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!