1 September 2008

“Spring has sprung” greetings, Reader,

And for Port Macquarie, Spring sprang on us a few days early this year. Last Friday morning QANTASLink officially launched their new Dash 8-400 aircraft on the Port to Sydney service. The “400” is a much longer, faster and roomier aircraft than preceding models, and QANTAS has chosen to configure them for a modest 72 seats, which provides great leg room and comfort. No more risk of head injuries from the wing pass-through block of the older models either. In the “400” even Chris Denny can walk the aisle without stooping. The economics of the “400” also means more seats, and more discount seats. That’s great for all of us. Well done, QANTASLink.

Friday just kept on getting better, and culminated in a fantastic Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards dinner function at Panthers. About 500 people attended – making it about the biggest event of the year. Everyone had come to recognise achievement, and to be recognised, and to say the spirit was festive would be a mild understatement. Master of Ceremonies was legendary test cricketer and commentator, Mr Kerry O’Keeffe. I hadn’t had the pleasure of hearing Kerry live before, but I sure look forward to the next opportunity. He is a VERY funny man!

Hastings BEC members were very strongly represented among the winners – 12 of the 25 category winners – and our multi-award winning member The Little Brewing Company did it again, winning the Trades & Manufacturing category. They then returned to the stage twice more, to be awarded Port Macquarie Business of the Year (Camden Haven and Wauchope were recognised with separate categories), and Greater Port Macquarie Business of the Year (the overall winner). Congratulations to the Wicked Elf herself, and to the Brewmeister (and to the local investors who recognised the potential in this fledgling business).

The Hastings BEC Members awarded “Best in Category” prizes on the night were:
• Accommodation - The Observatory Port Macquarie
• Coffee Shop / Café - Luxe Café
• Corporate Community Citizenship - Port Macquarie News
• Disability Friendly - Port Macquarie Community College
• Financial /Legal Services - Jeffrey Reid Flanagan Valuations
• Professional/Business Services - Joyer Consulting
• Fitness and Lifestyle - Discovery Health & Fitness
• Indigenous Services - Jobfind Centre
• Real Estate Services - Elders Real Estate
• Schools/Education Facilities - Port Macquarie Community College
• Tours and Attractions - Cassegrain Wines
• Trades and Manufacturing - The Little Brewing Company

The Awards also provided wonderful recognition for the dedicated team who manage and operate the Community College, with awards in two categories. Many people are unaware of the great work the Community College does in providing classes and services for people with disabilities – in a premises designed to be disability friendly. The College also provides specialist development for literacy and numeracy challenged people, as well as a wide range of community-oriented skills development programs. Increasingly, the College is providing training and skills development programs tailored to satisfy requirements of local business, and the obvious synergy with the BEC is still developing. Well done to “the girls”!

Congratulations to the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce, and to the organising committee, for an outstandingly successful event. As a number of people remarked on the night, this is exactly the sort of “shot in the arm” the local business community has needed after a difficult trading year.

Our regional tourism industry is winning awards. Our accommodation, hospitality and service industries are winning awards. QANTASLink, Virgin Blue and Brindabella Airlines are bringing ever-increasing numbers into the region. Hopefully with Spring we can turn the corner and capitalise on strong economic recovery.

Of course, September is Small Business Month, and we will have several more functions through the month, commencing with The Great Debate tomorrow at Rydges. The topic for debate is “A big salary beats work-life balance hands down”. Chamber Exec Officer Hadyn Oriti and I just laughed when we heard the topic, having voted with our feet in recent times. Still, it should be entertaining watching some poor sods try to argue the affirmative while the audience can see the sun sparkling off the Hastings River outside the room.

Our HBEC Networking Breakfast on Thursday 11th September will focus on small business development, with a number of speakers providing their thoughts on what makes a small business successful. Don’t miss it.

Again, congratulations to Chamber, and to everyone who took part in the Business Awards. Win, lose or draw, it was great to see regional businesses coming together in friendly rivalry and to celebrate excellence in business operation.

On a separate issue, Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce has recently announced that it has no position on the forthcoming state and federal by-elections. I support Hadyn Oriti’s announcement and emphasise that Hastings BEC, similarly, has no party political position on the election. In the interests of local businesses, we recommend that voters seriously scrutinise all contenders’ policies relating to regional development and support for businesses in this region, and consider which contender will be in the strongest position to advocate in Parliament for our needs.

On to coming events:

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Port Macquarie Community College, business-related training courses:

Food Hygiene and Safety
This course covers safe food handling and safe storage of foodstuff, effective use of detergents and sanitisers, waste and pest control. Includes an overview of food safety legislation. The course meets Food Safety Program requirements Successful participants will gain a Statement of Attainment THHGHS01B from Cert III in Hospitality (Operations).
Saturday Sept 6th, 1 session 9.00am – 3.00pm $98

Colourful Insights Into Communication
Here is an opportunity to gain a communication tool which not only achieves results, but creates an entertaining, dynamic and unforgettable professional development experience. Based on the work of Carl Jung, this workshop introduces an easy to understand communication tool through which to identify and celebrate existing strengths and emerging human potential.Learn to identify learning needs in students, and to respond, motivate and work effectively with the personality styles of managers, customers and staff.
Tuesday 30th September, 1 session 9.00am – 4.00pm $98

Body Language
We base our judgements of people primarily on their non-verbal communications, but it is easy to mis-judge people. Because non-verbal communication is difficult to read. You will have the opportunity in this course to explore the impact that your own non-verbal messages have on your relationship with others, and to develop strategies to improve your interpersonal communication.
Thursday 11th September, 1 session 9.00am – 4.00pm $98

Introduction to Payroll
Process Payroll, statement of attainment for Certificate III in Business Administration. Learn to manage holidays, sick leave, awards, salary and wage employees. Calculate employee pays, print group certificates and perform end of year functions using MYOB v17.
Thursdays, September 11th to October 9th 5 sessions 9.00am – 12 noon $175

GST and BAS – short course
This short course will look at the GST – how it is calculated, different GST invoicing formats, and how to complete your GST statement. This course will teach you how to complete your BAS manually and using MYOB v17. We will also cover sending your BAS electronically and how to set up your BASlink.
Saturday 13th September, 1 session 9.30am – 4.00pm $89

Contact PM Community College on 6583 7288 for details and booking.

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There are just a few late seats still available for The Great Debate!

This is always a very enjoyable lunch event, with lots of laughs.

This year’s topic: A BIG SALARY BEATS WORK-LIFE BALANCE HANDS DOWN (Yeah, right!)
Date: Tuesday 2 September, 12 noon – 2pm (That’s tomorrow!)
Place: Rydges Port Macquarie
Cost: $25 for debate & 2 course lunch

Download the detail-packed brochure from www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/debate08.pdf

Registration: Maree McEntyre at the NSW Business Chamber by telephone on 6584 0910
or email maree.mcentyre@australianbusiness.com.au but don’t delay!.

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Ronald McDonald House In The Hunter - Gala Charity Dinner & Show.

The Dinner and Show will be held at Tommy’s By The Beach at 6.30pm on Wednesday 3rd September 2008.
Tickets are only $60 and include “Tommy’s Punch”, canapes and two-course dinner and, of course, the show.
There will also be a charity auction and lucky door prizes.

Download the brochure from: www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/RMHC.pdf

Tickets and information from: Mandy Miller 6583 1788 or Email mmiller@rossgroup.com.au

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Next HBEC Networking Breakfast, Thursday 11th September at Panthers Pier One Restaurant

This will be a breakfast focused on Small Business Month, with a couple of surprise guest speakers.
Start at 6.45 for 7.00am and finish by 8.30am
Remember, you are encouraged to invite guests to attend – just let me know. Members $20 and Guests $25.

As usual, lots of beaut door prizes thanks to our very generous member businesses.
In particular, we have a $250 open order from Digital Design and Poster Studio, thanks to Adam Roberts.

Make sure to RSVP to admin@hastingsbec.com.au so I can have name tags and places for you.

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You are invited to ‘Networking at Night’ to be held at Bliss Restaurant,
Level 1, 74 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie on Thursday September 11 2008, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

Mid Coast Youth Career Services, the Local Community Partnership and the NSW Business Chamber’s
Regional Industry Career Adviser are part of the Australian Government’s Career Advice Australia network.
This network supports all young people aged 13 to 19 in their transitions through school and onto further
study, training or work. The local network covers the region from Kempsey to Taree.

Download full details from www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/nanbliss1.pdf and www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/nanbliss2.pdf

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Port Golf Day – all proceeds to Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service

Glen Kolpak from WRHS spoke to our August breakfast about this Golf Day. It should be fun, for a good cause.

Date: Monday 15th September 2008, rego from 11am. For a 12 noon shotgun start.
Price: $50 per player including green fees, bbq lunch and nibblies at the presentation.
Teams of 4. 18 hole ambrose at Port Macquarie Golf Club.
Great team and individual prizes. Hole sponsorships are still available.

For info: Glen on 1800 155 155 or email glen.kolpak@rescuehelicopter.com.au

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‘Buzz Day’ is Diabetes Australia’s annual merchandise fundraising campaign.

The event involves the sale merchandise throughout September at supporting retail outlets, culminating in our signature day ‘Buzz Day’ on Friday 19th September 2008, where Diabetes Australia will beat the diabetes drum across the country.

You can beat the rush by buying your bee or soft toy from Tiffany Paynter and Sandra Hollins at the BEC September breakfast.

They also have some gorgeous soft toys available. These toys have arrived today, we are quite excited as they are very nice. They are "Russ" branded toys, so good quality and sooo soft.
See photos of the toys at: www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/pic00277.jpg , www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/pic21472.jpg , www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/pic06673.jpg and www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/pic06704.jpg

You can email Tiffany at tiffany.paynter@countryenergy.com.au to order or obtain more details.

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Tastings of the Hastings, the region’s food and wine festival will be held this year on Sunday, November 2, 2008.
As usual, Tastings will be held at the Port Macquarie Race Course.

This was a great event last year, and this year promises to be even bigger and better. Put it in your diary.

For more information, or to take part, contact Coordinator, Sonia Fingleton, Mobile: 0414.376 868 or email: alliedassets@bigpond.com

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And there you go. Another week has flashed past our eyes.
The earth’s population is 6,695,371,665 (at 0200 UTC) and has grown by 124,163 today.
So far TODAY,
the world has pumped 48,680,749 barrels of oil,
built 57,876 cars,
and spent $1,931,339,109 on military goods and services.
and the day’s only half over.
Source http://www.peterrussell.com/Odds/WorldClock.php

Cheers,

25 August 2008

Olympic’d out greetings, Reader,

Well, it’s over again for another four years, and not a moment too soon. The Australian and US anthems became irritating after the 20th or so iteration, and the Chinese anthem remains totally inscrutable. Jacques Rogge described the Beijing games as “exceptional”, which leaves one wondering whether they scored higher or lower than Sydney’s “best games ever”. At least no “Free Tibet” banners were obvious to sully the happy event.

Australia’s 7 Network, and its affiliates including Prime TV, are to be congratulated for a stunningly successful and technologically breathtaking coverage of the games. Watching events live, in high definition and with stunning super-slow motion replays brought a whole new dimension to sports viewing. But I still want to kneecap that face slapping chicken eater.

Away from the box, the world seems to have been quite distracted this past week. Not a lot of newsworthy events – unless you’re a South Ossetian. Even the world financial scene seemed to take a breather while the athletes did their thing. This will change with the launch on Friday 29th of QANTASLink’s you beaut, bigger and quieter Dash 8-400 aircraft on the Port to Sydney sector. The 400 series makes a whole lot more seats available and, with its increased efficiency, opens the door to more discount fares. Following closely on Virgin Blue’s introduction of a second daily Sydney flight, and Brindabella’s new and larger aircraft, this indicates a vote of confidence in the Port Macquarie travel business.

Finally, to clarify an item in last week’s email,I want to emphasise that the BEC is party politically neutral – and that goes for local agitation groups, too. Last week at the request of a BEC Member, I publicised an event organised by the Residents Action Network. My intention was to alert regional businesspeople to the opportunity to come face to face with contenders for the seat of Lyne and, hopefully, put the screws on them. It was certainly not an endorsement of R.A.N., nor of any individual contestant, nor any party.

OK, now that I feel more politically correct than Jacques Rogge, lets move on:

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Port Macquarie Community College

A lot of business-related training courses commencing soon. To book, call the College on 6583 7288:

Website Design and Maintenance
I’m presenting this course again, starting this Wednesday evening. We still have a couple of seats available. In these introductory lessons you will learn the basics of Website design and construction, and how to maintain content in a website that has been built by professionals.
808C007 Wed Aug 27 to Sep 10 3 sessions 6pm-9pm $85

Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation
This accredited certificate will teach you how to safely administer cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. (Important after beach volleyball!)
808W004 Thu Aug 28 1 session 5:30pm-7:30pm $40

Food Hygiene & Safety
This course covers safe food handling and safe storage, effective use of detergents and sanitisers, waste and pest control. Includes an overview of how food safety legislation affects you. Meets Food Safety Program requirements. Successful participants will gain Statement of Attainment THHGHS01B – Follow workplace hygiene procedures from Certificate III in Hospitality (Operations).
809W002 Sat Sep 6 1 session 9am-3pm $98

Introduction to Excel Workshop
An ideal course for small business owners or householders who want to keep track of their budgets, or set up a simple spreadsheet. Learn creating worksheets, formatting, formulas, functions, printing, sorting & filtering, copying, moving, fill-in feature and conditional formatting.
808C013 Wed Aug 27 1 session 9am-3pm $90

Your Business Presentations with Powerpoint
Powerpoint is a powerful tool which is widely used in boardrooms, classrooms and meeting rooms. From sales presentations and passive advertising to staff orientation, discover the hidden uses for Powerpoint in your Business. Create professional presentations that make your business stand out from the crowd.
809C004 Tue Sep 16 to Sep 30 3 sessions 6pm-9pm $93

Introduction to Payroll
BSBADM308A Process payroll, Statement of Attainment Certificate III in Business Administration BSB30201. Manage holidays, sick leave, awards, salary and wage employees, calculate employee pays, print group certificates and perform end of year functions using MYOB V17.
809C002 Thu Sep 11 to Oct 9 5 sessions 9am-12pm $175

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. Basic computer skills are essential.
807C015 Wed Sep 3 to Oct 15 7 sessions 6pm-9pm $250

Composition for Digital Photography
This course will look at the elements and principles that make up good composition and some advanced photoshop elements techniques as well as raw file formats. Topics to be studied are the elements of line, direction, shape, size, texture, value and colour and the principles of repetition, alternation, harmony, gradation, contrast dominance, unity and balance.
809C011 Tue Sep 9 to Oct 21 7 sessions 1:30pm-4pm $190

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Next HBEC Networking Breakfast, Thursday 11th September at Panthers Pier One Restaurant

This will be a breakfast focused on Small Business Month, with a surprise guest speaker.
Start at 6.45 for 7.00am and finish by 8.30am
Remember, you are encouraged to invite guests to attend – just let me know. Members $20 and Guests $25.

As usual, lots of beaut door prizes thanks to our very generous member businesses.
In particular, we have a $250 open order from Digital Design and Poster Studio, thanks to Adam Roberts.

Make sure to RSVP to admin@hastingsbec.com.au so I can have name tags and places for you.

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Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards Dinner and Ceremony 2008 is on this Friday night

Tickets are still on sale through Panthers Port Macquarie for $75 per head, or $750 per table.

The evening will start at 6.30 pm. Cricket commentator and comedian Kerry O’Keeffe will be master of ceremonies for the evening. If you’ve ever listened to ABC test cricket commentary, you will have an idea what to expect. Lubricate your laughing gear!

It will be a fun evening and an opportunity for all businesses to gain maximum exposure.

Don’t miss out! Call Port Panthers on 6580 2300.

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If you receive the following email (or snail mail):

>> Dear Madam/Sir,

>> In order to have your company registered in the World Business Directory for 2008/2009,
>> please print, complete and return the enclosed form (PDF file) to the following address:

>> World Business Directory
>> Suite 149 - Rosden House - 372 Old Street
>> Ec1v 9au / London - United Kingdom

>> Updating is free of charge!

DON’T ANSWER IT. It is a scam. Legal, it may be. Useful it is not.
Yes, you may well be listed in some obscure directory, but it is useless and VERY expensive.

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September wouldn’t be September without The Great Debate!

This is always a very enjoyable lunch event, with lots of laughs.

This year’s topic: A BIG SALARY BEATS WORK-LIFE BALANCE HANDS DOWN
Date: Tuesday 2 September, 12 noon – 2pm
Place: Rydges Port Macquarie
Cost: $25 for debate & 2 course lunch

Download the detail-packed brochure from www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/debate08.pdf

Registration: Maree McEntyre at the NSW Business Chamber by telephone on 6584 0910
or email maree.mcentyre@australianbusiness.com.au no later than COB Friday 29th August 2008.

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You are invited to ‘Networking at Night’ to be held at Bliss Restaurant,
Level 1, 74 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie on Thursday September 11 2008, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

Mid Coast Youth Career Services, the Local Community Partnership and the NSW Business Chamber’s
Regional Industry Career Adviser are part of the Australian Government’s Career Advice Australia network.
This network supports all young people aged 13 to 19 in their transitions through school and onto further
study, training or work. The local network covers the region from Kempsey to Taree.

Download full details from www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/nanbliss1.pdf and www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/nanbliss2.pdf

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‘Buzz Day’ is Diabetes Australia’s annual merchandise fundraising campaign.

The event involves the sale merchandise throughout September at supporting retail outlets, culminating in our signature day ‘Buzz Day’ on Friday 19th September 2008, where Diabetes Australia will beat the diabetes drum across the country.

This year is the 8th Buzz Day campaign and Diabetes Australia is aiming to raise over $400,000 with all the proceeds going towards diabetes Awareness, Research, Education and Advocacy programs however, the only way we can raise these funds is through public support.

We need your help in finding a cure for diabetes so in September, make sure you buy a bee and help take the sting out of diabetes!

You can beat the rush by buying your bee or soft toy from Tiffany Paynter and Sandra Hollins at the BEC September breakfast.

They also have some gorgeous soft toys available. These toys have arrived today, we are quite excited as they are very nice. They are "Russ" branded toys, so good quality and sooo soft.
See photos of the toys at: www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/pic00277.jpg , www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/pic21472.jpg , www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/pic06673.jpg and www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/pic06704.jpg

Tiffany only has at the moment 10 of each toy, but will order more when stocks get low.

As she may only bring along a handful of toys to the breakfast, it may be an idea of people could pre-order so she has a better idea of how many to bring along.
If you would like to email Tiffany with your order, she would recommend doing this, as the toys will sell fast.

You can email Tiffany at tiffany.paynter@countryenergy.com.au to order or obtain more details.

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Tastings of the Hastings, the region’s food and wine festival will be held this year on Sunday, November 2, 2008.
As usual, Tastings will be held at the Port Macquarie Race Course.

This was a great event last year, and this year promises to be even bigger and better. Put it in your diary.

For more information, or to take part, contact Coordinator, Sonia Fingleton, Mobile: 0414.376 868 or email: alliedassets@bigpond.com

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Ronald McDonald House In The Hunter - Gala Charity Dinner & Show.

The Dinner and Show will be held at Tommy’s By The Beach at 6.30pm on Wednesday 3rd September 2008.
Tickets are only $60 and include “Tommy’s Punch”, canapes and two-course dinner and, of course, the show.
There will also be a charity auction and lucky door prizes.

Download the brochure from: www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/RMHC.pdf

Tickets and information from: Mandy Miller 6583 1788 or Email mmiller@rossgroup.com.au

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Are you the Signature Chef?

Mid North Coast NSW Regional Tourism Office is seeking entries from mid north coast chefs…
…..to find a Mid North Coast Signature.

Our BEC members, TAFE NCI, and Joyer are generous sponsors of this great initiative.
Please see all details in the full PDF brochure. Download from www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/signaturedish.pdf
Another grand sponsor, Focus Magazine put together the fabulous entry forms and media release.

Chefs can enter online at www.midnorthcoasttourism.com.au or send entries by mail.

For further information: Contact: Belinda Novicky Phone: (02) 6569 4058 or 040003363 or
Sonia Fingleton , Good Company Group Pty Ltd, Phone: (02) 6585 9342 or 0414376868.

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Port Golf Day – all proceeds to Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service

Glen Kolpak from WRHS spoke to our August breakfast about this Golf Day. It should be fun, for a good cause.

Date: Monday 15th September 2008, rego from 11am. For a 12 noon shotgun start.
Price: $50 per player including green fees, bbq lunch and nibblies at the presentation.
Teams of 4. 18 hole ambrose at Port Macquarie Golf Club.
Great team and individual prizes. Hole sponsorships are still available.

For info: Glen on 1800 155 155 or email glen.kolpak@rescuehelicopter.com.au

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Phew, that’s a lot of info today. Did I say things were quiet? Silly me!

Final word from Beth Flynn, Leadership Consultant at Ohio State University:

“We could all use a bit more grace in the world these days. We could use more good will, more charm, more elegance and more thanksgiving. We could also use more forgiveness – starting with ourselves for our own limitations and shortcomings. We have to extend that same compassion to others. Leaders aren’t saints. They’re human beings, full of the same flaws and failings as the rest of us. Forgiveness can lighten that heavy burden just a little bit.

Let’s all have the humility to remember where we started and the humanity to offer others the same opportunities. When the time comes for them to speak of your legacy, is there anything better to be remembered for than ‘You made me want to be a better person’?” (Kouzes & Posner, 2006, p.160-162)
Reference: Kouzes, J.M., & Posner, B.Z., (2006). A leader’s legacy. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

18 August 2008

Glorious sunny greetings, Reader,

Tragedy has struck. The women’s volleyballers have lost, so I no longer get to monitor that Seabird swimwear. I must say though, that the excellent construction and workmanship by member business Soft Edges stood up very well to the rigors of international competition. The Opals, women’s basketballers, thankfully, are still headed for gold in their Soft Edges-made outfits. Go girls!

Last Thursday’s HBEC Breakfast was, again, very well attended despite the spate of winter flu ravaging the area at the moment. Helen and John Ross, and their team from J&H Tours provided a mouth-watering presentation of their travel offerings. Possibly too tempting for my own good. For years I’ve managed to keep the wanderlust of The Cook under control, but now I think the fires have been rekindled, and a J&H Tour is looking like a real possibility.

As Helen described the growth of J&H Tours, from organising a one-off charity event to becoming a fully-fledged international luxury tour convenor, she demonstrated how passion and drive can deliver success for a business. The attention to detail, and emphasis on quality in all aspects of travel, accommodation and activity planning is evident, even down to the “convenience pack” provided to each tour member.

For anyone wanting to try a “sampler” of J&H Tours, they have arranged a couple of short tours to New Zealand’s Marlborough wine country, in November 2008 and March 2009, guided by none other than Mr John Cassegrain. These promise to be a gourmet’s delight, with an abundance of fine food and wine experiences packed into a few days. More details from J&H Tours.

It’s great to have J&H Tours as a Patron Member of HBEC, as it is a constant reminder of the growth and success potential for other local businesses here in Port Macquarie.

Breakfast attendees were treated to some great door prizes. Thanks to J&H Tours for a couple of lovely travel books, toSue Reid’s Discovery Health & Fitness for a personalised assessment and workout, to Glenda Hamilton’s “Perfectly Organised” for a 2-hour consultation, and a big thank you to Adam Roberts for a $250 open order from the Digital Design & Poster Studio. All gifts much appreciated by their lucky recipients.

Next HBEC Breakfast will (coincidentally) be held on the 7th anniversary of “9/11” – Thursday 11th September. Is it really 7 years, already?
This breakfast will celebrate Small Business Month, and will be held at Panthers Pier One Restaurant.

On to this week’s activities:

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Port Macquarie Community College

NEW Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation
This accredited certificate will teach you how to safely administer cardio-pulmonary resuscitation.
808W004 Thu Aug 28 1 session 5:30pm-7:30pm $40

Introduction to Computers
This introduction course will provide you with entry level skills for the workplace. You will gain the confidence and skill to start a personal computer, shutdown, work with files and folders, correctly navigate the desktop and use a range of basic computer functions. ICAU1128A - Operate a personal computer, Statement of Attainment from Certificate I in Information Technology ICA10105.
808C015 Thu Aug 21 to Sep 24 6 sessions 9am-12pm $220

Food Hygiene & Safety
This course covers safe food handling and safe storage, effective use of detergents and sanitisers, waste and pest control. Includes an overview of how food safety legislation affects you. Meets Food Safety Program requirements. Successful participants will gain Statement of Attainment THHGHS01B – Follow workplace hygiene procedures from Certificate III in Hospitality (Operations).
809W002 Sat Sep 6 1 session 9am-3pm $98

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. Basic computer skills are essential.
809C017 Tue Sep 9 to Oct 10 7 sessions 6pm-9pm $250

Introduction to Payroll
BSBADM308A Process payroll, Statement of Attainment Certificate III in Business Administration BSB30201. Manage holidays, sick leave, awards, salary and wage employees, calculate employee pays, print group certificates and perform end of year functions using MYOB V17.
809C002 Thu Sep 11 to Oct 9 5 sessions 9am-12pm $175

Body Language
We base our judgements of people primarily on their non-verbal communications, but it is easy to misjudge people because non-verbal communication is so difficult to 'read'. You will have the opportunity in this course to explore the impact that your own non-verbal messages have on your relationship with others and develop strategies to improve your interpersonal communication.
809W006 Thu Sep 11 1 session 9am-4pm $98

More information, and bookings, from the College on 6583 7288

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Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards Dinner and Ceremony 2008 is less than 2 weeks away

Friday 29 August is the big night, when Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards 2008 will be presented.

Tickets are now on sale through Panthers Port Macquarie for $75 per head, or $750 per table.

The evening will start at 6.30 pm. Cricket commentator and comedian Kerry O’Keeffe will be master of ceremonies for the evening. If you’ve ever listened to ABC test cricket commentary, you will have an idea what to expect. Lubricate your laughing gear!

It will be a fun evening and an opportunity for all businesses to gain maximum exposure.

Don’t miss out! Call Port Panthers on 6580 2300.

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Meet the Lyne Candidates

Hastings BEC is pleased to join with PM Chamber in supporting the "Meet the Candidates" session for candidates in the forthcoming Lyne by-election, being hosted by the Residents Action Network.

Date: Tuesday 26 August
Time: Commencing 6.00 pm.
Venue: Port City Bowling Club, Owen Street, Port Macquarie

For further information contact RAN Secretary Penny Marshall on 6586 3294

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September wouldn’t be September without The Great Debate!

This is always a very enjoyable lunch event, with lots of laughs.

This year’s topic: A BIG SALARY BEATS WORK-LIFE BALANCE HANDS DOWN
Date: Tuesday 2 September, 12 noon – 2pm
Place: Rydges Port Macquarie
Cost: $25 for debate & 2 course lunch
Registration: Maree McEntyre at the NSW Business Chamber by telephone on 6584 0910
or email maree.mcentyre@australianbusiness.com.au no later than COB Friday 29th August 2008.

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This Wednesday night, 20th August, at 8.00pm on ABC2 TV

Keating! The Musical. Don’t miss it.

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Warm up your taste buds.

Tastings of the Hastings, the region’s food and wine festival will be held this year on Sunday, November 2, 2008.
As usual, Tastings will be held at the Port Macquarie Race Course.

This was a great event last year, and this year promises to be even bigger and better. Put it in your diary.

For more information, or to take part, contact Coordinator, Sonia Fingleton, Mobile: 0414.376 868 or email: alliedassets@bigpond.com

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Are you the Signature Chef?

Mid North Coast NSW Regional Tourism Office is seeking entries from mid north coast chefs…
…..to find a Mid North Coast Signature.

Our BEC members, TAFE NCI, and Joyer are generous sponsors of this great initiative.
Please see all details in the full PDF brochure. Download from www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/signaturedish.pdf
Another grand sponsor, Focus Magazine put together the fabulous entry forms and media release.

Chefs can enter online at www.midnorthcoasttourism.com.au or send entries by mail.

For further information: Contact: Belinda Novicky Phone: (02) 6569 4058 or 040003363 or
Sonia Fingleton , Good Company Group Pty Ltd, Phone: (02) 6585 9342 or 0414376868.

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Port Golf Day – all proceeds to Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service

Glen Kolpak from WRHS spoke to our August breakfast about this Golf Day. It should be fun, for a good cause.

Date: Monday 15th September 2008, rego from 11am, 12 noon shotgun start.
Price: $50 per player including green fees, bbq lunch and nibblies at the presentation.
Teams of 4. 18 hole ambrose at Port Macquarie Golf Club.
Great team and individual prizes. Hole sponsorships are still available.

For info: Glen on 1800 155 155 or email glen.kolpak@rescuehelicopter.com.au

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Don’t forget the
Ronald McDonald House In The Hunter - Gala Charity Dinner & Show.

The Dinner and Show will be held at Tommy’s By The Beach at 6.30pm on Wednesday 3rd September 2008.
Tickets are only $60 and include “Tommy’s Punch”, canapes and two-course dinner and, of course, the show.
There will also be a charity auction and lucky door prizes.

Download the brochure from: www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/RMHC.pdf

Tickets and information from: Mandy Miller 6583 1788 or Email mmiller@rossgroup.com.au

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The Rock Eisteddfod Challenge is a National competition for Government, Catholic and Independent schools. It is a non-profit initiative of Global Rock Challenge. The purpose of it is to give young people the opportunity to stage a major performance and access facilities and light and sound production that they would normally never be able to afford. The standards are astonishingly high. Schools compete in heats all around Australia and then finalists are selected for Grand Finals.

St Columba Anglican School has achieved the remarkable, and is one of 8 schools to compete in the Sydney Grand Final on Friday 05 September.

They need financial help to enable their travel and incidental costs. Business sponsorship is urgently requested. If your business can help, please download this information: www.hastingsbec.com.au/downloads/ColumbaRock.doc for details of how you can help.

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Finally, QANTAS LINK are offering some more special fares to Syddley, and the bigger Dash8-400 starts operations from PQQ on Monday 25th August.

QantasLink Seat Sale is now on!

OPTWEBU fares have been reduced for travel September 28, 2008 to October 26, 2008.

Sale ends August 21, 2008.

PQQ - SYD from $79 each way

Please refer to your GDS for fare levels and all conditions.

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And that’s about if for another blissful week in the cultural centre of the universe. But we can’t leave without an offering from the abacus-fiddlers in the National Capital…

6291.0.55.001 Labour Force, Australia, Detailed - Electronic Delivery, Jul 2008
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/6291.0.55.001?OpenDocument

6302.0 Average Weekly Earnings, Australia, May 2008
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/6302.0?OpenDocument

Enjoy,