Western Sydney Business Access - August 2021 by Access News Australia (ANA)

AUGUST 2021 Edition 124

BUSINESS | LIFESTYLE

OLYMPICS

HEROS Penrith’s whitewater champion, Jessica Fox, in action.

Tribute to Western Sydney’s Tokyo Oympics top achievers ENRITH’S whitewater champion Jessica Fox was the pick of Western Sydney’s athletic achievement achievements at the Tokyo Olympics. Jessica, who was born into Olympic royalty, added the elusive Gold Medal to her long list of

achievements in her final event, the C1 canoe slalom. Jessica’s teammate at Whitewater Club Lucien Delfour finished eighth in his first Olympic final in the men’s k1 after recording a disappointing 17th at Rio 2016. See inside.

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ENTREPRENEUR

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Kate’s coffee tray idea a winner ESTERN Sydney Commuters can relate to Kate Stewart who spent 17 years commuting for three hours every day – and drank a lot of coffee along the way. “Every day I would leave at 5 am before my kids were even awake. Those were super long days,” Kate said. “I would find a café open near me on the way to work and have another couple of coffees a day just to get me through. I wouldn’t get home until 6:30 pm at the earliest. “During the week, the best I could hope for was to be home in time to put my kids to bed. The weekends were great, but it just wasn’t enough quality family time.” One fateful morning, Kate and her colleague headed to the local cafe with six reusable coffee cups in hand. “We battled to juggle the six empty reusable cups on the way to the coffee shop. The barista asked us if we would like a cup tray to carry the six piping hot coffees back to the office,” she said. “It felt painfully ironic. There we were, using reusable coffee cups but carrying them in a disposable coffee tray. It was something that would be discarded at the end of the coffee run, or at best it would consume energy and water in the recycling process. “And at worst the cardboard trays would contribute to the 30% of paper waste not recycled and ends up in landfill each year.”

The problem: cardboard coffee trays.

Entrepreneur Kate Stewart.

It was a light bulb moment This light bulb moment led to Stay Tray, a reusable coffee tray made from 100% recycled plastic, a simple sustainable solution to carrying multiple keep cups. “There simply wasn’t a sustainable, versatile reusable drink tray to be found anywhere. Those people, like us, who were sustainably minded, were using disposable cup trays again and again. “Thousands of people every day are consciously using their ‘Keep Cups’ but are faced with only single use disposable

The solution: Kate’s invention.

alternatives to transport more than two coffees. We needed a reusable coffee tray.” Kate wanted to keep Stay Tray 100% Australian owned and made. She wanted to support Australian designers, engineers and manufacturers even though it would be half the price to engineer and manufacture Stay Tray abroad. All design, engineering and manufacture has been kept within a 60km radius of Stay Tray’s home on the Mornington Peninsula. It has become a major success story. Stay Tray was awarded Silver in the Packaging Innovation and Design Awards hosted by

the Australasian Institute of Packaging. Kate also developed and ran a successful Kickstarter Campaign to expand Stay Tray further. Stay Tray was awarded Winner in the Beverage Category of the WorldStar Packaging Awards in Germany. Stay tray also received B Corp Certification. This means that Stay Tray meets the highest standards of social and environmental impact. “At Stay Tray, we understand that we are a part of something bigger. We have a responsibility to help solve the social and environmental challenges facing the world.”

WSBA enables readers to appreciate and engage with the physical, community, cultural and business environments of one of Australia's fastest growing regions, Greater Western Sydney.

CONTENTS Regions Local Business Awards Family Business Auto Films Fitness Legal Manufacturing

Visit: www.staytray.com.au

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AUGUST 2021

WESTERN SYDNEY MEDIA ALLIANCE Western Sydney Business Access (WSBA) ACCESS NEWS AUSTRALIA PTY LTD ABN 39 600 436 799 Publisher/editor: Michael Walls M: 0407 783 413. E: michael@wsba.com.au Associate Editor: Dallas Sherringham Journalists: Elizabeth Frias, Paul Haigh. Account Managers: Julie Jackson: 0447 291 780; Graham Maughan: 0431 557 791 Contributors: Pierre Wakim, Adam Simpson, Jacob Richardson, John Mellor. Printer: New Age Printing Design: Design2Pro, DMC Advertising Group. General enquiries: info@wsba.com.au Phone: 02 4572 2336 Fax: 02 4572 2340 We pay respect to the Traditional Custodians and First Peoples of our region and acknowledge their continued connection to their country and culture.

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TOKYO OLYMPICS - Western Sydney Heros

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The significance of pathway support  MARTIN BULLOCK HERE is no doubt the Tokyo Olympics were a “Sanity Saver” for us during the lockdown period, and we have taken great pride and enjoyment from watching the tremendous success of so many fine young athletes. Each of us would have our own thoughts on how these athletes have become so successful, and from my perspective there is one clear common denominator which can be identified across all these success stories —- high quality support teams! All athletes start their journey in sport with a goal of enjoying their participation and perhaps having some success either as a team member or as an individual performer. Their progression can be driven through their development of technical skills, their discipline, and their commitment —- and the support they can access throughout their journey. With over 25 years of experience working at all levels of sport and athlete development, I have witnessed many success stories and many failures in sport, and as CEO of the Academy I have had the privilege of providing assistance to many outstanding young athletes including Tokyo Olympians Jessica Fox (Slalom Canoe/Kayak), Amanda Spratt (Cycling), Rachel Lack and Taylah Tsitsikronis (Softball). The support required by young athletes should commence at the early stages of their journey to ensure knowledge and awareness that will better prepare and enable them to manage the rigours of elite and high-performance environments. This is where Western Sydney Academy of Sport plays an important role through providing holistic development programs

“

I can confidently say that the support provided to our home-grown Western Sydney Tokyo Olympians was a significant factor in their success.” – Martin Bullock. Aspiring Olympic athletes.

for pre-elite athletes based on the three primary platforms of technical, educational and personal development. I can confidently say that the support provided to our home-grown Western Sydney Tokyo Olympians was a significant factor in their success. Similarly, there are another 10 Regional Academies of Sport geographically spread across NSW that can lay claim to assisting in the development of 34 Tokyo Olympians. One final element of an athlete’s success I should point out – and probably the most influential – is their personal character. When we watch our Tokyo Olympians we see their joy at competing, their resil-

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ience when not quite achieving their goals, their respect for their fellow competitors and their acknowledgement of their support team. These are character traits that are developed throughout an athlete’s journey along the pathway of their chosen sport – a pathway that provided holistic development opportunities. With mental health and well-being emerging as a critical factor not only in sport but in life overall, the role of support resources such as education and personal development programs is critical, and this process needs to commence at the pre-elite level.

Looking forward to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, Australian sport has a fabulous opportunity to embrace the Sport Australia FTEM Model and develop a framework for the identification and development of young talented athletes. The role of agencies such as the Western Sydney Academy will become even more vital in the preparation of our athletes and we are very excited about our opportunity to discover a new cohort of talented young western Sydney Olympians. Martin Bullock is Chief Executive Officer of the Western Sydney Academy of Sport www.wsas.com.au

TOKYO OLYMPICS - Western Sydney Heros

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West stands tall in 2021 Olympics WESTERN SYDNEY OLYMPICS WRAP by DALLAS SHERRINGHAM ENRITH’S whitewater champion Jessica Fox was the pick of Western Sydney’s athletic achievement achievements at the Tokyo Olympics. Jessica, who was born into Olympic royalty, added the elusive Gold Medal to her long list of achievements in her final event, the C1 canoe slalom. Jessica’s teammate at Whitewater Club Lucien Delfour finished eighth in his first Olympic final in the men’s k1 after recording a disappointing 17th at Rio 2016. Melissa Wu claimed bronze in the women’s 10m platform, with 14-year-old Chinese sensation Quan Hongchan taking gold in an Olympic record-breaking performance. Melissa started her career at Parramatta Diving Club at age 10 in 2003. After winning a range of junior and state titles throughout 2004 and 2005, Melissa was given the opportunity to compete at the 2006 Australian Open Championships. Here, she won the women’s 10m platform event, earning herself a spot on the Australian Commonwealth Games team. She had moved to Brisbane to train with the AIS squad and was selected for the Commonwealth Games 10m synchro team as a tiny 13yo. She won silver despite her inexperience and went on to win silver in synchro at Beijing 2008. She returned to Western Sydney in 2010 to train in the NSW Institute of Sport program. Melissa continued her success, competing in London 2012, finishing fourth and multiple world championship medals and Commonwealth Games Golds. Her younger sister Kirsten passed away suddenly in 2014 and Melissa took time out to be with her family. Melissa eventually returned to diving and competed at Rio 2016, finishing fifth, which was a huge personal challenge, both physically and mentally. After winning Gold at the Brisbane Commonwealth Games 2018, she set her sights on a fourth Olympics in Tokyo to continue her search for an elusive medal in the individual 10m event. The diminutive diver may only be 152cm tall but her standing as a veteran within the Australian Olympic team makes

Olympic medals at Tokyo Games.

her one of the most respected members of the squad. The Aussie also recently lost her grandmother and was reduced to tears speaking about how much it would have meant if she’d been alive to witness her historic bronze medal. “She was very close to me and I think this medal is very important to me because she didn’t get to see me win it,” she said. “That would have been very important to her.”

Probably my last Olympics Melissa had previously admitted she may not have qualified for the Games if they went ahead in 2020 as scheduled, having suffered shoulder and rib injuries. Those setbacks came after knee, wrist, neck and back issues previously threatened

to usher her into retirement - a topic the Sydneysider is yet to make a call on despite admitting that Tokyo was “probably my last Olympics”. Blacktown’s Olympic hero was born in Ethiopia and arrived in Sydney as three-year-old with her five siblings. She participated in Blacktown Little Athletics from an early age and after a school athletics trip to Canada, she decided to take it seriously. Bendere ran well in the 400m sprint and the 4 x400 relay, but missed out on making the finals at Tokyo. Spencer Turrin from Sydney Rowing Club at Abbotsford and Alexander Purnell and Jack Hargraves from Sydney University Boat Club, who train on the Parramatta River and Olympic course, won gold in the men’s four final.

Meanwhile, Baulkham Hills most famous sports family is fast bowler Mitchell Starc and his brother Brandon Starc, the Olympic high jumper. Cheered on by the National Cricket team, Brandon finished fifth in the final at Tokyo with a leap of 2.35m, a very credible performance after his disappointment at Rio 2016. The winner jumped 2.37m. Springwood breastroke champion Matthew Wilson, who trains at the Sydney Olympic Pool, won a late callup to the Olympic team after selectors learnt of the death of his beloved grandmother Pam before the trials. The past world record holder swam strongly but bailed out in the semifinal. The gold medal went to his teammate Zac Stubblety-Cook which was some consolation.

Melissa Wu.

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

TOKYO OLYMPICS - Western Sydney Heros

Jessica Fox

Matthew is a product of Winmalee High School and Principal Voula Facas said the school wrote to its star student before he left for Tokyo. The 22-year-old won gold and bronze at the Commonwealth games. Another Blue Mountains athlete was Tom O’Halloran from Blackheath who competed in the sport climbing which made a spectacular debut at Tokyo 2020. He finished 20th and said he was thrilled to compete in the world’s premier event. Carlile Ryde swimmer Se-Bom Lee finished second in his heat of the 400m individual medley but didn’t make the final. Now, for every medalist who won success in the media glare, there is a handful of athletes who competed in Tokyo in lesser-known sports. But their personal struggles and triumphs are no less important. Their journey is told in Facebook pages and web sites which specialize in covering their sports. Michelle Bromley from Rydalmere club competed in the table tennis and lost

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Bendere

in the first round. However, her journey to Tokyo was fascinating. Growing up in the tiny gold mining town of Gulgong, Michelle was always destined to be an Olympian. Her grandparents competed at a national level into their 80s and her parents fell in love at a table tennis club.

Destined to be an Olympian Michelle started playing at six and would annoy her mum by hitting the wall against the kitchen wall at all hours of the day and night. ‘When I realised I qualified for the Tokyo Olympics I was in utter disbelief.” She had missed out of qualifying for the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Olympics. At 32, the Marsfield resident showed that persistence pays off. “Even though I’d been knocked back three times for both the Commonwealth Games and Olympics, there were always things along the way that would keep me interested in the game I love and in improving.”

Amanda Spratt. WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

“I’m a very persistent person in everything I do.” Melissa’s late father was her mentor and drove her down to Sydney regularly to compete, She recalls training each night with her dad in the family shed and this was one of her fondest memories and strongest formative moments. “Dad was my hero. He was always my biggest fan and believed I could achieve my dreams.” For Penrith’s cycling champion Amanda Spratt, Tokyo 2020 will always be remembered as a disappointment after she crashed in training and was injured. She battled on to compete in the road race, but was unable to finish because of her injuries. “The race was a tough one,” she said in a Facebook Post. “I can’t hide away from the fact I’m so disappointed with my own performance. No words right now really for that, but I know together with those closest to me, we will investigate and move onwards together. I’m

so grateful to have an amazing group of people around me in times like this.” Amanda praised her fellow team members and the Cycling squad staff for the support they gave her. “It was a great atmosphere and we had fun times in Tokyo. I always feel so happy with this group and so many good memories to take away from what was certainly a different Games.” Amanda is known “Spratty” in cycling circles and was introduced to the cycling world at nine years old when her father took her and her brother Nick to the local BMX track. She spent the next five years BMX racing and became the NSW champion before competing at the Junior World Championships at 11. She finished fifth Her dad and grandfather had been talented cyclists so Amanda switched to road racing at 12. She won a scholarship to the NSW Institute of sport and went on to compete at London 2012. She backed that up with 15th place in Rio 2016.

Matthew Wilson.

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Scenes form last year’s event.

2021 small business champions awards ORGET the Oscars. Businesses announced as finalists in the 2021 Australian Small Business Champion Awards are headed for Australia’s small business night of nights on Saturday October 30 at The Star, Sydney – the 23rd annual Australian Small Business Champions Awards. This is the largest awards program for small business in Australia with 49 industry categories. Steve Loe of Precedent Productions established the awards in 1999 to publicly celebrate the achievements of small businesspeople. “There are many small business owners who will never be millionaires, but whose contribution to their communities is invaluable,” he said. “Creating the Australian Small Business Awards seemed like an ideal way to honour the contribution that small businesspeople make to our community”. “Since we launched the program in 1999 the Australian Small Business Champion Awards have grown to become the largest and most prestigious recognition of our small business community in the country.”

Mr Loe said the awards had become known as the ‘Oscars’ of Australia’s small business sector. “It’s the only national program of its kind to recognise achievements and hon-

our great performances in small business,” he said. About 30 judges evaluate the entries and look at all aspects of a winning business including: strategies, customer

service, vision, support of the local community and growth. There are also three categories for individual business people: Small Business Champion Entrepreneur, Young Small Business Champion Entrepreneur and this year we have introduced the Junior Small Business Entrepreneur. Award winners will be announced at the presentation dinner to be held on Saturday 30th October at The Star, Sydney. “We congratulate these businesses and commend them on representing their local area in this national awards program,” Mr Loe said. “We also thank the Awards sponsors Nine Plus, University of South Australia – Australian Centre for Business Growth, NOVA Employment, Big Clean and Castaway Forecasting whose support for the program enable us to continue to celebrate the achievements of our country’s small businesspeople. For further information about the Australian Small Business Champion Awards visit www. businesschampions.com.au

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SHARK MOVES ON WEST Greg Norman sets new standards for gold estates

 DALLAS SHERRINGHAM REG Norman is Australia’s most recognizable sporting icon and he has decided Western Sydney will be home to his first major upscale golf housing project Down Under. Norman Estates will partner with Sekisui House to build a golf and sports complex at Gledswood Hills near Campbeltown. In announcing the golf project, Greg Norman is setting what may be the ‘New Normal’ for golf estate developments worldwide. Mr Norman, from Magnetic Island in Queensland, became the Great White Shark during his six years as the world’s number one golfer, winning two British Opens and losing a playoff for the Masters. He turned the Shark tag into a worldwide brand that is instantly recognizable. He is a household name In the USA and Britain. Now he has decided to begin planning his return to Australia in “four or five years” and Gledswood Hills may be just start of a new dynasty in booming Grater Sydney and surrounds. The $300m upscale housing estate in south-western Sydney is being developed by Sekisui House with the 18 hole championship course and nine hole golf course designed by Norman’s company and is the first Norman Estates project in Australia. Sekisui House Australia general manager Craig D’Costa said in a media interview Norman Estates was part of the premium Hermitage section of the 250ha subdivision and it would include 190 freestanding homes and terraces.

Greg Norman in his playing days.

Mr D’Costa said Sekisui House had been developing Gledswood Hills, parts of which used to be the well-known El Caballo Blanco Andalusian theme park, since 2012.

1300 lots already sold It has sold 1300 lots and has capacity for 1200 more. Demand is high across the development, with an auction of 26 lots in the Lakeside precinct attracting ‘bullish’ bidding. Prices started at $1.35m for a four-bedroom design which is now the average price of homes in Sydney. Mr D’Costa said Sekisui House had been talking on and off with Mr Norman, for a long time about collaborating on a residential development.

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

“It’s been six years in the planning since we first connected on the golf course development,” Mr D’Costa said. “Greg has a long-term commitment to sustainability and innovation across his businesses, as does Sekisui House, so there was a natural synergy of branding and development philosophy. “We had continual involvement with Greg’s development team and we’ve hosted Greg in Japan, taking him through some of our projects as well as one of our largest manufacturing facilities in Tokyo. “It’s very authentic. My team and myself have sat in Greg’s Florida office, talking over architectural plans and details.” Norman Estates will be a community title development with residents paying quarterly

levies for precinct maintenance and access to a central clubhouse with residential lounge, tennis court, pool, gym and spa. “There’s no gates on but it has been uniquely designed in that passers-by don’t necessarily want to drive through. It’s basically an island among golf courses. It’s a very unique design, Mr D’Costa told media. “We’re finding people are looking to invest in smaller communities that have a regimented maintenance regime and upkeep.” The mostly four and five-bedroom homes will be built using Sekisui’s Shawood construction system across 60 different floor plans on the 17ha site. SOURCES: Sekisui House, Nine, AFR

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Expert: It’s time for a better mask  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM ITH the highly contagious Delta variant gaining a stronger foothold and more lockdowns around the nation, a Western Sydney manufacturer believes it’s time to step up to a better face mask. Managing director of Aussie Pharma Direct at Baulkham Hills Daniel Seldon said we should all be wearing a much more efficient Personal Protective Equipment, better known as PPE. Now when it comes to face masks, there is a distinct difference between the everyday ‘garden variety’ of surgical and cloth masks and a fitted P2 respirator. Surgical and cloth masks provide a barrier to splashes, droplets and spittle, but do not filter small particles such as COVID-19 from the air. Mr Seldon said standard surgical masks were made from melt-blown filters which use static electricity to capture dust and particles. However, he said once they get moist from breathing, the filtering efficiency drops dramatically. And an Interesting fact is surgical masks only offer one-way protection. That means you are giving some protection to others from your breath, but you are not protected from theirs. “That’s a really important reason why you need to step up to a P2 respirator which provides two-way protection,” Seldon said “The AMD P2 Nano-Tech Respirator is like a personal air purifier made from four layers of extremely fine nano-fibres that filter out 99.66% of airborne particles. “The densely tangled nanostructure of the filter allows a single mask to be worn

Managing director of Aussie PharmaDirect at Baulkham Hills Daniel Seldon.

comfortably for up to 24 hours, offering long lasting protection, peace of mind and excellent breathability. “Thinking outside the box, wouldn’t it be great if the government provided free or discounted medical grade P2 face masks in a system not unlike the Dine and Discover vouchers,” Mr Seldon said.

Keeping Australia open “It would be money well spent for the government, as quality face masks are highly efficient in stopping the transmission of the coronavirus which means we can keep Australia open for business. “Loose fitting surgical and cloth masks with gaps around the face, are really not up to the job. P2 masks are designed to fit snugly to the face with no gaps, so no errant pathogens can slip through, making them a much safer option. “The medical community agrees that

the virus is airborne and the Delta strain is approximately three times more contagious than the first generation of COVID-19, yet people are still wearing insufficient surgical and cloth masks. “P2 is the Australian standard, however, more than half of the imported N95 masks have been found to be either faulty or fake. If well trained procurement professionals can’t pick the difference, then what hope does the general public have? “With Australian made P2s we know they are up to standard as the Therapeutic Goods Administration conducts regular random checks to ensure they are what they claim to be,” Mr Seldon said.

Nano-technology – the future of PPE He said masks and respirators were arguably the most important PPE in the fight against COVID-19.

And PPE incorporating nanotechnology is at the cutting-edge of protection against airborne transmissions. “Nano-technology is one of the most exciting and fast moving areas of science today and respirators, such as the Australian manufactured AMD P2 Nano-Tech Respirators are at the leading edge of this innovation,” he said. “By incorporating nanofibre filters, they create stronger, lighter, more comfortable and breathable protection with significantly higher filtration than regular masks with a melt blown filter,” Mr Seldon said.

Plentiful supply Best of all, as the AMD masks are manufactured in Baulkham Hills, there is no issue with supply with four million in stock and capacity to ramp up production to manufacture one million per week.

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Mateship a winner for Mounties  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM F the Mounties lineup looks fit and healthy if this photo, it’s because they are - and they have the trophy to prove it. Having been nominated as finalists in seven of the nine awards categories at the recent Clubs and Community Awards, Mounties Group scooped up a win in the Health and Wellbeing category. The club was also highly commended for their contribution to the community through their drought relief initiatives. While 2020 proved an incredibly challenging year for the hospitality and club industries to navigate, it also provided a new perspective, driving a greater sense of mateship across the board. There was an incredible number of businesses that stepped up their efforts in supporting local communities across Australia and the Club and Community Awards this year really highlighted this. As local community hubs, whether they were lending their premises to bushfire and flood victims, championing worthy causes and raising funds, or simply providing a meeting place where locals could visit to see a friendly face, clubs in NSW have remained focused on providing for their local communities in times of need. Of course, supporting the local community is not a new concept to Mounties Group which was formed in 1964 purely for this reason alone. As a profit-for-purpose business, Australia’s leading club group operates with one goal at the forefront of everything they do – to make the lives of its members better.

“

I could not be prouder of what we have achieved as a team this past year and bringing Mounties Care to our members.” – Mounties Group CEO, Dale Hunt. It is with this ethos in mind that Mounties Group continue to evolve and adapt to their members changing needs.

Feedback via customer survey Last year members told Mounties Group via a customer feedback survey that their number one concern for their future was the health and wellbeing of themselves and their loved ones and it was the very same survey that led to the opening of two new state-of-the-art children’s play centres within their flagship locations Mounties and Harbord Diggers. But securing their win for the Health and Wellbeing category was the launch of Mounties Care - a free health and wellbeing service available to all 160,000 members across NSW.

Mounties Group partnered with leading integrated care specialists Vitalis to support the health, wellbeing, independence and quality of life of all members. The group provides a trusted network of accredited service providers, offering a holistic approach to health including: • Free Members Healthline. • Home Care Services. • Care Navigation. • Allied Health. • Hospital at Home. • General Practitioners. • Mental Health Support. • Women’s Health. President of Mounties Group Kevin Ingram described the highs and the lows of the past year and how proud he was that

they were still able to continue doing what they do best. CEO of Mounties Group Dale Hunt who attended the awards with his team, described how proud he was to have been nominated as finalists in so many categories and how the last year had spurred them on to create great things. “I could not be prouder of what we have achieved as a team this past year and bringing Mounties Care to our members, amalgamating with more venues and being able to help more people in NSW as a result, is a defining moment for us.” The Clubs & Community Awards is held yearly and took place at the ICC Centre in Sydney. You can find a list of all winners here: https://www. clubsandcommunity.com/honour-roll.html.

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T I M E S

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

AL LOC NEW

Minister pushing for more women on Parramatta Council: 3

%ඔඉඋඓග඗ඟ1 Issue 1 | April 2021

Blacktown's LOCAL media voice

EXCLUSIVE: Bob Turner on his new role at Blacktown FC.

BEST GIFT SINCE THE OPERA HOUSE POWERHOUSE Parramatta CEO Lisa Havilah is more interested in the flood of excitement over the controversial $920M project than any flood-waters that may lap at its riverside approach. After the recent devastating rains that saw Parramatta River break its banks between the ferry wharf and the site of the museum, Ms Havilah is adamant that the building and its exhibits will not be affected.

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New suburb named BradÀeld

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Family business in COVID

How many leveraged patience capital during COVID: 12

TALE OF TWO POOLS

EÓÿ â î ±Å âæ ® þ â þ Å î® æÓÅóî±ÓÌæ Ì æóßßÓâî Ë æóâ æ Ì ¨Óâ î® ±Ì óæîâą ÓóÌ Â î®±æ ą â Ì ąÓÌ Ϻ FULL STORY PAGE 5

Westmead Hospital’s new clinical tower oepns: 2

THIS EDITION

How hope really works

Feature on the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal: 15

SALOVS: How hope really happens: 19

FTER a few hot summers for swimmers who loved Parramatta and w ÌîÿÓâî®þ±ÅÅ ßÓÓÅæ Ì æóđ â during their closures, relief is on the way. Just a day apart, the refurbished Wentworthville pool opened and î® Ĝâæî æÓ ÿ æ îóâÌ ÓÌ î® spectacular Parramatta Aquatic Centre. Both communities have been without a pool since 2017, the Parramatta Memorial Pool demolished to make way for Bankwest Stadium and the previous Holroyd Council wanting to close the tired Wenty pool

rather than refurbish it. After a bit of æ óĖ îÿ Ì W ââ Ë îî ÓóÌ ±Å and the NSW Government on who would pay for its replacement, an agreement was reached on funding for the state-of-the-art aquatic centre. And in Wentworthville, a concerted community campaign and the Cumberland Council, saved the beloved pool with an upgrade. While Parramatta residents wait two years for their pool, they are welcome to dive to Wenty.

FULL STORY PAGE 6

Young people turning their lives around at BYSA.

Youth Needs Our Support

VITAL youth service in Blacktown is set to close after missing out on important State Government funding. The Blacktown Youth Support Association’s Youth HQ program helps young people at risk - those who have

been in trouble with the law or those who may be headed that way. But the service was told at the end of last year by the Department of Communities and Justice that they had missed out on funding, in favour of more “targeted” youth

WELCOME to the Blacktown NEWS

ELCOME to Blacktown's NEW LOCAL media voice, The Blacktown News (BN). The Blacktown News is the much-anticipated new newspaper and digital media brand that covers Blacktown LGA with local news written by experienced journalists. The Blacktown News is Blacktown's ONLY printed newspaper and is independently owned and managed locally by a management team that has been working in Blacktown for almost 20 years.

The News will be distributed across 110 strategic distribution points in the LGA. Published in digital and print editions the Blacktown News ođers maximum impact for targeted advertising opportunities and reach to Blacktown's diverse population. With a mission of championing community and business issues, the BN is a proud media partner of the Greater Blacktown Chamber of Commerce, the Blacktown Local Business Awards and Blacktown FC.

l l l l

48,000 Facebook followers Build your own resume Media support programs Multiple packages available

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As one of the state’s fastest growing cities, Blacktown has undergone a signiĜcant transformation. It's population is set to rise from 400,000 to 540,000 residents by 2036. The Blacktown News is the print and digital media resource that connects residents and visitors to the city’s diverse community, its progress, business opportunities and lifestyle. We value your feedback. Go to www.greaterblacktownnews.com.au to share your story.

Keep up to date with the latest news in and around Blacktown! Get your monthly community e-newsletter today.

The home of jobs in Western Sydney. Connecting businesses with job seekers directly

programs. A letter from the Minister for Families and Communities Gareth Ward suggested that the BYSA seeks funding from other government departments such as education and sport. FULL STORY 10

• • • • • • •

important community announcements upcoming events transformational projects school holiday activities community award programs competitions much, much more...

High impact media that reaches Australia’s fastest growth region - Greater Western Sydney, home of Australia’s newest 24-hour airport. Targeted reach Four powerful media brands in digital and printed formats. Contact us today for a conversation about your success plans: julie@accessnews.com.au

www.accessnews.com.au | www.greaterblacktownnews.com.au | www.parramattatimes.com.au | www.jobswesternsydney.com.au 14

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

Proudly presented by the Penrith Valley Chamber, the leading business organisation in the region.

This series of events hosted by the Penrith Valley Chamber is putting a spotlight on the Penrith region as a place for business to take advantage of the huge opportunities that are available Western Sydney airport

St Marys area

9km away

main vital rail link offering passenger and cargo service

Nepean Health Hub

New Metro

special purpose building

construction commenced

UPCOMING EVENT

Aerotropolis Luncheon y November 2021

Penrith Valley chamber is a not for proﬁt member based organisation. Membership starts from just $350/year. There are several sponsorship opportunities available for businesses in our up

coming “Lights on Penrith” events planned for the remainder of 2021. If you are interested in sponsorship or joining the chamber, contact us now admin@penrithvalley.net.au

Check our websites ‫؞‬

penrithchamber.org.au | lightsonpenrith.com.au

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

REGIONS - PENRITH

www.accessnews.com.au

Penrith the new Australian Hollywood  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM ENRITH is set to become Australia’s Hollywood with a $150m film studio planned for an old sandstone quarry north of the city centre. Planning Minister Rob Stokes will soon release details of the project. It will be built on a section of the 2000ha Penrith Lakes and will be named Lakeside Studio. Apart from the studio, the facility will feature a golf course, freshwater beaches, a film production school and helipad. The studio is guaranteed of success because of the huge demand for quality drama driven by the by streaming services such as Stan, Binge and Netflix. “Who needs Hollywood Hills when we’ve got Penrith Lakes? NSW is home to some of the best film production crews in the world, so it’s fitting they have a place to call home in Greater Sydney,” Mr Stokes told media outlets. “If approved, this 43ha precinct would include up to 10 production stages, filming tanks, construction and design facilities, as well as a film school. Mr Stokes said it would create up to 300 construction jobs over three years and, once completed, the site would employ up to 2000 people on major movie projects. The studio would feature 10 sound stage,2600 carparking spaces, studio reception and audience holding area, guard house and perimeter There will be more than 9000 sqm of workshop space, a film production training school with dedicated studio space, lecture rooms, workshops, screening room, offices, cafeteria and campus The studio will be located just 3.4km northwest of Penrith CBD.

Site of the proposed development.

Mad Max Fury Road The quarry is located next to the Sydney Olympic Regatta Centre and closed in 2015. Lakes up to 8m deep and covering 723ha were created after rainwater and runoff filled large holes in the ground left by the quarrying operations. It is also where numerous scenes were shot for the huge international 2015 movie hit Mad Max Fury Road, which won six Academy Awards. Lakeside Studio’s development will be headed by industry veteran James M. Vernon who has 35 credits as producer and executive producer, including Mel Gibson’s Hacksaw Ridge and The King’s Daughter which starred Pierce Brosnan. Former Warner Bros president Wayne Duband has been appointed as international studio consultant.

“The demand for studio space in Australia has quadrupled in the past 10 years and recent inquiries from overseas producers have amounted to $2 billion in production expenditure,” Mr Vernon told Sydney media outlets. “Disney acquired Fox Studios Moore Park from Fox, which is now generally taken by Marvel’s big-budget productions. “This has mostly rendered Sydney without a full-service film studio for both domestic and international producers who are having to resort to shooting in auditoriums, basketball courts and warehouses”. Mr Vernon said the project had the backing of Lindsay Federal MP Melissa McIntosh and he hoped to have Lakeside Studio up and running “within two years”. “Stars from all over the world will soon be coming to work at Penrith’s own worldclass studio,” he said.

Lakeside Studio will institute a program of traineeships and apprenticeships for the provision of locally based film crew personnel. The studio will benefit from its proximity to Aerotropolis and the new Western Sydney Airport. The scenic wilderness of the Blue Mountains, Central Coast and the Central West of NSW are just a short drive away, offering stunning outdoor shooting opportunities. The site’s 723ha of lakes has plans for 32ha of wetlands and smaller water bodies. It was once the largest sandstone and gravel quarry in the southern hemisphere and is owned by Boral, Holcim Australia and Hanson Australia. Despite its proximity to the Hawkesbury River, it was largely unaffected by recent floods in the Hawkesbury-Nepean basin.

DON’T LOOK EAST WHEN YOU CAN FIND IT ALL HERE Whatever business you’re in, Penrith has what you need. Discover more at penrithproud.com.au

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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

Inner West Business ISSUE 1 | AUGUST 2021

BUSINESS | LIFESTYLE

Celebrate: 2021 Inner West Local Business Awards SPECIAL FEATURE INSIDE Covid forced a dramatic pivot

Couple’s party pack business success

“

Our business took a massive fall, so we decided to create Built By Kidz Party in a Box and activity kids so that families around Australia could enjoy our woodwork parties and activities.”  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM E”VE all sat around during the Pandemic Lockdown dreaming up online ideas to make a fortune, but Josephine and Ray Azizi came up with an idea that utilized their passion for teaching woodworking to kids. The Inner West couples idea is now allowing Australian families build bonds through woodwork activity and party kits. “When COVID-19 came and our business took a massive fall, we decided to create Built By Kidz Party in a Box and activity kits so that families around Australia could enjoy our woodwork parties and activities,” Jo said. With restrictions and lockdown hitting Australian families, parents and children have been learning woodwork skills thanks

The Party In a Box product.

to the couple who were forced to pivot their business. They had to totally re-think their Sydney party woodwork party business, Built By Kidz. “Our business took a massive fall, so we decided to create Built By Kidz Party in a Box and activity kids so that families around Australia could enjoy our woodwork parties and activities.” Jo and Ray, who have three daughters, founded Built By Kidz parties in 2014. Ray is a builder by trade and the couple are passionate about teaching kids carpentry skills in a fun way. Parents loved the skill based party concept and their parties were booked out months in advance. When the pandemic hit, Ray and Jo had to pivot fast. They decided to create a Built By Kidz Party in a Box which parents anywhere in Australia could purchase as an

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

Ray and Josephine Azizi.

engaging and educational birthday party in a box or as an activity. “DIY birthday woodwork party kits have proved popular with parents keen to teach their kids life skills while having fun. Some parents have purchased the activity boxes as a lockdown or screen free activity. “We have a passion for sharing the beauty and skill of carpentry and a genuine love of working with children and helping them excel and create. Our DIY birthday party woodwork projects are delivered nationally. “Parents can purchase them for a party or as an activity box. We want children around Australia to enjoy our woodwork and to learn an important life skill at the same time.” Parents can choose from boxes for 12, 10 or two children Party in a Box for 12 kids comes with the choice of Tool Box, Slider Box or Trin-

ket Box. Now the couple have expanded into art. “The Artist Party in a Box project is perfect for a fun filled party of young budding artist,” Jo said. “Your party pack will come with 12 canvases and an array of art supplies so the fun can be shared with everyone. These projects are suitable for ages 5 and up. Each box will also come with artwork inspiration cards to get the kids inspired. Or they can let their imaginations run wild and create their own masterpiece.” As parents of three girls, Jo and Ray understand that busy parents need the option to purchase everything from a one stop shop. Parents can purchase extras like Built By Kidz Lolly Jars, Sticky Glitter Letters, Paint, Markers and all parties come with Built By Kidz Invitations. www.builtbykidzparties.com.au

Hair. Beauty. Lifestyle

A curated lifestyle destination.

Founded over 15 years ago A.H Shop Salon is a contemporary Hair, Beauty and Lifestyle destination Managed by Rubi, Chad and her partner Danny alongside a number of professionals. A.H Shop Salon is housed on the top ﬂoor of the old Newtown Post Office, a beautiful heritage listed building with its own 150+ year old clock tower.

As a collective team we take pride in working with you to realise what hair or beauty regime is manageable and makes you feel amazing wherever you are or whatever you’re doing.

A.H Shop Salon is a spacious contemporary designed space with a focus on detail and customer ﬁrst mindset. From the physical to online experience

Our award winning team of professionals provide the same level of care and attention to each and every person from the minute you arrive.

SALON

Level 5/292 King St, Newtown NSW 2042 P +61 2 9565 5622

A.H Shop Salon traverses between a timeless classic, discovered and bold whilst also celebrating the individual.

SHOP

a-h-salon.com hello@a-h-salon.com a_h_salon ahsalonsydney

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

INNER WEST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

www.accessnews.com.au

Scenes from last year’s gala event.

Get set for business night of nights  CHRIS JAMGOTCHIAN XCITEMENT is building as finalists in this year’s Inner West Local Business Awards are announced in time to dust off their finery, ready for the biggest night of the year. The date? Monday 18th October. The place? Le Montage. The event? The Inner West Local Business awards presentation evening. Precedent Productions Managing Director and Awards founder Steve Loe said the announcements of this year’s awards winners and celebration of all finalists was the annual night of nights for the Inner West business community. “It’s the night where local business owners and their staff let down their hair and celebrate,” he said. “The annual awards presentation is chance for these hardworking locals to

Local Business Awards CEO, Steve Lowe.

take a break, look back on their achievements and join in celebrating each other’s successes. “We announce the winners of each category, but in my eyes, every single finalist is a winner. “Every finalist has worked hard to get there, and the evening is a wonderful opportunity to catch up, enjoy great food and entertainment, and relax in a fabulous atmosphere.” Mr Loe said the Inner West Local Business Awards presentation evening was always a glittering spectacle, with finalists dressed in their best and ready to laugh and cheer for everyone in the room. “You simply can’t beat the atmosphere,” he said. “I defy the Oscars to equal it for genuine, heartfelt speeches and warm support.” “All finalists in each category are announced, with their picture shown on the big screen.

“It’s heart-warming to hear the deafening cheers from the crowd as everyone celebrates the achievement of all the businesses in the room.” “Western Sydney Business Access, which has supported the awards as a media partner, contains a special feature that lists all the finalists in each category.” “This is a chance for customers and clients to see if the businesses they nominated have become finalists.” The Inner West Local Business Awards are only possible with the support of Major Partners, Inner West Council, NOVA Employment and Big Clean and Support Partners, Strathfield Council, Burwood Council, Burwood Plaza, Bx Networking, Majors Bay Road Chamber of Commerce and White Key Marketing. For more information about the Local Business Awards, visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au Chris Jamgotchian is Project Manager at Precedent Productions.

An intimate dining experience for connoisseurs of Indian Cuisine Delhi Palace Indian Cuisine is the newest Inner West Sydney venue to enjoy irresistible Indian Cuisine, surrounded by traditional style decor ŨăŎÿΟÿ¾ğÝΟĿ¾ăğŎáÝΟ¾łŎŨĦłĔΟ¾ğÝΟņáłŧáÝΟÖŮΟöłăáğÝĘŮΟ×ĦœłŎáĦœņΟņŎ¾Ƃ͒Ο ăğáΟ in or takeaway are available to satisfy your curry cravings, and there is ĿĘáğŎŮΟĦöΟŧá÷¾ğΟ¾ğÝΟ÷ĘœŎáğͱöłááΟĦĿŎăĦğņ͒Ο¦áΟ¾ĘņĦΟÿ¾ŧáΟ¾ΟĿłăŧ¾ŎáΟöœğ×ŎăĦğΟ ÿ¾ĘĘΟœĿņŎ¾ăłņΟŎĦΟÿĦņŎΟŮĦœłΟĿ¾łŎăáņΟĦłΟŎá¾ĞΟáŧáğŎņ͒Ο Find your favourites like Butter Chicken, Palak Paneer, Beef Vindaloo, dğăĦğΟ ÿ¾đáá͓Ο ÿă×ĔáğΟ ăĔĔ¾͓Ο }¾ĿÝăΟ ÿ¾¾ŎΟ ĦłΟ ÷ĘœŎáğΟ öłááΟ ăłŮ¾ğăΟ łă×á͒Ο 8ĦłΟ ņĦĞáŎÿăğ÷Ο ÝăƂáłáğŎΟ ŎłŮΟ ŎÿáΟ ÿáöΟ Ŀá×ă¾ĘΟ 9Ħ¾ŎΟ ăŶŶĘáł͓Ο W¾ĞÖΟ ¾ğÝΟ }ĦŎ¾ŎĦΟ]¾ņ¾Ę¾͓Ο ¾ÿăΟ ÿ¾ĘĘ¾ΟĦłΟ8ăņÿ͟$÷÷ĿĘ¾ğŎΟ]¾ņ¾Ę¾͒

Delhi Palace Indian Cuisine ̡̛̜Ο Ħğ×ĦłÝΟ Ħ¾ÝΟ ^ĦłŎÿΟ Ŏł¾ŎÿƅáĘÝ WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

áĘΟ̜̚Ο̢̢̝̟Ο̡̣̚̚Ο Http://www.delhipalace.com.au Delhipalacefineindiancuisine

Delhipalacecuisine

INNER WEST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

www.accessnews.com.au

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INNER INNER WEST WEST SYDNEY SYDNEY

CALL US

0402 033 882

Reem Bashour

Nutritionist, Dietitian, and Diabetes Educator BSc, MPhil, MNutrDiet (APD, AN) (Syd. Uni) GradCertDiabEdM (UTS, Uni) NDIS, DVA, Medicare and private health provider

Phone: +61 478 612 228 | Fax: 02 8330 6312

Nutritionally Balanced is based in Burwood (Sydney), and work with clients across Australia and around the globe. Offering face to face, telehealth, zoom, home consultations, and group sessions. It was founded in 2015 by Reem Bashour a Nutritionist, Dietitian, and Diabetes Educator. Provider with National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), Medicare and Private health insurance. Reem works with community groups, aged care sectors, doctors, and health centres and now privately with you and your family too. She welcomes a multinational client base at Nutritionally Balanced and communicates booked for other languages. Reem uses proven medical science to give your body the best possible results. She is media outlets including SBS and Sawt el ghad to share her nutritional expertise. So, to begin a better, brighter and healthier lifestyle, book a consultation with Nutritionally Balanced today!

Address: 482 King St, Newtown NSW 2042 Phone: 0437 313 135 WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

INNER WEST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

www.accessnews.com.au

ANGE DIONATOS SPEAKER

TRAINER

MENTOR

Ange Dionatos

WHS Consultant, Speaker, Trainer, Mentor, JP 117 Marrickville Road Marrickville NSW 2204 M: 0411 323 985

I am a life & business Coach. A highly organized and self-motivated individual that likes to get the job done, with an extensive background in Safety, NLP Training, Mentoring & Coaching. My 16 years of experience in the Safety Industry has taken me to many construction sites, worked with WorkCover on many occasions allowing me to train various topics like accident investigation; Prosecution by WorkCover; Subcontractor management, Lend Lease GMR’s and the contractual requirements for safety in Construction.

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With over 25 years experience in the automotive industry at autodynasty we have ever lasting pride , passion and commitment to providing you with the best customer service making you feel apart of the autodynasty family. We are passionate about finding you, your dream car that makes your heart skip a beat.

Here at Autodynasty we specialise in a rare range of limitededition Japanese classic cars such as Nissan GTR, MazdaCosmo and electric cars we also specialise in Japaneseclassic car restorations.

3-5 George st Leichhardt NSW 2040 • 0488 403 738 • www.autodynasty.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

Ashﬁeld

Shop 5, Level 3 Ashﬁeld Mall 260A Liverpooi Road, Ashﬁeld NSW 2131

Ph: 9716 0066 Fax: 9716 0065 Email: Ashﬁeld@pharmacy4less.com.au

There’s a store near you! See our website for details.

www.pharmacy4less.com.au | 13000 4 LESS 22

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

INNER WEST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

www.accessnews.com.au

CONTACT DETAILS : Info@sydneyemergencyplumbing.com.au

1800 862 565

www.sydneyemergencyplumbing.com.au Sydney Emergency Plumbing has been operating for over 22 years, serving domestic, commercial and industrial clients. We are a proud member of the Master Plumbers Association and are Finalists in the Inner West Business Awards 2021. We specialise in providing excellent 5 Star plumbing services for your home, business or commercial property providing solutions for ALL your plumbing needs.

Our clients are our #1 priorit and we provide 5 Star ser ice • • • • • • •

Always on time Family-owned business for more than 22 years No job too large or small Agree on price before we start We treat your home like our own Fast same-day plumbing service 7-day emergency plumbing service

Precision Laser Therapy is a Family run clinic located in Sydney's inner west suburb Summer Hill. We are a Family run clinic operating alongside Dr. Ray Woods - Inventor of F.U.E hair transplantation. Jordan Woods holds a degree in Biomedical Science and is the head skin specialist with a goal to offer safe and ethical procedures with an emphasis on science and innovation. We specialise in non-ablative skin rejuvenation therapies including IPL and laser resurfacing, Hydrafacial and Microneedling procedures. We take pride in offering the safest and most effective aesthetic technology available sourced from the market leaders in the skincare industry.

E-mail: info@precisionlasertherapy.com.au Web: www.precisionlasertherapy.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

(02) 9518 0735 23

INNER WEST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

www.accessnews.com.au

Kevin & Lisa Why engage someone to sell a property but not to buy one??? I know, it makes no sense to us either!!!

0438 461 269 hello@parkerhadley.com.au www.parkerhadley.com.au

Save time, money, and stress when it comes to buying your next property with a flexible and tailored buyer’s agent experience.

Looking for a place where there is support to actually meet your goals? At Snap Fitness Concord West you will find friendly staff and nothing but positive vibes. No one is just a number at this gym. Our number 1 priority is to give our members all the resources and tools they need to meet their health and fitness goals. Guidance and professional help is what we pride ourselves on. Be part of a team where no one is left behind. Call us now. Contact details: Address 19 Victoria Avenue, Concord West NSW 2138 Phone 0426 820 915 Email concordwest@snapfitness.com.au Instagram https://www.Instagram.com/snapfitnessconcordwest247 Facebook https://www.Facebook.com/snapfitnessconcordwest

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

INNER WEST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

Service options: On-site services · No online classes Address: 7a Norton St, Leichhardt NSW 2040

www.accessnews.com.au

Phone: 0411 839 942 Appointments: rapturefitness.com.au

www.rspg.com.au Online appointments: Open 24 hours Phone: (02) 9030 0367 WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

INNER WEST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

www.accessnews.com.au

VIDEO OPTIONS

Silver Package* • Your own profile video constructed with your images or our stock images or video footage. Up to 2 minutes duration. Perfect for all types of social media or websites. Include script writing and up to 2 edits. $400 ex GST includes supply of files and hosting at www.netwerx.tv

Premium Package • The complete broadcast experience. Custom production for maximum impact. Dedicated film crew for a day. Multiple location filming. Ideal for expert interviews that educate and inform. Be positioned as a source of authority in your field. Can be adapted for a mini-series of videos. Includes concept development and script writing, video logo creation. Makeup and production management. PR support campaign for select projects. Supply of social media grabs. • All your exclusive content hosted permanently at www.netwerx.tv

400

(ex GST)

Gold Package** • Custom video production where we come to your place of business and film your premises and personnel. Broadcast quality production with minimum of 90 minutes of actual on-location filming. Assistance in concept development and direction. Includes script writing, video logo creation, editing and final product of up to 10 minutes duration. $1,599 ex GST includes supply of files and hosting at www.netwerx.tv for six months.

(ex GST)

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

INNER WEST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

www.accessnews.com.au

• Organica, previously known as Espresso o organic, rg rga ga an nic nic c, is is tthe he ttraditional he ra ad diittiion onal a T he le ega gacy yo cel eleb eb e bra r ttiing g neighbourhood café and patisserie reimagined.. Th The legacy off “c “celebrating inin in nin ing ng in incl clud cl clud din ing br b e kkffas ea a t, t, the past, embracing the future” offers all day d dining including breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. om th he m ma ain nc affé, a é, tthe he eR ittz • Boast a private dining space tucked away from the main café, Ritz riiva riv vate ate ee ve v ent n s. s offers caters for private dining to corporate or p private events. e by v erry o e ow wn p pa ast s ry ry c he eff.. • All cakes, pastries and biscuits are made on site very own pastry chef. 018 8O uts ut uts sttan ndi ding gC affé. a f • Winner of the 2018 Business of the Year and 2018 Outstanding Café. 211 • Finalist Outstanding Bakery/Cake Business 2021

Concord

Organica Leichhardt had only just st rrecently ecently o opened pened prior to the recent Covid 19 outbreak, have eak, tthe he llocals ocals h ave already fallen in love with the great coffee blend and at c offee b lend a nd rovides. exceptional food that Organica provides. • Finalist of 2021 Outstanding Café. fé.

Leichhardt WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

INNER WEST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

www.accessnews.com.au

The Italian Bowl is an Italian Restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine with affordable pricing. The menu allows you to pick and choose your pasta shape and your sauce, aswell, as your protein choice and sauce choice and has a range of rissottos. We serve a number of sides and desserts. Orders are cooked at time of ordering and in an open kitchen with the freshest ingredients. The Restaurant is a fun, loud and friendly ambience. We enjoy seeing meals completely finished and sauces licked off plates.

Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · DeliveryMenulog Delivery

Order Now from Texas Charcoal Chicken Order Now · Uber Eats

255 King St, Newtown NSW 2042. 02 9516 0857, theitalianbowl@optusnet.com.au, online ordering: www.theitalianbowl.orderup.com.au, Facebook: The Italian Bowl, Instagram: theitalianbowl, Tiktok: theitalianbowlnewtown

OUR MISSION IS TO MAKE WOMEN BEAUTIFUL Welcome to Villoni Boutique! We're proud to call our store one of the most exquisite stores in Sydney, Australia. Best known as the signature store to get your perfect dress! We are also known for our exclusive designs and one of a kind pieces. With over 40 years of experience in every kind of occasion, bridal, bridesmaids, school formals, 21st, pre-wedding parties, engagement celebration, to christening your baby, you name it, we have it all!

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In-store and Online shopping Unit 133/137 Parramatta Rd, Annandale NSW 2038 villoniboutique.com

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Performance in Health Wellbeing Clinic is situated in the charming, heritage listed village of Stanmore, offering clients a beautifully peaceful and nurturing space to unwind and heal. Nestled cosily next to the quaint Stanmore art gallery and across the road from acclaimed Sixpenny Restaurant, the clinics enviable corner position offers free all day parking making a visit to the clinic a relaxing experience. As soon as one enters the wellbeing clinic, they are greeted with a unique ambience created for relaxation with candles burning, lights dimmed, calm music playing and the smell of therapeutic essential oils throughout. Tanya Edwards, Naturopath and Founder of Performance in Health, prioritises an evidence-based approach whilst considering hundreds of years of traditional expertise to support clients with range of health conditions at every stage of their wellness journey. A combination of real-life experience and specialist university training enables Tanya the opportunity to enhance the lives of her clients with the benefits of naturopathy including herbal medicine, nutrition, functional pathology and lifestyle education. With a focus on holistic client support and an appreciation that optimal health includes both mind and body, the clinic is also home to several highly experienced, independent mental health professionals that provide services in psychology, mental health social work, counselling and coaching.

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INNER WEST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

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Scenes from last year’s gala event.

Inner West Business

Inner West Business Access congratulates all finalists in this year’s Local Business Awards. We are proud to be the program’s media partner and to support the local business community. www.accessnews.com.au | www.thebusinessawards.com.au 30

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WESTERN SYDNEY

Family Business Welcome

Welcome to KPMG Family Business feature articles. If you would like to discuss these articles or how KPMG can help with your business please feel free to contact me on 8865 6117 or pwakim@kpmg.com.au

Federal Government co-funds further business support for NSW and Victoria  DR BRENDAN RYNNE HE new business support packages announced by the NSW and Victorian governments, co-funded by the Federal Government, are to be welcomed, and represent an appropriate stepup in fiscal support commensurate with the economic pressures businesses in both jurisdictions are facing. These additional support packages announced today, combined with the existing support provided by the Commonwealth Government, form an underpinning for individuals and businesses that aligns to the recovery path of this pandemic. Targeted, proportionate fiscal support is more appropriate today in an environment where the end of the pandemic is visible, compared to broad-based, generous support which was more required in the early part of the pandemic when uncertainty and risk was the greatest. It is for this reason that I believe JobSaver is the right solution for today rather than a re-introduction of JobKeeper, as has been called for in some quarters. With COVID-19 restrictions continuing in both New South Wales and Victoria the Federal Government is contributing to economic support programs in both states. The Federal, NSW and Victorian Governments have announced further economic support packages – to be co-funded for both states, following the extension of COVID-19 restrictions. In NSW, additional funding has been announced for the JobSaver program, while in Victoria the funding has been applied to the Victorian Business Support package, which includes the Small Business COVID Hardship Fund and the Business Continuity Fund. The NSW Government extended its current COVID-19 restrictions on Wednesday for four weeks, while the Victorian Government ended its lockdown but left restrictions in place across multiple industries. The Prime Minister advised that the same arrangement would also be available to South Australia.

Commonwealth disaster payment The Prime Minister announced an extension to the COVID-19 Disaster Payment across NSW. From next week it will increase from $600 to $750 per week if people have lost more than 20 hours and from $375 to $450 if people have lost less than 20 hours. It will be available from day one of any potential lockdown in the future, with claims made from day eight in arrears for the previous seven days. A weekly payment will then be made for the duration of the hotspot declaration.

NSW JobSaver payment Individuals who currently receive an income support payment through our social security safety net will receive a weekly payment of $200, in addition to their existing payment, if they can demonstrate they have lost more than 8 hours of work and meet the other eligibility requirements for the COVID-19 Disaster Payment. The NSW JobSaver payment has been increased with businesses now able receive between $1,500 and $100,000 per week, up from $10,000.

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

The payments are based on 40 percent of a business’s weekly NSW payroll, with employee headcounts needing to be maintained. Business eligibility for the payments has also changed, with the t maximum turnover threshold to be increased. NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet says more than 14,000 applications have been received since the program opened for applications.

Victorian Business Support package Businesses are expected to receive the first payments by July 31, with close to $28M approved for payment so far. Non-employing business remain eligible for a maximum of $1,000 per week, according to Mr Perrottet. The Victorian Business Support Package, as announced on Wednesday, is to provide $400 million in funding for grants under the Small Business COVID Hardship Fund and the Business Continuity Fund. According to Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas, small businesses with a payroll of up

to $10 million who have experienced a 70 per cent or greater reduction in revenue will be eligible for grants of up to $5,000, under the Small Business COVID Hardship Fund. The Business Continuity Fund will provide $5,000 grants to up to 30,000 businesses that remain impacted by capacity limits placed on businesses by COVID-19 restrictions. Mr Pallas says CBD businesses will be eligible to receive an additional $2,000 in recognition of reduced foot traffic due to office density limits. The Victorian Government also announced a Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund, with grants of up to $20,000 to be made available to affected businesses, with an additional $2,000 for CBD businesses. In addition, the Alpine Business Support Program will provide grants of between $5,000 and $20,000 to 430 Alpine-based businesses. First published on KPMG Newsroom by Dr Brendan Rynne, Chief Economist, KPMG Australia on 28 June 2021.

FAMILY BUSINESS

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Justified Trust: COVID tax lull over for private groups and wealthy individuals  CLIVE BIRD  BELINDA CHEESEWRIGHT TO compliance activity went into a COVID lull for many taxpayers during 2020. But that hiatus has now ended, and private groups and wealthy individuals are under renewed scrutiny. Late last month, the ATO released a findings’ report in relation to its ‘Top 500’ private groups tax performance program. This assurance program is part of the wider Justified Trust initiative to ensure all Australian corporate taxpayers pay the right amount of tax and involves regular oneto-one engagement with a dedicated ATO team tracking compliance from year to year. The Top 500 program is an intensive information-gathering exercise focusing on four pillars: the effectiveness of tax governance; tax risks flagged to the market by the ATO; significant and atypical transactions; variances between accounting and tax results. The headline findings were that, as of 28 February 2021, 403 private groups have been approached by the ATO to undertake the Top 500 Program: • 13 percent have achieved Justified Trust; (52) • 30 percent have engaged and progress towards Justified Trust; (121) • 46 percent have engaged but no evidence to support Justified Trust; (187) • 6 percent have engaged but not yet committed to attain Justified Trust; (26) • 2 percent are unwilling to work towards Justified Trust; and (6) • 3 percent have not engaged. (11) The ATO report identifies low levels of tax governance maturity as the main reason why only a small number of groups (52) have obtained Justified Trust status. The areas of concern, requiring improvement, include lack of documentation of frameworks and procedures, but also quite significant concerns in integrity of data being relied on for tax calculations and insufficient management of key people risks. So what does this mean?

On the positive side, for those taxpayers that have achieved Justified Trust the result is a lighter touch “monitoring and maintenance” approach over a period of three years in which ATO review is limited to verifying significant new transactions and any other material changes. But for the large number of taxpayers which have failed to do so, the ATO will approach their review from a position of much lower assurance. This potentially means a lengthier and more detailed review from the ATO because they don’t have comfort that the taxpayer has governance frameworks in place. So, rolling reviews could be more onerous, more time-consuming and more expensive. Importantly, the ATO findings report identifies common tax risks: • Inappropriate revenue versus capital characterisation (particularly in the property development industry); • Wealth extraction – Division 7A (for example, payments, loans or debt forgiveness by a private company to a shareholder or a shareholders’ associates) and misuse of

trusts and SMSFs (for example, non-arm’s length transfers); • Inappropriate Research and Development tax incentive claims (particularly in the building and construction, and agricultural industries); • Misuse of tax concessions, for example, the small business CGT concessions and associated manipulation of an entity’s turnover or control; and • Related party international dealings – particularly for those groups with significant overseas operations that give rise to cross-border dealings whose pricing requires assurance. KPMG Enterprise research has previously indicated a degree of wishful thinking among taxpayers – many believed they were prepared for the ATO yet nearly two-thirds do not have documented tax risk management frameworks. This is a key part of proper tax governance as the ATO sees it and an integral focus of each review program. For those taxpayers in the Top 500 – or the Next 5,000 private wealth populations

– generally those groups with net wealth over $50 million – KPMG recommends taking the following steps before being approached by the ATO: • Prepare early – we suggest an early assessment of where there are gaps against ATO guidance and the four pillars of Justified Trust listed above, paying attention to the identified risks areas • Governance – create a documented and operational tax governance framework, having regard to the size and complexity of the private group. Consider how systems and testing models can be an efficient means of achieving higher levels of both comfort and performance The pause in ATO compliance activity last year is firmly over. Private groups and mid-market companies need to take the Justified Trust program very seriously. First published on KPMG Newsroom by Clive Bird, Partner, Head of Tax, Enterprise, KPMG Australia and Belinda Cheesewright, Partner, Enterprise Tax, KPMG Australia on 19 July 2021

Why we need to encourage innovation, post-COVID  KRISTIANA KIPPER HE need for new measures that encourage investment in innovation is vital as the Australian economy looks to recover from COVID-19. While we have weathered the health crisis well, border closures mean limited access to overseas talent, increasing the cost of labour and limiting the ability for some businesses to pursue innovation agendas and invest in growth. Further, as the world opens at a faster trajectory than Australia, we will be competing with our international peers to secure footloose investment. What can be done? One area which plays to Australia’s strength as a service-focused economy is incentivising software-specific innovation. This is why KPMG was pleased that the Senate Select Committee on Australia as a Technology and Financial Centre has recommended the Federal Government considers the establishment of a Software Development Tax Incentive (SDTI). This would be separate from the long-standing Research & Development Tax Incentive (RDTI).

A start has already been made in the recent Federal Budget with the introduction of the Digital Games Tax Offset. Our hope is that this measure could be the first step in the development of an SDTI framework to incentivise innovation in software that doesn’t currently meet the eligibility criteria set out in the RDTI program. Why is it needed? As the Industry Innovation and Science Australia (IISA) reported last year, close to 50 percent of innovation in Australia is non-R&D based and many initiatives are from digital innovation. Simply, there are other types of innovation which do not require R&D but have the same potential, and in some cases more, to benefit both the business developing the innovation and the broader economy IISA gives many examples of this, including novel hardware and software solutions which use existing technologies to develop previously untapped markets, combine and integrate platforms and technologies for innovative applications. Another key issue is the creation and use of datasets that are required to test and unlock new product offerings.

This problem was also highlighted in the recently published Kalifa Review of UK FinTech with a recommendation that the UK R&D tax credit program should be expanded to accommodate the cost of financial data sets. In KPMG’s submission to the senate Committee, we identified that in the context of FinTech and RegTech, there are many innovative solutions being developed that do not currently qualify for the RDTI due to the interpretation of software-based R&D activities. There are also more common examples of innovative software solutions that the regulator, AusIndustry, has assessed as having no levels of R&D but where the product later went on to be shown to be highly innovative and led to significant ongoing investment in, and revenue for, Australia. Having access to incentives at the early stages of software development for start-ups could accelerate investment and provide much needed capital to grow the business. In addition to establishing an SDTI, we support a collaboration premium which would reward companies for collaborat-

ing with each other and with research institutions could be developed to further incentivise innovation. KPMG has just issued a paper which sets out seven key principles that would form the framework of an SDTI. These include eligibility being based on the outcome or the intended outcome of the development activity, rather than the process. That is, the primary test is the product and whether it is innovative and a driver of future jobs and economic growth. We also call for industry consultation and a pilot program ahead of implementation with the aim of avoiding problems there have been with RDTI in recent years. It is increasingly agreed that enhanced productivity is the key to generating the real growth Australia will need in the years ahead given the scale of our deficits. Increasing innovation will be the key to achieving this greater productivity. Read the full submission: Principles for an innovative software development tax incentive at www.KPMG.com.au First published on KPMG Newsroom by Kristina Kipper, Partner in Charge, Mid-market, KPMG Australia on 8 July 2021

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

AUTO with John Mellor

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More safety, minor styling update as Toyota gives Prado its second upgrade in a year  NEIL DOWLING AFETY first as Toyota upgrades its Prado with more improvements, some styling tweaks and only minor price rises for the second time in a year. Externally there is not much difference – the newly styled alloy wheels and a chrome grille for one grade – while buyers should be more attracted to the active safety technology that is now stand-ard on entry-level versions. All Prados now get the high-end safety kit previously reserved for the more expensive grades, in-cluding blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard on GX and GXL. These join the existing Toyota Safety Sense features of high-speed active cruise control, lane-departure alert with steering assistance, and the pre-collision safety system with day/night pedes-trian and daytime cyclist detection. The entry-level GX grade has more premium exterior appointments with a chrome-accented grille and puddle lamps. Toyota’s upper-level VX and Kakadu variants now come with larger 19-inch alloy wheels with a new “Active” design for the VX and a “Prestige” design for the Kakadu. For buyers that don’t need the larger fuel capacity and prefer a tailgate without the spare wheel, all variants except the GX can be specified with the flat tailgate option pack. This reduces the fuel capacity to 87 litres from 150 litres and moves the full-size spare tyre from the tailgate to under the body of the vehicle. For people wanting a rugged tow vehicle, the Prado is rated at 3000kg.

The Prado upgrades follow a more comprehensive expansion of the standard feature list made in August last year.

Peace of mind Prices have hitched up slightly, with $990 added to the GX and GXL to make them $60,830 and $67,530 plus on-road costs respectively. The VX and Kakadu are both up $777, now $77,157 and $87,807 respectively, plus costs. Toyota Australia vice president sales, marketing and franchise operations Sean Hanley said the safety of all Toyota customers was of utmost importance. "We are committed to ensuring our customers benefit from the peace of mind

that comes with the latest advanced safety features," he said. "These safety updates, along with the range of visual enhancements, ensure there has never been a better time to explore Australia's vast backyard in a Prado." There are no changes to the drivetrain, with all Prado grades retaining the 150kW/500Nm 2.8-litre turbo-diesel and mated to the only transmission offered, a six-speed automatic. Toyota’s large-size 4WD wagon has been the most popular in its segment for the past 11 of its 13-year history. It is odds-on to continue that in 2021. Year-to-date sales to June 30 show the Prado has sold 10,171 units in the six months, up 17.8 per cent on its 2020 results.

It is the clear sales winner in its segment, with the second-placed Subaru Outback reporting 4820 sales, less than half that of the Prado.

Toyota LandCruiser Prado pricing*

GX (5-seat) GXL VX Kakadu:

$60,830 $67,530 $77,157 $87,807

Options Third-row seat (GX only): $2,550 Leather seats (GXL only): $3,470 Premium paint: $675 Flat tailgate (GXL,VX, Kakadu): No charge *Excludes on-road costs

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

AUTO with John Mellor

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In-house software, onboard data mining and styling revamp for Volvo’s all-EV future  HAITHAM RAZAGUI WEDISH car-maker Volvo has outlined the next stage of its evolution, making technology an-nouncements and previewing the styling of its all-electric next-generation model line-up with the wagon-like Concept Recharge. Volvo will join a growing number of automotive manufacturers to bring software development in-house and develop a technological backbone called VolvoCars. OS that will run on a consolidated ‘core’ of hardware rather than the multiple interconnected control units used on most cars today. The company will also aggregate and process real-world traffic data in real time – as well as that from customers who opt in to share theirs – to analyse inputs from various sensors in the active safety, driver-assist and autonomous driving systems with a view to accelerating the development of these technologies. Volvo’s first model to be underpinned by an all-new dedicated electric architecture will be revealed next year and is expected to replace the ageing XC90, given the company describes it as a “forth-coming fully electric flagship SUV”. It will run on VolvoCars.OS, integrate the data gathering project, feature a Luminar-sourced LIDAR sensor and could look a lot like the Concept Recharge. Freed from the requirement to house an internal combustion engine, the Concept Recharge’s de-signers have been able to maximise both interior space and aerodynamics while maintaining Vol-vo’s styling hallmarks – including a nod to the squared-off wagons of yesteryear. Perhaps referencing the 1980s 480 coupe with which it shares much of its silhouette, the Concept Recharge features a modern take on pop-up headlights in which Volvo’s ‘Thor’s Hammer’ daytime running light signature split and retracts to reveal an array of beam units for night driving. Between the lights is an illuminated Volvo motif on a panel described by the brand as a “shield-like structure” representing the traditional radiator grille. A slim pod above the windscreen houses the LIDAR sensor, which Volvo and many other brands consider an essential supplement to existing radar, ultrasonic, and camera-based sensors for de-livering the necessary field of view and quick reaction times – in all lighting conditions – for auton-omous driving capabilities. The airy cabin has a completely flat floor – owing to the new electric-only platform – and is fur-nished in typically Swedish minimalist style, with a 15-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen dominat-ing the slim, wing-shaped dashboard.

Volvo’s infotainment software for this screen will be developed in partnership with Google, while processing power for this and other onboard systems will come from Nvidia. Volvo chief technology officer Henri Green said the company had “a deliberate strategy of partner-ing with true technology leaders where it makes sense”. “This approach of selected strategic partnerships is much more effective than trying to do every-thing on our own.” Between both pairs of seats in the Concept Recharge are large multi-tiered storage consoles, with a handbag tray like that of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 up front. Due to a pillarless structure, the second-row seats are accessed via rear-hinged doors – like a Rolls-Royce – and all four open to a 90-degree angle. Volvo Cars senior vice president of design Robin Page described the concept’s interior as having “a truly Scandinavian living room feeling”. “The interior integrates our latest user experience technology with beautiful, sustainable and natu-ral materials. Each part of the interior is like a piece of art and could stand alone as individual furni-ture in a room.” Mr Page said the concept represented “everything we believe customers expect from a pure elec-tric Volvo”. “We’re excited to take this philosophy into our next generation of cars.”

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FILMS with Jacob Richardson

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Nine Days – 5 Stars

BLIISTRERING experience, that takes a strange concept, courts exposition sparingly, and ultimately delivers a truly emotional and revelatory time in the cinema. Will (Winston Duke) is a reclusive man, obsessed with a series of point-of-view videos playing on an array of old televisions in a prairie house in what is seemingly the middle of nowhere. He watches them and makes notes, ever vigilant. When one of the people on the screen kills herself, however, we find out a little bit more about Will, as he begins the process of interviewing souls for a chance to be born into her place. Aided by his similarly angelic / string-pulling friend Kyo (Benedict Wong), he works with a group of fresh souls to determine who, in his opinion, is right for the world. His own time in the world led him to believe that anyone down there can’t be too good, and has to be tough enough to survive, so the first few days of the nine days given for the assessment period focus on Will trying to identify which of Kane (Bill Skarskgard Maria (Arianna Ortiz), Mike (David Rysdahl), Alexandr (Tony Hale) and more are strong enough for this spot. But it is latecomer Emma (Zazie Beetz) who throws him off course, and as they journey through the nine days together and

get closer towards a final decision, Will finds Emma’s insatiable appetite for all that is kind and good about life is addictive; and is perhaps thawing that icy cynicism he acquired in his own time on Earth. Directed by Edson Oda, Nine Days plays out in a very ‘trust us, you’ll work it out eventually’ sort of way. It doesn’t beat you around the head with exposition up front, instead allowing you the time and space to work your way into this world. In that way, it also undoubtedly may leave viewers confused, particularly in the starting

moments but also ultimately there are likely to be nuances that one viewer picks up over another. That’s also sort of the joy in this piece– we’re discovering the story not unlike Emma unravelling the joys of life through the array of screens Will makes her watch endlessly. It’s a beautiful story, told in a way that makes it feel real and grounded despite its fantastical nature. Ultimately it leads to an emotional climax that is earned, and truly gut-wrenching in its effectiveness. Such

an ending isn’t necessarily sad, moreso bittersweet, and there’s a lot of joy and perspective to be gained out of the narrative of this film. On display here is some of the best acting you will see in cinema this year, and across the board every single actor knocks it out of the park. Of course, it’s Duke and Beetz who make the greatest impression however. Zazie Beetz brings a sweet yet strong willed character to the front, adding believability to the most dreamlike qualities. Her emotional cocktail of friendship, romance and utter confusion plays so well on screen, it’s easy to understand why Will would be shaken by Emma. Winston Duke gets a gorgeous role in Will, being able to span between emotionless, rage-filled, theatrical and ultimately joyful in the one character, and cements his place as a leading man. In the end, Nine Days is the sort of film that is tough to sell, because the narrative and the surprises around that narrative are difficult to convey. It’s the way the story is told, the experience of watching it unfold on the big screen, that is truly unmissable. Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

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FILMS with Jacob Richardson

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Jungle Cruise – 4 Stars Jungle Cruise feels a lot like Pirates of the Caribbean, and while it doesn’t have the iconic lead performance that film did to turn it into an instant classic, it’s still a hell of a lot of fun. ILY Houghton (Emily Blunt) is determined to track down the Flower of the Moon. While her brother MacGregor ( Jack Whitehall) distracts an explorer’s scientific society, she sneaks backstage and steals a fabled arrowhead from under the nose of Prince Joachim ( Jesse Plemons), a nefarious German. Lily and MacGregor travel to the Amazon, where they get a ride upriver in search of the immortality granting Flower from Frank Wolff (Dwayne Johnson). But Wolff is not all that he seems, and his prodigious knowledge of the region is matched only by his talents for cheating, swindling and deceiving his clientele and enemies (vaguely Italian Paul Giamatti included). Nevertheless, if Lily and MacGregor want to get the Flower before Prince Joachim and an undead Spanish conquis-

tador Aguirre (Edgar Ramirez), they’ll have to turn the uneasy alliance with Frank into a strong friendship. It’s tough to not make comparisons to other, classic adventure movies when watching Jungle Cruise. There are definite comparables with Pirates of the Caribbean and Indiana Jones, along with a host of lesser siblings, sequels and rip-offs. Jungle Cruise never really does anything to distinguish itself from its ilk, but it also never feels unwelcome or anything less than upbeat, enjoyable fun. Blunt is spectacular as Houghton, a combination of Keira Knightley and Harrison Ford. Her character is saddled with a romance that she has to frankly carry pretty heavily, but also gets a tonne of time to deliver competent adventuring and ingenuity throughout.

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Johnson pushes his acting limits in certain areas of this film, and not always successfully, but for the most part he is a fun addition–a dad-joke-cracking, mammoth hustler, who has secrets of his own. While he may struggle to carry the romantic elements of the plot off, his wisecracking and sidelong glances during schemes and the like are good, and his action chops undisputed. Whitehall, meanwhile, cracks jokes and provides comic relief. Giamatti pops up in a ridiculous role, Italian accent fading in and out depending on the moment, and shoots for the rafters with a swaggering performance. Plemons and Ramirez both make a meal out of barebones villain characters, but Ramirez in particular feels hard done by. Visually there is a lot to love here, and for kids in particular it is a colourful, fantas-

tical adventure that evokes memories of the Disneyland ride the film is based on. From a family perspective, the only concern is that it’s a little long–at 2 hours and 7 minutes, even those of us in the media screening room were flagging. Jungle Cruise is overly long and has some lacklustre elements without a really iconic hero performance, but it’s a welcome return to the adventure genre. For kids, this will be a lot of fun on it’s own, with a lot of jokes, some beautiful visuals and a swathe of good performances. For adults, this will hit on a lot of the same levels, while also evoking a strong sense of nostalgia around the adventure classics that paved the way. Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

TRAVEL with Dallas Sherringham

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Go west and avoid the crowds  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM YDNEYSIDERS traditionally hug the coast heading or south when they take a holiday, but this year you can give the bush a boost and see great towns just by heading west. Now, if America has its Route 66, than the Great Western Hwy should be our national ‘great drive’. The good thing about heading west is that you avoid the crowds and get out into the fresh air where the sky goes on forever and the locals are friendly. After passing through Bathurst and doing the mandatory lap of Mt Panorama motor racing track with a stop at McPhillamy Park to see the view, the road passes through beautiful country before arriving at Orange. Next stop is Wellington with its beautiful Cave complete with an 18-hole championship Golf Course. You can camp next door or stay at the motel. You will discover some of the hidden gems of the Great Western Plains around the regional hub of Dubbo, about a fivehour drive northwest of Sydney. You’ll find everything from historic pubs to rodeos to Akubra-throwing contests. Just out of town is the outstanding Western Plains Zoo where you will need to spend at least half a day. Make sure you take a camera with a telephoto lens. From Dubbo, it’s to you to decide which way to head, but here are some ideas:

Gilgandra windmills A laid-back country town on the banks of the Castlereagh River, Gilgandra, 45 minutes northeast of Dubbo, is known for its many windmills; follow the Windmill Walk through town to spot them. It’s also the birthplace of the 1915 Coo-ee March, in which men marched to Sydney to enlist to fight in World War I, calling “Coo-ee” to attract other volunteers in country towns along the way.

Get a nickname in Coonamble Australians love a nickname and Coonamble, an hour and 45 minutes north of Dubbo, is considered the nation’s nickname capital. It has even turned itself into the Nickname Hall of Fame — look out for the billboards displayed around the town with unique stories of local residents. Every June long weekend the town comes alive with the Coonamble Rodeo and Campdraft, which attracts more than 1000 cowboys and cowgirls. The Macquarie River runs right through the centre of the town of Warren, with a number of great fishing spots within walking distance. The town is an 80-minute drive north-west of Dubbo and about two hours south of the Macquarie Marshes, a diverse wetland that supports 20,000 birds. The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service runs tours of the wetland on the October long weekend.

Go west to Narromine On the banks of the Macquarie River, the streets of Narromine, half an hour west of Dubbo, are dotted with heritage buildings, and the town has a rich aviation history dating back more than 100 years. Almost 3000 pilots were trained here during World War II — you can find out all about it at the Narromine Aviation Museum. On the old Cobb & Co coach trail, Trangie, an hour’s drive west of Dubbo, is known for its authentic country pubs that date back to the early 1900s and the Big Billy (one of Australia’s ‘Big Things’) at the Goan water hole just outside town. The Wungunja Cultural Centre houses a large collection of Aboriginal artefacts and art, mostly from Central NSW, including two large carved burial trees. At Tomingley, 40 minutes southwest of Dubbo, have a pub meal in the Cross Roads Hotel, meet alpacas and visit the gallery at Quentin Park Alpacas, and go bushwalking in Goobang National Park.

Venture beyond the Black Stump Mendooran, on the Castlereagh River, 50 minutes northeast of Dubbo, dates back to the 1830s and is known as the Town of Murals for its colorful artworks that depict the history of the area. Horse racing has taken place here since 1856 — visit in September to catch the Mendooran Races. At Dunedoo, an hour north-east of Dubbo, learn about the region’s past at the Dunedoo Historical Society and Museum and stop for a drink at the 1913-built Hotel Dunedoo. Binnaway, 80 minutes northeast of Dubbo, was a bustling railway town in the 1920s; a railway signal tribute has been erected in the main street to honor its heritage. The Australian phrase ‘beyond the black stump’ (meaning beyond civilisation) is believed to be tied to Coolah: the Black Stump Wine Saloon that marked the boundaries of the colony was on the outskirts of town in the 1850s. A 90-minute drive northeast of Dubbo, this is the gateway to Coolah Tops National Park, known for its giant grass trees, towering eucalypts and stands of huge snow gums. Walking trails wind past waterfalls, there are remote campsites for starry nights and dedicated mountain bike trails. Details: Destination NSW www.destinationnsw.com.au

Look out for galahs at Gulargambone The name Gulargambone comes an Aboriginal word meaning lots of galah birds — look out for the corrugated iron galahs on the highway and around town. The town is just over an hour north of Dubbo. Stop in at the volunteer-run Two eight two eight café (named after the town’s postcode), which also sells locally made art and crafts, fresh produce and second-hand books. Baradine, in the middle of the Pilliga forest, two hours north of Dubbo, began life as a timber town. Pilliga is now a conservation area known for its koalas. Follow the walking track through the Timallallie National Park to see Sculptures in the Scrub. Each work is a collaboration between the artist and an Aboriginal Elder or young person and tells a story of local history and culture.

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TRAVEL with Dallas Sherringham

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Follow your heart to the Great Barrier Reef.

A Total Eclipse of The Heart Feel like an international tourist and experience a world-class, totally indulgent natural phenomenon with a heart-to-heart on the Barrier Reef. Helen Flanagan has the exclusive. TEVE Jobs once said “our time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Have the courage to follow your heart.” Hamilton Island Air’s Brad Graves took it literally when he ignored the naysayers and revealed ambitious, some said outrageous plans, for Heart Reef. “Despite innumerable requests to visit Heart Island, we had to explain it’s not an island it’s a reef,” Brad said. “And how do we protect the boat and the reef. Ultimately I commissioned an upmarket boat shed with a helicopter landing pad on top.” But it was never going to be easy. “It was all about contractors, aviation crews and inspectors ensuring Heart Reef and environs, met rigorous environmental conditions to maintain this part of the Great Barrier Reef for future generations.” Finally, after hiccups and heart burn, millions of dollars and eight of the ten years in the making, Brad’s big dream of Heart Island, became a reality. After taking off from Hamilton Island Airport, it was up, up, and away, rising, dipping, and floating in his 6-passenger Airbus H125 helicopter for 30-minutes over the dazzling sand of 7km-long Whitehaven, the azure waters of the Whitsundays Islands and the dark blue deep-water channel between Hook Reef and Hardy Reefs. Seeing the white outline of Heart Reef, floating in a blue lagoon just below was the ultimate breathtaking moment. For now. Brad touches down on the upper deck of the pontoon. Solar and wind power have automatically retracted the anti-birdspikes, and as quick as you can say shazam, a roof hatch rises to reveal stairs down to a deck with a sumptuous fit-out akin to a classy yacht.

Most isolated part of the reef A customised futuristic-looking glass-bottom boat, someone likened to a Monte Carlo plaything, seemingly appears then slides away to the outer deck, leaving a swimming pool. After checking out the underwater wonderland through the glass, it is time to WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

jump into the luminescent water, snorkel around and discover a minuscule coral bommie hidden in the centre of this naturally occurring heart-shaped reef. Eyeball some of the world’s most treasured underwater creatures including 1,635 fish species, such as a 2-metre giant maori wrasse, also parrotfish, grouper, jellyfish, reef sharks, barracuda, sea anemones, sea urchins, starfish, over 600 different types of multi-colored coral, and beautiful turtles hovering and eating algae, before shooting to the surface for a breath of air before descending again. After much ogling, talking and gesturing while marveling at the grandeur of life-aquatic, it was time to take a last snorkel around the lagoons near Heart Island before reboarding and drying off with a celebratory glass of sparkling in hand. Of course. More dips and turns on our return as pilot Brad makes sure we have every postcard moment of the Whitsundays, in the can. The Heart Island experience, which takes 3-hours and includes 90-minutes all to ourselves, in this most isolated part of the Great Barrier Reef, has been likened to a James Bond location, while others say there is a resemblance to Thunderbirds, minus puppets. Above all it is an unrivalled world experience.

If you go: Did you know that in 1975 pilot John Ramsden took a photograph of the tiny coral formation and it became a global romantic icon known as Heart Reef? The Heart Island Experience is exclusive, exhilarating, intimate, unique, and only accessible by helicopter. After a glorious aerial journey over the Great Barrier Reef, land on a private pontoon moored in Hardy Lagoon for a glass-bottom boat tour and snorkel around Heart Reef. The whole encounter takes three hours, is limited to six passengers, and the water temperature even in midwinter is a delightful 20 degrees Celsius. Visit: www.hamiltonislandair.com

FITNESS with Adam Simpson

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How to avoid the Covid KGs  ADAM SIMPSON S you are all aware we are in the middle of another Covid-19 lock down! We are all facing many challenges that we wouldn’t normally in our regular

lives. Our routines are all over the place and for many motivation levels are at an alltime low. If you are reading this just know that you are not alone, so it’s important to not be too hard on yourself if you have already gained a little excess weight. I have put together my best tips to help you navigate the rest of lock down. 1. Commit to some form of daily exercise – It doesn’t have to be much, but commit to yourself that every day you will get up and do something. Whether that is going for a walk, a jog, doing some stretches or doing an online class. Aim for at least 20 minutes and be very disciplined about getting it done. 2. Exercise first – Motivation right now is low, I get it. My tip here is to do it first thing in the morning, that way you can’t talk yourself out of it. I guarantee you will have a better day, if you start it off with some exercise. 3. Get an accountability buddy – Encourage a friend or family member to commit to exercising daily with you. You are less likely to quit if you have someone else that is relying on you to do it with them. 4. Set a routine – It can be very easy right now to park yourself in front of the TV all day. Especially if you are one of the unlucky ones who have lost their job during the lock downs. Write out a daily schedule for yourself and try to stick to it, schedule in your exercise time and everything else you want to achieve for the

My 7 tips for health in LOCKDOWN day. Be sure to give yourself some free time to watch that Netflix series you have been getting through. 5. Eat mindfully – It is important to recognise that we aren’t moving around as much as we normally would. This means the amount of energy that our bodies need to get through each day is slightly less, try to adjust your portion sizes accordingly. 6. Avoid excess snacking – It can be very easy to eat too many snacks right now

out of sheer boredom. My suggestion here would be to be extremely selective on how many snacking options you purchase when you are doing your shopping. If you don’t have them in your house you can’t over eat. 7. Try to enjoy your time – This is harder said than done, many of us are struggling financially being out of work. Are living alone with no family or are stressed out juggling work and home schooling. Do your best to find little positives right now and enjoy yourself as much

as possible. There may never be another time in your life where we get the down time or extra time with our loved ones. If you would like to join me and my team with some online exercise. Jump onto our website and register your details we will do our best to help you get through this tough time. Adam Simpson is lead trainer and founder at Repetitions Group fitness and Personal Training. Visit: www.repetitionspt.com.au

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CROSSWORDS/GAMES

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CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Little jerks 5. Head downtown? 10. Help in a holdup 14. Balming target 15. Beyond partner 16. Screenplay direction 17. T-bone region 18. Medical research goals 19. Every family has one 20. Illuminated 23. Holiday follower? 24. Skiier's challenge 25. Unlike a litterbug 27. Palindromic windmill part 30. End of two state names 33. Scratch, say 36. Better copy? 38. Bahrain bread 39. Passed with ease 41. Genetic info carrier 42. Arboreal abode 43. Things to rattle 45. Fishtail, e.g. 47. Daydreamer's limit? 48. Fit to be fare 50. Killed, as a dragon 53. Tux accessory 54. Prepare for hanging 57. Wrestling area 59. Serving as a diplomat 64. Beer selections 66. Hindu grouping 67. Tat-tat intro 68. Folk facts 69. Pagoda roofing 70. Black cat, some think 71. It may come before "we forget" 72. Failed as a sentry 73. Bird's perch, perhaps

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DOWN 1. Chaucer bit 2. They may be clicked on 3. Flu symptom 4. Grad-to-be 5. Bushwhacker's tool 6. Go to the edge of 7. The good olde days 8. Cooking place 9. Transmit anew 10. Back on a battleship 11. Crooners, often 12. Creation location 13. "High School Musical" extra 21. Main mail drop (abbr.) 22. Disconnected, as a phone line 26. Like siblings 28. Chances in Vegas 29. Roller Derby milieus 31. Checklist item 32. Pretentiously stylish 33. Attack deterrent 34. Military sch. 35. Enrolls 37. Barbary ape's lack 40. The red 44. Inner city concern 46. Most absurd 49. Official orders 51. Emotion of the miffed 52. Long and thin 55. Sight from Biscayne Bay 56. Gourmand 57. Shoppers' site 58. Ubiquitous lily relative 60. Place for some polish 61. "Cast Away" setting 62. Manual component 63. A driver may change one 65. Firm or fixed

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TRENDS

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Attracting workers back to the office  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM HE work from home revolution may have long term consequences for CBDs like Parramatta, Blacktown and Liverpool in the future. The phenomenon caused by the COVID-19 threatens to create a unique new generation of workers who seldom visit the head office of the company they are employed by. And this means companies will potentially downsize, save a small fortune on rent and facilities and could leave large offices abandoned. However, before you hastily transfer your super from property investments to mining stocks, leading companies already have a plan to entice workers back to the office. Major offices in the USA CBDs these days are becoming temples of indulgence as much as places of work. One Vanderbilt, a new skyscraper in Manhattan, has unveiled a restaurant run by Daniel Boulud, a Michelin-starred chef, according to a feature story in The Economist. Amazon’s second headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, will include an amphitheatre for outdoor concerts. In London, 22 Bishopsgate is so dog-friendly that its receptionists issue passes to pets. The recently opened glass tower, which dominates the city of London’s skyline, also houses a climbing wall and a spa. As companies try to tempt workers back to the office, developers and investors are betting on new buildings with alluring amenities. But a huge uncertainty hangs over them: will enough people come? Even as vaccinations progress, workers have been slow to return in the USA and Australia. In early May only one in 20 buildings in America had occupancy levels above 10%, compared with a third in Europe and Africa and roughly half of buildings in Asia, according to Freespace, a property-tech firm. With the return to work only just beginning and long leases yet to expire, the extent of any losses is worryingly hazy. Covid-19 has sharpened the demand for newer buildings with better facilities. JPMorgan Chase, a bank, will reduce its overall office space even as it builds the second-tallest skyscraper in Manhattan for its new headquarters, The Economist reports. More than half of tours across New York City by prospective tenants are of high-quality “Grade A” offices, compared with 38% before covid-19. This shift is happening alongside another disruption: a tilt towards greener workspaces.

Working from home has become popular and necessary option for many.

Tilt towards greener workplaces As seen in the Lang Walker buildings in Parramatta, many property firms are pledging that all new buildings will be near net-zero carbon. Meanwhile, the shift towards wellness and sustainability is no fad, insists James Goldsmith of AXA Investment Managers. “This isn’t a social experiment. We’re asset managers—pension money is at stake.” Few in the industry, however, will be drawn on the reckoning they may face, The Economist reports. The flight to quality is leaving older buildings looking undesirable just as remote working reduces the total demand for office space. Start with the risk that older buildings become stranded assets. Without substantially lower rents or improved ventilation, access to outdoor space or natural light, many will struggle to sell or attract tenants. Some dated offices are getting facelifts. Fabrix, a developer, is upgrading a 1960s building in London to include a rooftop forest and a glass-floored infinity pool. Oth-

ers will be converted into lab and research space, or houses. When AIG, an insurer, moves to a recently renovated skyscraper in midtown Manhattan, part of its old headquarters, a tower block built in the 1980s, will be converted into flats. The City of London Corporation, which oversees the Square Mile, plans to turn vacant space into at least 1500 new homes by 2030. Yet none of this can mask the fact that as remote working sticks, demand for office space should fall. Companies are beginning to rethink their property needs, with many downsizing or delaying new leases. Globally, more than 103m square feet of office space has already been vacated since the pandemic began, according to Cushman and Wakefield, a broker. The reliance of commercial property on debt financing means a downturn could have nasty reverberations across the financial system. Banks, finance companies, insurance firms and superannuation companies rely on

office developments and healthy occupancy for income in Australia. And CBD developments rely on high occupancy rates to attract banking finance. CBD apartments, while creating much lower rental yield, may be a better investment in the future. However, the falloff in workers in offices will mean that staff will no longer need to live close to work, creating further uncertainty for CBDs. In the past, attempts have been made unsuccessfully in the Sydney CBD to have office blocks converted into apartment buildings. Local Government planning codes mean older offices lack the plumbing and height requirements to be converted. So, look for the older office buildings in Western Sydney to be revamped and relaunched complete with wellness centres, restaurants and fitness centres to attract clients. SOURCE: The Economist

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Cases of sexually transmitted debt (STD) to protect yourself from incurring your partner’s liabilities.

 LEGAL | KATHRINE HAWES

Binding Financial Agreement

OVING in with someone is a big step. Starting a life with a partner can be amazing, and it is easy to get swept up in colour palettes and love bubbles. But at this time, when everything is an ‘us’, is the most important time to think about ‘you.’ Entering into joint bank accounts or going in 50/50 in a loan might seem like the most practical way to manage your finances, but these systems can unintentionally lead to bigger problems in the long run.

What is Sexually Transmitted Debt? No one wants to imagine that a good thing might end, but when there are assets involved, it is better to be safe than sorry. Sorry is behind the new financial societal phenomenon – sexually transmitted debt – it is on the rise. Sexually transmitted debt can manifest in a number of ways: 1. When one party accepts a debt or liability that they would not have otherwise accepted if not for the emotional connection in the relationship with the other party. 2. If one party to the relationship is not fully aware of the debts of the other party, they may be left liable to pay the debt due to the nature of the financial ties between the parties . 3. If one party stops meeting their commitment to shared debts leaving the other party to satisfy financial obligations.

How it starts The way that debt can transfer from one side to another is not always the same across

the board but there are a few common denominators: 1. Whether you and your partner are in a de facto relationship. Many people fall into a de facto relationship and don’t necessarily realise the full extent or liability behind this concept. The Family Law Act S 4AA outlines factors that the Court uses to define whether a de facto relationship exists. Amongst other things, the duration of the relationship, the amount of financial interdependence, the care of children and the degree of mutual commitment to a shared life are all relevant considerations to finding a de facto relationship. De facto relationships include same sex relationships and can operate to have the same effect legally as a marriage. 2. What assets and/or debts you came into the relationship with. When one party has more assets than the other or they earn more than the other person, is usually when things

start to get tricky. You could find yourself contributing more, paying more towards bills and expenses and even covering your partners shortfalls and debts. Whether you plan for this to happen or not, should the relationship break down you may be liable to continue to support the person financially. Basically, if at the end of the relationship a Court can find that your partner is not able to support themselves and you have the means to support them, you may be liable to continue to maintain your partner.

How to protect yourself – Binding Financial Agreements Ex-de facto couples in this situation are common fixtures throughout the Family Law Courts, where the matter has escalated to the point that a Judge has to untangle the assets and liabilities of both parties for a fair and equitable outcome. However, there is a more effective way

A Binding Financial Agreement, commonly referred to as a pre-up is a legally binding document that allows you and your partner to decide how to divide your property and financial resources if there is a breakdown in your relationship. It protects your interests whilst also keeping the matter out of the courtroom in what will be an emotionally charged scenario. Here are the fun facts: • Can be drafted before, during or after a relationship. • Deals with issues of spousal maintenance. • Can be used to protect your business, investments and property. • Financially protects children, either from the present or earlier relationship. • Peace of mind that your and your partner’s interests are protected. Many people believe they can prepare this document. However, a Binding Financial Agreement can be challenged if one partner does not get Independent Legal Advice or the Agreement is deemed to not be equitable if the document is challenged. Our suggestion is to engage an experienced lawyer or at a minimum have a lawyer review your documentation and seek independent legal advice for one of the parties. To learn more about Binding Financial Agreements or to discuss your circumstances, please do not hesitate to contact our Family Law team on (02) 8858 3211. Katherine Hawes is Principal Solicitor at Digital New Age lawyers. www.digitalagelawyers.com

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Aiming to inspire a new generation  JADE HOBMAN ESTERN Sydney manufacturing firm Precision Metal Group (PMG) wrapped up a successful exhibit at the LandForces Conference this year, and not without a much-needed bolster of local workmanship for our manufacturing industry. The annual three-day conference was for everyone in the business of land defence, from aviation and defence exports, to unmanned system projects, and training. Now PMG have been immersed comfortably in the defence business since they won a contract in 2019 to weld components of Australia’s armoured defence vehicles, a significant contract. Federal Defence Industry Member Melissa Price, Western Sydney and Minister for Jobs, Investment and Tourism Stuart Ayres visited the PMG stand and gave their support, as three young men were awarded their PMG-sponsored armoured welding qualifications. The Parramatta Marist students were given their well-earned certificates as part of a PMG partnership with the school, the old stomping ground of PMG CEO Jason Elias. “We definitely like to encourage that new generation, especially with a lot of Industry 4.0 around new technologies, and for Australia to be competitive in the international arena,” Mr Elias said. It’s all a part of PMG’s fight to return industry jobs back to Australia, and a large part of their plan is fostering the rise of apprenticeships, cadets and traineeships, nationally. “The way the young generation is now, is that they come to us with the IT, tech-savvy mindset–and we have to sell them the trade, as well as to the parents at the same time,” Mr Elias said. “Every parent wants to make sure their kids don’t just work in a foundry, get iron lungs, and have a short lifespan.”

Bernard Marr.

PMG CEO Jason Elias on far right, and next to him State Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres. The minister presented the boys from Parramatta Marist with their armoured welding qualifications in June at the 2021 LandForces Conference.

But with the emerging industrial technology, new machinery and bright workshops, Mr Elias is finding that kids are coming back to this work, and they are getting a good intake of cadets and apprentices. He said that beyond his own fabricating and welding company, kids have great opportunities through these schemes to get into careers like materials science, metallurgy, and other science fields. Mr Elias said it has been a twenty-yearold dream for him to create real jobs in local manufacturing, which has only become a

more welcomed idea within the last few years. “I think we’ve had more support on that now, what with the Covid situation, and the growing support of local products, and small business,” he said. So as this pioneering SME makes inroads within the defence industry, it’s also giving a crucial boost to Australia’s manufacturing sector–a noble endeavour, given the times. Visit: www.precisionmetalgroup.com

“The way the young generation is now, is that they come to us with the IT, tech-savvy mindset–and we have to sell them the trade, as well as to the parents at the same time. Every parent wants to make sure their kids don’t just work in a foundry, get iron lungs, and have a short lifespan.” – Jason Ellias.

What is Industry 4.0? ndustry 4.0 represents the emerging Fourth Industrial Revolution, which is the way technology is being transformed in how things are done in client services, and the manufacturing industry. For manufacturing, it’s basically a new world of smart factories, with interconnected supply chains–like ships and trucks–that have linked achines, which communicate information to one another within a system. These systems are able to generate, and make sense of larger amounts of data. AI guru Bernard Marr (pictured) said Industry 4.0 was all about machines working together. “We have smart machines that have sensors in them that are connected to networks, and talk to each other, so they can diagnose their own problems, and can alert someone that something is going wrong,” Mr Marr said. “It’s a new

I 46

They come with IT in hand

world of smart connected machines and robots and we need to figure out the role of what people will play in all of this.”

Past industrial revolutions The first industrial revolution started in the 18th century with the advent of innovations such as the steam engine, which revolutionised the way things like paper, flour and cotton were manufactured. One hundred years later, with the arrival of electricity, there came with it the use of automation, and assembly lines, with the launch the second industrial revolution. Number three came along in the 1970s with the birth of computers, where robots within factories would start doing such things as repetitive jobs, typically done by blue collar workers. WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

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Preparing your business for disruption  FINANCE | JOSEPH ESSAY HEN the Covid-19 virus rocked the world in early 2020 for many it was a game changer, as entire industries were put into hibernation and businesses were forced to change their way of operating to survive. And while prudent government support packages largely helped protect Australia from the economic toll that other countries experienced, recent floods and fires and the return of state-based lockdowns have proven that risks to businesses are still ever present and you must be prepared with your own business continuity plan for when unexpected events disrupt your business.

HAVE A FINANCIAL PLAN Disruption can come in many forms but in almost all cases your cashflow will be one of the first areas where you feel the pain. Government support is not always applicable and even then, is unreliable and often inadequate. To prepare for this you should be aiming to structure your finances such that you have an emergency fund of available cash that you can draw down on in the short term until other support arrives or your business recovers. The amount will be different for every business but usually three months of essential operating costs is a good buffer to keep on hand. The other practical cashflow musts include putting in place forward cash flow projections and proactively contacting your lenders and suppliers early in the piece

explaining the situation and that you may be delayed in making payments. If nothing else this signals that you are in control of the situation which will usually buy you a bit more leeway.

MANAGING AND ANTICIPATING THE RISK There are also many other strategies you can employ to anticipate risks and make these disruptive events easier to manage when they do occur. One key strategy is ensuring you have offsite backups for key financial and business records. Modern cloud-based storage and accounting systems make this easy to execute. You must also ensure you have enough of the right insurance in place to cover you against your biggest risks and protect your assets. While income protection or business interruption are a must, I also advocate strongly for cyber protection insurance with this type of fraud becoming more sophisticated and harder for software to keep out. Lastly, one of my favourite tools for managing risk is an internal risk register through which you can identify the specific risks most relevant to your business and have a plan for avoiding or better managing these when they do occur. As they say prevention is much better than any cure!

HOW FLEXIBLE IS YOUR OPERATION Another must for businesses in protecting against disruption is ensuring your business operation is flexible enough to move quickly if key assets and people are compromised. Strategies to have in place include having staff setup with the equipment and know how to work from home, ensuring cross training of key roles and having a plan in place to move your fixtures and stock in a hurry which will save you precious time when a disaster is looming. One harder to execute but very important strategy is ensuring your trading is diversified across different industries, geographic and demographic sectors. It also helps if you have different channels to market i.e., online, email, telephone and face to face sales in case one of these channels becomes compromised.

CUT COSTS AND KNOW YOUR RIGHTS When your business is suddenly hit by a disruptive event that shutters operations you must move quickly to control costs. An obvious one is to cut all non-essential discretionary spending, but you should also contact key providers (rent, utilities, financing companies etc.) and see what

support they are willing to offer. Temporary excess staffing can be the big concern for many businesses and there are options available in terms of temporarily standing down staff or enforced leave, but it is imperative you understand your legal rights and responsibilities in this respect. For small business it can often pay to have an engagement with a HR specialist, such as the industry leading Employsure, to protect your business and your employees’ interests in these circumstances. As marketplaces have opened so have many opportunities for small businesses, but it has also resulted in an increase in the risks involved in running a business and has turned a business continuity plan from a “nice to have” to a “must have”. When your business is disrupted, the key is to move quickly and take a considered but decisive approach, with good financial planning and early communication being at the bedrock of this. Disclaimer: This is article provides general advice and is not intended to be tailored business, accounting or financial advice. Advice may vary depending on your specific circumstances. Joseph Essey is owner of Your Business Finance Manager. www.ybfmanager.com

Your world as you know it is over  INFORMATION | MARIO BEKES E can argue and discuss how life, business and social interactions were in the pre-COVID world, however, none of these changes the fact that the world we know is over and we need to refocus our activity on positive things. To enable us to continue to go about our daily lives and enjoy family, health and business, we now have to fully concentrate on things we can control. From a business perspective, it is about how we can assist our clients, peers, employees and contractors. We all witnessed in pre-COVID world how many gurus and ‘prophets’ there were seeking to charge you to listen to their success stories. We should not be focusing our efforts on them. So, who am I? Who are you? You are true unsung business heroes, true disciples of success and above all, determined to be on the front foot of life and business. I am a businessman who in my early years experienced the horrors of war and how it effects people. It also proved to me that I was capable of creating my own destiny. That old way of life and thinking is over, you don’t need prophets, gurus and high paid executives to tell you how to run your business. You now have the full authority and credibility to share your wisdom and knowledge to others on how to stay afloat. When you wake up in the morning, instead rushing to the internet and being fed bad news about the virus, crime or natural disasters, do yourself a favour. Wake up and say to yourself, “Today will

Mario Bekes.

be a great day” followed by putting on the biggest smile and then ask yourself, “what do I truly want from life” – after all you may be the only person who will never lie to you! Say hello to your family, ask them how they are. Say hello to your neighbours, whether you like them or not. Say hello, they will feel alive or perhaps they will tell you to FO, who knows. Come into your office, or have your team zoom call, and say hello to your peers and employees. Maybe buy them an occasional coffee if you are together in person. Not because you are a charity but to

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS AUGUST 2021

show gratitude. Why are you doing this? To show respect, kindness and motivate your employees. They will appreciate it, trust me. Reply to your emails, don’t keep your clients and suppliers waiting. Pick up the phone and call few clients and ask them how they are. They will welcome it. Don’t ask them for work, just smile and ask them how their day is. Open that journal of yours with ideas, concepts and blueprints. Choose some to follow through. Sit next to employees and ask them what they are doing today and how you can help them. Then relax, you are already showing leadership qualities and displaying courage that no gurus can teach you.

Life is risky after all Try to feed that starving feeling for business development inside of you through networking. Be targeted, chose whom you spend time with, as not all introductions are made equal. Take the time to go to gym, see your GP to get a for blood exam and to check your blood pressure. Show up to our meetings feeling healthy. Repeat this action so often that it becomes a discipline. The healthy leader in you will project to clients that you are present, reliable and dedicated. Ask for and help instill this into your employees.

No one can promise you what your tomorrow will be like. Work on creating your own legacy and empire. Write books, diaries, blogs and share your wisdom or whatever you fancy, but do it so that others can learn from your mistakes. Life is risky, after all, it is so risky that no one will live forever. Many of your old risk management processes are now more or less useless and you need to create new ones. Adapt to this crisis and the constantly changing situation. Do not collect your information from social media and sensationalist websites, as these will side-track you. Instead use local newspapers, coffee shops and conversations with real people. Do not rely on social media influencers and their ‘awesome’ tips. Life is about living and for you to keep winning, you need to minimise strategic thinking. Instead, take a tactical approach by focusing on your local market and things you can control. You are clearly winning and when you win, your clients win, your employees get paid and everyone will see you as a person they can rely on. Deliver services and goods that you know you can deliver using logistics that you can see and feel. That may sound obvious but when you challenge yourself, you may not be doing this. While in combat, I was taught to use my senses and intuition along with my formal training, and business is all about what you can see, touch, smell, hear or taste. That’s what this new COVID business model is all about. Welcome to the new world. Mario Bekes is managing director of Insight Intelligence. www.insightintelligencegroup.com.au

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