2012 Casey Business Awards

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Local developments

ContactsISSUE 51 DECEMBER 2012

The City of Caseys Business Magazine

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Cover image: Casey Business of the Year GAIA Skin Naturals (Michelle Vogrinec).

Message from the Mayor

Celebrating excellence in Casey with the third annual Casey Business Awards

2012 Casey Business Awards

My vision for the forthcoming year is centred on strategic growth, economic development and social justice initiatives.

Our city is great and it can become even greater with strong employment, ensuring our residents can work locally. this includes fast tracking ways to preserve our prime agricultural land so we can support and progress strong agricultural businesses and a food technology industry.

Councils first priority is to set its vision and plan for Casey for the next four years which will include the provision of quality services, developing infrastructure to meet the needs of our rapidly-growing population, building a strong local economy and a sustainable environment

i look forward to working with my fellow Councillors to ensure Casey remains the best place to live, work and play.

Cr Amanda Stapledon Mayor

Michelle Vogrinec (GAIA Skin Naturals) with Janet Finn, VECCI.

Hallam-based business, gAiA skin naturals was announced the 2012 Casey business of the Year at the third annual awards presentation in september 2012 at Arthur Wren hall in hampton Park.

thirteen outstanding local businesses were announced winners in their respective categories at the event.

City of Casey Manager economic Development David Wilkinson

congratulated the award winners for their excellence among a high standard of Casey businesses.

the winners represent the highest calibre of businesses in Casey, all of whom are committed to providing the best services for our community.

each year, the number and quality of entrants for the awards continues to improve with close to 90 applications received from 57 local businesses;

making the judging process very difficult.

these awards celebrate Caseys growing business network which continues to demonstrate standards of excellence across all business services and operations.

All the 2012 winners are the absolute best in their field and were among the highest quality competition in the municipality.

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AgRICUlTURE AnD PRIMARy InDUSTRIES AwARDCorrigans Produce Farms have a proud history of old fashioned farming while adopting modern practices. A market leader in the agricultural industry, Corrigans Produce Farms grow a range of vegetables and supply to the Melbourne and interstate markets and major supermarkets.

Deborah Corrigan was presented with the Agriculture and Primary industries Award by Kate hulusi from southern Melbourne Regional Development Australia.

BUSInESS AnD PROfESSIOnAl SERvICES AwARDhaving previously been recognised as Casey business of the Year in 2010, berwick-based business, successful endeavours, have again been recognised by taking out the business and Professional services Award.

Ray Keefe and his team of professionals provide electronics design, software development and small scale production to the Australian electronics manufacturing industry.

Ray Keefe was presented with the business and Professional services Award by Ross neilson of neilson Partners, representing First national Real estate.

HEAlTH, EDUCATIOn AnD wEllBEIng AwARDOfficially recognised for its first-class care and service to the local community, berwick Pharmacy was awarded the health, education and Wellbeing Award.

Providing a community space where customers can have their health, wellness and beauty needs attended to makes the pharmacy a leader in their field. With a modern retail environment, berwick Pharmacy also has a purpose-built Day spa and gallery Caf.

Darren Pountney was presented with the health, education and Wellbeing Award by lisa norman, CeO of st John of god hospital berwick.

HOME-BASED BUSInESS AwARDJotterbug Creative, a home-based graphic design and illustration business in hampton Park was awarded the home-based business Award.

Owner of Jotterbug Creative, natalie bourke, takes pride in working closely with her clients, working with small to medium sized local businesses to create logos, branding, stationery and printed material.

natalie bourke was presented with the home-based business Award by Kelvin gough, CeO of safe super homes.


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gAiA skin naturals took top honours; being named 2012 Casey business of the Year.

the hallam-based business manufactures pure, natural, organic skin care products formulated especially for sensitive skin, for everyday use.

the successful business is owned and operated by simon and Michelle Vogrinec and a team of well trained, dedicated and passionate staff. From humble beginnings, the gAiA range is now sold nationwide and has recently hit the us market.

Proudly Australian made and with brands including gAiA Pure Pregnancy, gAiA natural baby, gAiA skin and body and gAiA Made for Men, its no wonder gAiA skin naturals have gone from strength to strength.

CASEy BUSInESS Of THE yEAR AwARD

From back, L to R: Matt Johnston, Della Johnston, Murray Seymour, Dawn Hall, Christine Burns, Kate Tregoubenko. Front row, L to R: Stephanie Corrigan, Deborah Corrigan, Heather McDonald and Rose Seymour (Corrigans Produce Farms).

Janette Beecroft, Pete Tzimos, Darren Pountney, Grahame Beecroft, Jen Simons, Chris Allan, Sarah Wells, Jaki Crow, Trish LaFranchi, Rachel Beamish (Berwick Pharmacy) with Lisa Norman (St John of God Hospital Berwick).

Arend Carter, Junette Keefe, Ray Keefe (Successful Endeavours) with Ross Neilson (First National Real Estate).

Natalie Bourke (Jotterbug Creative) with Kelvin Gough (Safe Super Homes).

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Ds HOSPITAlITy AnD TOURISM AwARDCranbourne turf Club has been providing sports entertainment since it was established in 1867.

in recent years, it has grown into one of the regions premier entertainment and hospitality venues, as evidenced by its win in the hospitality and tourism Award.

Cranbourne turf Club has a strong reputation for providing great entertainment and quality food at an affordable price, which enhances the racing and entertainment experience the club offers.

geoff Whiffin, Vice Chairman was presented the hospitality and tourism Award by David southwick, MP representing the hon louise Asher MP and on behalf of the Department of business and innovation.

MAnUfACTURER AwARDFrom humble beginnings in a home office, gAiA skin naturals has grown to become one of the highest-selling baby skincare ranges in the country.

Proudly Australian made, gAiA skin naturals creates a range of organic body products that are made from certified organic ingredients. gAiA not only has been awarded the Manufacturer of the Year Award, but was acknowledged as the 2012 Casey business of the Year.

Michelle Vogrinec was presented with the Manufacturer Award by Colin langham and Janet Finn from the Victorian employers Chamber of Commerce and industry.

nEw BUSInESS AwARDget ready to party with narre Warren-based business, the Party Factory, which was presented with the new business Award.

Purposely designed for childrens parties, the Party Factory gives children the opportunity to be rock stars by singing and dancing, while being entertained by a fun and professional team dedicated to making each party a memorable experience.

established with the vision to allow children to shine, while helping to build their confidence and self-esteem through song and dance, the Party Factory are worthy winners.

lisa smibert was presented the new business Award by Paul bryne, Director economic Planning and Development, growth Areas Authority.

RETAIlER AwARDtackle World Cranbourne is a family-owned and operated fishing tackle and bait business which was established more than 20 years ago. Owners Cristy and Paul Worsteling have transformed the once tiny fishing tackle shop into one of Australias most reputable tackle stores.

helped along by Paul Worstelings media exposure and his hit tV show iFish with tackle World, the recently extended store is highly regarded by anglers as the place to go if you want good old fashioned service, local and interstate knowledge, along with the biggest and best range of fishing gear in the region.

David Kramer accepted the award on behalf of tackle World Cranbourne from Ann Ockenden, business Relations Manager, telstra business Centre Cardinia and Casey.


Geoff Whiffin and Neil Bainbridge (Cranbourne Turf Club) with David Southwick MP (representing Department of Innovation and Business).

Left back Nicole Loft, Annette Maslac, Abbey Morris, Linda Searby, Lily Considine and Shirleen Morris. Lower left Rowena Coutts, Lisa Smibert, and Shirley Forde (The Party Factory) with Paul Bryne (Growth Areas Authority).

Chamali Maadumaarachchi, Eddie Michel, Frank Cresia and Li Zhang (Waverley Industries) with Simone Turner (TBM Training).

Jonathan Sanders and Max Croaker (Melboards) with Rebecca Hay (Stocklands Selandra Rise).

David Kramer, Cristy Worsteling and Paul Worsteling (Tackle World Cranbourne) with Ann Ockenden (Telstra Business Centre Cardinia and Casey).

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SOCIAl EnTERPRISE AwARDWaverley industries is a business built around empowering people with disabilities through high quality employment.

employing more than 200 people with disabilities and a number of support staff, Waverley industries specialise in packaging, assembly, manufacturing, hospitality and catering. they also offer educational and volunteering programs.

their mission is to be the leading Australian Disability enterprise and to be a major influence in the broader community for the advancement and social inclusion of people with disabilities.

Frank Cresia from Waverley industries accepted the social enterprise Award from simone turner, Manager Operations, tbM training.

TRADES AnD COnSTRUCTIOn AwARDMelboards specialise in the distribution and processing of timber panel products, custom made cabinets and offer custom cut board for cabinet making.

established more than 20 years ago, the hallam-based business has been under the current ownership since september 2007 and pride themselves on their customer service.

Jonathan sanders was presented the trades and Construction Award by Rebecca hay, Community Marketing Manager, stocklands selandra Rise.

JUDgES CHOICE AwARDSEnvIROnMEnTAl AnD SUSTAInABIlITy AwARDMoonlit sanctuary is a Pearcedale-based park providing a sanctuary for Caseys threatened native species. Moonlit sanctuary houses more than 200 animals with 80 per cent of the sanctuarys animals being local indigenous species.

Responding to a lifelong passion, head ranger Michael Johnson has transformed the 10-hectare park into an award-winning eco-certified wildlife experience.

Michael Johnson and the team from Moonlit sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park were presented the environmental and sustainability Award by terry Old from Kernow environmental services.

InnOvATIOn AwARDWell known berwick restaurant, ambrosia caf-bar-foodstore, has led the way in innovation and took out the innovation Award.

ambrosias goal is simple to provide an inspirational, innovative and exciting eating establishment for those in the area and to provide high quality catering provisions for the home.

ambrosia caf-bar-foodstore was also a finalist for the hospitality and tourism Award for 2012.

Danielle Finning and gaston Rabot were presented the innovation Award from Michael Watchorn of Monash university.

COMMEnDATIOn AwARDspecialising as a wholesale propagation business, JD Propagation were awarded the Commendation Award and were also named a finalist in the Agriculture and Primary industries category.

located in Pearcedale, the business has doubled in size since commencing just two and half years ago.

Owners Jenny and Dan Patience believe that one of the things that set their business apart from others is that they listen to what their customers need and make sure that every plant that is sent out is top quality. JD Propagation have shown themselves to be particularly innovative in how they market themselves and operate their business in a very flexible way to meet the needs of customers.

this Award includes a 12 month membership for mentoring through the Victorian employers Chamber of Commerce and industry.

Jenny and Dan Patience were presented the Commendation Award by Janet Finn, new business Consultant south east, Victorian employers Chamber of Commerce and industry.

Michael Johnson (Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park) with Terry Old (Kernow Environmental Services).

Rachael Keay, Danielle Finning, Gaston Rabot and Ben Lewis (ambrosia-cafe-bar-foodstore) with Michael Watchorn (Monash University).

Dan Patience, Jenny Patience, Vanessa Smaile, Brendan Sambell (JD Propagation) with Colin Langham and Janet Finn (VECCI).


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Major sponsors Media Partner

SPOnSORS the City of Casey would like to thank all the sponsors of the 2012 Casey business Awards for their support of Caseys talented businesses.


Anthony Cheeseman (MadCap Cafe), Gaston Rabot, Danielle Finning, Rachael Keay, Ben Lewis (ambrosias cafe-bar-foodstore). Entertainer Carolyn Taylor.

Guest Speaker, Neil Mitchell and MC, Chris Connolly. Ivor Hertz, St John of God Hospital Berwick.

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Category and support sponsors


Commonwealth Bank of Australia and guests.

Flowers by Berwick Flowers.

Dan and Jen Patience, (JD Propagation). G & A Music Trio.

2012 Casey Business Award Finalists.


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Australian made in Casey In 2012, the City of Casey partnered with Australian Made, Australian grown to encourage consumers to look for the distinctive green and gold trademark when making purchasing decisions.

More and more, consumers are seeking out Australian-made and grown products, not only because they meet high quality health and safety standards, but also to support local industry and reinvest in local communities. As a result, it has become increasingly important for suppliers to leverage country of origin as a marketing tool.

One of the best ways to do that is to register with the Australian Made, Australian Grown campaign and leverage the only certification trademark that guarantees a product is genuinely Australianthe famous green-and-gold AMAg logo.

the AMAg logo is the easiest way for consumers to identify local products. A staggering 94 per cent of shoppers recognise the logo and 85 per cent of shoppers trust the logo over any other country of origin branding such as flags, maps and pictures of animals. the AMAg logo brings with it the credibility of a trusted symbol, as well as access to support through AMAg marketing

local food, local Businesses The City of Casey, shire of Cardinia and shire of baw baw are busy building an online directory to connect local food producers, retailers and processors of food that use or sell local produce with the hospitality industry.

the bunyip buy local site is an initiative of three councils located in one of the most productive and diverse food growing areas in Victoria. the area stretches from the outer south-east edge of Melbourne into West gippsland and covers an area of more than

550,000 hectares.

the directory will celebrate the regions food and wine and provide an opportunity for farmers and producers to sell their produce to restaurants, cafes and other hospitality enterprises.

the website will increase awareness of the regions food and wine, increase local economic activity and employment and reduce the transport costs incurred by transporting food further afield.

the website is expected to launch in March 2013.

and PR and government initiatives. Australia is also renowned for its high quality health and safety standards, providing locally-made products with auxiliary benefits that should be leveraged.

if there are gains to be made by organisations trading on Australias good reputationand there clearly arethen all Australian businesses should be leveraging this opportunity, AMAg CeO, ian harrison, said.

the AMAg logo is more than a certification trademark. it is a powerful marketing tool.

in order to help businesses further differentiate themselves by state

or municipality, AMAg has made a localised version of its famous green-and-gold logo available to licensees upon request. the City of Casey understands the vital role buying local has on the local economy and therefor supports AgAg with this new initiative.

For example, the logo descriptor can now read: Australian Made in Victoria or Australian Made in Casey.

Consumers want to support local industry and local jobs and this localised version of the logo helps them do that, added Mr harrison.

City of Casey Manager economic

Consumers want to support

local industry and local jobs and this localised version of the logo helps

them do that

AMAg CeO, Mr harrison

The Australian Made, Australian Grown logo is a registered certification trademark and can only be used on products that are registered with the not-for-profit organisation Australian Made, Australian Grown (AMAG). To use the logo, goods must meet the criteria set out in Australian Consumer Law as well as AMAGs own more stringent Code of Practice.

Development David Wilkinson said We encourage local producers to apply and become identified with the consumer-driven campaign and then benefit from the potential growth in sales.

For more information, visit www.australianmade.com.au or call 1800 350 520.

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Business mentoring makes a differencewhat drives people to be business owners? They are passionate about their profession and believe that their levels of technical expertise and experience can deliver a better service than their competitors. However, having passion and expertise in a field does not necessarily translate into running a successful business.

An Olympic athlete will have the passion, technical expertise and experience, but they always have coaches and trainers on their side to ensure they are training the right way and maximise their chances of winning. business owners need to have that same support team behind them because doing it solo can be a lot of hard work and often for only very small returns.

A year ago, Cameron Rain, owner of hampton Park Veterinary hospital, attended Casey business Week. he recognised the importance of taking time out of his busy work day to reflect on how he can grow and improve his business. Casey business Week linked Cameron with a network of people

with common ideals who were involved in brainstorming business improvements.

this is where my own little Olympic torch was lit, said Cameron.

the business seminars gave me access to a trove of valuable information delivered by some very experienced business people. listening was easy. the more difficult part was implementation. like any business athlete my training is continuous.

While attending Casey business Week, he was introduced to business mentor, Alan Marion and the two have since met regularly to discuss his business vision.

i find mentoring a valuable tool.

everyone will find different reasons for engaging a mentor. if i could sum up mentoring succinctly, it provides me with accountability and the ability to measure my progress, added Cameron.

A major initiative that came out of the mentoring was the launch of a mobile dog grooming service. More than just a grooming service, the mobile service is able to deliver many additional services unexpected of a grooming service.

the team is our strength; the professional groomers are passionate about pets and are trained to perform a check to identify any potential health problems. the service is also remotely integrated within the

practice so the groomers can flag any concerns and our pets can be seen promptly at the hospital.

business mentoring has enabled Camerons dream to become a reality.

Why not let you business benefit from the coaching and training that a business mentor can provide and see how your business can grow?

You can engage a business mentor through the City of Caseys business Mentoring Program, which entitles you to four face-to-face consultations at your business premises. From 1 January 2013, the cost will be $220.

For more information contact the City of Casey on 9705 5200 or email [email protected].

Upcoming business training seminars and workshopsthe City of Casey and Cardinia shire have combined their business training calendar for 2013 and have scheduled the following seminars and workshops for the first half of 2013. these business seminars are relevant for small business, informative and represent great value for money. take time out of your business in 2013 to learn how to improve and grow it.

Date Event/Title Start Time venue Cost

Tuesday 12 February 2013 Starting Your Business 6.00 pm Cardinia Cultural Centre $30.00

Monday 18 February 2013 The Sensory Experience Centre 5.30 pm Casey Civic Centre $25.00

Tuesday 5 March 2013 Unleash the Power of Understanding your Financials 6.30 pm Cardinia Cultural Centre $45.00

Thursday 7 March 2013 Workplace Health & Wellbeing Workshop 6.30 pm Cardinia Cultural Centre $20.00

Monday 18 March 2013 Marketing Basics 6.00 pm Casey Civic Centre $20.00

Monday 15 April 2013 Winning Government Business 4.00 pm Casey Civic Centre $30.00

Tuesday 30 April 2013 Building Your Online Strategy 6.00 pm Cardinia Cultural Centre $30.00

Monday 7 May 2013 Creating Competitive Visual Merchandising 6.00 pm Cardinia Cultural Centre $25.00

For more information about these and future business training seminars and workshops, visit www.casey.vic.gov.au/businesscalendar.

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10 inBusiness DeCeMbeR 2012

local businesses continue to benefit from a unique partnership between the City of Casey and Monash University Berwick Campus, through the Monash University Student Marketing to Industry Program.

Monash University students rub shoulders with industry

now in its third year, students studying business and economics at Monash university were again given the opportunity to work with local industry. the City of Casey invited local businesses to become their clients and the students examined each business, researched the relevant industry and devised marketing plans to suit.

Monash university Marketing lecturer Jasmine Rushdi said What we look for are two organisations that have been operating for several years at least, but are different in structure and purpose. this provides a good challenge to the students, because they will have to deal with many different types of organisations when they in the workforce.

the projects begin with the client providing the students with the brief. this is done through a presentation to the students in order to give them a clear understanding of their business and the direction they would like to take it. the students then work in small teams over the next 10 weeks to research the relevant markets and produce marketing plans for each business. Finally, each team presents their findings to their client.

this year, the two organisations participating were Full Circle health Management and Pepa Corporate image.

Full Circle health Management is a wellness centre that takes a holistic approach to health and wellbeing by offering a suite of health services.

Founder and Manager elise Palmer explained that she jumped at the chance to have marketing students examine her business and give her some ideas on how to market and grow the business.

i found the experience very rewarding and it was great to have new and fresh eyes examine the business. the ideas, concepts and vision of the business was captured in various ways not all suiting our vision, however, it was really exciting to see how the business model could be developed or changed if required.

i believe there were some standout presentations and some fantastic promotional ideas that we have developed and will use in the foreseeable future.

Pepa Corporate image produce high quality personalised promotion apparel and merchandise.

Managing Director sue Clark was proud to be chosen by the university as one of the clients this year.

it was a great opportunity and i really enjoyed the experience, even though the presentation to an auditorium of students was a bit daunting, i had never done anything like that before. i found the students to be professional and they came up with some great ideas. My business coach took away all the marketing plans and identified which ideas should be incorporated into the business plan. it really did add value to my business.

if you would like your business to be considered for the 2013 Monash university student Marketing to industry Program, register your interest with the City of Casey by emailing [email protected].

I found the experience very rewarding and it

was great to have new and fresh

eyes examine the business.

elise Palmer, Manager, Full Circle health Management

Sue Clark of Pepa Corporate Image.

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funding for good design

the program is made up of building business capability, celebrating and promoting design and developing local design.

there are a range of initiatives and organisations in the design industry should learn more about them.

For all the details visit www.business.vic.gov.au/industries/design.

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victorias design industry directly employs more than 185,000 people, contributes $7 billion annually to the states economy and generates more than $300 million in design-related exports.

As an important driver for innovation and growth, design plays a valuable role in businesses, industry and the broader community. through the effective, sustainable and strategic use of design, new and more efficient ways of doing things can be developed adding value to our standard of living, increasing exports and improving productivity and economic prosperity.

the Victorian government has committed $10 million to support best practice design in Victoria through the Victorian Design initiatives 201215.

Innovation stimulationA new victorian government initiative, the Innovation voucher Program, supports businesses to explore ways to improve their competitiveness and productivity by providing funding to help access the know-how to innovate.

The program provides a voucher that is exchanged for access to innovation and R&D related facilities, training, goods, services, advice or expertise provided by other companies or publicly-funded research organisations (e.g. universities, CsiRO and research institutes).

by supporting greater business innovation, the program aims to facilitate improved performance

(particularly with respect to productivity) and growth of businesses.

the program supports businesses at various stages of their product or development life cycle, and encourages and stimulates further business collaboration and research partnerships.

For more information visit www.business.vic.gov.au/industries/science-technology-and-innovation.

Entrance to The Shed, Cranbourne East.

Applications for the first round of funding under the Victorian governments three-year $10 million Smarter Resources, Smarter Business program are now open.

this funding initiative aims to help medium-sized Victorian businesses improve their resource efficiency. it will enable medium-sized businesses with between 20 and 199 employees to: makeinvestmentstoimprove

resource efficiency (such as the purchase of equipment that reduces materials or energy consumption);

undertakeanenergyormaterialsefficiency assessment;

undertakeadditionalscopingwork such as feasibility studies, detailed design analysis and business case development that leads to implementation of resource efficiency improvements; and

helpprepareapplicationsforthird party grants relating to resource efficiency.

Australian industry group Director for Victoria, tim Piper, said the launch of the Smarter Resources, Smarter Businesses Program was an important opportunity for Victorian manufacturers.

the $10 million program will assist eligible businesses to improve their resource efficiency by providing capital funding as well as support for resource assessments and funding applications, Mr Piper said.

Ai group has been closely consulted in the design of the program and welcomes the priority which it places on promoting the uptake of sustainable business solutions by small and medium sized enterprises; and accelerating the uptake of energy efficiency improvements.

smarter Resources, smarter business is open to all medium-sized businesses operating in Victoria.

the program complements other recent announcements from the Victoria governments Conserve, invest and save strategy, such as Driving Investment in New Recycling and Resource Recovery Infrastructure grants.

For more information, including closing dates for funding applications, program guidelines and application forms, visit www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/srsb or contact sustainability Victoria on 1300 363 744.

new funding to support victorian businesses now available


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funding to boost local shopping precinctsStreetlife is a Victorian government initiative to provide targeted support to small businesses in local shopping precincts to assist them to better attract and retain customers.

Victorian business/trader associations can apply for grants of up to $5,000 to undertake projects.

Projects must address at least one of the following project objectives: improveanddevelopcore

skills in retail management increaseproductivitythrough

better use of technology and innovative business practices

adjusttostructuralchangesinthe retail sector

buildsustainableandcompetitive businesses within

their local communities; and strengthenbusinessandtrader

associations that support local small businesses to work together collaboratively to the benefit of the precinct

For more information visit www.business.vic.gov.au/grants-and-assistance/streetlife.

Retail challenges and advantagesAccording to the Economic Structure and Performance of Australian Retail Industry, Productivity Commission Report, the latest estimates for online retail purchases are calculated at 5.4 per cent of total retail expenditure with a predicted annual online growth rate of 20 per cent. this is combined with an estimated internet penetration expected to reach 83 per cent of Australian households by 2015.

Online sales appear set to continue in predominately non-perishable goods such as digital music, computer software and hardware, books, electrical goods, clothes, shoes, leisure goods, cosmetics and perfume and toys, with purchases generally limited to less than $200 per purchase.

While physical retail is challenged to compete with the cheap prices, convenience and greater choice offered online, physical retail has the ability to provide immediate gratification, which is still very important to many consumers compared to the lag between purchase and delivery of online goods.

Physical retail also has the ability to provide a sensory experience for customers, where the five senses of vision, sound, smell, taste and touch can be employed to enhance the shopping experience.

therefore physical retail has three important aspects available to enhance a sale that is not available to online selling: theaestheticsoftheshop qualitypersonalcustomer

service and theimmediateavailabilityof

stock

it is imperative for all retail business to have a presence on the web and or social media, otherwise the competition will occupy the space and the chance to attract potential customers to the business may be lost.

Online advertising provides the opportunity for small businesses to appear bigger and may enable them to better compete and possibly generate sales online through user-friendly website design

Physical retail has no choice but to compete with the presence of online retail using every opportunity available to capture a sale. Physical retail should focus on enhancing their customer service, to compete with online retail by: Exceedingcustomer

expectations by helping them to understand how purchasing the product will benefit them. todays customers are not interested in being sold a product, they want to know whats in it for them.

Alwaysendeavourtokeepupwith current trends and take advantage of them by having them available when they are advertised on the internet.

Tryandprovideasensoryexperience that is fresh and interesting.

it used to be said that a good retail experience will result in the customer telling up to three people and a bad experience will be relayed to 10 people. enter the social media phenomenon and those figures expand exponentially.

so what sort of experience are you giving your customers?

the City of Casey, in association with the Australian Retailers Association, will host workshops specifically designed for local retail businesses in 2013. be sure to check the business Calendar for updates on these workshops at www.casey.vic.gov.au/businesscalendar.

footpath Trading Policy Street trading is a popular part of the retail environment and the use of the footpath in front of businesses adds to the vibrancy and appeal of the business.

Council is committed to supporting local business; however, both Council and individual traders have a duty of care to footpath users to provide a safe and unobstructed pathway.

the City of Casey encourages footpath trading providing it is safe to do so, but reminds traders that a permit is required.

the City of Casey has developed a Footpath Trading Policy to ensure both Council and business owners meet their legal obligations to provide a safe, accessible and unobstructed passage for pedestrians and traders, regardless of mobility levels.

guidelines for the placement of goods on the footpath, including A-frame signs, tables and chairs, umbrellas, heaters and plant boxes are available.

to apply for a street trading permit or for more information visit Councils website at www.casey.vic.gov.au/locallaws or contact the City of Casey on 9705 5200.

New retail precinct at Westfield Shopping Centre Fountain Gate. Courtesy of Westfield.

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Because the industry is the largest and fastest growing employment sector in Australia, having grown 50 per cent over the past 10 years, double the rate of any other industry sector. As a result of population growth, coupled with an ageing population, the h&Cs workforce is expected to grow from 1.36 million, to just over 1.6 million in five years1. this 4.5 per cent growth per year equates to 240,000 jobs over five years just to meet the increase in employment opportunities.

the work within this sector is also undergoing change with the boundaries between the two industries of community services and health merging so that the overall care and support for clients is the focus regardless of the industry. this is driving changes to the way services are delivered and how work roles are structured, which has created a need for new roles that cut across the traditional vocational and higher education divide.

Adding to the growth is the ageing workforce currently employed within the sector. the median age of employees within the sector is more than 10 per cent higher than that of all other industries with 18 per

cent of employees being over the age of 55. this means that 60 per cent of the current sector workforce could potentially retire in the next 10 years.

this highlights the need for young people to be enticed into the sector. A business breakfast for employers was held recently in Dandenong on behalf of the h&Cs Pathways Partnership network. the aim of the breakfast was to discuss current and future skill shortages within the h&Cs sector and the need to increase opportunities for young people to participate in and experience workplace learning within the sector.

the h&Cs Pathways Partnership network was established to develop youth pathway strategies aimed at addressing current and projected skill shortages across southern Melbourne region.

As a result of this network, a h&Cs school based Apprenticeship and traineeship (sbAt) program has been developed, resulting in 10 students being placed in a two-year sbAt that combines one-day of work, one day of vocational studies (Certificate iii in Community services) and three days of senior secondary school studies each

week. Organisations hosting students include southern health, Peninsula health, Department of human services, taskforce and inner south Community health service.

based on this successful model, a number of local employers have expressed interest in providing workplace learning opportunities for young people in the future.

More than 100 people also attended a health industry Focus Forum, coordinated by the City of Casey and Department of human services in June 2012, to hear experts from major hospitals, industry bodies and teaching institutions, speak about the range of employment, education and training opportunities available locally in the sector.

if you would like to provide opportunities for young people in your workplace, please contact ellouise hickleton at the south east llen at [email protected] or 9794 6921.

1 source: https://www.cshisc.com.au/docs/research-reports/escan_2012_web.pdf

focus on health and community services

L to R: Max (placed with Inner South Community Health Service), Jack (placed with Department of Human Services) and Shannon (placed with Peninsula Health).

Based on this successful model, a number of local employers have

expressed interest in providing

workplace learning opportunities for young people in

the future.

In recent months the City of Casey and other key organisations have been raising the profile of the Health and Community Services (H&CS) sector in our region. why?

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The City of Casey, in partnership with Cardinia shire Council, Melbourne Football Club and Monash university, recently hosted well-respected columnist, television presenter, best-selling author and former Wallaby, Peter Fitzsimons, for the final Casey-Cardinia business breakfast for 2012.

Mr Fitzsimons captivated and entertained more than 250 guests as he told stories about his days playing rugby through to his dealings with politicians and celebrities. his passion for Australian history was evident, as he explained important events that

shaped Australia to what it is today; a land of opportunity and a shining example of multiculturalism.

Council encourages any business that has not yet attended one of the business breakfasts to do so in 2013. there are also sponsorship opportunities to promote businesses at these events. Please contact the City of Caseys economic Development Department on 9705 5200 if you are interested in sponsoring a table at the next breakfast.

the next Casey-Cardinia business breakfast will be announced in early-2013.

final Casey-Cardinia Business Breakfast for 2012

The Casey-Cardinia business group is a recently-formed professional network for local businesses. With the support of the City of Casey and shire of Cardinia, the group is set to become the premier business network in the region. there are no restrictions on business size, location or industry sector the group is open to all!

the group is focussed on networking and training and will also act as a catalyst for business investment by promoting one region with a strong and active business community. the group is also committed to maintaining a relationship with the existing business groups and chambers

to assist them in their role in advocating on behalf of their local business community. business owners may choose to become a member of the Casey-Cardinia business group, or can join at a special rate if they are already a member of an affiliated chamber or network group.

With a strong focus on networking, training and support, members are able to connect and build long-term, mutually beneficial relationships through a series of networking events, while also growing their skills through training and workshops. the group offers 5-star and 3-star membership packages ensuring it is accessible to businesses of all

types and size. Members receive special entitlements including: TicketstotheCasey-Cardinia

business breakfast series EntrytoexclusiveCasey-

Cardinia business group networking evenings

AccesstoCouncilworkshopsand training seminars

ListingonCasey-Cardiniabusiness group website

MentoringforapplicantsoftheCasey business Awards and Cardinia business Awards

AccesstoCasey-Cardiniabusiness group Facebook and linkedin groups

Exclusivememberdiscounts.

becoming a member of the Casey-Cardinia business group

provides a unique opportunity for networking, support and professional development through a variety of events, training and information sharing.

As a special introductory offer, anyone who holds a current membership to an affiliated group as of 31 January 2013, will receive a complimentary 3-star membership to the Casey-Cardinia business group for 12 months.

if you would like to register your interest or find out more about the Casey-Cardinia business group email [email protected] or contact the City of Casey on 9705 5200.

Casey-Cardinia Business group Ross Neilson of First National Neilson Partners and guest speaker Peter FitzSimons.

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The Hampton Park networking group has a reputation for building informal partnerships through its many networking opportunities, such as Business Community Meet and greets; Smoking Hot BBQs; Business workshops; Business Community Awards; and its three major events each year; Community Kitchen Rulz; fashion Show and Twilight Market and the Hampton Park Central Community festival.

Hampton Park networking group (HPng)

The group formed in 2003 and is an important network which provides current information and events to its members. they have a great working partnership with local businesses, community groups, residents and local, state and federal government and provide a growing suite of resources to improve the business community of hampton Park.

in July 2012 the group celebrated its 10th anniversary with a black and White ball at Arthur Wren hall.

the new Committee for 2012/2013 is:

President Vanassa gerdes (the giggle Pot)

Vice President saahil lutha (Dhoom Films)

treasurer erica Maliki (A & e upholstery)

secretary Wendy Murphy (Resident)

this year, the original founder, Vanassa gerdes, was elected as President. speaking at the

meeting, Vanassa said As i look to the year ahead, the hampton Park networking group executive Committee has identified key areas to focus our improvement efforts. Work has already begun on continuing the success of the local First campaign, new exciting events and business community development. We have set challenging goals for ourselves and developed action plans to meet them.

As the oldest networking group in the Casey-Cardinia region, the last twelve months have seen the network continue to go from strength to strength.

women Making It work network (wMIw)

Renowned for being a fresh, fun and dynamic network, the networks goal to be the professional voice in the business community while continuing to raise the profile of women in business both locally and nationally has certainly been achieved.

some of the involvements and successes over the past year include: Beinginvitedtoparticipatein

and actively contribute to the establishment of the Casey-Cardinia business group a very exciting new endeavour.

Thewell-attendedInternationalWomens Day breakfast run jointly with the City of Casey.

Sponsorshipofthetablecentrepieces at the 2012 Cardinia business Awards dinner. this is a terrific initiative, which gave the

network increased exposure to all attendees.

TheAnnualConference,withthis years theme, Growing Your Business on a Shoestring.

InvitedtorepresentWMIWatthe Parliament of Victoria: Outer suburban interface services and Development Committee inquiry into growing the suburbs: infrastructure and business development in outer

suburban Melbourne.

And, of course the WMiW monthly breakfast meetings which provide a great opportunity to build friendships and business relationships with other like-minded business people in the area.

if youd like to find out more about the monthly breakfasts and special events visit www.wmiw.com.au or contact 0407 009 656.

L to R: Kate Van Elmpt (MJC Partners Pty.Ltd.), Linda Wilson (Cranbourne Family Chiropractic), Dermot McConville (Chem-Dry Ultimate), Sineth Sareth Sar (Sunrise Tissue Products), Megan Glew (South East Lawyers) and Helen Storr (Pivotal Pathways).

inBusiness JulY 201116 inBusiness MARCh 201116

to contact Council in your own language through the tis (translating and interpreting service) phone 13 14 50 and ask them to contact the City of Casey on 9705 5200.

COnt

ACt

berwick Village Chamber of Commerceharry hutchinson tel: [email protected] www.berwick-village.com.au

Casey Cardinia Referral networkDarius Mikolajewski tel: 9700 [email protected] www.ccrn.org.au

Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce & industryMark Carusi tel: 5998 [email protected] www.cranbournechamber.com.au

enterprise Connect tel: 131 791www.enterpriseconnect.gov.au [email protected]

hampton Park networking groupsachin Arora tel: 0411 081 [email protected]

indigenous economic Development unit tel: 9651 9158 [email protected]

Monash university berwick Jasmin bishop tel: 9904 7224www.buseco.monash.edu.au

narre Warren Region business groupRoss neilson tel: 0418 331 696Karen Watson tel: 0419 884 [email protected] www.nwcoc.com.au

small business Victoriawww.business.vic.gov.au

Women Making it Work inc.WMiW Administrationtel: 0407 009 [email protected] www.wmiw.com.au

City of CaseyCustomer Service Centres

narre warren1 Magid DriveMonday Friday, 8 am 6 pm

CranbourneCentro Cranbourne(opposite the Post Office, near the high st entrance)Monday Friday, 9 am 5 pmsaturday, 9 am 12 pm

narre warren SouthAmberly Park shopping Centreshop 8, 101 seebeck DriveMonday Friday, 9 am 5 pmsaturday, 9 am 12 noon

tel: 9705 5200

City of Casey Economic Development Department

David WilkinsonManager, economic Development

tamara ekanayakeeconomic Development Officer Retail Projects

Kim McFarlandbusiness Development Officer

lydia Ropihaeconomic Development Officer employment & training

Raylene Wilsoneconomic Development support Officer

tom Zsoltsenior economic Development Officer

www.casey.vic.gov.au/[email protected]

Key Contacts

For the deaf, hearing or speech impaired:national Relay service ttY/ Voice Calls: 133 677 speak and listen: 1300 555 727

Documents

2012 Casey Business Awards