing numbers:

5439.0 International Merchandise Imports, Australia, Sep 2008
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/5439.0?OpenDocument

6427.0 Producer Price Indexes, Australia, Sep 2008
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/6427.0?OpenDocument

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Phew! That’s a big newsletter today. As usual, lots happening around Port, and such great weather to enjoy it all!

13 October 2008

Fiscally challenged greetings, Reader,

Just as well I enjoy my work, because I may be about 117 before I can afford to retire. For the last week, every time I started to think the news couldn’t get any worse… it did.

I was amused by the question, “For how long can the stock market keep losing 6% per day?” No. No hints. You have to work it out for yourself. And no, the answer is not 16 days. It’s m-u-c-h longer than that…

On the subject of bad financial news, the stock market crisis has hit Japan very hard. In the last 7 days, the Origami Bank has folded, Sumo Bank has gone belly up, and Bonsai Bank announced plans to cut some of its branches.

Yesterday it was announced that Karaoke Bank is likely go for a song, while today shares in Kamikaze Bank were suspended after they nose-dived. Furthermore, 500 staff at Karate Bank got the chop, and analysts report that there is something fishy going on at Sushi Bank, where customers may be getting a raw deal.

Last Thursday’s BEC Breakfast at Mercure Centro Hotel was a beauty! A wonderful setting (thanks Ann Maree, Jayne, and all the Mercure staff), a nice fresh breakfast served to our tables, and a lovely fruit platter to follow was a great start to the day. Many thanks to Adam Roberts and Geri Williams from Digital Design and Poster Studio for their sponsorship of the breakfast, and for some very nice door prizes. Thanks also to David Relf and the Telstra Shop Port Central for their donations.

Members enjoyed the extra opportunity to relax and mingle afforded by the “reduced talking heads” format. Of course, the weather gods were kind to us with a gorgeous spring morning to take best advantage of the Mercure rooftop setting. Just great!

Time now to welcome a couple of new HBEC Members. Welcome to Susan Judd, with her business HR Culture. HR Culture provides business and workplace coaching, Human Resource software and tools, and systems for small and medium enterprises.

Welcome also to Peter Oriel, proprietor of EMOHRUO Financial Services. EMOHRUO offers services in the fields of financial planning, superannuation and retirement advice.

At this time of year it has become traditional for HBEC to offer 14+ months membership for the price of 12, to new members. If you know of a business that could benefit from joining HBEC, please take this opportunity to recommend membership. The more we grow, the more all members benefit.

On to this weeks activities:

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Port Macquarie Community College – providing work-related skills development programs

Manual Bookkeeping
BSBCMN308A - Maintain Financial Records, Statement of Attainment from Certificate III in Business Administration BSB30201. This course will show you how to maintain a cashbook to handle your receipts and payments and also reconcile your bank statement. You will be able to manage a general ledger to manually post journal entries and produce a trial balance. These newly acquired skills will provide you with the background knowledge to enter your accounts into a computerised system such as MYOB.
810W006 Tue Oct 21 to Dec 9 8 sessions 9am-11:30am $210

Negotiation Skills
Are you losing out in a potential win-win situation? Everyday we negotiate with our families, friends, colleagues and business contacts. This course will teach you how to recognise and benefit from a win-win negotiation. Areas covered include identifying issues, setting priorities, exploring options, discussing solutions and agreements.
810W009 Mon Oct 27 to Nov 10 3 sessions 6pm-9pm $115

Introduction to MYOB
BSBADM309A - Process accounts payable and receivable, Statement of Attainment from Certificate III in Business Administration BSB30201. Topics include: manage and set up your business or club accounts. Record sales and receivables, purchases and payables, invoices and payments, cheques and deposits.
810C002 Thu Oct 16 to Nov 27 7 sessions 6pm-9pm $250

Computers for the Absolute Beginner
This course is for you if you have never used a computer before and need to start at the very beginning. We provide one computer per participant and our patient friendly tutor will guide you through the basics of the keyboard, mouse, parts of a window, startup, shutdown and basic word processing. This is a course with no pressure, You can do it!
810C012 Sat Oct 18 to Nov 1 3 sessions 12:30pm-4:30pm $125

Enhance your Digital Photos
Learn to use Adobe Photoshop Elements. Discover how to import and organise your photographs. You will experiment with photo adjustments, colour brightness and contrast. Repair, and retouch photographs as well as crop and resize. Also learn selection techniques, how to apply filters, shadows and blurring and special techniques of borders and text.
810C011 Thu Oct 16 to Nov 13 5 sessions 9am-12noon $185

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The Home Business Forum meets every second month in Port Macquarie from 9:00 until 12:30.
The next meeting is on Friday 17th October 2008 at Panthers.

The cost to attend is only $15 with morning tea provided.

Our Guest speakers this time are:

Barbara & Laurie Smith presenting:
"Make the Important Things Count" - Learn from the experts in time management how to work smarter not harder!
Laurie and his wife Barbara have had a diverse background in management roles, including being owners/directors of a Time Management franchise - Priority Management. As time management trainers, they trained over 2,000 people in personal effectiveness, and major clients included Westpac, BHP, RTA and AMP.

Wayne Graham, (PM Hastings Council’s Industry Development Officer) presents:
'Doing business from home in the Hastings 5 years from now'
Discuss strategic issues affecting home-based businesses in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area. Wayne and guest speakers will talk to us about home based business issues concerning the local council, regulations, business statistics, infrastructure development, population trends and the industry development program. How council can help you grow your business and the do’s and don’ts of operating business from home.

If you are interested in attending or to find out more, contact
Renee Bell Photographer Tel: 02 6584 8866 / email: info@reneebell.com.au
OR Lisa Christie Tel: 0438 847 825 / email: lisa@visualedge.com.au

Everyone is welcome but you must RSVP! For more information: www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/hbfoct08.pdf

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Port Macquarie-Hastings Futures Development Board

Council has recently advertised for nominations for the above Board. While the nominations were of high quality, Council was disappointed with the number of applications received from females. Administrator Dick Persson has indicated a strong desire to ensure this key Council Board is comprised, if at all possible, by equal representation from both male and females.

Council is seeking nominations from women with foresighting capacity and an ability to forward think.

A copy of the charter and the original advertisement is available for download from:
www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/devbdadvert.doc , and www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/devbdcharter.doc .

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The next Customer Care Meet & Mingle Night will be held:

DATE: Tuesday, 21 October 2008

TIME: 6pm - 9pm

VENUE: Port Macquarie Race Club, Port Macquarie

COST: $10 per head (payable by either cash or cheque made out to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council upon entry, includes nibbles)

RSVP: ASAP but by Thursday, 16 Oct 08 to Rachel.Ross@pmhc.nsw.gov.au

Highlights of the evening include:
• Guest Speaker - Rodney Nugent (Monday morning "Take 15" staff education and awareness designed to ensure knowledge and service excellence)
• Administrator, Dick Persson welcome and introduction of new General Manager, Andrew Roach and his wife, Amy.
• Introduction of Liz Paine - new Customer Care Trainer replacing part of Geraldine's position
• Introduction of Sue Faulkner - new Customer Care Consultant replacing part of Geraldine's position
• Lucky Door Prize - 1 Free full page interview in the November issue of Focus Magazine
• Announcement of our 200th Customer Care Accredited Member - Special surprise for them!
• Craig Freudenstein, Catering Manager of Port Macquarie Race Club will be showcasing his glorious food. Yum!
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SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESSION SEMINAR in PORT MACQUARIE ON 31ST OCTOBER AT 7.30AM

As part of the Federal Governments Building Entrepreneurship in Small Business program, Peak Partners will be delivering a series of free Succession Planning seminars throughout Australia commencing in April 2008. Succession Planning is a major issue for small business in Australia with some surprising statistics underpinning the initiative to address this area:

51% of small business owners plan to use their• business as a

PRIMARY source of funding retirement.

43% aim for a lump sum and a third expect an• ongoing income stream.

• The average age of a family business owner in NSW is 56 years.

68% of Principals plan to exit the business in less• than 10 years.

Less than 25% have sought any advice on succession.•

• The retirement of family business owners will accompany the transfer of approximately $1.6 Trillion in wealth.

Further details are available online at http://www.enjoyit.net.au/workshop.html

The breakfast seminar in this area is to be held on 31st October at Rydges – Port Macquarie at 7.30am

For further details please contact Peak Partners on 1300 665 473

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TASTINGS OF THE HASTINGS - A JOURNEY OF FLAVOUR

Take a journey of flavour to Greater Port Macquarie for “Tasting of the Hastings”, a week long celebration of food and wine from Friday 24 October to Sunday 2 November 2008. New events this year include a Farmers Market dinner, SLURP night of wine, an evening with the winemakers at Bago in Bloom, plus favourites from last year, coffee and brewery tours – all culminating in the main event on Sunday 2 November 2008.

On the Sunday some 5,000 gourmands will converge on Port Macquarie Race Course to taste their way through stalls from 50 local food producers and growers, and 20 restaurants. Buy local trademarks such as freshly shucked Laurieton oysters, Lorne Valley macadamia nuts, Ricardoes Tomatoes and strawberries, and wicked Russian style chocolates.

Local and guest chefs will conduct ‘Cooking Demonstrations’ in a kitchen and the inaugural ‘Waiters Race’ at 1pm will be a light hearted test of serving skills. The Tastings of the Hastings Main Event will be held from 8am to 2pm and offers free entry.

For the first time this year patrons can buy a souvenir cook book for $10 which features 30 local restaurants and producers, and is developed from the freshest and the best of the region.

“Tastings Diary”
? Six Degrees of Degustation Dinner (24 Oct) - six local chefs, six wines and a 6pm start at Rydges overlooking the Hastings River
? Mountain Market, Cuisine and Countryside (26 Oct) - the hinterland village of Comboyne will offer a special food market and garden walks from 10am to 1pm
? Peak Coffee Appreciation Nights (28, 29, 30 Oct) - learn from the baristas at the Mid North Coast’s first roasting business
? SLURP a Night of Wine (29 Oct) - perfect for wine connoisseurs, a fun night in the private dining room at The Corner restaurant with local sommelier Renee Baird
? Stunned Mullet ‘Farmers Market’ Dinner (30 Oct) - an evening of food and indulgence with insights from leading local producers
? The Little Brewing Company Tours (1 Nov) - discover the passion and processes behind Port’s pioneering and award-winning boutique brewery
? ‘Bago in Bloom’ at Bago Vineyards (1 Nov) - an evening with the winemakers under the pergola at this picturesque vineyard in the hinterland, ‘the home’ of monthly jazz concerts
? Tastings of the Hastings (2 Nov) – the main event with growers, producers, cooking demonstrations, entertainment and more

A full schedule of events with locations and prices is available at www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au along with travel packages. Or call 1300 303 155.

Our HBEC Patron Member Holiday Coast Credit Union is the official sponsor of Tastings of the Hastings 2008.

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You’re invited to come along and join in for our Health Expo to help celebrate the 10th Birthday of Discovery Health & Fitness.

Whether you’re a member or just someone interested in their health & wellbeing we will have something for you.

Free Mini-Consultations with Local Health Professionals:
- Diabetes Educator
- Nutritionist
- Dietician
- Naturopath
- Occupational Therapist
- Reflexologist
- Osteopath
- Hypnotherapist
- Remedial Massage Therapist
- Medical Acupuncturist
- Chiropractor
Cooking Demonstrations

Our Personal Trainers will be on hand also with Free FITNESS AGE testing and cardio fitness testing.

Friday 17th October 12 Noon till 4pm, and Saturday 18th October 10.30am till 3.30pm

Buy 12 Months membership and receive 15 Months with $0 Joining Fee

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We are looking for support from Hastings BEC for the upcoming Wauchope Country Music Festival set down for 9, 10 and 11 January 2009.

We have so far secured some very talented artists from as far away as Ireland, New Zealand and Norway, not to mention our local and interstate artists. Our program is now full and we have a waiting list for the 2010 festival.

The festival also includes a ute show, market stalls, buskers and a street parade.

We have secured major sponsors NBN Television and Countrylink.

I have attached a couple of our press releases (download here: www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/wcmf.doc ) which include more detail of where we are up to.

This will be a major event for Wauchope and it is proposed to put this festival on each year at the same time which coincides with the lead-up to the Tamworth Country Music Festival and is also located on the proposed Slim Dusty Way.

Please contact Debbie Jones, Ph: 0411208867 or email: gdjones1@bigpond.net.au

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Here’s a good news item. The Bill Ussher Agricultural Scholarship, provided by our Patron Member BCU, has been awarded to a local business.
Susie Boswell of PORT P.R., who manages publicity and promotions for Ricardoes Tomatoes, sends news of a significant achievement by one of our keenest local entrepreneurs:

On Friday, Ricardoes was awarded the Bill Ussher Agricultural Scholarship, announced at the BCU Pro-Ag event at Macksville.

Started by banana growers at the Pub with No Beer in 1970, the scholarship funds access to education and training or networking with other professionals to share ideas and improve skills to keep abreast of industry changes. BCU's testimonial said: "In a short space of time, the Sarks family has become not only an efficient producer of high quality tomatoes and strawberries, but an important tourist attraction and employer in the Port Macquarie district, a highly impressive business that has managed to develop a sought-after brand and reputation for quality. Judges were impressed by Ricardoes’ ability to meet customer demand, identify opportunities and exploit them, and their willingness to share information." Ricardoes aims to study methods of producing quality strawberry ice cream, expanding its production portfolio and its workforce from its current level of about 20 staff.

Well done Ricardoes, and well done BCU.

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Your weekly diet of statistics from ABS… I know you’d get twitchy without them…

5372.0.55.001 International Merchandise Trade: Confidential Commodities List, Sep 2008
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/5372.0.55.001?OpenDocument

6202.0 Labour Force, Australia, Sep 2008
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/6202.0?OpenDocument

5671.0 Lending Finance, Australia, Aug 2008
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/5671.0?OpenDocument

8752.0 Building Activity, Australia, Jun 2008
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/8752.0?OpenDocument

8782.0.65.001 Construction Activity: Chain Volume Measures, Australia, Jun 2008
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/8782.0.65.001?OpenDocument
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And, finally, this week’s thought provoker from my friend Beth Flynn:

From Wilkinson, P.R. (2008). Aha: insights for effective leadership and management. Baltimore: Publish America.

The Peter Principle

“We have all heard of the Peter Principle. It is usually couched in very negative terms concerning the people suffering from the malaise. Maybe we should dig a little deeper.

I believe each of us has an inherent capacity to understand and cope with certain levels of complexity. When an individual is at the top of their capacity, he/she is right on their game and usually very effective at what they do. This level of effectiveness is likely to be noticed and can result in a promotion because of the old adage that past performance is usually the best indicator of future performance. So the promotion comes and they get moved to a position of increased complexity which they cannot handle. They become ineffective and people wonder how they ever got to that position. The problem is that no matter how hard they work, they will not be effective because the job has exceeded the level of complexity that they can manage. It is not that they are bad, they are just in the wrong position. There is a way out.

If a person is suffering from the Peter Principle, it would be a great benefit to the organization - and the person - to find another position that matches this person’s complexity level capabilities. While this can be challenging, it will result in the organization benefiting from a very effective employee (Wilkinson, 2008, p. 159-160).”

07 October 2008

Tuesday greetings, Reader,

I hope you found the long weekend refreshing and, with the change to daylight saving time, you are fully energised for the sprint to Christmas.

An email from an associate who has recently recruited staff stimulated the following discourse:

At a time when our business sector is experiencing severe stress, and competition for employment is likely to become more severe, the initial impression created with a potential employer is absolutely critical. A desirable position is likely to attract significant response from potential employees, so it is vital to ensure that your written application receives the most favourable possible reaction.

It is intriguing then, to read a collection of application letters – especially so, when the criteria for a position include accuracy, precision and carefulness.

Letters arrive with incorrect business name, misspellings, atrocious grammar and major omissions. Often the obvious is overlooked – the applicant doesn’t actually apply for the position. Frequently, specific required information is not provided, even such basic data as return mail address, contact phone number or the title of the position for which application is being made.

Many applicants completely ignore specified selection criteria, to their detriment. Others totally ignore mandatory requirements for qualifications, experience or specific skill sets. Even when the required content is (more or less) present, many applications demonstrate a total lack of understanding of corporate style requirements. A business letter is different in form to a love letter, or an SMS message, and for good reason. Not understanding the difference adds yet another black mark.

As a potential employer, I have always performed an initial cull of applications based on care in the application. My reasoning is that if the applicant doesn’t care about the quality of their application, they are likely to apply the same lack of care to their work for me. When business computer skills are a specified requirement, lack of use of a spell-checker is suicidal. So is lack of proof reading, to pick up correctly spelled, but misplaced words.

Yes, over the years I may have culled a few otherwise useful applicants on this basis, but that’s life. Care is a two-way street. If you want me to care about your application, show me that you have put some care into its preparation.

What do you think? I’ll be interested to hear of, and publish for the benefit of Members (anonymously if you wish) some of your experiences.

Finally, I was taken to task for recognising a couple of our Patron Members specifically in my recent article relating to community involvement. More specifically, I was taken to task for not recognising the community involvement of our other Patron Members and, indeed, the vast majority of all our members.

The active involvement of all our members in supporting the HBEC is just one indication of their shared community involvement. It is silly to try to recognise every member on every occasion, but please don’t interpret a negative from my mention of only a couple of specific members. I promise to share the limelight around. And no, it wasn’t a Patron Member who chipped me.

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Business-related skills development from Port Macquarie Community College

Networking Skills for Shy People in Business
Effective Networking can really help build your business. If you're shy meeting new people, to increase your contacts and promote yourself can be a traumatic thought. Your attempts might be unsuccessful if people misinterpret your shyness as having no confidence in your own abilities and no interest in them!
810W011 Thu Oct 16 1 session 9am-4pm $75

Assertiveness Skills
You will love this assertiveness workshop for women if: you have trouble saying no to people, putting up with 'things' for too long and then end up snapping aggressively; being afraid of conflict; sick of feeling like a pushover or are the kids running rings around you? Well, come and learn the skills to handle those people that know how to push your buttons and to stand up for yourself gently without being mean.
810H015 Wed Oct 15 1 session 9am-5pm $85

MS Word Essentials
This class is ideal for expanding your skills and knowledge with MS Word. Topics covered will be saving documents, navigation, adjusting margins and layout, shortcuts, copy and move, search and replace, simple tables, autotext, mailmerge and printing.
809C012 Mon Oct 13 & Oct 20 2 sessions 1:30pm-4:30pm $90

Introduction to MYOB
BSBADM309A - Process accounts payable and receivable, Statement of Attainment from Certificate III in Business Administration BSB30201. Topics include: manage and set up your business or club accounts. Record sales and receivables, purchases and payables, invoices and payments, cheques and deposits.
810C002 Thu Oct 16 to Nov 27 7 sessions 6pm-9pm $250

Computers for the Absolute Beginner
This course is for you if you have never used a computer before and need to start at the very beginning. We provide one computer per participant and our patient friendly tutor will guide you through the basics of the keyboard, mouse, parts of a window, startup, shutdown and basic word processing. This is a course with no pressure, You can do it!
810C012 Sat Oct 18 to Nov 1 3 sessions 12:30pm-4:30pm $125

MS Outlook
Organise your time and schedules more efficiently. Let Outlook handle your busy life style. Learn how to use your email, work with the calendar, schedule meetings and appointments, set up your contacts and address book, to do lists and reminder notes.
810C013 Mon Oct 13 to Oct 27 3 sessions 9:30am-12:30pm $105

Creative Writing
Have you always wanted to write? This course will show you how to get started on that first book. If you always planned to write a book someday then that day has arrived, each session includes valuable tips on aspects of style and content.
810CP006 Tue Oct 14 to Nov 18 6 sessions 6pm-8pm $110

Introduction to Wine Appreciation (of course it’s business-related. Wine and business are inseperable!)
Lively and social overview of basic winemaking, red and white varieties and styles. Local viticultural areas, wine with food and fortified and sparkling wine production. All in a relaxed atmosphere. Conducted by the Senior Wine Maker from Cassegrain Vineyards, wines will be available for tasting in some classes.
Optional 6th session at Cassegrain Restaurant (at own cost)
810LR007 Tue Oct 14 to Nov 18 6 sessions 6:30pm-8:30pm $120

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Hastings BEC Networking Breakfast – Thursday 9th October at Mercure Centro Hotel

If the weather gods are kind to us, and provide another morning like today’s, this will be sensational – on the rooftop at Mercure.

If the weather is inclement, no problem. The rooftop reception area at Mercure also caters for wet weather, with roll-down “windows” to keep us dry.

This will be a relaxed and “less wordy than usual” breakfast, with plenty of time for catching up with your business colleagues – and for enjoying the surroundings.

Hosted by Digital Design & Poster Studio, with some wonderful lucky door prizes.

Starts at 6.45am for 7.00am at Mercure Centro Hotel, Cnr William and Hay Sts Port Macquarie
$20 for Members and $25 for Guests. Guests and visitors are very welcome.
RSVP by cob Tuesday 7th October (that’s today! – or early tomorrow at latest) to admin@hastingsbec.com.au

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The Home Business Forum meets every second month in Port Macquarie from 9:00 until 12:30.
The next meeting is on Friday 17th October 2008 at Panthers.

The cost to attend is only $15 with morning tea provided.

Our Guest speakers this time are:

Barbara & Laurie Smith presenting:
"Make the Important Things Count" - Learn from the experts in time management how to work smarter not harder!
Laurie and his wife Barbara have had a diverse background in management roles, including being owners/directors of a Time Management franchise - Priority Management. As time management trainers, they trained over 2,000 people in personal effectiveness, and major clients included Westpac, BHP, RTA and AMP.

Wayne Graham, (PM Hastings Council’s Industry Development Officer) presents:
'Doing business from home in the Hastings 5 years from now'
Discuss strategic issues affecting home-based businesses in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area. Wayne and guest speakers will talk to us about home based business issues concerning the local council, regulations, business statistics, infrastructure development, population trends and the industry development program. How council can help you grow your business and the do’s and don’ts of operating business from home.

If you are interested in attending or to find out more, contact
Renee Bell Photographer Tel: 02 6584 8866 / email: info@reneebell.com.au
OR Lisa Christie Tel: 0438 847 825 / email: lisa@visualedge.com.au

Everyone is welcome but you must RSVP! For more information: www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/hbfoct08.pdf

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Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce is holding a Meet The Candidates evening

Tonight, Tuesday 7th October
At Panthers Auditorium
Starting at 6.30 pm
No RSVP necessary – all welcome

And the next Members Meeting is to be held:

Date: Tuesday 21st October 2008
Time: 6.30pm
Venue: Quality Resort Sails, Port Macquarie
Cost: $10.00 for members $20.00 for non-members
Drinks and savouries will be provided on the night. Non-members and guests are most welcome

For catering purposes please RSVP by 3:00pm Monday 20th October to (02) 6583 4412 or Email: info@portchamber.com.au .

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The next Customer Care Meet & Mingle Night will be held:

DATE: Tuesday, 21 October 2008

TIME: 6pm - 9pm

VENUE: Port Macquarie Race Club, Port Macquarie

COST: $10 per head (payable by either cash or cheque made out to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council upon entry, includes nibbles)

RSVP: ASAP but by Thursday, 16 Oct 08 to Rachel.Ross@pmhc.nsw.gov.au

Highlights of the evening include:
• Guest Speaker - Rodney Nugent (Monday morning "Take 15" staff education and awareness designed to ensure knowledge and service excellence)
• Administrator, Dick Persson welcome and introduction of new General Manager, Andrew Roach and his wife, Amy.
• Introduction of Liz Paine - new Customer Care Trainer replacing part of Geraldine's position
• Introduction of Sue Faulkner - new Customer Care Consultant replacing part of Geraldine's position
• Lucky Door Prize - 1 Free full page interview in the November issue of Focus Magazine
• Announcement of our 200th Customer Care Accredited Member - Special surprise for them!
• Craig Freudenstein, Catering Manager of Port Macquarie Race Club will be showcasing his glorious food. Yum!
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Port Macquarie Cup Champagne Breakfast – Friday 10th October

Kick off the Port Macquarie Cup in style at the Town Green Inn (upper level)

Inclusions:
Deluxe canape breakfast
Live entertainment
Prize draw
One-way private coach transfer from TGs to the race course

9.00am till 11.30am. Cost $40

For tickets, contact Jordan Humphries on 6580 7899 or email jordan@macquariehotel.com.au

+ = +

TASTINGS OF THE HASTINGS - A JOURNEY OF FLAVOUR

Take a journey of flavour to Greater Port Macquarie for “Tasting of the Hastings”, a week long celebration of food and wine from Friday 24 October to Sunday 2 November 2008. New events this year include a Farmers Market dinner, SLURP night of wine, an evening with the winemakers at Bago in Bloom, plus favourites from last year, coffee and brewery tours – all culminating in the main event on Sunday 2 November 2008.

On the Sunday some 5,000 gourmands will converge on Port Macquarie Race Course to taste their way through stalls from 50 local food producers and growers, and 20 restaurants. Buy local trademarks such as freshly shucked Laurieton oysters, Lorne Valley macadamia nuts, Ricardoes Tomatoes and strawberries, and wicked Russian style chocolates.

Local and guest chefs will conduct ‘Cooking Demonstrations’ in a kitchen and the inaugural ‘Waiters Race’ at 1pm will be a light hearted test of serving skills. The Tastings of the Hastings Main Event will be held from 8am to 2pm and offers free entry.

For the first time this year patrons can buy a souvenir cook book for $10 which features 30 local restaurants and producers, and is developed from the freshest and the best of the region.

“Tastings Diary”
? Six Degrees of Degustation Dinner (24 Oct) - six local chefs, six wines and a 6pm start at Rydges overlooking the Hastings River
? Mountain Market, Cuisine and Countryside (26 Oct) - the hinterland village of Comboyne will offer a special food market and garden walks from 10am to 1pm
? Peak Coffee Appreciation Nights (28, 29, 30 Oct) - learn from the baristas at the Mid North Coast’s first roasting business
? SLURP a Night of Wine (29 Oct) - perfect for wine connoisseurs, a fun night in the private dining room at The Corner restaurant with local sommelier Renee Baird
? Stunned Mullet ‘Farmers Market’ Dinner (30 Oct) - an evening of food and indulgence with insights from leading local producers
? The Little Brewing Company Tours (1 Nov) - discover the passion and processes behind Port’s pioneering and award-winning boutique brewery
? ‘Bago in Bloom’ at Bago Vineyards (1 Nov) - an evening with the winemakers under the pergola at this picturesque vineyard in the hinterland, ‘the home’ of monthly jazz concerts
? Tastings of the Hastings (2 Nov) – the main event with growers, producers, cooking demonstrations, entertainment and more

A full schedule of events with locations and prices is available at www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au along with travel packages. Or call 1300 303 155.

Our HBEC Patron Member Holiday Coast Credit Union is the official sponsor of Tastings of the Hastings 2008.

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Kellon Beard (NSW Business Chamber) has provided an example of a useful newsletter distributed by a NSWBC Member.

The newsletter, entitled “Employment & Industrial Law Update” can be viewed by downloading here:
www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/eilu.pdf

Free subscription can be arranged on request to Jay Clowes jclowes@fwolaw.com

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Louise Petschler, Chief Executive Officer of Abacus – Australian Mutuals has provided an informative media release about the position of Australian credit unions and mutual building societies in the face of the current world financial situation. It makes interesting reading.

Download the document from: www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/abacus.pdf

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If any of you know of any up and coming "Young Leaders" in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region, you may be interested in this.

The Leadership Award, presented by the University of Newcastle, aims to recognise and encourage emerging leaders in the Hunter, Central Coast and Mid North Coast regions. Nominations are invited from individuals aged less than 35 years on 1 January 2008 residing in the following local areas: Newcastle, Maitland, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, Cessnock, Singleton, Muswellbrook, Upper Hunter, Dungog, Gloucester, Great Lakes, Wyong, Gosford, Greater Taree, Hastings, Kempsey, Nambucca, Bellingen, Coffs Harbour and Clarence Valley.

Please download the following documents: www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/leadaward1.pdf , www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/leadaward2.pdf , and www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/leadaward3.pdf

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Half Ironman is here again…

The Scody Half Ironman will be held in Port Macquarie on 9th November this year. This event (and the full Ironman earlier in the year) brings enormous benefits to our town in the form of tourism promotion and revenue generation for local businesses.

Tim Atherton, the Local Organising Committee Bike Director, is seeking offers of assistance from corporate groups for the bike leg. You would be allocated a "high profile" location on the course. While ensuring the safety of the competitors and public, it would give you the opportunity to "fly your organisation's flag" as well as presenting a great team building exercise for you and your staff. You are encouraged to make it a fun day out; bring a barbecue, wear your corporate T shirts and make it a real social occasion while performing a vital community service.

If you are interested, please contact Tim on mobile telephone number 0407-414-040 or by email at tim.atherton@pmhc.nsw.gov.au as soon as possible

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I (Gregg) am also seeking individual helpers for the Home Street Aid Station. We provide food, drink and support to competitors during the run leg of the event. Very happy to hear from you, on 0419 438 194 or by email to admin@hastingsbec.com.au

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In finishing, some more words of wisdon from Beth Flynn, Leadership Consultant & Trainer at Ohio State University

Promote Constructive Insubordination
From Kouzes, J.M., & Posner, B.Z., (2006). A leader’s legacy. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Leaders have to be able to promote, demonstrate, and support constructive insubordination. It’s been said that ‘if both of us are always in agreement, then one of us is redundant,’ and this is no less true today. When everyone agrees, especially for the sake of getting along, we’re unlikely to achieve the best results.

We can’t afford to surround ourselves with “yes people”. We need to have people willing to support us and also willing to voice their disagreements. Other will see issues that we don’t see – perhaps never even thought about – and may even come up with a better solution than our own.
We have to make it possible for people to argue with each other – up, down, in, out, and sideways – if we are to realize the best from today’s diverse and talented workforce. We shouldn’t strive to win every skirmish, but instead endeavor to unite in our decisions so that we can win battles that matter most. The legacy that comes from difficult conversations will be far more creative and sustaining than ones that come from people who always see eye to eye. (Kouzes & Posner, 2006, p. 68-70)

And that’s about it for another week in sunny Port Macquarie,