NRBM Summer 2015

NORTHERN RIVERS

Summer 2015
$6.95 inc GST

MAGAZINE

Rethink Byron
A Vibrant Economy.

Biz Tips
Does Your Team ‘Have To’
or ‘Want To’?

Real Estate

How to Price Your Property.

Banking & Finance
Pros & Cons of
Global Investment.

Sydney is now
6 times closer.

BAP_078 BEACH PRESS-1.pdf

1

28/08/13

4:03 PM

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NORTHERN RIVERS

MAGAZINE

Publisher
Ashley Burke-Smith

Editor

Editor's Note
W

elcome to your Summer issue of NRBM.
The weather is hotting up and so to is the tourist season. In our beautiful
region this next financial quarter is the cornerstone of many businesses survival
for the rest of the year, we wish you all a busy and profitable season. For those who are
looking forward to their own holidays, have a good break and don’t forget all the wonderful
things to do in your own area.
Our cover feature this issue is on Byron Shire, a region of internationally renowned natural
beauty, at its heart Byron Bay is a major tourist destination. However, there’s a lot more to
the shire than meets the eye with a new wave of young entrepreneurs and creative thinkers
kick-starting a vibrant business economy. Byron Shire Council is at a pivotal point of planning
the future, find out all about it in our centre spread.
Our company profile this issue showcases local business All Pest Solutions and we talk to
Josh McIntosh about the business, the team and their take on what makes good business.
Banking & Finance this issue considers the pros and cons of thinking globally when
investing. We also look at how to get the information you need at your fingertips to help
run your business and the importance of regularly reviewing your loan arrangements.
Business Matters covers essential information to help your business including Biz Tips,
Green Biz, Employment & Training, Property, Safety, Uniforms & Workwear, Legal Corner
and much more.
Finally I’d like to wish a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all our NRBM
advertisers, suppliers and readers.
Until Summer,

Moyra Burke-Smith
Editor
NRBM

Moyra Burke-Smith

Design
www.aguawebs.com
[email protected]
02 6676 2980

Contacts
Editorial Contributions:
[email protected]
Advertising Enquiries/Media Kit:
[email protected]
Subscriptions & General Enquiries:
[email protected]

NRBM
T: 02 6685 4516
F: 02 6685 4518
W: www.nrbm.com.au
P: PO Box 130, Suffolk Park, NSW, 2481

The Small Print :
Notice: While every effort has been made to ensure
the accuracy of the information in this publication
the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability
for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences,
including any loss or damage arising from the
reliance on information in this publication. The views
expressed in Northern Rivers Business Magazine are
not necessarily endorsed by the editor or publisher.
No part of this publication may be reproduced,
stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any
form, or by any means electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording, internet or otherwise,
without the prior written permission of the publisher.

NRBM is and always has been proud to only use local suppliers.

Special Contributors
David Copperthwaite, Nickel Energy, David says working
in the solar industry is the best job he’s ever had. His aim?
For Nickel Energy to be a regional leader in renewable
energy based on honesty, openness and value for clients.
Leo Senese, Morgans, with 17 years of experience
in the financial markets with Westpac, Goldman
Sachs JB and RBS Morgans he is a specialist in
income investments. His primary focus is to generate
tax effective enhanced income solutions.
Jamie Cunningham has worked with 300+ business
owners around the world. One key result of his work
is helping owners to attract and hire top talent, saving
them time and stress in their businesses and their lives.
Clayton Oates, QA Business, our Channel 7 business
efficiency guru cuts through the red tape and helps you
streamline your business to make things happen.
Adam Bradfield, CA is a Partner at Thomas

Noble & Russell in the Audit & Assurance division.
TNR are able to assist you with a large range of
accounting, auditing and business advisory services.
John Bryant , John is a Business Development Officer
at Southern Cross Credit Union and has more than
40 years’ experience in the finance industry. John is
dedicated to helping people achieve their dreams
of home ownership and business success.
Stephen Paul, Safety and Fire Education. Stephen is
the Work, Health and Fire Safety Trainer and Workplace
Safety Consultant at S.a.F.E bringing his extensive
industry experience including 15 years in health services
and over 20 years in the emergency services.

Jonathan Marquet, McCartney Young Lawyers.
Jonathan works with commercial clients with a particular
focus on property aspects and advises in relation to local
government and planning issues and future planning needs.
Gail Fuller, Byron Coastal Real Estate providing
sound real estate advice in property management,
holiday rental revenue, selling and buying property. Our
team is focused on increasing your profit and ensuring
your investment is maintained to a high standard.
Soraya Barnham, Complete Uniform
Solutions, works with businesses to enhance
their corporate image and branding with
strategic use of logos, Workwear & Uniforms.

Tony Bowden EPIC Employment Service Inc. EPIC
is a community based, not-for-profit organisation
connecting employers and jobseekers to create long
term employment in the open labour market.

The paper used to produce this magazine is manufactured by an ISO 14001 environmentally rated mill.
www.nrbm.com.au

Summer 2015

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www.nrbm.com.au

Contents
10-11

23

26

29

Regulars

17-20

Cover Feature

News 6-7

Rethink Byron

Keeping you up to date with news from the region, including
The Round Up - news from the region’s chambers.

Our feature this issue puts the spotlight on Byron Shire,
find out how the council is involving community in
masterplanning the future of the town. They’ve also just
launched a program for activating places to revitalise less
used areas and boost local business.

Company Profile

8-9

This issue we talk to Josh McIntosh and find out more about his
company, Ballina based All Pest Solutions.

Business Matters

10-16 & 21-32

Covering the issues that matter to your business: Biz Tips,
Banking & Finance, Fire Safety, Green Biz, Employment &
Training, Business Efficiency, Marketing and Legal Corner.

Canberra Comments

33

Local Federal Member for Page comments on current issues

Pollies Points

34

Find out the key issues that your local pollie is fighting for you.

17-20

Business Matters
Green Biz

10-11

Make sure you know what you’re buying.

Biz Tips

23

Change your team from ‘Have To’ to ‘Want To’.

Real Estate

26

Pricing Your Property.

Employment & Training

27-29

Employ the Best and IT Training Tips.

www.nrbm.com.au

Summer 2015

news & events
New Flight Path
Trialled
Banora Point residents can
expect less air traffic noise,
when a new trial flight path
kicks in from December.
The trial path, which tracks
over the Club Banora golf
course, missing the bulk of
homes in the suburb, will be
trialled for 12 months.
Banora Point and District
Residents Association president
John Sweeney said parts of
Banora Point, including the
Oxley Cove estate, would
definitely benefit from the
changes.
"It will benefit a large
number of people, but may be
detrimental to a much smaller
number," Mr Sweeney said.
Air Services Australia
spokesman Rob Walker said after
discussions with the Community
Aviation Consultation Group,
they hoped the trial would keep
most people happy.
"We think it will be of positive
benefit to the community," Mr
Walker said.
The announcement goes
hand-in-hand with the Gold
Coast Airport's Smart Tracking
System, which was officially
switched on when Deputy Prime
Minister Warren Truss visited at
the end of November.
Mr Truss said the satellitebased system would make the
airport serviceable at times
when it might otherwise be
closed.
The Smart Tracking system,
already in place in most major
Australian airports, will allow
jets to have a shorter approach
to the airport and is expected to
save 950 tonnes of CO2 being
released each year.
Mr Walker said the satellitebased system would mean safer
approaches in adverse weather
conditions.

06

Summer 2015

Government Opposes Ballina Sports Centre
Greens NSW sports spokesperson Jeremy Buckingham has condemned
the Baird government for opposing a motion in favour of building
a multi-purpose sports centre for Ballina, saying that the National
Party is failing to deliver for the people and particularly the children
of Ballina. It’s been over five years since the indoor sports and events
centre was approved by Ballina Shire Council.
"The Greens moved this motion in parliament to put the issue of a multipurpose sports centre for Ballina on the political agenda," said Buckingham.
"It is disappointing that the government opposed the motion and continues
to drag its feet on this issue."
"Why do other major centres enjoy this kind of facility, but a growing
Ballina misses out? It is not fair and the Greens will continue to campaign
to have funds and land committed to a new sports centre."
Mr Buckingham plans to move a motion that calls on the NSW
government to fund the construction of the centre and recognise that Ballina is the only town of its size in New
South Wales that does not have a multi-court indoor sporting facility.
He argues that the potential for a modern, world-class indoor sports facility in Ballina would support the 2018
Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast, and boost the regional economy.

Byron Wins Community of the Year
The
Byron
Bay
Community
Association has been
awarded the Prime
Super Community of
the Year Award Population
Over 15,000. The Association
is a social enterprise providing
services and support to
disadvantaged and low income
members of their community.
They deliver high quality cultural
and community participation

programs to connect
and enrich the lives
of local residents.
Over the course of
a year, the Byron
Community Centre assists
over 30,000 disadvantaged,
poor and homeless individuals
from the community through
programs and initiatives
including: Emergency food
relief and assistance to those in
financial crisis, a No interest loan

Scheme, financial counselling
and Tax Assistance, counselling
services, a local soup kitchen and
a local refugee program. With
a team of 250 volunteers who
man reception, the Box Office,
provide Venue Management
Support, ushering, IT and
financial services, the Byron
Bay Community Association
has become an essential hub
for community members
throughout the region.

Macadamia Farming Success
A family of six brothers from Knockrow has been
named the 2014 Australian Macadamia Large
Grower of the Year.
The Dorey brothers traditionally grew sugar cane
but recognised that they needed to diversify and did
so with macadamias.
Col Dorey says to remain in the cane industry
they needed to get bigger and buy more land
whereas macadamias increased their agricultural
intensity 8 to 10-fold. So 25 years ago they trialled
macadamias.
"It was one way of us doing some succession
planning and not having to buy more land to do that
and to increase our agricultural intensity," he said.
"They've done far better than what we'd ever
anticipated, beyond our wildest dreams really
and that give us the confidence to plant more
macadamias," he said.

Ken, Col, and Spencer Dorey with their trophy

"I think the environment and the soils that we do
have on the floodplain are proving to be better for
growing macadamias."
The results were so good that the brothers gave
up cane farming completely, but not without some
initial concern early on.
Mr Dorey says they've found farming on the
floodplain is at least double or more productive than
in traditional macadamia growing areas.

www.nrbm.com.au

the round up
Bruns Old and Gold a Winner
We’d like to extend
a big congratulations
to our very own
Linda Hibbard, Bruce
McMaster and Kim Rosen
representing the Brunswick Old
and Gold Festival which has
taken out the Dobija World
Events and Tourism Awards.
The event attracts over
10,000 people with the whole
town holding All Town Garage
Sales, four second hand and
collectables fairs, and family
friendly old fashioned affordable
fun. The Old and Gold Festival has
encouraged over eleven second
hand businesses specialising in
recycling and vintage products
to open up which have become
tourism attractions all year round
within the community. Recently
over 19 community groups
raised $9,000 during the event.
Our new 2015 Calendars

are now on sale at the
visitor centre at the
special price of $8.50
each or 5 for $35. They
make great Christmas presents
and you support the community
at the same time.
Finally we’d like to put a call
out for Azi Currie, a year 10
student at Mullumbimby High
School who has been selected to
represent Australia at the United
Nations Youth conference at The
Hague at the end of this year as
one of the 18 best and brightest
young people from around
Australia. We know she will be
an outstanding representative
of our local area on the world
stage.
Azi needs to raise over $8,000
to allow her to make this oncein-a-lifetime trip. Contributions
may be made direct to:
www.gofundme.com/bzbzvo

Postcards from Byron

Strong Growth for the Lismore Chamber
of Commerce
The Chamber has had a productive year, with a growing membership
and strong participation at our Business After Hours (BAH). Hosted by
a different member each month,
these regularly attract 70+ guests
and are a fantastic way to meet
like-minded business owners and
make authentic connections.
More than 250 people
attended The Lismore Business
Excellence Awards at Lismore BAH at Black Sombrero
City Hall in August which
recognised the outstanding businesses in the 2480 region. Awards
covered every category from retail to professional services, with EcoTeam
winning Business of the Year and Black Sombrero awarded Best New
Business.
At the recent Chamber AGM, the Board of Directors for 2015 were
elected, with Ellen Kronen taking on the role of Chair, Andrew Gordon
and Rodney Jenkins sharing Vice Chair, Art Beavis as Secretary and newly
elected board member Rebecca Lane as Treasurer.
The alliance with the NSW Business Chamber is growing stronger all
the time with our members benefitting from a range of services, with the
Energetics program proving very popular!
“We have exciting plans for a revitalised events program designed to
give our members practical skills, knowledge and support in structured
events and more informal groups including the Tri-Series Workshops,
Business before Breakfast, Lunchtime Learning and Business after Hours”,
said Ellen Kronen, newly elected Chair.
“2015 will be an exciting year for the Chamber and I am committed
to providing strong leadership and will be very involved in encouraging
more businesses to not only join, but get involved!”
You can find out more at lismorechamber.com.au.

Festivals Abound in the Clarence
Byron United’s anti-graffiti
campaign has launched a new
program called Postcards from
Byron with the completion of a
mural outside the Bay Seafood
Market.
Postcards from Byron is being
piloted to find a more holistic
approach to tackling the CBD’s
increasing graffiti. The program
brings together local artists and
youth, to mentor and produce
art, on the town’s graffiti black
spots.
By creating murals on
business premises that are
repeatedly targeted with graffiti
we are hopeful this approach
will succeed in deterring

www.nrbm.com.au

tagging while creating art on
our streets for all to enjoy.
Program partners for the
current mural include, Bay
Seafood Market, Nortec Small
Business Support and INTRA
Youth Service.
Other
works
by
commissioned artist, Davey
McElvenny
f ro m
Stay
Gold Studio include Bondi
Promenade, North Bondi Rock
Pool and North Bondi.
Expressions of interest are
open for artists and businesses
who would like to join the
program by contacting project
co-ordinator Francis Cloake on
0401 592 114.

Grafton has had another great Jacaranda festival with many
interstate and international visitors enjoying our Clarence
hospitality. The week long festivities create a big positive economic
and social impact for our community.
There is a full calendar of events throughout the year that we
encourage everyone to get involved with and support.
Next up at the beginning of December is the Head of the Clarence
River Regatta which is again expected to draw a large number
of schools to compete. In the past crews have come from New
Zealand, Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, Gold Coast and of course the
competitive Clarence Valley schools.
What an amazing day we had on the 18th October! Thank you
to everyone who came to Surf the Coldstream festival this year. The
feedback we’ve received from festival goers has been tremendous,
with people loving the buskers who brought the town to life during
the morning, the kids and family activities in the afternoon, the quality
fare on offer at the food village and of course all the performers who
entertained the gathered masses throughout the afternoon and into
the night.

Summer 2015

07

company profile

business matters

biz tips

All Pest Solutions

When Josh McIntosh decided to create All Pest Solutions in
early 2014, he was determined that the new company would
set lofty standards in not only quality and efficiency, but also
customer service and satisfaction in the Pest Control Industry.
Those same refreshing ethics and service standards are the
backbone of their now successful Northern Rivers operation.
How did the business come about?
With over ten years in pest control, I
handpicked a team knowing exactly what
was needed in order to build a successful
business. All thoroughly trained and qualified,
our 9-strong crew boasts a collective 75+
years’ experience in the industry. Our tight
knit team are as passionate as they are
professional, with customer service an
absolute priority, which is the driving force
behind the success of the business.
What is the key business focus for your
success?
Customer service. Most of our
business is generated by referrals, word
of mouth and repeat customers, which
is why our staff always aim to provide a
pleasurable experience for customers, thus
ensuring repeat business and ongoing
recommendations for us to their friends or
family.
We have a checklist system that the
customer signs off when the job is completed
which confirms the work that has been
done, how it was carried out and that they
are satisfied with how it was carried out. This
way both parties can confirm that the work
went to plan and any areas of concern can
be addressed immediately.
So how do you ensure such high quality
customer service?
Customer care and professionalism is
rewarded and recognised by a system that
both rewards customers for referrals and
provides team incentives for jobs completed
100% successfully.
We also follow up with a reminder service

08

and a courtesy call when a property is due
for its regular pest control treatment. This is
another opportunity to ensure that customer
satisfaction is maintained, that they’re happy
with the service and that the product worked.
So as a team what sets All Pest Solutions
apart?
We are part of a trade that is continually
changing and advancing in technology,
products, and methods of treatment, so
it’s vital for our staff to undertake regular
training. Internally, the team has regular tool
box meetings to discuss issues, concerns, or
to share positive experiences. This enables us
to share our ideas and offer our knowledge
and advice to each other in relation to trade
specific issues. We also send our staff for
regular trade courses and accreditations.
Historically the pest control industry has
had a poor environmental record. How
do you address this?
We recognise the importance of using
environmentally friendly, low impact
procedures and environmentally sensitive
products. In the past harmful products were
used as a method of treatment. Thankfully,
due to scientific and technological advances
in products and application methods, as well
as stronger guidelines set out by government
bodies, it is now possible to provide effective
treatments with low environmental impact.
How is the business involved in the
community?
We are so lucky to work & live in such a
beautiful part of the world. It’s a fantastic
community and we are involved with many
community events. We support events and

provided prizes for
local fundraisers
including a local
boy, Matt Kelly
who suffers
from cerebral
palsy
and
Saving Suze a
local lady who
lost her home
to fire and also
international support for
flood victims in the Philippines.
We’re also involved in the organisation of
a suicide prevention event in order to raise
awareness and create a support network
for people in the local community. This is a
strong issue in the community at present and
directly influences staff within the business,
and has passionate and enthusiastic support
and involvement of our entire team.
So when you’re not working, where do
you go out and about?
My children are involved in a lot of local
sporting events so I spend most weekends in
different areas of the Northern Rivers: Touch
Footy Games, Little Nippers, Rugby League
etc.
This young company certainly ticks all the
boxes for commitment and professionalism
which reflects in their growing success. All
Pest Solutions was also recently recognised
for its commitment to both staff and
customers in ensuring that the highest
safety systems are followed by winning the
2014 Ballina Business Excellence Awards Workplace Safety.

www.nrbm.com.au

www.allpestsolutions.com.au

business matters

green biz

Cost vs Quality

David Copperthwaite, Nickel Energy

W

hy does a customer purchase what appears on the face of
it to be the same product but knowingly pay more?
We love using technology to find the best prices for
purchases we make, especially on higher priced items. When it
comes to purchasing Solar however, the perceived savings can soon
evaporate like dew under a hot sun (excuse the pun).
I googled some systems for research and as a solar business
owner it amazed me what is out there. To the average buyer it all
looks the same. Same equipment and warranties and pictures of
happy customers holding babies. The brand names are the same give
or take, so how can there be such a difference in price?
It comes down to the balance of a system like the quality of
cable, electrical isolators and after sales service. You should take
into account how much time and money the business invests in staff
training and due diligence. Does the company employ accredited
staff ? Or are they using subcontractors to hold licenses on their
behalf?
It's a minefield and there are many companies who acquire the
products they sell through outside markets or third party channels.
These goods are distributed without a manufacturer’s authorisation
and may place the consumer at risk. There is no customer support
or warranty service for products purchased in this way and
manufacturers are starting to deny service & warranty claims for
these products that have bypassed the correct distribution channels.
Even the best equipment money can buy has issues from time
to time and any business will be judged not on how they sold or
installed the product but how they support it.

Then of course there is the installation. I can hear my
dad now "Son, if you pay peanuts you get monkeys". He was
right (as usual). Great tradesmen demand a salary that reflects the
work they do. It's no different to a Doctor or Solicitor. Good installers
have done their time and demonstrated that they do compliant
and neat installs consistently and they invest time to learn new
technology and understand a market that is changing by the week.
My advice is simple.
1. Always get 3 quotes and make sure you are comparing apples
for apples.
2. Ask questions and make sure you give suitable time to listen
to the people that are trying to sell something to you. One of
them may just give you the information you need to buy the
right product.
3. Try and find someone local or if that fails someone who has
been around for years not months. It's hard to pull the wool
over people's eyes for an extended period of time.
For more info visit: nickelenergy.com.au.

He’s an Environmental Warrior.
Saving The Planet And Your Money. Win Win.
At Nickel Energy we love helping local businesses save power and
energy but what we really like is saving businesses money. It’s good
for the environment but even better for your bottom-line. We call it our
Win Win Solution. As part of our comprehensive, value-based service,
we will develop a true understanding of your energy use and then apply
the right system configuration to maximise your savings.
Add to that our industry-beating 7 year warranty and you’ll have complete
peace of mind that your energy solution will save money for your
business and lower your environmental impact. It’s all about Win Win.

Phone: 1300 722 527
www.nickelenergy.com.au
Solar Power • Air-Conditioning • Solar Hot Water

10

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business matters

banking & finance

Investors Need to Think Globally

Kai Hansen, Morgans

A

s 97% of all listed equities are
traded outside of Australia, it’s
not surprising that investors find
themselves underweight global equities.
The core reason to invest offshore is to
access global influences which aren’t
accessible via the ASX.
International equities can offer investors
access to superior value, growth and/or
currency tailwinds relative to domestic. A
portfolio of purely domestic equities not
only limits opportunities, but also concentrates risks toward the Australian
and regional economies.
Why Invest Internationally and Considerations
The Australian sharemarket represents approximately 2% of the
world’s sharemarket capitalisation. Therefore, investing internationally
delivers the benefit of diversification. This is diversification to overseas
markets that may behave differently to the Australian sharemarket and
in providing access to industries that Australia's sharemarket delivers
only limited opportunities to access. These industries include healthcare/
pharmacy, consumer discretionary (global brands) and technology.
However, the yield on international shares is often lower than
Australian shares and does not include the benefit of franking credits so
the after tax impact of investing offshore should be considered. Income
from international shares may also be subject to withholding tax.
Currency translation can have a positive or a negative impact on
returns depending on the state of global markets and the value of the
AU$ vs US$.

International equities can be
bought directly, indirectly via a pooled
investment such as a managed fund
or via an Exchange Traded Fund (ETF).
If bought directly, investors need to
consider transaction costs and holding
costs. International shares may be held
directly (via certification) or indirectly via
a custodial arrangement.
Leverage to a softer AU$
Global currency re-alignment due to
the strengthening US$ remains Chief Economist Michael Knox’s highest
conviction call for 2014. The US Fed is now removing the monetary
stimulus to which equity markets had become addicted. Real growth is
picking up the slack, with US growth forecast to be above its long term
trend in 2015.
Additional headwinds for the AUD include:
1. weakening commodity prices.
2. weakening Australian Terms of Trade.
3. the recent willingness for the RBA to again jawbone the currency lower,
whether it acts on rates or not.
Timing is impossible to call, but we believe these headwinds will see
the AU$ eventually weaken. Again this supports offshore focused equities
with high proportions of US$ revenues.
As always, speak to an adviser to discuss the suitability of international
investments to your portfolio and to fully understand the implications of
currency exposure where applicable and how fluctuations may impact
returns.

Morgans is one of Australia’s largest national full-service
stockbroking and wealth management networks, assisting our
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The Northern Rivers office of Morgans, located in Ballina,
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02 6686 4144 | www.morgans.com.au/ballina-byronbay
12

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www.nrbm.com.au

12/03/2014 4:06:30 PM

business matters

banking & finance

Internal Management &
Board Reporting
Adam Bradfield, TNR Chartered Accountants

O

ne area that’s often overlooked with businesses and many
corporate organisations is the value of having the right
information at your disposal. You might be a Business
Owner, Middle or Top-Line Manager, Director or Board Member or
simply an employee – each ‘stakeholder’ has different ‘reporting’
needs to enable them to make informed decisions and perform
their duties properly.
Some questions to ask yourself are:
• Have you ever been to a meeting and become frustrated by not
having the information you wanted in front of you?
• You have strong internal reporting mechanisms – but is there
too much focus on preparing and not enough time analysing or
improving your organisation?
• Are your performance measures clear and transparent?
• How does your organisation compare to best-practice?
It’s not hard to prepare the basic ‘financial information’ such as
profit and loss, actual vs budget etc. It’s the non-financial information
which is more subjective and more susceptible to errors or not
being available on a timely basis. This is often due to the systems
used to record and monitor this data are either manual processes or
require third-party input. However, this information is often critical
as either a lead or lag indicator of financial performance.
I’ve also seen organisations where management ‘do not trust’
the information coming out of various systems (be it financial
or non-financial) and then they create systems and processes –

»
»
»
»
Thomas Noble & Russell
31 Keen & 26 Bounty Streets
LISMORE NSW 2480
www.nrbm.com.au

outside of the existing
systems and processes –
to satisfy themselves with
the resulting data. A very
inefficient process! Does this
sound like you? Could you be
more effective with your time?
We’ve had some recent success
with reviewing organisational reporting. Our experience in this area
extends across businesses from 20 to 5000+ employees - the larger
organisations often have good internal reporting mechanisms and
I’ve found that adopting some of their quality processes to smaller
entities vastly improves the relevance and reliability of reporting to
management or the Board. Many of these best-practice measures
are simple and cost-effective to implement and don’t require extra
resources or investment and encompass both Operational and
Strategic initiatives.
Being the region’s largest provider of Accounting, Audit &
Assurance, Business Services & Taxation and Business Advisory
services enables us to reflect on our experiences across almost all
industries and business types.
If you’re seeking a Chartered Accountant who can provide
cost-effective and value-added recommendations to your internal
management and Board reporting mechanisms, please contact
your TNR Partner on 6626 3000.

Audit & Assurance
Taxation & Business Services
Information Technology
Due Diligence & Corporate
Governance
www.tnr.com.au
Keen St Phone: (02) 6621 8544
Bounty St Phone: (02) 6626 3000
13

business matters

banking & finance

Refinancing - Have You
Reviewed Your Loans Lately?
John Bryant, Southern Cross Credit Union

T

oday’s lending market is competitive. This means that shopping
around to refinance or consolidate your home, personal or
business loans could be a good idea. Refinancing your loan can
potentially bring you substantial savings and benefits.
Many of us have had the same loan with the same lender for
many years. It is a good idea to review your loans from time to time
to make sure you are getting value for money.
To decide if refinancing is a good option, it is important to assess
if you are likely to benefit from refinancing by asking some important
questions:
• Is the interest rate competitive?
• What fees are attached to the loan?
• What are the costs involved with refinancing my loan?
• Will refinancing be of financial benefit in the long term?
• Am I happy with the service provided by my current lender?
• Do the features of the loan meet my current needs?
Refinancing takes time and can cost money so it’s best to be clear
about why you want to refinance. You can do the research yourself
or ask a financial institution to help you find a loan that suits your
situation and make sure the refinance will benefit you in the long
term.
How Does Refinancing Work?
You apply for a new loan and use all or part of the funds to
payout your existing loan. You can explore refinancing through your
existing lender as well as other lenders.

3.R9F9IXE%D pRaATE
1 YEA
5.37AR%ISpOaN
COMP *
RATE

Why Would You Refinance Your Current Loan?
Most people refinance for one or more of the following reasons:
• To get a better interest rate
• To borrow extra money to renovate their home or other
worthwhile purpose such as buying a new car or taking a holiday
• To consolidate debts by rolling them into a single loan at a
reduced interest rate
• Switching to a loan that better suits current needs and
circumstances
How Do You Start The Refinancing Process?
Decide on what you intend to achieve by refinancing. It could
be to reduce your repayments, consolidate debts or borrow more
funds to renovate your home. Once you decide what you want to
achieve by refinancing make time to talk to an experienced lender
who can guide you through the process to make sure that you get
the outcome you intended.
Southern Cross Credit Union is a customer-owned, community
based, financial cooperative with 10 branches located throughout
the Northern Rivers. To organise an obligation free review of your
loans by giving call: 0422 589 469.
Any advice given is of a general nature only and is not based on
any consideration of your objectives, financial situation and needs.
Terms and conditions, fees and charges may apply. Products
issued by Southern Cross Credit Union Ltd. AFSL/Australian Credit
License No: 241000.

A HOME LOAN WITH
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www.sccu.com.au 1300 360 744

ABN 82 087 650 682 Australian Credit Licence 241000. Eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, fees and charges apply. New business only.
Available on loans of $200,000 or more. *Based on a $250,000 loan repayable over 25 years.
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www.nrbm.com.au
13/11/14 11:44 AM

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business matters

fire safety

First Aid for Workers and Visitors.
Stephen Paul, Safety and Fire Education

D

uring a recent audit of a
multi tenanted retail facility
I was asked about the
defibrillator that is installed on site.
There are only basic instructions
and no one on site is trained on its
use. This led to the question of what
is the obligation of the building
manager if someone should need
it and who will operate it?
So as a business owner or
manager what are your obligations?
The provision of immediate and
effective first aid to workers or Realistic training is the best way to provide skills
visitors, who have been injured or and confidence to deal with real emergencies
have become ill, is the obligation of
the person conducting business.
The provision of effective First Aid may reduce the severity of the
injury or illness, and may promote a more rapid recovery for the patient.
Which is good for everyone.
Workplaces have different risk ratings and these ratings effect the
first aid requirements as follows:
Low Risk: Workers are generally not exposed to hazards that could
result in serious injury or illness, for example offices, shops or libraries.
High Risk: Workers could be exposed to hazards that could result in
serious injury or illness, for example factories or motor vehicle workshops.
Some of the regulations outlining the obligations of the business
owner are as follows:

» Workplace Safety Training
» Fire & Emergency Response
» Fire Warden Training
» Fire Safety Officer Training
» Evacuation Procedures & Diagrams
» Apply First Aid
» Perform CPR
» Hazardous Manual Handling
» Infection Control
» Workplace Health & Safety

The Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 place specific
obligations on Business Owners to:
• Provide first aid equipment and make sure each worker has access
to equipment.
• Ensure access to facilities to administer first aid.
• Ensure an adequate number of workers are trained to administer
first aid at the workplace.
• Ensure workers are aware of information and know how to carry
out first aid.
The Code of Practice on First Aid in the Workplace outlines how
many first aiders different types of workplaces should have:
• Low risk workplaces - one first aider for every 50 workers.
• High risk workplaces - one first aider for every 25 workers.
The following is a list of training that's relevant for your
workplace:
• Provide First Aid - provides ability to recognise and respond
to common life threatening injuries or illnesses. This includes
providing life support using CPR and managing the casualty and
incident until the arrival of medical assistance.
• Provide advanced CPR.
• Provide Basic Emergency Life Support.
• Provide Advanced First Aid.
• First Aid Management of Anaphylaxis or Asthma Management.
• Infection Control.
• Manual Handling
Should you wish to audit your first aid needs or to discuss tailored
first aid training contact S.A.F.E on 02 6624 7000.

Safety and Fire Education comes to you with extensive
industry experience including 15 years in the health service
and over 20 years in emergency services. Our trainers are
highly qualified in all areas of safety and adult education.
Training is delivered with direct relevance and quality. We
believe that consultation is the key to successful and targeted
adult learning.
Our guarantee is that all training provided will be tailored to
your working environment through extensive consultation with
you.

From Port Macquarie to Tweed Heads and the Greater West – We Come To You
Be Safe – Train with S.a.F.E:

safetyandfireeducation.com.au 02 6624 7000
16

[email protected]
www.nrbm.com.au

A

bbie Gibson’s RAW Natural
Born Artists initiative has
changed the lives of local
artists by providing a platform for
creative talent to showcase their work
and make a living. “Helping artists to
do what they love best is a pleasure to
be part of. I love that Byron celebrates
its creative industry and values the
innovation this can bring to our
economy: It’s the ever evolving nature
of Byron and the willingness to help
each other that makes a difference.”
"My partner Guy and I drove our
kids across the Nullarbor from WA
and we decided to give ourselves a
beautiful sea change. The rest so they
say is history!"
RAW currently employs between
10-20 people per showcase (each
month) as well as a number of
volunteers who help scout, produce
and curate the show.
So what does this entertainment
guru do when just hanging around
Byron? “My favourite Sunday would be
to spend the day under the umbrella
at Wategos with a coffee, reading the
paper and pondering on how good life
can be!”

u

i

wan
S
n
n

rde

rtIn
Sta

no

I

f you were putting the call out for
an entrepreneur with a passion for
creative technology and business
innovation you wouldn’t need to
go any further than Dan Swan. Dan
launched his newest endeavour in
November, StartInno, working with
startup businesses to get a hold on the
marketplace and accelerate business
success.
“Byron attracts some amazing
creative and entrepreneurial talent. We
are discovering new businesses every
day with products made in Byron and
exported to the world, this is definitely
a hub for startup innovation.”
"We moved to Byron 3 years ago
from Sydney. We both always dreamed
of opening a cafe and co-share in Byron
and StartInno and 100 Mile Table are
our dreams realised. Sarah employs 5
full/part time staff and StartInno has
just launched and we have 6 businesses
in the co-share, 4 are in our Business
Accelerator program."
So where does Dan love to hang
out in Byron? Our co-share space in
the Arts and Industry estate. Caveat
is my wife's startup 100 Mile Table is
downstairs - a great creative space.

“It’s an exciting time to be working with businesses in the Byron Shire
and seeing the energy people are putting into creating enterprises of
substance. I don’t expect any less from those who choose Byron as
their base; it’s what ensures we create a sustainable economy and one
that enhances the Byron identity - it’s never ‘at all costs’ here.”
Jane Laverty, Economic Development & Tourism Coordinator, Byron Shire Council
Contact Byron Shire Council’s Economic Development Team
on 6626 7222 or email [email protected]
to talk about establishing or expanding your business in the Byron Shire

www.nrbm.com.au

Summer 2015

byron - a vibrant economy of entrepreneurial creative people

B

rookfarm is a local legend,
having established their
following of dedicated foodies
at the Bangalow markets in 1999, this
now global brand continues to thrive as
a major employer in the region.
Will Brook, a young family man
who has a passion for people and a
determination for growing employment
and opportunities in the Byron Shire
says, “operating from a regional area
means you have to think creatively
and this can be your competitive
advantage.”
"I work at Brookfarm not only
because it’s my family business but
because I personally have a real passion
for quality food. I’m lucky enough to
oversee a fantastic team of people who
are all passionate about creating great
tasting food and providing an excellent
service to our customers. We currently
employ 42 people."
Where does Will hang out around
Byron...
“My wife and I enjoy walks on the
beach or time on the farm with our
daughter, the Shire is a great place to
raise a family.”

eD
tiv

or - RAW
rect

Da

n

Gibson
e
i
b

Fo

u

o
c ti

nager - Brookfar
Ma
m

Cr
ea

Pro
d

W
i

ook
r
B
ll

Ab

rethink byron

17

rethink byron

Placebased Strategy -

Wave of Consequence by local creative
Zana Wright
Mural by Howie Cooke

Byron Bay Town Centre is undergoing a 360
degree review – and whilst there’s no disputing
the vibe of this iconic destination, a place that is
loved by locals and visitors alike, we also know
that one of the best strategies is to improve on
your strengths. If we work together now we can
ensure Byron’s identity is maintained and our
brand and community values respected. All of
the Shire’s towns and villages are what makes
the Byron Shire so special, combine this with
passionate people and it’s not hard to understand
why we want to promote the message –
‘don’t spoil us, we’ll spoil you …’

“activating public space in a
positive way can bring new life and
vitality to a town centre“
Cr Simon Richardson, Mayor

In partnership with the Byron Bay
Surf Festival, Council initiated a pilot
activation project, closing Bay Lane
to traffic for the night and filling the
space with music, art, food and festivity.

18

NORTHERN RIVERS

MAGAZINE

Summer 2015

www.nrbm.com.au

designing the future together
O

ver the coming months residents, businesses and visitors will have the opportunity to get involved, be inspired, have fun
and share their ideas for imagining the future of the Byron Bay Town Centre. Through each stage of the planning process
community, businesses, landholders and visitors are invited to be genuine participants in ‘our plan’.
There’s a dedicated website for the project byronbayourplan.com.au, where you can tell us your big idea, do the mapping
exercise and subscribe for newsletter updates.

A masterplan for the future

Be involved, it’s our plan

B

M

yron Shire is embracing a strategic perspective
for future development. Working with a team
of highly qualified and experienced consultants,
McGregor Coxall, Byron Shire Council with the Byron
Community are exploring our current and future needs
– what’s working, what’s not, what are the unique
qualities of the town centre and how we can shape the
future.
The Byron Bay Town Centre Masterplan will provide
a long term creative and innovative framework for a
revitalised town centre whilst ensuring that Byron Bay’s
character is preserved and enhanced.
The Masterplan will synthesize the goals developed
through rigorous community engagement over
a 12 month period and define a realistic plan for
implementation.

aking effective decisions about a complex place
such as a town centre requires considered
thinking.
Through the 2012 Community Strategic Plan
process, the community said; Council should renew
and maintain its existing infrastructure and support a
diverse economic base. The decision to proceed with
the creation of a Byron Bay Town Centre Masterplan is
responding to these community aspirations.
The Byron Bay Town Centre Masterplan will be a
fully integrated design and placemaking exercise that is
designed for community, by community. People are the
focus first and foremost.
By Council dedicating time and resources to work
closely with the community to realise a new approach
for the Byron Bay Town Centre, we will create
opportunities for the future; a revitalised place for living
and a celebration of our uniqueness.

byronbayourplan.com.au

rethink byron

Community engagement – BIG IDEAS and Town Centre Map Flagging

Day & Night
crowds in
Bay Lane

www.nrbm.com.au

19

rethink byron

“B

yron’s economic strength is linked to its iconic brand identity and appetite
for entrepreneurial enterprises with boutique or niche offerings. Our food,
creative and visitor economies, supported by our knowledge economy, have
the capacity to compete in the global market and attract dollars back into the region.”

Suvira McDonald, Artist
Lived in Byron over 20 years as a visual/ceramic artist
’m a dancer turned sculptor now contributing to the presence of
public art in the shire. There are many like-minded people here and
the sense of community is strong, not to mention the abundance of
nature and its exquisite beauty both in the ocean and the hinterland.
Favourite hang outs - My rainforest studio, the beach, forest walks and Mullumbimby.

I

Jane Magnus, Byron Bay Weddings & Events
Moved to Byron 12 years ago and founded my business in 2006.
Employ 1 full time person and up to 50 staff on some events.
ur clients come from all over Australia as well as London, New
York, Hong Kong. Byron is such a wonderful place to share with
the world. Operating my business from Byron means I can be walking the
beaches and still working on my phone or my iPad and enjoying the lifestyle.
Favourite hang outs - I love the cafes and dog walking on the beach.

O

Dominic Finlay-Jones, Architect
Moved to Bangalow in 2006, and set up my business 5 years ago.
Currently employ 3 people and growing.
egional practices have to be flexible, we love the diversity of Byron
Shire. You can employ a builder who’s worked on high-end city
architectural projects, and source materials and custom fabrications from
local craftsmen who go back generations. It’s a unique mix that allows us to achieve the
best for our clients.
Favourite hang outs - Whites, Wategos, or Cosy Corner when the northerly is up.

R

Belinda Hultgren, Circus Arts Byron Bay
We've been running now for 8 years. We employ 25 people.
yron has always been home for me so it’s wonderful to now have a
business here. We’re an indoor activity centre for the whole family,
hosting Australia's first indoor flying trapeze, a rock climbing wall, play
space, cafe, yoga studio, performances and a huge variety of circus skills
classes available for all ages and abilities.
Favourite hang outs - family walks, scootering, bike rides and of course the beach.

B

Massimo Scalas, Salumi
map
Byron Shire Council has a fun ‘trails’
r
you
that will help you, your guests and
gs
thin
customers find a swag of exciting
n.
to see and do in, and around, Byro
Best of all.. its

FREE!

Byrotrnails
the

It comes in handy tear-off pads of 100...
If you’d like some for your customers,
just contact Byron Shire Council
[email protected] 6626 7000

Lived here 10 years, Salumi 4 years. We employ 11 people.
missed the wonderful salumi of my homeland of Sardinia. So after 4
years, and a huge learning curve, we are now selling our range in every
capital city in the country from our factory in Billinudgel. Our innovative
and passionate farmers in the region, provide us with some of the best raw
ingredients in the country.
Favourite hang outs - local Farmers Market, great coffee, great produce, lots of fun!

I

J'aimee Skippon-Volke, Byron Bay Film Festival
Living here 16 years, BBFF Est. 2005. Team of 50+ when we’re on.
e’re a boutique event with a lot of passion driving it. Our
agenda is to boost our local film industry. BBFF received a high
commendation at the Creative Laureate Awards at Vivid for promoting
NSW as a creative state worldwide. Love the people, the connection and
that you’re not pushed to downsize your dreams
Favourite hang out – At the movies of course!

W

www.nrbm.com.au
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18/11/2014 11:44 am

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business matters

business efficiency

Innovation by Design
Clayton Oates, QA Business

H

ave you ever wondered how technology companies come up
with that “Next Big Thing” that changes our world?
I was recently invited to attend a Conference in San Jose
(Geek Heaven – Silicon Valley), where I was fortunate to get a sneak
peak and hands on experience into just how the innovation by design
process actually works. It got me thinking on how we all can apply
some of these innovation guidelines to our own businesses and the
customers and clients that we work with.
3 simple pillars underpin the innovation process. The first is to
fully understand the customer, striving to know them better than
they know themselves; this process invokes the principle of Deep
Customer Empathy. This is achieved by going on a “Customer
Safari”, observing the way the client does certain things in their
business, identifying an actual problem that needs solving and further
understanding how it would benefit the customer to have this issue
resolved.
Too often we jump into solution/sales mode before really knowing
what the customer is asking for. By using questions we can bring
out some shared discovery of facets of the situation that were
previously unknown by both ourselves and our customers. Comedian
Billy Connolly summed this up best when he said “Don’t look for
people who have all of the answers, search for people who strive to
understand the actual question.”
Once the need is understood then it’s time to come up with possible
solutions, the notion of Going Broad before Going Narrow is the
second pillar of the process. Often in small teams of up to 6 (you can
also do this individually) the brainstorming begins. Sometimes there

is an awkward
silence
at
the start as
no-one wants
to go out on
a limb with an
idea, however we
were encouraged
to list all ideas.
Importantly no idea is
prejudged or evaluated
at this phase, just get down as
many solutions as possible before moving on to choosing one to
run with.
This then took us into the next phase which involved the rapid
experimentation of the idea with select customers. This test and
measure phase invariably leads to either the validation of the chosen
solution or the need to pivot from the idea tested and re-select
an alternative solution to again run through the test and measure
process.
Supporting all of this in the organisation was the commitment to
Unstructured Time in the workplace, where 10% of an employees
work time is allotted to pursue ideas and tap into the creative side
of their thinking. After all it’s usually your team members that have
the closest interaction with your customers so it makes sense to
involve them in identifying and designing the solutions that are most
needed.

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www.nrbm.com.au

business matters

biz tips

Does Your Team 'Have to' or 'Want to'?
Jamie Cunningham

T

here are not many businesses out there where the results of
the business are not massively affected by the people who
work there. In fact there are none.
Knowing this is true, how much effort and emphasis should be
placed on your philosophy and practices concerning your people?
My thought … lots.
I commonly hear business owners complaining about how hard
it is to find good people; the stress and inconvenience caused by
employees etc. Yes people are complex, that is what makes us
human – and you don’t have a business without them.
People are your staff and they are your customers. They are
your suppliers and your financiers. How they feel about you and
your business is going to greatly influence how easily and well you
grow your business.
I don’t know the stats, but if I had to guess I’d say that >80%
of employees are engaged well below what makes them happy
and fulfilled. Now those words ‘happy and fulfilled’ make some
business owners cringe …
“I mean shouldn’t they just be happy they have a job. They
should be thanking me!”
That attitude is fine if you’re happy with below average people,
by which I mean people who are not inspired or engaged. The fact
is we all want to be and feel loved and cared about. We are selfish
creatures primarily concerned with how we feel. For some this is a
lesson we’d rather not hear. It’s too soft and emotional.
In contrast, today's business environment is sprouting a new
breed of business that is employee centric. These businesses (think
Zappo’s, Google, Netflix ) know that when their team feel cared for,

engaged and challenged, they pass that on to the customer who
in turn feels great about the business.
Have you ever been served a coffee by someone frowning? It
might physically be the best coffee in the world but you don’t
necessarily get that feeling from it. You may not even consciously
notice – it’s just that the experience is ‘just ok’. Compare that to
being served a coffee by someone with a genuine smile who, when
they look you in the eye, communicate “I really hope you enjoy this.
I made it for you” and there is a hand drawn smiley face on the lid.
There is a tangible difference.
The same goes for all people who interact and connect with
your business. Does your team ‘want to’ be there or feel they
‘have to’ be there? How people feel after they interact with your
business is a telling sign for the sustainability and potential for
greatness of your business. Take it seriously. It should be one of
your top priorities.

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23

business matters

uniforms & workwear

Creative Corporate Dressing

W

elcome back to our latest edition of NRBM Soraya. Today we
are discussing creative corporate dressing, so set the scene
for us.
There are not too many things in life that are completely black and
white, but when it comes to corporate dressing it has often been just
that. From bankers to lawyers, a more formal working environment
generally called for less variety in the clothing department.
However we are seeing changes in this trend. As long as fit, fabric
and style are considered, corporate wear can be a sophisticated affair.
The key with corporate dressing is that your overall look needs to be
slick, refined and professional. Whether you’re attending an important
client lunch or standing up in front of a crowded boardroom to deliver
a presentation, you will want to keep the focus off what you’re wearing
and on what you’re doing. A tailored suit is the go-to for these lines of
work, completed with well-cut shirts and tops. NNT Corporate range
use quality fabrics and modern design to offer contemporary and
sophisticated suiting options.
What about workers in more creative environments?
For jobs in media or advertising, there is often more room to
experiment. Whilst maintaining a sense of professionalism, you will be
able to choose more relaxed pieces such as unstructured tailoring, a
short-sleeved shirt, vibrant colours and even statement prints.
However, why should the creatives get all the fun? We can all be
both corporate and creative.
What suggestions have you got on how to inject more personality
into our workwear?
I go by The ‘Rule Of One’. The best way to start incorporating creative
flair into your corporate wardrobe is by focusing on one item in each
outfit. This way, you won’t overpower the entire look or ‘go too far’.

Whether it’s including a printed piece, opting for a
textured shirt, adding a colourful bold belt or simply
the way you roll your sleeve cuffs, there
are many subtle tweaks we can make
to our current nine-to-five looks.
The most obvious accessory to
start with is your tie, belt or scarf. If
you’re wearing a black or charcoal
suit, your colour choices are almost
limitless. Here is the opportunity
to pick a shirt or top with a print
that will pair back nicely to your
suiting option for a wow factor.
For those with a navy suit try
lighter, complementary colours
such as sky blue, light pink, silver
grey.
You obviously know a lot about
putting together a working
wardrobe and creating a great
uniform design for any business.
For those not as confident, where
do they start?
That is what we are for, our staff are
trained in design and know what suits
different body shapes, work environments.
We can put the story together for individuals
or a whole business. For more information
visit: www.nnt.com.au or call 1300 921 125.

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24

www.nrbm.com.au

business matters

legal corner

Making Good, Breaking Bad

Jonathan Marquet, McCartney Young Lawyers
f Walter White, from the television series “Breaking Bad”, was
leasing premises for crystalized methamphetamine production,
in what condition would he leave the premises when the lease
ended?
Hypotheticals and illicit compound manufacturing aside, what
happens at the end of a lease has real consequences for landlords
and tenants.
Leases normally include “make good” provisions. Make good
provisions set out what needs to happen to complete the handover
of the premises when the lease ends. These clauses determine what
the tenant must do (or not do) to the premises before they hand
over the keys.
With residential tenancies, when tenants move out they need to
ensure the property is in the same condition as when they moved
in – fair wear and tear excepted. This will usually be satisfied by a
thorough clean and removal of all personal items.
But in commercial leases things are more complicated. It is
common for tenants to carry out fitout works – partitioning,
floor coverings, air-conditioning etc. It is also not unusual to have
commercial tenants in the premises for a significant length of time.
A tenant may transfer the lease or the landlord may sell the land,
so that when the lease ends no one is aware of what condition the
property was in when the lease began. This creates problems if the
lease says that the tenant must “make good” the premises to the
condition it was in at the start of the lease.
Also if the tenant has made key improvements what happens to
those improvements? Who owns those improvements? Are they to
be removed? What if the landlord wants to keep them?

I

The best time to
answer these types of
questions is not when
the lease ends.
The landlord and the
tenant need to negotiate
and agree on what is to
happen at the end of the
lease – what property
and improvements the
tenant may remove
and those that must be
removed – before the
lease begins. A lease that
includes these details will
give greater certainty
to the landlord (the
premises is a key asset
of theirs) and to the tenant (who does not want to unknowingly
be up for tens of thousands of dollars of costs to “make good”
the premises). In addition, setting out the ownership of fixtures
and improvements will provide guidance on which party may claim
depreciation on those items.
Next time you enter a lease, whether you are a landlord or a
tenant, ensure that you know exactly what “making good” the
premises will look like. Otherwise, as Walter White would say, “your
best course would be to tread lightly” because you might find
yourself in a dispute.

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26/08/2014 1:55 pm

25

business matters

real estate

What Price Should You
Accept When Selling?
Gail Fuller, Byron Coastal Real Estate
t’s always interesting when negotiating a sale and the price
that we ultimately feel comfortable accepting. So many factors
suddenly come into play.
The common comment is “it owes me this much” “I have spent
this much, so I want to cover my expenses” So the acceptance
price is determined on what the home owner has calculated they
have spent living there.
So I pose the question, when spending money on your home,
the place you reside and come home to each day, the place to
nurture and support you, did you at that moment decide that this
money is going to be added up when you sell and be included in
the sale figure on top of the initial purchase price?
I can confidently say No is the answer to that question. Would
you say “Actually I don’t what that pergola out the back to keep
the sun off during summer as I need to recover the cost at the
end when we move”? No you invest in the pergola to support and
create an environment for you to enjoy in summer.
We spend money on our homes to create an environment we
enjoy. We paint the walls, make additions, landscape the gardens,
so we can feel proud of our home. These additional items suit our
specific needs and how we like to live. We don’t spend money
thinking, how much we will get at the end?
The price we receive is largely determined by the market
conditions, the negotiating skills of your agent, and the
foundation they work from. Does your agent see your property as

I

26

just another sale
so they can meet
their individual
sales target? Or do
you have an agent
that cares and will
also be honest with you
and not afraid to tell you if
the price is too high, and make
solid recommendations to support you in achieving the best
price? Does your agent work in a team environment, where all
staff are working on your house to sell it?
Clearing clutter, packing away items not required, trimming
gardens and painting are but some of the simple items to begin
with.
Any additions will always support achieving a higher price in
the market place. It creates value in the buyer’s eyes and they
sense how much you have enjoyed living there. However, value
does not necessarily mean the market will pay for the money
you spend.
So in closing always consider why you are truly spending
money on improvements. Is it for you and your regard to the
way you wish to live, or are you only thinking of the money?
In which case, you will never truly receive the benefits of your
improvements.

www.nrbm.com.au

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business matters

employment & training

Employ the Best
Tony Bowden, Epic Employment Service Inc
inding the right person for the right job or the right job for
the right person can take a bit of sleuthing. You have to
make the right connections to link people together and join
the dots on what a business needs and what experience a person
has. So how can you make sure you’re a Hercules Poirot rather
than an Inspector Clouseau?
Business owners don't always have the time to write and
place job adverts and sort through endless resumes from online
advertisements. By using a professional employment consultant
they can simplify the whole process.
Look for an agency that has a wide network that can cover your
whole region, so they are able to draw jobseekers from a wide
area that have the appropriate skills for a particular job vacancy.
Your employment consultant should spend time understanding
both the skills needed for the job in question and also the business
‘personality’ – what kind of person will fit into the team dynamic.
It’s only by delving deeper than the job description they will be able
to find the right person for you.
A really good consultant will tell you if they don’t have the right
person rather than sending unsuitable jobseekers which would
waste time and money.
A good example of how an employment agency can help a
business is a real life situation where a jobseeker came to us with
a specific request and we managed to find a solution.
Our jobseeker client had a specific interest in the plumbing
trade and was attending a TAFE pre vocational plumbing course
with the aim of taking their interest further. What he needed now
was an opportunity to prove himself.

F

28

Solarhart is an
established local
Lismore plumbing
business run by
David Lewis and
we approached
David on behalf
of our client.
We set up a
Work
Experience
Agreement so our
jobseeker and the business
could spend time together in
the workplace to see if there was
potential. As part of the agreement the workplace insurance was
covered by EPIC.
Following the successful Work Experience, Solarhart were keen
to sign our participant on as an Apprentice Plumber. We helped
to arrange the sign up with the Australian Apprenticeship Centre
and provided financial assistance to buy uniforms as part of our
client support.
That’s not the end of the story though, even when our client is
placed we continue to track their progress for at least 6 months
to ensure everything is working out for both parties and to check
if there is any other support needed that we can help with.
Caren Reynolds from Epic Ballina comments: “This is a terrific
outcome, our jobseeker gained an apprenticeship in the trade they
were committed to and Solarhart gained a dedicated employee.”

www.nrbm.com.au

business matters

employment & training

IT ‘Must Haves’ for Your Business

Louise McCormack, Head Teacher IT, North Coast TAFE

W

hether you are a ‘start-up’ or
a well-established business,
planning a contemporary
information technology platform is
crucial to your success. Businesses
today that ignore IT do so at their peril,
it not only saves you time but gives you
access to markets and customers you
simply couldn’t reach otherwise.
Yes, it’s complex, and yes, it’s like
another language sometimes, but
there are some basic ‘no-brainers’ that
need to be in your IT approach from
day one.
As Head Teacher for IT for our Northern Rivers campuses, I
cover a huge range of business scenarios and issues that can arise.
It can be highly technical however, I can point to at least five ‘must
haves’ that are relevant for the modern business.
Of course, there are many important factors at play here, but
off the top of my head these are five critical aspects:
First, write down your basic business requirements that clearly
connect with technology; things like one central, accurate record
of all of your customers – including their needs and preferences
– and having a process that makes it easy for your customers to
buy your product or service
Second, if you don’t have the skills in-house, research and
choose a supplier who can take care of your business’ technology
while you take care of your business.

Third, even if you have a supplier,
learn to use a ‘behind the scenes’ content
management system so you can update
your website in a timely manner.
Fourth, get on board social media, but
be aware that it’s a very different space to
that occupied by “traditional” business
and marketing activities.
Fifth, get a clear understanding of the
legal requirements – privacy, copyright and
accessibility can be a minefield if you don’t
understand the basic requirements.
This might seem daunting, but I can
point to specific units in many of our IT courses that will deliver you the
knowledge to succeed with all these 'must-haves'.
We like to partner with businesses and have worked with many,
tailoring training to help the business to acquire this special IT capability
surprisingly easily.
Business owners can come along and acquire the knowledge
themselves and pass onto staff, or they might have someone on staff
that is perfect to take on the IT side of things. Alternatively you can recruit
a specialist.
Whichever way you go, it’s worth talking to experienced trainers to
discuss customised accredited training. We have even helped identify
recent TAFE graduates for some businesses and have solved the immediate
need.
For more information go to: northcoasttafe.edu.au or call
1300 628 233.

How to solve the IT challeng
e
for your business
The days are long gone when
you could run a
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iness without a
planned IT solution and a website
presence. Trouble
is, it requires specialist knowle
dge.
You could decide to acquire the
knowledge yourself,
or you might have someone on
staff who would be
perfect. Or you need to recruit.
Whichever way you go, North
Coast TAFE can
provide customised accredited
training for you or
help you identify a recent TAFE
graduate who might
solve your immediate need.
North Coast TAFE - Your Busines
s Advantage.
Visit northcoasttafe.edu.au or call
1300 628 233
to discover your competitive edg
e.

29

business matters

marketing

Sustainable Promotions
Ashley Burke-Smith, Cool Promo

W

hen it comes to marketing, everyone has an
opinion, including your customers. They’re savvy
and make influential buying decisions based
on their own interpretation of your marketing. So how
can you make sure your marketing dollar wins their
loyalty?
Imagine 2 firms with similar services, ABC Electrical
(ABC) and Sparkies123 (123). To many potential
customers there is nothing to choose between them.
Both firms join a local chamber and go to a
networking event to build their reputation and meet
new clients.
ABC ordered some cheap branded plastic pens to
hand out because there were cheap they could get 2000
of them. At the event ABC gave out 300 pens and still has
1700 for other marketing exercises.
123 ordered some branded bamboo pens. They were 50% more
expensive so they only ordered 1000. They also gave out 300 pens.
So far 123 has spent 50% more per pen and only have 700 pens
left for other activity.
Later that week two business owners were talking and one
needed a pen to write down a phone number. The first says “Here
use mine, I got it from 123, it’s really cool, it’s made from sustainable
bamboo. I want it back though; it works really well and I love the
feel of it.”
The other replies, “Wow – that is cool. Better than that crap one
I got from ABC it fell apart! In fact everyone who got one chucked
them in the bin – they’re rubbish.”

Web Design

|

Graphic Design

|

Social Media

Clearly you can see where this scenario
is going: Do you want to be the
owner of ABC, where your name is
associated with the words “crap”
and “rubbish” or do you want to
run 123, associated with “cool”
and “works really well”?
In the end, 123 has spent
less, got a better reputation AND
reduced its environmental impact.
123 has won more business and
can genuinely claim to be more
environmentally responsible – now
that’s cool!
ABC has spent more, got a poor
reputation, lost clients to its competitor and is
now known to buy cheap plastic ‘crap’. Very uncool!
What about the pens themselves? The ABC pens have been
thrown in the bin – that’s a waste of materials, freight, labour, and
expense – very unsustainable. The 123 pens are being kept and
used all year. The pen owners won’t let anyone steal their pen and
are happily showing it off and saying great things about 123 every
time they do.
So you don’t have to be in an ‘environment-related’ industry to
be environmentally responsible and the benefits massively outweigh
the costs. So what do you want to be? Cool or un-Cool?
For information about sustainable merchandise that will suit your
business, contact CoolPromo at [email protected].

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business matters

energy

Prepare for a safe storm season

A

s the storm season approaches, Essential Energy is advising
residents across regional New South Wales to prepare their
properties early to keep their families safe during severe weather

events.
Strong winds and wild weather increase the risk of damage to the
overhead electricity network, particularly from vegetation and trees that
are growing too close to power lines.
Essential Energy’s regional manager North Coast, Brendon Neyland,
urged residents to remove debris from around their homes, clear gutters
and ensure trees were a safe distance from power lines.
“The majority of storm-related outages are caused by tree branches
and debris being blown into overhead power lines," Brendon said.
“In these situations residents are reminded to keep at least eight
metres clear of fallen power lines or any objects in contact with them
and always assume the wires are live.
Be mindful when walking or driving after a storm that fallen tree
branches may also hide damaged power lines or other electrical
equipment.”
Essential Energy recommends households have a storm emergency
kit ready that includes:
• a flashlight with a supply of batteries
• candles and waterproof matches
• a portable radio with spare batteries to keep you informed of the
situation
• non-perishable food, a can opener, and fresh drinking water
• spare warm dry clothing
• a first aid kit and essential medications
• a list of emergency contact numbers, including Essential Energy’s 13
20 80 number

Essential Energy crews work in challenging conditions to restore power as quickly as
safety will allow during major storm events.

You can also check weather conditions and track storm activity on
the Essential Energy website: www.essentialenergy.com.au which has a
storm tracker facility powered by weatherzone which uses information
from leading weather agencies.
In an emergency Essential Energy crews will isolate fault areas and
clear fallen vegetation from power lines to make communities safe and,
where possible, back-feed power from other areas.
Major power lines are re-energised first to restore electricity
to the majority of customers. Once this is completed field crews target
individual faults and customers’ problems, such as broken house
service lines.
“We encourage residents to report any fallen power lines, network
damage, fires or trees contacting power lines to Essential Energy on 13
20 80 or call Triple-0 if the situation is life-threatening,” Brendon said.
For more information on electrical safety during storms, visit
essentialenergy.com.au/safety or call Essential Energy on 13 23 91.

ERX0899.134.186

Be prepared this
storm season

32

>

Remove loose debris, which could become airborne in strong winds

>

Trim trees around the house (do not attempt to prune trees in or
near powerlines – call Essential Energy on 13 23 91 or visit
essentialenergy.com.au/trees for information)

>

Unplug your television, computer, modem and other sensitive electrical
equipment during a storm and minimise the use of telephones and
electrical appliances

>

Keep a torch and battery powered radio in an easily accessible place in
the event of a supply interruption

>

Keep an eye on the weather – visit essentialenergy.com.au/stormtracker
Call Essential Energy on 13 20 80 to report
a supply interruption, fallen powerline or other
power-related incident.

www.nrbm.com.au

local government

canberra comments

Repeal Day Frees Up Business
Kevin Hogan, Federal Member for Page

S

ince the Government axed
the Carbon Tax, power
prices have recorded their
largest fall on record. This
is great news for Page’s
10,000 small businesses
and households.
As a result of the lower
operating costs incurred
by businesses, companies
can now seriously consider
expanding their operations.
When we were elected we
promised to reduce more than
$1 billion of red and green tape
each year. We have now more than
doubled our target, removing more than $2.1 billion of compliance
costs following last month’s Repeal Day.
The Government and I have listened to the concerns of our
business and wider community about the burden of red tape.
Whether it was a small business owner, local community group or
hard working individuals, the message was the same: “Please make
things simpler” – so we did.
On October 29, almost 1000 pieces of legislation and regulation
totalling more than 72,000 pages were removed.
As a result, for example, nearly half a million small businesses
are now exempt from pay-as-you-go requirements and around 1.4

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million myTax users will be able to use pre-populated income tax
returns, saving countless hours and costs.
Many of the ideas to cut red tape came directly from members
of the business community, so please let me know if you are being
weighed down by rules and regulation.
If you want more information, visit: www.cuttingredtape.gov.au.

Page’s small businesses are an economic powerhouse
and need to be assisted. For this reason the Government last
month announced $18 million over three years for chambers of
commerce, business enterprise centres and industry groups to
deliver advice and information services to small businesses and
start-ups.
This is one very practical way we are helping to restore business
confidence, rebuild the sector and create more jobs for the region.
The new service will start in February 2015. Those seeking
assistance should go to: www.business.gov.au

Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce recently led a trade delegation
to China and I was pleased to arrange for three of our local
agricultural-based companies to travel with him.
By all accounts the trade mission was a success, with the three
companies – the Macadamia Society, Norco and New World Foods
(formerly Mariani Industries) – hopeful of more business in the
growing Chinese market.

Kevin Hogan MP

Getting on with the Job

3 Axing the Carbon Tax
3 Two Free-Trade deals
3 Slashing red tape
3 Fixing mobile blackspots
3 Helping business create jobs
3 Delivering a sustainable budget
Visit www.kevinhogan.com.au or call 6621 4044 for the latest business news
Authorised by K Hogan, 63 Molesworth St, Lismore
www.nrbm.com.au

33

local government

pollies points

Making Small Business a
Priority

NSW Ranks Number 1

Don Page
Member for Ballina

Thomas George
Member for Lismore

I welcome the promotion of John Barrilaro to the portfolio of Minister
for Small Business. As a former small business operator himself I have no
doubt John will be an outstanding Small Business Minister and I wish him
well in his new role.
The NSW Government has introduced a new initiative
developed by the Office of the NSW Small Business Commissioner
in partnership with the NSW Business Chamber.
Ballina Shire Council is taking part in the Small Business Friendly
Councils (SBFC) Program which aims to increase the number of
NSW councils working proactively with the small business sector.
I first spoke about this concept with John Murray from NSW
Business Chamber, when I was Minister for Local Government, it’s
good to see the program, a first for Australia, come to fruition. I
commend Ballina Shire Council for its willingness to take part in
this exciting initiative.
Around 36 NSW councils have committed to participate in the
SBFC Program and collaborate to develop greater outreach with
local small businesses, which are part of the 689,000 operating in
NSW. These councils will review their procedures and practices in
dealing with small businesses, make improvements where needed
and share ‘small business friendly’ strategies with other councils.
I encourage local councils not yet on board to consider this
worthwhile program for more information visit: sbf.councils@
smallbusiness.nsw.gov.au. Working effectively with local small
business operators should be a priority for all NSW councils.

I was honoured to have the Treasurer, The Hon Andrew Constance MP,
visit Lismore recently to attend a business forum hosted by the NSW
Business Chamber.
Mr Constance reinforced the importance of small business to the
state of NSW and its economy.
NSW was recently ranked number one in CommSec’s State of the
States report and here are some of the reasons why • Since coming to office the Jobs Action Plan has supported the
creation of 357 jobs in the Lismore electorate; 141 full time and
216 part time.
• While all Labor States have had their credit rating downgraded,
NSW has kept the highest AAA rating and has been upgraded
by Standard & Poor’s to ‘stable outlook’.
• The new housing market throughout the state has been strong,
with dwelling completions at their highest since 2006 (in 12
month moving sum terms).
• Despite revenue challenges, NSW continues to live within its
means with expenses coming in within budget for the last three
years.
• Stamp duty on business mortgages, unlisted marketable
securities and non-real business transfers will be abolished from
1 July 2016.
• NSW business confidence has been positive for fourteen
consecutive months.

!
s
g
n
i
t
e
e
r
G
Christmas

We wish you a great Christmas and a prosperous New Year!
Please get in touch with us if we can help in any way.
Chris Gulaptis MP
Member for Clarence
11 Prince Street
Grafton 2460
Tel: (02) 6643 1244

Thomas George MP
Member for Lismore
PO Box 52
Lismore 2480
Tel: (02) 6621 3624

Don Page MP
Member for Ballina
PO Box 1018
Ballina 2478
Tel: (02) 6686 7522

MP Geoff Provest MP
Member for Tweed
PO Box 6695
Tweed Heads South 2486
Tel: (07) 5523 4816

for Regional NSW
34

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