With less than two weeks before the finale of the 2012 Armidale Business Awards it’s now time to secure your tickets for the gala business event of the year.

The judging for the Awards is now complete and according to Armidale Chamber’s Elizabeth Egan, the standard of the competition has once again been very high.

“This year we’ve engaged a completely independent panel of judges to assess the nominations and the reports we are getting say they have been very impressed with the calibre of the nominated businesses,” says Ms Egan.

Competition has been fierce, especially in some of the new categories, which is very exciting for the future prospects of business in the region.

“We’re hoping all the nominated businesses will come along to the Awards to celebrate with their colleagues and fellow nominees,” says Ms Egan. “Join us for a night of entertainment, fine food, wine and celebration! ”

The Business Awards are an important event on the Armidale Business calendar giving exposure to the wealth of business expertise, and quality products and services thriving in the region.

 2012 Business Awards

Friday 1st June

7pm TAS Hoskins Theatre

Black Tie

Tickets $80 

www.trybooking.com/BJLI

www.armidalechamber.com.au

The next Digital Enterprise Program guest speaker and workshop presenter will be Michael Terlich.

Michael is the Manager of the Private Cloud Solutions at Acceler8 Technologies. He has 20 years experience in the IT industry, having worked for local, national and multinational companies managing networks from as little as 2 users up to 1700 users.  He has been on all sides of the industry - as an employer, an employee, a contractor - implementing systems such as Microsoft, Cisco and Citrix.  This experience enables him to look at the technical needs of a business whilst also understanding, protecting and improving the bottom line.

Having been born and bred in the country, living and working in the city and travelling to the country for work held no appeal. This drove Michael to design a system for Acceler8 that allowed him and his family to do the reverse - live in the country and deliver services to the city.  

It became apparent that not only did other businesses in regional and rural Australia not have access to the same sort of IT solutions and support of their city counterparts, they were paying much more for it. A large proportion of regional businesses were not being shown new technology and how the use of this technology could reduce their IT costs whilst increasing their business productivity and profits.

Michael’s mantra became 'work is something you do, not somewhere you go’' and the correct use of technology allows business owners to grow their businesses and increase profits whilst also having a lifestyle they enjoy. 

This led Michael, seven years ago, to design and implement a private cloud solution that could be delivered via Sydney or Brisbane data centres or on site at the client's premises regardless of their location. Michael became passionate about servicing regional areas and has since delivered services and advice to many businesses and local government organisations allowing them to  digitally compete with city areas,  provide the latest technologies to their staff, save on travel costs and grow their business, whilst reducing their overall IT costs.

Michael's focus has become not only to be able to give regional Australia access to up to date technology but to show businesses how to grow and improve their bottom line by its practical use.

Don’t miss Michael's keynote seminar on Tuesday evening addressing the practical use of digital technology to give lifestyle choices, improve productivity, grow your business and increase your bottom line.

EVENT DETAILS

The Bottom Line -  improving your bottom line utilising practical digital technology
presented by Michael Terlich, Acceler8 Technologies
Tuesday 22 May, 2012 (2 hour workshop) 9.30am OR 1.30pm
@The Digital Hub 4 Cinders Lane, Armidale

Public Seminar 6pm -7pm  Armidale Campus TAFE M Block Dining Room

All events are free but workshop bookings are essential contact: Elizabeth Egan 02 6771 1177 or 0409 673 168 digitalenterprise@armidalechamber.com.au

The Power of Dialogue: How organisations use social media to drive innovation.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/podcast/switched-on-armidale/id525398051

Next weeks Rich Digital Matter Seminar meet Michael Terlich from Acceler8 Technologies.

Topic: Teleworking - How the practical use of digital technology helps give lifestyle choices, improve productivity, grow your business and increase your bottom line.

6pm-7pm - Armidale Campus TAFE M Block Dining Room.

All events are free but workshop bookings are essential contact: Elizabeth Egan 02 6771 1177 or 0409 673 168 digitalenterprise@armidalechamber.com.au

The Digital Enterprise Program is a Commonwealth Government Initiative aimed at positioning Australia as a leading digital economy by 2020.

The Armidale Dumaresq Council in partnership with the Armidale Business Chamber is presenting ‘Switched on Armidale’ : a two year project comprising workshops, training, seminars and podcasts focussing on the opportunities provided to small business by the National Broadband Network.

The project designed to upskill Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s), helps
engage small business owners with digital technology and strategies and features industry leaders, expert speakers and leading trainers in technology strategy, emarketing and ebusiness



Having worked with Microsoft, Sun Microsystems, Gateway Computing, Deutsche Bank and Deloitte, Scott has an extensive background in using technology to achieve business outcomes.

A chronic early adopter, his first involvement with emerging technology commenced in 1993 with a series of publications in the Sydney Morning Herald on cutting-edge computing. His interest in social media followed in 1999 as it was becoming established, and he went on to participate in, and form social media communities.

As part of his 2010 postgraduate studies in Innovation and Enterprise, Scott undertook an extensive social media research project to identify best practice in the use of social media; the findings of which he presented as part of the Deloitte Breakfast Speaker series and at a national industry conference.
Since founding Digital Infusions in 2011 Scott has designed a range of social media materials and training programs to help businesses both large and small, to take advantage of doing business with social media.

The Digital Infusions strategies help organisations engage their existing stakeholder groups to forge new relationships with existing and potential customers.

EVENT DETAILS

The Power of Dialogue: How organisations use social media to drive innovation.

6pm-7pm - Armidale Campus TAFE M Block Dining Room.

All events are free but workshop bookings are essential contact: Elizabeth Egan 02 6771 1177 or 0409 673 168 digitalenterprise@armidalechamber.com.au

The Digital Enterprise Program is a Commonwealth Government Initiative aimed at positioning Australia as a leading digital economy by 2020.

The Armidale Dumaresq Council in partnership with the Armidale Business Chamber is presenting ‘Switched on Armidale’ : a two year project comprising workshops, training, seminars and podcasts focussing on the opportunities provided to small business by the National Broadband Network.

The project designed to upskill Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s), helps
engage small business owners with digital technology and strategies and features industry leaders, expert speakers and leading trainers in technology strategy, emarketing and ebusiness.

Our next special guest workshop presenter in the Digital Enterprise Program Switched on Armidale series, will be Scott Ward from Digital Infusions.

Having worked with Microsoft, Sun Microsystems, Gateway Computing, Deutsche Bank and Deloitte, Scott has an extensive background in using technology to achieve business outcomes.

A chronic early adopter, his first involvement with emerging technology commenced in 1993 with a series of publications in the Sydney Morning Herald on cutting-edge computing. His interest in social media followed in 1999 as it was becoming established, and he went on to participate in, and form social media communities.

As part of his 2010 postgraduate studies in Innovation and Enterprise, Scott undertook an extensive social media research project to identify best practice in the use of social media; the findings of which he presented as part of the Deloitte Breakfast Speaker series and at a national industry conference.
Since founding Digital Infusions in 2011 Scott has designed a range of social media materials and training programs to help businesses both large and small, to take advantage of doing business with social media.

The Digital Infusions strategies help organisations engage their existing stakeholder groups to forge new relationships with existing and potential customers.

EVENT DETAILS

The Buzz: social media for savvy small business presented by Scott Ward, Digital Infusions
Tuesday 15 May, 2012 (2 hour workshop) 9.30am OR 1.30pm
@The Digital Hub 4 Cinders Lane, Armidale

Public Seminar:

The Power of Dialogue: How organisations use social media to drive innovation.

6pm-7pm - Armidale Campus TAFE M Block Dining Room.

All events are free but workshop bookings are essential contact: Elizabeth Egan 02 6771 1177 or 0409 673 168 digitalenterprise@armidalechamber.com.au

The Digital Enterprise Program is a Commonwealth Government Initiative aimed at positioning Australia as a leading digital economy by 2020.

The Armidale Dumaresq Council in partnership with the Armidale Business Chamber is presenting ‘Switched on Armidale’ : a two year project comprising workshops, training, seminars and podcasts focussing on the opportunities provided to small business by the National Broadband Network.

The project designed to upskill Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s), helps
engage small business owners with digital technology and strategies and features industry leaders, expert speakers and leading trainers in technology strategy, emarketing and ebusiness.

Geof Heydon is the Business Development Manager at CSIRO's Australian Centre for Broadband Innovation where he is responsible for building a successful ecosystem of Broadband enabled innovation for Australia.

We are thrilled to have Geof as resident expert for this weeks's Digtial Enterprise Program
Workshop and Seminar entitled The NBN: high speed broadband is here.

Mr Heydon has over 35 years experience in all aspects of the electronics, telecommunications and IT industries. He has both national and international experience driving the market toward the digital economy.

Mr Heydon will present a keynote seminar at Armidale Campus of TAFE (M Block Dining Room) on Tuesday 8 May, at 6pm. This session is open to the public and is free of charge as are all the Digital Enterprise Program events.

Geof Heydon's key note will focus on the following:

The Digital Economy is rapidly becoming the whole economy. The ICT sector is enabling all sorts of innovation across every sector. Geof will discuss three key dimensions of this.

1. The NBN. What it is and what it isn't and why it matters?

2. The innovation in device electronics and particularly the relentless improvements in screen technology and application frameworks that will see the networks and the Web become almost completely invisible to the average user.

3. The changing nature of people from one generation to the next. The so-called digital natives demand different things than the digital immigrants. When we bring all these things together, then complexity will be hidden and people can get on with doing what they want and need without even being aware of the technology that is affecting them.

Geof hopes to stimulate creativity and innovation through the many examples that will be discussed.

This session is open to the public and is free of charge as are all the Digital Enterprise Program events.

The Community Investment Unit of CMG is inviting business and community leaders to attend a Business Forum entitled ‘Creating Regional Prosperity through Co-operative Business Models’ to be held at the University of New England  on 11 May 2012.

The Forum aims to bring together people to discuss ways in which collaboration and the co-operative business model can build profits and regional prosperity.

A panel of business and academic experts will share their views on the co-operative business models and their history in Australia, and the ways in which collaboration can improve regional wealth opportunities. We encourage you, with other business and community leaders, to join us for this important Forum.  Attached is a program and background information on each of the speakers.

Refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the Forum to meet the speakers and other business representatives.

Where: Lewis Lecture Theatre, University of New England (refer to the enclosed program)

When: 2:00 – 4:00pm

RSVP: Will Winter on wwinter@communitymutual.com.au or 0407 820 049 by 7 May 2012

Geof Heydon is the Business Development Manager at CSIRO's Australian Centre for Broadband Innovation where he is responsible for building a successful ecosystem of Broadband enabled innovation for Australia.

We are thrilled to have Geof as resident expert for this weeks's Digtial Enterprise Program
Workshop and Seminar entitled The NBN: high speed broadband is here.

The two hour workshops, to be held at The Digital Hub on Tuesday 8th May, are the second in the 10-week series being provided by the federally funded Digital Enterprise Program. Participants receive access not only to nationally recognised expert speakers like Geof, but also advice pertaining to their own digital business needs.

Bookings for workshops, (9.30 or 1.30 sessions) can be made by emailing digitalenterprise@armidalechamber.com.au or calling 02 6771 1177. Places are limited. These workshops will be held at The Digital Hub, 4 Cinders Lane, Armidale.

Mr Hayden has over 35 years experience in all aspects of the electronics, telecommunications and IT industries. He has both national and international experience driving the market toward the digital economy.

Not only will Mr Hayden be leading the workshops throughout the day, he will also present a keynote seminar at Armidale Campus of TAFE (M Block Dining Room) on Tuesday evening at 6pm. This session is open to the public and is free of charge as are all the Digital Enterprise Program events.

Tomorrow evening (Tuesday 1^st May) sees the first of the series of Experts Seminars/Webinars being presented as part of the Armidale Digital Enterprise Program (DEP).

This exciting venture is part of the National Digital Economy Strategy, aiming to position Australia as a leading digital economy by 2020. Training, workshops and seminars will focus on the opportunities provided by the National Broadband Network and how businesses and organisations can take full advantage through building effective digital strategies.

The structured series of presentation seminar sessions including the ‘Rich Media Expert Seminar ‘will be also be available online. The seminars will be presented each week and follow on from the 'Switched On Armidale': Digital Strategies for Small Business' series of workshops.

The evening events are open to a wider audience and conducted as a keynote presentation for up to 80 participants.

Mr Sam Austrin – Miner, Senior Partner Attentive Consulting Pty Ltd will present the first hour long seminar at the Armidale Town Hall at 6pm.

Mr Austrin-Miner is well known to Armidale audiences and has been working on digital initiatives in the public and private sector for the past 12 years. He has recently been involved with a number of Local Councils across the country in preparing submissions and rolling out projects associated with the Digital Initiatives (Hubs, Enterprise, and Local Government Programs) as well as designing a number of Digital Economy Strategies.

This Seminar entitled Developing Your Digital Strategy will explore how the public can take full advantage of the NBN and Armidale’s position as a premier NBN site. Mr Austrin – Miner will also explain the value in creating an effective Digital Economy Strategy and what it might mean for small and medium sized businesses in the region.

All Digital Enterprise Program events are free, however booking is essential.

PLEASE NOTE VENUE : Armidale Town Hall

The 10thousandgirl Campaign is coming to Armidale with their highly successful and inspirational Life Planning Workshop to be held on Sunday 29^th April.

This workshop aims to improve the financial literacy of 10,000 Australian women, inspiring them to pursue their life plan with a confidence and independence backed by financial security.

10thousandgirl brings personal finance to life, making it informative, engaging and fun and aims to inspire a ripple effect; when a girl knows where she’s heading and how to get there, she is able to help others and inspire those around her.

 “We know that when women put their mind to it, they can achieve their dreams with unyielding energy, and, in turn, inspire and help those around them. That’s the role of 10thousandgirl - to encourage and motivate women to practice sound financial management and get engaged in future planning,” said Zoe Lamont, Founder of 10thousandgirl. 

The financial education of young women is vital, so that they can reach their potential, increase their options and lead fulfilling lives.  Wilson & Co Lawyers is delighted to be actively involved in supporting our local community, by being an Armidale sponsor of the 10thousandgirl Campaign’, says Fiona Miron from Wilson & Co Lawyers.

The 10thousandgirl interactive full-day Life Planning workshop is suitable for women of all ages and financial stages. We say if you feel like a girl, you’re welcome! 

By attending the Life Planning Workshop you can be one of 10,000 girls working together to lead inspired, mindful and self-funded lives. Set up your own plan for the future and financial foundations, and in the process make a global contribution to eradicating extreme poverty through the use of microfinance. 

Event Details:

10thousandgirl Life Planning Workshop

Sunday 29^th April, 2012

9.30am – 5.30pm

M Block Dining Room Armidale TAFE Campus

Bookings and further information: www.10thousandgirl.com



The Chamber has had a great deal of interest in the 2012 Awards, with over 180 businesses have been nominated in 17 categories.

This year’s awards will be presented at a Gala Event on the 1st June and will celebrate the excellence, quality and creativity of businesses from across the region.

New categories in 2012 include a Creative Industries award and separate awards for Tourism, Accommodation, Pubs and Clubs, and Cafes and Restaurants.

The Awards will also feature the highly respected Business Innovation Award, the New England Enterprising Woman of the Year and of course the coveted Business of the Year Award.

All categories are judged by a panel of judges who will be looking for the unique qualities of the nominated businesses and what truly sets them apart. This might an innovative product, attention to quality relationship building with clients or perhaps the development and adoption of technology to improve efficiencies.

The Business Awards celebration has become an important event on the Armidale Business calendar and gives exposure to the wealth of business expertise, and quality products and services thriving in the region.

Join us for a night of entertainment, fine food, wine and celebration!

2012 Business Awards

Friday 1st June

7pm TAS Hoskins Theatre

Black Tie

Tickets $80 www.trybooking.com/BJLI

www.armidalechamber.com.au



The Digital Enterprise Program Armidale is part of the National Digital Economy Strategy, aiming to position Australia as a leading digital economy by 2020. Training, workshops and seminars will focus on the opportunities provided by the National Broadband Network and how businesses and organisations can take full advantage through building effective digital strategies.

Please see below details of the events coming up over the next week. We still have spots available in some of the workshops.

All events are free, however booking is essential.

NBN Introductory Courses delivered by TAFE NE

These courses are TAFE delivered introductory courses focused on the NBN, the Digital Economy and application specific content, such as Social Networking, Internet Advertising, Email, Facebook for Business, Twitter Cloud applications etc.

These course are especially designed for small to medium enterprises (SME’s) and Not-for-Profit (NFP) organisations who are just starting out on their Digital journey.

Monday 30th April, 2012

1. Introduction to the NBN and The Digital Economy - Monday 30 April, 2012 - 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour sessions)

9.30am (2 hour workshop) – Maximum 10 participants

1.30pm (2 hour workshops) - Maximum 10 participants

Switched On Armidale – Digital Strategies For Small Business 

A structured series of workshops led by leading industry subject matter experts. Each session is designed to integrate business activity and planning around key Digital Economy and NBN focused subject matter, with topics relating directly to the creation of a Digital Business Strategy.

Tuesday 1st May, 2012

1. The Guide: tech talk basics.

This introductory session provides participants with the A-Z of technology today. This overview includes a guide to terminology; explores issues like privacy and security; and outlines some of the opportunities and challenges technology brings. Participants will begin planning their own digital strategy by exploring their current online situation and identifying their own needs.

Speaker: Mr Sam Austrin – Miner, Senior Partner Attentive Consulting

Sam Austrin-Miner has been working on digital initiatives in the public and private sector for the past 12 years including development and delivery of shared services in the Public Sector in the UK. He has recently been involved with a number of Local Councils across the country in preparing submissions and rolling out projects associated with the Digital Initiatives (Hubs, Enterprise, and Local Government Program) and designing a number of Digital Economy Strategies.

9.30am  – 2 hour Session (Workshop Full)

1.30pm – 2 hour Session (3-4 spaces available)

Rich Subject Matter Experts Seminar/Webinars

A structured series of presentation seminar sessions that will be also be available online. The seminars will be once a week and follows on from the 'Switched On Armidale': Digital Strategies for Small Business' series of courses. The evening events are open to a wider audience and is conducted as a keynote presentation for up to 80 participants.

Tuesday 1st May, 2012 - 6pm- 7pm including Q&A

Developing Your Digital Strategy - Mr Sam Austrin-Miner, Senior Partner Attentive Consulting.

Venue: M Block Dining Room Armidale TAFE Campus

All events are free, however booking is essential.

For your general reference please follow link with the details regarding this incentive.

http://www.deewr.gov.au/Employment/Programs/ExpPlus/Pages/supportformatureagejobseekers.aspx

For further information please contact:

Mark Almond

Employment Project Coordinator

Building Australia’s Future Workforce - Mid North Coast Region

Australian Government Dept of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations

3rd Floor, 3 Hopetoun Street (PO Box 627)  CHARLESTOWN  NSW 2290

Phone–(02) 4940 1707   Mobile-0412 834  590   Fax-(02) 6204 2368

"Closing the Gap" is everyone’s business

Chamber CEO, Elizabeth Egan, will take on the role of Program Manager for the two year project designed to upskill Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s) and help them engage with digital technology and strategies.

The Program entitled Switched on Armidale: digital strategies for small business, will feature expert trainers and speakers who will conduct a series of workshops aimed at supporting businesses in taking up the digital opportunities available in the Region.

“We are very fortunate in Armidale to have access to the National Broadband Network before the rest of Australia. We want to ensure that local businesses are armed with the know-how and confidence to take advantage of their head-start,” says Ms Egan.

Cr Peter Ducat Mayor of Armidale Dumaresq Council welcomes the commencement of the Digital Enterprises Program in Armidale. “Council is delighted to partner with the Armidale Business Chamber in this program and I look forward to seeing businesses benefiting from the rollout of the NBN,” says Mayor Ducat.

Topics will include Technology basics, NBN, Social Media for business, and Digital relationship building. Participants will create their own digital strategy over a ten week period and gain the skills needed to remain competitive in a digital economy. This includes one-on-one workshops with businesses as well as an Introduction to the NBN workshop series delivered by TAFE New England Institute.

The Program begins on Monday 30^th April 2012.

All courses are FREE, bookings essential.

NBN Digital Economy Introductory Courses delivered by TAFE NE.

8 weeks (Mondays)

Venue: Digital Hub, Cinders Lane.

1. Introduction to the NBN and The Digital Economy - Monday 30 April, 2012 - 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour sessions)

2. Social Networking - Monday 7 May, 2012 - 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour sessions)

3. Internet Advertising - Monday 14 May, 2012 - 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour sessions)

4. Email - Monday 21 May, 2012 - 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour sessions)

5. Facebook for business - Monday 28 May, 2012 - 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour sessions)

6. Twitter - Monday 4 June, 2012 - 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour sessions)

7. Interfacing - Monday 11 June, 2012 - 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour sessions)

8. Cloud Applications - Monday 18 June, 2012 - 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour sessions)

Switched On Armidale – Digital Strategies For Small Business.  10 weeks (Tuesdays)

Venue: Digital Hub, Cinders Lane. 

The ten week seminar series will comprise structured small group workshops designed to integrate business activity and lead to practical , informed digital solutions for participating businesses. 

1. The Guide: tech talk basics.

This introductory session provides participants with the A-Z of technology today. This overview includes a guide to terminology; explores issues like privacy and security; and outlines some of the opportunities and challenges technology brings. Participants will begin planning their own digital strategy by exploring their current online situation and identifying their own needs.

Tuesday 1 May, 2012. 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour workshops - Max 10 participants)

2. The NBN: high speed broadband is here

What is the NBN? What is the difference between what we have now and what opportunities arise with high speed broadband? This session will explain the workings of the National Broadband Network and through examples, explore some of the possibilities available to business enterprises in the new technological realm. We will also get down to the ‘nuts & bolts’ involved in ensuring that your business high speed capable.

Tuesday 8 May, 2012. 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour workshops)

3. The Buzz: social media for savvy small business

Social media provides businesses with new marketing opportunities, new mechanisms for customer engagement and new communication channels. How can you harness this power to drive your business? Facebook, Twitter and YouTube are just the tip of the iceberg….

Tuesday 15 May, 2012. 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour workshops)

4. The Web: your website success story

An effective website could be your business’s greatest asset. In this session we explore the essential web tools, the principles of e-commerce, search engine optimisation and website navigation essentials.

Tuesday 22 May, 2012. 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour workshops)

5. The Links: building meaningful relationships

Networking and relationship building take on new meaning in the digital environment. How do you optimise your networking capacity? Learn how to manage relationships, recognise the pitfalls and ensure the process works to your benefit and the benefit of your business.

Tuesday 29 May, 2012. 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour workshops)

6. In Sync: bringing it all together

Technology and the digital workspace bring a variety of tools, software, systems and languages. Synchronising your platforms helps to synchronise your message and operations for the best efficiencies and outcomes. Learn the tips and tricks to keeping ‘in Sync’ and the essential requirements for online support and technical assistance.

Tuesday 5 June,  2012. 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour workshops)

7. The View: communication across the globe

Video conferencing is not new however high speed broadband brings new elements to the successful use of this powerful communication tool. Could your business benefit from access to realtime online person to person visual communication? Learn the secrets and explore the alternatives in this hands on session.

Tuesday 12 June, 2012. 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour workshops) 

8. The Bottom Line: the costs and benefits of digital engagement

The costs and benefits of digital engagement are explored in detail in this workshop. We look at how to reduce business costs, the transfer of costs from non-digital to digital (what do you save, what do you spend) and examine your new look bottom line.

Tuesday 19 June, 2012. 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour workshops) 

9. The Proof: measuring the impacts of technology on my business

This workshop takes a practical look at the use of analytics and the tools used to measure the impacts of technology on your business. In the digital environment new forms of data and information are available to help inform your business decisions. How do you harness the most useful information? How do you deal with the volume of information so easily accessed?

Tuesday 26 June, 2012. 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour workshops) 

10. The Plan of Attack: mobilising into action

Now you are ready to finalise your digital enterprise strategy for your business and put it into action! This workshop will help businesses with the most important part of the process - creating a final strategy and implementation plan for delivering the change that your organisation needs.

Tuesday 3 July, 2012. 9.30am or 1.30pm (2 hour workshops)  

Bookings Essential: please contact Elizabeth Egan

02 6771 1177

0409 673 168

digitalenterprise@armidalechamber.com.au

Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Date: Thursday 19 April 2012
Location: Tamworth Historic Town Hall, Fitzroy Street, Tamworth NSW 2340
 
This regional forum is part of a 12 month process to develop the Plan, which includes:

February 2012:  Release of the NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan discussion paper
Mid 2012: Release of a draft NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan
November 2012: Release of the final NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan.
 
Representatives from Transport for NSW will be present to discuss issues and listen to feedback.
 
To attend this forum, please RSVP by email to masterplan@transport.nsw.gov.au or telephone 02 8202 2611.
 
If you are unable to attend you can also make a submission by visiting: www.transportmasterplan.nsw.gov.au. Copies of the NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan Discussion Paper will be available online prior to the meeting.
 
I look forward to working with you on the future of transport planning in NSW.
 
Yours sincerely
 
Carolyn McNally
Deputy Director General, Planning and Programs
Transport for NSW

The Armidale Business Chamber is delighted to welcome the following New Members:

• 3 Green Frogs Technology
• Aboriginal Employment Strategy
• Armidale Dumaresq Civic Precinct Committee
• Bupa Aged Care Facility Armidale
• Croft Psychological Services/Armidale Clinical Psychology Service
• Jan Bavea Career Development Practitioner and Life Coach
• MOIN & ASSOCIATES PTY LIMITED
• Network Communications Armidale
• Viatek



The Business Chamber’s focus lies in facilitating connections between local businesses and meeting the information needs of its members. To achieve this goal the Business Chamber hosts quality events highlighting current issues, innovation and emerging opportunities.

The Armidale Business Chamber's Vision:

• To inspire, energise and resource the Armidale Business Community.

• To create connections between; The Chamber and our Members, Sponsors and wider business community.

• To facilitate change and innovation to enable progress.

• To provide and facilitate quality training and development.

• To recognise local business excellence.

JOIN THE ARMIDALE BUSINESS CHAMBER - CLICK HERE!

This workshop aims to improve the financial literacy of 10,000 Australian women, inspiring them to pursue their life plan with a confidence and independence backed by financial security.

10thousandgirl brings personal finance to life, making it informative, engaging and fun and aims to inspire a ripple effect; when a girl knows where she’s heading and how to get there, she is able to help others and inspire those around her.

 “We know that when women put their mind to it, they can achieve their dreams with unyielding energy, and, in turn, inspire and help those around them. That’s the role of 10thousandgirl - to encourage and motivate women to practice sound financial management and get engaged in future planning,” said Zoe Lamont, Founder of 10thousandgirl. 

10thousandgirl was started by a group of young women in a Sydney pub in 2009. Before long they realised the importance and long term benefit of having a plan and understanding finance basics so they could make their plans happen. More and more women started to come. The campaign now has a board of directors and has grown to educate 1000’s of women across Australia every year with the initiative attracting national and more recently global recognition in their bid to contribute to increasing the wellbeing and economic health of women. The programs are delivered by passionate and committed volunteers in partnership with national and local community, government and private organisations. 

Elizabeth Egan from the Armidale Business Chamber is delighted to be involved with this very positive and engaging campaign. “This program links very well with what we are trying to provide through our New England Enterprising Women’s program and we are very happy that local sponsors have seen this workshop as a valuable opportunity for local women and have helped bring it to Armidale,” says Ms Egan.

The dynamic Life Planning Workshops are being sponsored locally by Forsyths, Wilson & Co Lawyers and Roberts and Morrow Chartered Accountants.

The financial education of young women is vital, so that they can reach their potential, increase their options and lead fulfilling lives.  Wilson & Co Lawyers is delighted to be actively involved in supporting our local community, by being an Armidale sponsor of the 10thousandgirl Campaign’, says Fiona Miron from Wilson & Co Lawyers.

The 10thousandgirl interactive full-day Life Planning workshop is suitable for women of all ages and financial stages. We say if you feel like a girl, you’re welcome! 

By attending the Life Planning Workshop you can be one of 10,000 girls working together to lead inspired, mindful and self-funded lives. Set up your own plan for the future and financial foundations, and in the process make a global contribution to eradicating extreme poverty through the use of microfinance. 

Event Details:

10thousandgirl Life Planning Workshop

Sunday 29^th April, 2012

9.30am – 5.30pm

M Block Dining Room Armidale TAFE Campus

Bookings and further information: www.10thousandgirl.com

2012 Armidale Business Awards and the Armidale Business Chamber is bracing itself for what promises to be the biggest (and arguably the best) ceremony in the history of the Awards.

The Chamber has had a great deal of interest in the 2012 Awards already, with over 130 businesses and individuals already nominated.

David Simmons, Chief Executive Officer from Forsyths Chartered Accountants was delighted by their business nomination success.

‘Thank you for the notification that Forsyths have been nominated in three Armidale Business Awards categories. We are particularly proud of Kylie Alcorn’s nomination in the New England Enterprising Woman category.’

The Awards ceremony will be held on the 1^st June this year and will feature new categories and a new ‘yet to be announced’ host.

This year The Chamber has created new categories for some of the areas that have traditionally received a large number of nominations like tourism, accommodation, pubs and clubs and cafes and restaurants.

The 2012 Awards will also feature a new category for Creative Industries as well as the highly coveted Business of the Year Award.

All categories will be judged by a panel of judges who will be looking for the unique qualities of the nominated businesses and what truly sets them apart. This might an innovative product, attention to quality relationship building with clients or perhaps the development and adoption of technology to improve efficiencies.

Nominate Now - Last Chance! http://www.armidalechamber.com.au/business-award-nominations.php

For the first time, the business leaders and membership from all State and Territory Chambers of Commerce unified to combine their broad business strength and expertise.  Over 1000 delegates from a range of business and industry joined the inaugural Congress.

We built a strong and successful foundation at the inaugural Congress held in the Gold Coast in 2011. As Business Chambers, we believe that the need for business transformation is here and we are proud to bring this outstanding and thought provoking Congress to the Australian business community.

The unification of the State and Territory Chambers of Commerce increases our ability to provide a range of benefits unsurpassed by any other business organisation.

During the Congress participants and thought leaders alike have the opportunity to shape a strong agenda for change, change that can be represented throughout the Chamber movement.

We believe that through the sharing of knowledge at forums like these we can achieve our unified goal of ensuring Australia’s success.

We look forward to sharing this occasion with you in 2012, and into the future.

Chamber Member Discounts Apply.

Reason to attend and more event info

Business Workshop and Business Survey

As a result of the Australian Government’s investment in the National Broadband Network (NBN), the Armidale Region is the first community in mainland Australia to benefit from super fast, fibre optic broadband infrastructure.  This investment will provide the regional economy with new opportunities for business development and digital industry innovation. The Armidale Dumaresq Council has commissioned the development of a Digital Economy Strategy to harness such opportunities, to maximise the benefits of the NBN to the region and to transform the region into a thriving digital economy.  Attentive Consulting have been engaged by the Council to consult with industry sectors, businesses and not-for-profit organisations and to develop the Digital Economy Strategy and associated ten-year implementation plan.

A Digital Economy Workshop for local businesses will be held on the evening of Tuesday, 3 April 2012 from 6-8pm in the Armidale Town Hall.  Businesses, industry bodies and not-for-profit organisations should RSVP to the workshop as places are limited. RSVPs may be placed by email to ArmidaleDES@attentiveconsulting.com.au 

Armidale Businesses are also encouraged to complete the Digital Economy Survey located at the top right of http://Armidale.LGAdigital.org

All input from Businesses, industry bodies and not-for-profit organisations at the workshop and through the Survey will inform Armidale’s Digital Economy Strategy and be influential in setting the future direction for the Region in terms of both economic growth and the creation of new job opportunities.

Expressions of Interest Sought from Local Business:

UNE Partnerships invites expressions of interest from individuals and organisations wishing to up-skill existing workers through vocational qualifications available via the NSW Strategic Skills Program (SSP).  UNE Partnerships is an Approved Provider for the Strategic Skills Program (SSP) 2011-2012, incorporating the Productivity Places Program (PPP) funding.

UNE Partnerships is recognised for our flexibility and reliable service delivery of Certificate III to Advanced Diploma qualification training and education by distance to individuals, and as tailored programs to public and private sector organisations.  As the education and training company of the University of New England and a Registered Training Organisation, we are committed to the provision of structured, high quality, industry relevant training to promote improved skills, knowledge and workplace performance.

We are inviting you to take up this unique opportunity for yourself or your staff.

Specifically, UNE Partnerships would like to place a proposal for Certificate IV in Project Management and Diploma of Project Management in the New England region of NSW. If you have a particular interest in studying this qualification and you work in this region, please kindly advise me at your earliest convenience via completing an expression of interest form. If we receive appropriate interest, a proposal can be developed and lodged for approval.

The Certificate is for those who:

Are part of a team responsible for the development and achievement of project objectives. Help prepare reports or generate special reports for forwarding to a project manager. Have responsibility for monitoring and controlling only certain aspects of a project.

Course content

Please view our webpage for depth of course information (note course fee advertised is not applicable).

Certificate IV in Project Management

Participants need to be currently working in a project environment - or be able to access a work-based project at the level you wish to study. (Coordinator/team member)

Course fee: $984.00

The Diploma is for those who:

Develop project management plans and have sole responsibility for achieving a project’s objectives. Report the outcomes of a project to a higher authority in your organisation. Monitor and review the whole project as it progresses through its lifecycle.

Course content

Please view our webpage for depth of course information (note course fee advertised is not applicable).

Diploma of Project Management

Participants need to be currently working in a project environment - or be able to access a work-based project at the level you wish to study. (Project manager)

Course fee: $1308.00

All course materials are provided. Includes comprehensive study package - course guide, study notes, online resources, activities, readings, assessment items plus full administrative and academic support.

Information of eligibility for SSP funding

Existing worker is defined for the purposes of the Strategic Skills Program (SSP) as a person 20 years of age or older who has been in paid employment for at least one hour in the week prior to commencement of training; or a person 15-19 years of age who is not formally enrolled in school and has been in paid employment for more than 15 hours in the week prior to commencement of training.

Participants

• Must not be enrolled in secondary or tertiary education.                                                                           

• Must be an Australian Citizen or a foreign national with Australia permanent residency or a New Zealand passport holder who has been resident in Australia for a least six months or a Humanitarian refugee.                                                                               

• Must be a NSW resident or a person who works in NSW.                

If you have particular interest in studying this qualification, Please complete an expression of interest form for anindividual or group, and return it by email to tracy.wilson@unep.edu.au or fax (02 6772 5230).

A few hit the next level. Some employees are remarkable, possessing qualities that may not appear on performance appraisals but nonetheless make a major impact on performance.

Here are eight qualities of remarkable employees:

1. They ignore job descriptions. The smaller the company, the more important it is that employees can think on their feet, adapt quickly to shifting priorities, and do whatever it takes, regardless of role or position, to get things done.

When a key customer's project is in jeopardy, remarkable employees know without being told there's a problem and jump in without being asked—even if it's not their job.

2. They’re eccentric... The best employees are often a little different: quirky, sometimes irreverent, even delighted to be unusual. They seem slightly odd, but in a really good way. Unusual personalities shake things up, make work more fun, and transform a plain-vanilla group into a team with flair and flavor.

People who aren't afraid to be different naturally stretch boundaries and challenge the status quo, and they often come up with the best ideas.

3. But they know when to dial it back. An unusual personality is a lot of fun... until it isn't. When a major challenge pops up or a situation gets stressful, the best employees stop expressing their individuality and fit seamlessly into the team.

Remarkable employees know when to play and when to be serious; when to be irreverent and when to conform; and when to challenge and when to back off. It’s a tough balance to strike, but a rare few can walk that fine line with ease.

4. They publicly praise... Praise from a boss feels good. Praise from a peer feels awesome, especially when you look up to that person.

Remarkable employees recognize the contributions of others, especially in group settings where the impact of their words is even greater.

5. And they privately complain. We all want employees to bring issues forward, but some problems are better handled in private. Great employees often get more latitude to bring up controversial subjects in a group setting because their performance allows greater freedom.

Remarkable employees come to you before or after a meeting to discuss a sensitive issue, knowing that bringing it up in a group setting could set off a firestorm.

6. They speak when others won’t. Some employees are hesitant to speak up in meetings. Some are even hesitant to speak up privately.

An employee once asked me a question about potential layoffs. After the meeting I said to him, “Why did you ask about that? You already know what's going on.” He said, “I do, but a lot of other people don't, and they're afraid to ask. I thought it would help if they heard the answer from you.”

Remarkable employees have an innate feel for the issues and concerns of those around them, and step up to ask questions or raise important issues when others hesitate.

7. They like to prove others wrong. Self-motivation often springs from a desire to show that doubters are wrong. The kid without a college degree or the woman who was told she didn't have leadership potential often possess a burning desire to prove other people wrong.

Education, intelligence, talent, and skill are important, but drive is critical. Remarkable employees are driven by something deeper and more personal than just the desire to do a good job.

8. They’re always fiddling. Some people are rarely satisfied (I mean that in a good way) and are constantly tinkering with something: Reworking a timeline, adjusting a process, tweaking a workflow.

Great employees follow processes. Remarkable employees find ways to make those processes even better, not only because they are expected to… but because they just can't help it.

Jeff Haden learned much of what he knows about business and technology as he worked his way up in the manufacturing industry. Everything else he picks up from ghostwriting books for some of the smartest leaders he knows in business. @jeff_haden

Yolanda Veda, founder and CEO of the Australian Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry will be one of the special guests at a New England Enterprising Women’s event to be held at the New England Regional Art Museum on Thursday 29^th March, proudly sponsored by University of New England – School of Business, Economics and Public Policy, QantasLink and Peterson’s Guest House.

Topic:   "Wellness: You & Your Business – Series 1”.  New England Enterprising Women Special Events, addressing the importance of taking care of yourself, as well as your business.

The seminar will also feature Yvonne Cheong, the founder and owner of Chinese Whispers, a customer engagement agency that develops, implements and manages social media strategies for small businesses.

Wellness: You & Your Business, is a new series of events hosted by the Armidale Business Chamber NEEW program. The seminars will address a variety of issues around the importance of taking care of yourself, as well as the health of your business.

Chamber CEO Elizabeth Egan says they “are delighted to be able to bring these two amazing women from Sydney to meet and speak with our New England Enterprising Women”

Yolanda will highlight the results of a nationwide survey undertaken by The Australian Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AWCCI) and will reveal some of the findings including  ‘what business women really think’.

The mission of the AWCCI is to support economic growth for the benefit of all Australians, give women in business a voice and promote trade and commerce.

The Chambers’ other special guest, Yvonne Cheong has experience in a number of different industries with a strong influence in marketing. As a small business operator, Yvonne continuously provides services that deliver results in the constantly evolving landscape of social media.

In her spare time, Yvonne volunteers as the Social Media Manager and member of Marketing and Communications committee for Dress for Success Sydney, a not for profit organisation established to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women.

Yvonne will present on Social Media strategies for small business and how they feed into the overall wellbeing of your enterprise. 

EVENT DETAILS AND TO REGISTER CLICK HERE!

A panel of marketing experts will join local business people for what promises to be a lively panel event on Tuesday 20^th March at Armidale TAFE Campus.

Entitled ‘From Fundamentals to Facebook’ the event is hosted by the Armidale Business Chamber, and will feature three local guest speakers, Andrew Murray, Dr Roger Epworth and Sam Austrin-Miner.

All three are leaders in their fields and will provide participants with a variety of approaches to business marketing; from the essential basics to the opportunities brought through technology and global competition.

Panel experts will include Andrew Murray, a successful businessman and consultant who has learnt through experience what works and what doesn’t when it comes to marketing tools.

Andrew has a practical approach to consulting, based on his broad business experience and appreciation of the importance of good data, motivated staff and the power of a competitive strategy.

Andrew will be joined by Dr Roger Epworth. Roger has more than 20 years experience in marketing for small businesses and a PhD in Services Marketing. Roger has taught at universities in Australia, the United States and China together with consulting widely to small businesses and corporates.  and uses his mix of corporate experience and academic knowledge to help businesses understand and plan their marketing functions with emphasis on staff training to build marketing and HR effectiveness.

The third panel member is Sam Austrin-Miner, Senior Partner to the Public Sector within Attentive Consulting. He has been working on digital initiatives in the public and private sector for the past 12 years including development and delivery of shared services in the Public Sector in the UK. He has recently been involved with a number of Local Councils across the country in preparing submissions and rolling out projects associated with the Digital Initiatives (Hubs, Enterprise, and Local Government Program) and designing a number of Digital Economy Strategies.

“Our Members have told us they want help discovering the marketing tool or strategy that best suits their own business situation”, says Armidale Business Chamber’s Elizabeth Egan.

Ms Egan adds “there is a bit of fear out there regarding online competition and technological advances. We think this panel event will help put things on the table and allay some of the business community’s concerns.”

FOR FURTHER EVENT INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER CLICK HERE!

The Armidale Business Chamber's New England Enterprising Women (NEEW) program was established in August 2009 and has grown considerably through regular events and communication to over 600 women.

The Program offers unique opportunities for women through its social and professional networking opportunities and to its members.

Wellness: You & Your Business, is the latest program of events addressing the importance of taking care of yourself, as well as your business.

In the first in the series we are delighted to be bringing two extraordinary speakers from Sydney - the founder and CEO of the Australian Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Yolanda Veda and Yvonne Cheong, the founder and owner of Chinese Whispers, a customer engagement agency that develops, implements and manages social media strategies for small businesses.

The AWCCI has recently undertaken a survey of Australian Business Women. Yolanda will highlight the results of this nationwide survey and reveal to us from the findings  what business women really think.

The mission of the AWCCI is to support economic growth for the benefit of all Australians, give women in business a voice and promote trade and commerce.

The AWCCI understands that In order to achieve the economic expansion we all seek, we need to unlock a vital source that can power our economies in the decades to come. And that vital source of growth is women.

Yvonne Cheong has experience in a number of different industries with a strong influence in marketing. As a small business operator, Yvonne continuously provides services that deliver results in the constantly evolving landscape of social media.

In her spare time, Yvonne volunteers as the Social Media Manager and member of Marketing and Communications committee for Dress for Success Sydney, a not for profit organisation established to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women.

Yvonne will present on Social Media strategies for small business and how they feed into the overall wellbeing of your enterprise. 

CLICK HERE FOR EVENT INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER

Armidale Business Chamber has formed an alliance with NSW’s largest member based business support group, NSW Business Chamber.  Joining forces with a peak body such as NSW Business Chamber delivers local chamber members with additional benefits and services leveraging the capability of NSW Business Chamber.

Some of these products include:

• Workplace Advice Line –connects you to workplace specialists when you have a workplace relations issue or question including wages and allowances, termination of employment, long service leave, superannuation and other workplace compliance and management matters.
• Trusted business information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with detailed “Ask Us How” online business guides, member tips and resources.  There are over 160 business guides on topics such as marketing, sales, people, processes and finance.
• An online health check for your business providing you with a report that benchmarks areas of high performance as well as opportunity for improvement within your business.
• Business Legals Toolkit  - an online resource that lets you download legally compliant templates and samples of essential business documents that you may require in your business.

To ensure that all members get access to these benefits we need you to opt in to become no cost members of NSW Business Chamber. 

Shortly you will receive a call from Maree McEntyre from NSW Business Chamber, requesting you to complete an opt in form and fax it back to her. 

If you could give this you immediate attention it would be appreciated.  If you have any questions on this you can call Kellon Beard the Regional Manager on 6584 0910.

The Armidale Business Chamber's New England Enterprising Women (NEEW) program was established in August 2009 and is growing considerably through regular events and communication to over 500 women. 

This month don’t miss the opportunity to meet Lyn Rickard,  Faculty Director TAFE NSW New England Institute and Gretta Free who has recently established her own business 'Embody Wellness Studio'.

Thursday 8^th March, 7.45am- 9am

Venue: M Block Dining Room (Room MG.04), Armidale TAFE Campus, - Beardy Street Armidale NSW 2350 

$25 Members/$35 Non Members/Visitors: payable at the door or request an invoice directly from the Chamber Office.

REGISTER HERE!

Business Awards 2012 - NOMINATE!



Phoenix Foundry won the Highly Commended Award for a Regional Exporter in the NSW Premier's Export Awards 2008, one of the most important business events held each year and is recognised as one of the finest producers of bronze cemetery and memorial plaques in the world.


The other guest speakers will also focus on leadership and excellence in business.

NSW Business Chamber Regional Manager, Kellon Beard, will outline a new Alliance undertaken with the Armidale Business Chamber and the benefits for the Armidale business community including the opportunities for state recognition open to local business award winners.

Armidale Mayor Peter Ducat a respected business leader in his own right, will acknowledge
local business excellence and encourage members of the business community to consider a leadership role by standing for a place on local Council in the September 2012 elections.

Peter Sniekers, Regional Manager Trade & Investment NSW, will discuss the value and benefit of recognition through Awards and share the latest updates on State Government support.

This event will also mark the official launch of the 2012 Business Awards with nominations now open.


REGISTER FOR EVENT

NOMINATE A BUSINESS

The Chamber is excited to announce the two lucky winners of the exciting offer to our New England Enterprising Women from 2Creative Media, the organisers of The 2012 Business Summit.

2Creative Media is providing 2 complimentary tickets to the 2012 Business Summit for two lucky business women, as a way to give Armidale based women in business the opportunity to experience the Business Summit event.

Congratulations to Fiona Murray, The Design Corner and Deb King, Deborah King Physiotherapy .

For anyone interested in attending the Business Summit and miss out on the free tickets, you can use the NSW BC opt in price. Contact the CHamber Office for more details.

Special offer price – ‘1/2 price tickets’

NSW BUSINESS CHAMBER MEMBER/LOCAL CHAMBER OPT IN PRICE - $329 per delegate

 

Business Summit details:

Business Summit 2012 – The Balance of Business

6th March, 2012 - Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre - 1 Day Event

Tamworth

See - www.businesssummit.com.au

For more information or for Armidale Business Chamber Members who would like an Opt In form emailed to them, please contact Elizabeth Egan 02 6771 1177 or email office@armidalechamber.com.au

How do you successfully run a $4 billion corporation with a workforce of 8,000 people...?
 
how do you grow the profit of a national company by over 350% in 5 years...?

why have NAB selected her to transform their core banking services worldwide…?
 
Come and hear one of only a few women in the world who have headed up a Fortune 500 company.
 
From Sydney to New York to Tokyo, you need to hear this exciting speaker.
 
To celebrate International Womens Day we are bringing this talented Aussie lady, who has succeeded both here and in the international arena, to have lunch with you in Armidale.
 
This is our 2nd annual seminar bringing successful women to Armidale.Tickets are $35, include lunch and I invite you to join us. Please see the enclosed invitation. You can book tickets directly over the web at

www.trybooking.com/ZZF

or for assistance call Sue at PLC reception on 6770 1700.  
 
“Successful Women”  
Luncheon-Seminar - Wednesday  7th March at PLC Armidale.
 
   

Join us on Tuesday 28th February, to celebrate the Launch of the 2012 Awards!

Business Excellence 2012 – Recognising Excellence, Leadership & Official Launch 2012 Business Awards.

Including presentations by special guests Armidale Mayor Peter Ducat,  Kellon Baird Regional Manager NSW Business Chamber and Ian Mitchell, CEO Phoenix Foundry Pty Ltd, Winner 2010 Business Awards.

Full event details and to register: 

http://www.armidalechamber.com.au/event.php?eid=10

Cloud computing is now part of the language of most SMEs, but how many entrepreneurs are making the most of cloud services? In this webinar, tech expert and SmartCompany blogger Paul Wallbank will take you deep inside the cloud to examine how cloud technology is changing and how businesses can get ahead.

This live, interactive webinar will examine:

• The key cloud services for SMEs.
• Why the cloud can support growing companies.
• Key tips and traps before you jump in the cloud.
• Future trends in cloud computing that SMEs should watch.

Wednesday 15th February, 2012 @ 12.30pm AEDT

Follow this link to Register

http://www.smartcompany.com.au/free-webinar-harnessing-the-power-of-the-cloud?utm_source=SmartCompany&utm_campaign=8cf7ddb39d-SmartCompany_Webinar_15_February_2012&utm_medium=email

Don't miss the opportunity to attend a 2 day Financial Manager 101 course with Westpac's Davidson Institute's top trainer, Mr Rob Lockart.

The Chamber will host four events this year aimed at helping local business owners make confident financial decisions. This is in direct response to the identified needs of Chamber members gathered through focus groups and member feedback throughout 2011.

Rob has helped thousands of businesses improve their performance through financial education. He has an extensive experience in the finance industry, working initially as an accountant, before moving into the banking arena. Prior to becoming an accredited Westpac facilitator, Rob demonstrated his commitment to small and medium sized business through his involvement in the development of Westpac’s equity matching service for small and medium businesses.

Details of the training programs are as follows and it should be noted that numbers will be strictly limited.

Financial Manager 101 - Wednesday 15^th February & Thursday 16^th February, 2012
Financial Manager 201 – Wednesday 14^th March
Business Planning – Wednesday 16^th May, 2012 
Human Resources Management – Wednesday 20^th June, 2012.

Chamber Members will be eligible for a discounted rate for each of the Westpac Davidson Institute courses to be held in Armidale in 2012. If you are interested in enrolling in any of the programs on offer or would like more information please contact Elizabeth Egan at the Armidale Business Chamber office on 02 67711177 or email office@armidalechamber.com.au

https://www.davidsoninstitute.edu.au/

This month's NEEW Breakfast will be on Friday 10th February, not Thursday 9th as previously publicised.  Breakfast will be hosted at 'Archie’s on The Park'/Moore Park Inn.

NERAM has an installation in the Mazda Gallery so we are unable to meet as per usual.

Our sincere apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.

We look forward to welcoming you this Friday morning!

This month don’t miss the opportunity to meet Regina Davidson, Partner, Smith Sharpe & Abbott, Chartered Accountants and Financial Advisors and Elizabeth Egan, CEO Armidale Business Chamber.

Gretta Free who has recently established her own business 'Embody Wellness Studio' will be our March speaker with Lyn Rickard, Director, Human and Personal Services, TAFE NSW- New England Institute.

This week's event details:

Friday 10^th February, 7.45am- 9am

Archie’s on The Park/Moore Park Inn,( MoorePark Road then Moore Park Lane.)

$25 Members/$35 Non Members/Visitors: payable at the door or request an invoice directly from the Chamber Office.

Please register  http://www.armidalechamber.com.au/event.php?eid=5



• Acceler8 Technologies Pty Ltd
• EdAlive/ZooWhiz 
• Embody Wellness Studio
• Evans Publishing - Armidale Independent
• Le Salon, 121 Beardy Street
• Sequester Business Services
• Westpac, Armidale Branch



Acceler8 Technologies Pty Ltd

Future Technology Simplified - Acceler8’s objective is to enhance the productivity and profitability of your business through the implementation and support of practical IT solutions.

We provide a complete solution for all customers’ IT and Communication needs, mixing and matching our managed and hosted solutions, allowing you to have a well functioning system designed to support your individual business needs.

We have a keen interest in promoting the WorkAnywhere philosophy,  promoting both business and lifestyle in regional areas by showing you how you and your staff, can easily live and work where they choose using our managed and hosted IT solutions.  Our aim is to give people this freedom of choice which will also enhance and grow business in these regional areas.



EdAlive/ZooWhiz - Special Invitation to Chamber Members

Graham East, Managing Director, EdAlive would like to invite Chamber Members to the official Global launch of ZooWhiz, the new online learning system developed by Armidale’s EdAlive. 

The launch will be held at The Presbyterian Ladies College (PLC) Armidale, the first mainland school to be connected to the National Broadband Network (NBN).

Senator Stephen Conroy will be in Armidale for the launch as well as the Hon Tony Windsor MP and the Hon Richard Torbay MP.

ZooWhiz recently won the education category of the 2011 Northern Inland Innovation Awards and demonstrates that business in regional Australia is alive and prospering. ZooWhiz’s new online learning system is also a practical example of the opportunities available to regional businesses as the NBN is rolled out across the country. To download an info sheet on ZooWhiz click here.

Details:

When: 17th February, 2012 at 10:30am

Where: PLC, Crest Rd, Armidale NSW 2350

RSVP 15th February to Barbara East

babseast@edalive.com 0421 081 756

Embody Wellness Studio

Grette Free began in the fitness industry over 12 years ago as a personal trainer and gym instructor. In the last four years working in the Armidale region, she has been aiming to offer classes and personal training sessions which help participants to become more in tune with their body and health.

Through her own journey with Pilates and Chiball and injury recovery, she now focus her work on helping others improve their quality of life through wholistic and sustainable exercise and wellness. The greatest rewards from her job come from watching the transformation of a client from where they started, to achieving their goals plus added benefits of health they hadn't even thought of but can notice the difference in their lives.

Today with our busy lifestyles and higher paced demands, just fitness is not enough to offer. What is needed is a place where it is ok to relax, to nurture yourself, to have permission to look after your body in a kind and gentle way.

181 Longswamp Rd, Armidale. 0402 783 323 embody@grettafree.com



Do you need book keeping support in your office?

BOOKKEEPING available - services include general bookkeeping, data entry, payroll, accounts and BAS preparation.

Contact Chamber office for details.

We have all been touched by the big "C".  I nursed my Dad as he died  a fairly ordinary death from cancer . I have  had a number of family members taken early, family that have had to endure the suffering of radiation, chemotherapy and surgery. You will have similar stories and experiences.  We are the lucky ones that have been given a chance to do something to reduce the incidence, severity and eventually eliminate cancer.

If you think you may be able to contribute in any way, can ride a pushbike or wish to have fun as a supporter; come along to our information session this Friday.   

Pass this message on to your friends, put it on face book - spread the word.  Bring them along to be inspired by Gary Bertwistle and Geoff Coombes, learn from their experiences, understand the sense of accomplishment and satisfaction from a successful community event such as this.   

In the words of Leo C Rosten:

 "I think the purpose to life is be useful, to be responsible, to be compassionate. It is above all to matter: to count, to stand for something, to make some difference that you have lived at all" 

Corporate Teams Flyer and more details attached.

The Chamber has had a great deal of interest in the 2012 Awards already, with many businesses and individuals asking how they can nominate local businesses for the wide variety of awards up for grabs.

The Awards ceremony will be held on the 1^st June this year and will feature new categories and a new ‘yet to be announced’ host.

This year The Chamber has created new categories for some of the areas that have traditionally received a large number of nominations like tourism, accommodation, pubs and clubs and cafes and restaurants.

The 2012 Awards will also feature a new category for Creative Industries as well as the highly coveted Business of the Year Award.

All categories will be judged by a panel of judges who will be looking for the unique qualities of the nominated businesses and what truly sets them apart. This might an innovative product, attention to quality relationship building with clients or perhaps the development and adoption of technology to improve efficiencies.

Nominate Now! http://www.armidalechamber.com.au/business-awards.php

This month don’t miss the opportunity to meet Regina Davidson, Partner, Smith Sharpe & Abbott, Chartered Accountants and Financial Advisors and Gretta Free who has recently established her own business 'Embody Wellness Studio'.

Thursday 9^th February, 7.45am- 9am

NERAM New England Regional Art Museum, Mazda Theatre, Kentucky Street

Breakfast catered by NERAM Harvest.

$25 Members/$35 Non Members/Visitors: payable at the door or request an invoice directly from the Chamber Office.

Please register  http://www.armidalechamber.com.au/event.php?eid=5

Here is some great news for Armidale Business Chamber Members who have completed their 'Chamber Alliance' Opt in form.

The NSW Business Chamber has arranged a ‘Special Ticket’ pricing; for NSW Business Chamber members and to businesses that have returned the ‘Chamber Alliance’ Opt In form to their local Chamber of Commerce. Tickets are subsidised by the NSWBC, so that pricing for tickets reduces from $649 to $329. (½ price).  Limited numbers available.

Event details

Business Summit 2012 – The Balance of Business

6th March, 2012 - Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre - 1 Day Event

Tamworth

See - www.businesssummit.com.au

Special offer Key Message

“Exclusive Tickets for NSW Business Chamber Members*”

Special offer price – ‘1/2 price tickets’

NSW BUSINESS CHAMBER MEMBER - $329 per delegate

Special offer details -

*To qualify to receive a an exclusive, special price ticket, a business needs to be a NSW Business Chamber member or a business that has returned the ‘Chamber Alliance’ Opt In form to their local Chamber of Commerce that are members of the NSW Business Chamber Alliance Program.

The above offer, is being provided to Chambers of Commerce within the New England / North West; i.e.  Armidale Chamber of Commerce, Quirindi Chamber of Commerce, Tamworth Chamber of Commerce etc.

A special ‘Business Summit – Subsidised Ticket’ order form has been developed for applicable/interested businesses, that can be emailed directly to the qualified business.

The Business Summit, developed by 2 Creative Media, are members of the Armidale Chamber of Commerce, and NSW Business Chamber.

For more information or for Armidale Business Chamber Members who would like an Opt In form emailed to them, please contact Elizabeth Egan 02 6771 1177 or email office@armidalechamber.com.au

The Chamber will host four events next year aimed at helping local business owners make confident financial decisions. This is in direct response to the identified needs of Chamber members gathered through focus groups and member feedback throughout 2011.

“We know that our members want to know more about financial management, planning and human resources and we’ve invited The Davidson Institute to fill this gap”, says Chamber CEO Elizabeth Egan.

In a further coup for Armidale, facilitator for the programs will be Rob Lockhart.

Rob has helped thousands of businesses improve their performance through financial education. He has an extensive experience in the finance industry, working initially as an accountant, before moving into the banking arena. Prior to becoming an accredited Westpac facilitator, Rob demonstrated his commitment to small and medium sized business through his involvement in the development of Westpac’s equity matching service for small and medium businesses.

Wendy Howlett from Anytime Fitness says she found Financial Manager 101 "very enjoyable and the format and content was easily understood. The skills learned can absolutely be used within our business to keep our finger on the pulse and efficiently run the day to day operations”  

Details of the training programs are as follows and it should be noted that numbers will be strictly limited.

Financial Manager 101 - Wednesday 15^th February & Thursday 16^th February, 2012
Financial Manager 201 – Wednesday 14^th March
Business Planning – Wednesday 16^th May, 2012 
Human Resources Management – Wednesday 20^th June, 2012.

Chamber Members will be eligible for a discounted rate for each of the Westpac Davidson Institute courses to be held in Armidale in 2012. If you are interested in enrolling in any of the programs on offer or would like more information please contact Elizabeth Egan at the Armidale Business Chamber office on 02 67711177 or email office@armidalechamber.com.au

https://www.davidsoninstitute.edu.au/

The Armidale Business Chamber Office will be closed from Thursday 15th December until Monday 9th January 2012.

We look forward to working with you in 2012. Thank you for your support.

Liz Egan (CEO), Susan Cull (President).

Are you having trouble finding casual staff? We have interested people looking for work immediately.

The University of New England keeps a database of students looking for work during term time and holidays. These students include international and domestic students, all of whom have a wide range of skills and who are very keen to find employment. As an employer, all you need to do is to email a description of what position/s you have available and we will forward it on to the database of interested students, who can in turn reply directly to you. Please remember to include your contact details and any information relevant to the job, e.g. heavy lifting, proficiency in specialised software, need to attach a resume, etc.

Please email your postings to studentsupport@services.une.edu.au or phone Alex Dunn from Services UNE Student Support on 6773 3116 for further details.

This special event entitled ‘The NBN and our Digital Future’ will be an opportunity to hear about the latest developments regarding the National Broadband Network and some of the exciting digital projects underway in Armidale.

Guest speaker for the breakfast event will be Sam Austrin-Miner, Senior Consultant from Attentive Consulting, who has been working closely with Armidale Dumaresq Council and the Armidale Business Chamber on a variety of digital projects including the Digital Economy Strategy and the Digital Local Government Program.

According to Mr Austrin-Miner there is an overemphasis being placed upon what  he calls  the ‘toys’ being put on the end of the NBN.

“While these are great, and will undoubtedly have a positive effect on the lives of many, the real ‘jewel in the crown’ arising from the National Broadband Network is that it offers regional Australia, not only the opportunity to sustain current jobs, but also the opportunity to create a wealth of new job prospects for many years to come”, he says

Mr Austrin-Miner will give an overview of the current projects, and development opportunities and will also outline the role Armidale is playing as a pilot city for the NBN rollout. 

Chamber CEO, Elizabeth Egan, says the relaxed breakfast meeting format has been extremely successful for the New England Enterprising Women’s program and will provide the perfect forum for the information sharing and discussion around the digital future of Armidale.

The NBN Business Breakfast will be catered by NERAM Harvest.

To book or for further information go here:

http://www.armidalechamber.com.au/event.php?eid=3

The Business Summit will provide regional business leaders and their teams with the opportunity to gain insight and inspiration from a line-up of world-class presenters and entrepreneurs which would normally only be seen in capital cities.

The Summit is an important business event for the region, particularly as the event is attracting top speaker talent who are providing motivating, inspirational and topical insights into running successful businesses.

One of the presenters includes Ray Scicluna who turned over 90 million dollars by the age of 27, then lost the lot at 29, and then bounced back becoming the franchisor of Video Ezy.

The Summit will also provide opportunity for attendees to network and learn from business leaders across the New England North West.

“Visit www.businesssummit.com.au for further information on 2012 Business Summit.

Earlybird tickets close on Dec 31.

The Wicklow have used Father Anthony and his “Holysmoke” team for all the performances and feel they get real value for money. The previous year’s costs have been between $4500-5000. This equates to about half the cost of other fireworks companies.

This year The Wicklow are looking for financial support from local businesses to help  host this year’s fireworks display. An opportunity exists for your business to say “thank you” to your customers by becoming a partner with other local businesses in a great community event. Any financial support however large or small would be greatly received and acknowledged through the event advertising/signage. 

If you would like to become a partner with the Wicklow in this event please contact Leanne Thomas on 0410 646 540.

The monthly Member's Meets provide a great networking opportunity and usually include a special guest presentation on a current business issue, challenge or opportunity of interest to our members. Our regular New England Enterprising Women's Breakfasts are a source of inspiration and opportunity and the Annual Chamber Business Awards have become Armidale's premier business event of the year.

Introduction by Tony Windsor MP, Federal Member for New England.

Sam Austrin-Miner, (Senior Partner - Public Sector) from Attentive Consulting Pty Ltd will update us on the projects that Armidale Dumaresq Council and The Armidale Business Chamber are currently undertaking to take advantage of our position as a pilot NBN town, and where to next.

Sam will outline the following projects:

  - Digital economy strategy

 - Digital Hubs - Armidale Dumaresq Council

 - Digital Enterprises - Armidale Business Chamber

 - Digital Local Government Program

 - ConNEct New England

Breakfast catered by NERAM Harvest.

Please RSVP to the Chamber Office for catering. 

To book in for this event and for further details please go here:

http://www.armidalechamber.com.au/event.php?eid=3

The Meet will feature presentations and a panel discussion from a number of Government representatives who will introduce the opportunities available for enterprises in the areas of apprenticeships, export expansion, regional development, skilled migration programs, networking opportunities and opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

The Panel will consist of several guest experts including Peter Sniekers and Chris Celovic (NSW Trade and Investment), Peter Rickard (ABL Apprenticeship Centre), Brian Sherwood (Enterprise Connect), Tim Cotter (AusIndustry) and  Michael Jeremy from Regional Development Australia.

To book or to find out more about this event go here:

http://www.armidalechamber.com.au/event.php?eid=1

Across Australia we have less than three days of blood supply available and just 1 day's supply of O negative which is the universal blood type that can be given to anyone in an emergency. Accordingly, at this low level of stock we need to bolster our stocks and we need community support to help achieve that.

Every blood donation saves three lives and the life you save might just be that of someone you love. 

At the Armidale blood donor centre they have plenty of appointment slots available over the next two weeks - specifically they are opening an extra day in Armidale next Wednesday 30th November and so this day presently has times available throughout from 8 am to 2pm for donors to book in at their convenience.

For futher details contact the Armidale Service on 6776 7001

Roll up your sleeves and give blood.

Call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au

The final Armidale Business Chamber Members Meet for 2011 will provide information to help the local business community through the maze of State and Federal Government support and assistance programs.

The Meet will feature presentations and a panel discussion from a number of Government representatives who will introduce the opportunities available for enterprises in the areas of apprenticeships, export expansion, regional development, skilled migration programs, networking opportunities and opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

The Panel will consist of several guest experts including Peter Sniekers and Chris Celovic (NSW Trade and Investment), Peter Rickard (ABL Apprenticeship Centre), Brian Sherwood (Enterprise Connect), Tim Cotter (AusIndustry) and  Michael Jeremy from Regional Development Australia.

The Armidale Business Chamber is delighted with the success of the Members Meets in 2011. They have provided great opportunities for networking and they are an excellent forum to have experts on hand to answer questions and provide valuable information and insights to our local business men and women.

To find out more about this event and to book in, please go here:

http://www.armidalechamber.com.au/event.php?eid=1

Be the first to preview:

• the latest iPhone
• the new Motorola Razr, exclusive to Optus
• the Samsung Galaxy S II
• the latest offering from Blackberry
• the new HTC Rhyme

Special guest will be Mark Porter, National Sales Manager for Blackberry.

For businesses in retail and other industries, it is clear that the smartphone is having a major impact on consumer behaviour. It will be essential that this change in the way people research a purchase or shop is reflected in business marketing plans going forward. Currently most businesses are ignoring this phenomenon.

So how does an organization embrace this new dynamic? 

'Optus Digital Life Business Series’, Smartphones in Business Expo

TONIGHT!

Time: 5.30pm for Networking drinks and light refreshments – 6pm Start.
Venue: M Block Dining Room (Room MG.04), Armidale TAFE Campus, Beardy Street.

Directions:M Block is the new complex at TAFE, directly between the main TAFE building (on Beardy Street) and Markham Street.

Parking is on Beardy Street or in the carpark directly in front of M Block (enter from Beardy Street) M Block has a stand out red wall entrance.

FREE EVENT - please rsvp to the Chamber Office 02 6771 1177 or office@armidalechamber.com.au for catering purposes.

The Armidale Business Chamber is delighted to welcome and introduce these new Members to the network in November.

Welcome, we value your support and look forward to working with you in 2012.

Barniers Office Furniture: 171 Rusden Street Armidale http://www.barniersofficefurniture.com/

Deborah King Physiotherapy:  214 Rusden St, Armidale NSW  - 6772 1962

Deer Park Motor Inn: 74 Glenn Innes Road, Armidale NSW - 1800 028 925 http://www.deerparkmotorinn.com.au/ 

Eva Knorles Massage and Bowen Therapist: The Medical Centre, 18 Rockvale Rd, Armidale NSW  6771 3171

QantasLink: http://www.qantas.com.au/

The Armidale Newsagency: 156A Beardy Street http://www.thearmidalenewsagency.com.au/

Variety, the children’s charity: - http://variety.org.au/

Westpac Armidale: http://www.westpac.com.au/

Private Member: Will Winter Consulting Pty/Ltd 0407 820049

Be part of the Variety Santa Fun Run/Stroll in Armidale on Sunday 27th November.

GRAB YOUR RUNNING SHOES, SANTA SUIT AND CHRISTMAS SPIRIT!

See registration form attached.

Be the first to preview:

• the latest iPhone
• the new Motorola Razr, exclusive to Optus
• the Samsung Galaxy S II
• the latest offering from Blackberry
• the new HTC Rhyme

Representatives from HTC will be in attendance and special guest will be Mark Porter, National Sales Manager for Blackberry.

For businesses in retail and other industries, it is clear that the smartphone is having a major impact on consumer behaviour. It will be essential that this change in the way people research a purchase or shop is reflected in business marketing plans going forward. Currently most businesses are ignoring this phenomenon.

So how does an organization embrace this new dynamic? 

'Optus Digital Life Business Series’, Smartphones in Business Expo

Wednesday 23^rd November, 2011

Time: 5.30pm for Networking drinks and light refreshments – 6pm Start.
Venue: M Block Dining Room (Room MG.04), Armidale TAFE Campus, Beardy Street.

FREE EVENT - please rsvp to the Chamber Office 02 6771 1177 or office@armidalechamber.com.au for catering purposes.

For those who were keen to follow up with Jessica, her details are available at www.bubblesconsulting.com.au

Jessica refered to Gary Bertwistle who spoke recently for The Armidale Business Chamber. His Session notes can be found at http://www.armidalechamber.com.au/news-article.php?nid=10

Kylie Alcorn, Senior Financial Adviser with Forsyths can be contacted 02 6773 8400. The websites Kylie suggested were:

http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/?referrer=fido.gov.au

www.ted.com  - Riveting talks by remarkable people, free to the world

Please join us for our final NEEW Breakfast for 2011 on Thursday 8th December, when we hear from Justine Biddle from National Buildplan Group and recently retired local pharmacist and business woman, Anne Docherty.

Thursday 8^th December, 7.45am- 9am

NERAM New England Regional Art Museum, Mazda Theatre, Kentucky Street

Breakfast catered by NERAM Harvest.

$20 Members/$25 Non Members/Visitors - payable to NERAM Harvest on the morning.

Please RSVP to the Chamber Office for catering 6771 1177 or office@armidalechamber.com.au

View Images from this mornings breakfast by Simon Scott http://www.armidalechamber.com.au/neew.php

Don’t miss the opportunity to meet Kylie Alcorn, Senior Financial Advisor with Forsyths and Jessica Price-Purnell who has recently established her own marketing business ‘Bubbles Consulting’.

Thursday 10^th November, 7.45am- 9am

NERAM New England Regional Art Museum, Mazda Theatre, Kentucky Street

Breakfast catered by NERAM Harvest.

$20 Members/$25 Non Members/Visitors - payable to NERAM Harvest on the morning.

Please RSVP to the Chamber Office for catering 6771 1177 or office@armidalechamber.com.au



The Armidale Business Chamber New England Enterprising Women (NEEW) program was established in August 2009 and is growing considerably through regular events and communication to over 300 women. 

Last Friday evening, the Armidale Business Chamber hosted it's special 'end of year' event with Australia's leading expert on marketing and branding, Mr Gary Bertwistle.

Gary was warm and engaging, delighting the 'full house' at the TAS Hoskins Centre with his straight forward approach, a raft of practical tips, and his encouragement to every business to 'think', to tell their own story, and to ask themselves ‘why us?’ instead of our competitors.

You can share in some of Gary's insights by downloading the session notes available to download from Gary's website www.garybertwistle.com.

Go to the top right hand side and click on the client login tab. Then enter bertwistle and mojo1 which will take you directly to the notes.

The lucky door prize winner of two complimentry tickets to Brisbane return with Brindabella Airlines was won by Lousie Bailey - Congratulations.

Thank you once again to the event sponsors - Trade & Investment NSW, National Buildplan Group, QantasLink, Quality Hotel Powerhouse, Mihi Creek Vineyard, Peterson's Winery & Guesthouse and Brindabella Airlines.

For a not to be missed opportunity to go one on one with Gary please see pdf online /below for details.

“I am so excited about Gary Bertwistle coming to Armidale – he is a highly motivational marketing Guru .

I tried to get into one of his seminars and he was booked out for 12 months. We are extremely lucky to have a speaker of such high calibre come to Armidale.

You will not be sorry at all to hear him speak . “

Kay  Endres

New England Travel Centre, Armidale

" a priceless opportunity to be engaged, challenged and encouraged to think differently..... an Australian version of Steve Jobs"  says Bill.

Bill Wheeler from the National Buildplan Group.

For one on one session or Friday event bookings please contact the Chamber Office.

Sponsored by Investment & Trade NSW, National Buildplan Group, QantasLink, Quality Hotel Powerhouse, Peterson’s Guest House and Winery, Mihi Creek Vineyard and Brindabella Airlines.

Date: Friday 4th November, 2011

Time: 6pm for Sparkling and light refreshments to the cool sounds of jazz – 7pm Start. 
Venue: TAS Hoskins Centre/TheArmidale School

Members $25/ Non-Members & Visitors $35/Students $10

Bookings:  office@armidalechamber.com.au or call 6771 1177 Discounts for group bookings

The world of business branding and marketing is rapidly changing. What might have worked last year, last month or last week may not work now. There is less customer ‘loyalty’, competitors are more competitive and every category of business is getting more ‘crowded’.

Armidale Business Chamber will be presenting a Special Event on Friday 4^th November with marketing guru and author Gary Bertwistle from ‘The Vault’ in Sydney.

Gary is regarded as an Australia pioneer and leader in contemporary marketing and branding and his presentation, based on his bestselling book, The Vibe, will explore how to build a world class brand through building the essential fundamental building blocks to help your message hit your market.

The Armidale Business Chamber’s events aim to meet the needs of its members and marketing and branding has been identified as a challenging aspect for most local businesses.

“Our members needs determine the type of events we hold throughout the year and we are thrilled to have Gary Bertwistle here for our special end of year event’ says Elizabeth Egan from the Chamber.

The event will be introduced by Bill Wheeler from the National BuildPlan Group.

" a priceless opportunity to be engaged, challenged and encouraged to think differently..... an Australian version of Steve Jobs" says Bill.

It will be an opportunity for the business community from this region to hear from the ‘best of the best’ in marketing and to be inspired to take their businesses to the next level.

Sponsored by Investment & Trade NSW, National Buildplan Group, QantasLink, Quality Hotel Powerhouse, Peterson’s Guest House and Winery, MiHi Creek Vineyard and Brindabella Airlines.

Date: Friday 4th November,

Time: 6pm for Sparkling and light refreshments to the cool sounds of jazz – 7pm Start. 
Venue: TAS Hoskins Centre/TheArmidale School

Members $25/ Non-Members & Visitors $35/Students $10

Bookings:  office@armidalechamber.com.au or call 6771 1177 Discounts for group bookings

R&D Tax Incentive - Information Sessions page.

You can find links on the home page to NEON New England on Now, Member Directory, NEEW New England Enterprising Women, Industry Business Unit and our News page, simply by clicking on their respective icons.

If your logo isn't up on the member directory, please be sure to email me through at your earliest convenience.

Please let us know what you think.

Tonight - Invitation for Chamber Members to view Civic Precinct Proposal

A reminder about tonight's special presentation for Chamber Members:

The Armidale Dumaresq Civic Precinct Committee invite the Armidale Business Chamber’s Members to a brief Power Point presentation and information session prior to the Public Meeting to be held in the Town Hall at 6pm on Thursday 17^th November. This committee feel it is of paramount importance that the Business Chamber is kept abreast of the facts.

The Civic Precinct Committee believe the establishment of the cultural precinct in the Cinders Lane area of town, incorporating a new library, a performing arts complex with a link to the refurbished Town Hall in a landscaped setting has the potential for a major impact on local businesses.

Time: 5.30pm
Venue: Armidale Dumaresq Council Chambers, Rusden Street.



Armidale Business Chamber will be presenting a Special Event on Friday 4^th November with marketing guru and author Gary Bertwistle from ‘The Vault’ in Sydney.

Gary is regarded as an Australia pioneer and leader in contemporary marketing and branding and his presentation, based on his bestselling book, The Vibe, will explore how to build a world class brand through building the essential fundamental building blocks to help your message hit your market.

The Armidale Business Chamber’s events aim to meet the needs of its members and marketing and branding has been identified as a challenging aspect for most local businesses.

“Our members needs determine the type of events we hold throughout the year and we are thrilled to have Gary Bertwistle here for our special end of year event’ says Elizabeth Egan from the Chamber.

The event will be introduced by Bill Wheeler from the National BuildPlan Group.

" a priceless opportunity to be engaged, challenged and encouraged to think differently..... an Australian version of Steve Jobs" says Bill.

It will be an opportunity for the business community from this region to hear from the ‘best of the best’ in marketing and to be inspired to take their businesses to the next level.

Don’t miss this special Chamber event which is sure to get you and your staff ‘fired up’ with ideas and be in running to win a return flight to Brisbane for two with Brindabella airlines.

Sponsored by Investment & Trade NSW, National BuildPlan Group, QantasLink, Quality Hotel Powerhouse, Peterson’s Guest House and Winery, MiHi Creek Vineyard and Brindabella Airlines.

Date: Friday 4th November,

Time: 6pm for Sparkling and light refreshments to the cool sounds of jazz – 7pm Start. 
Venue: TAS Hoskins Centre/TheArmidale School

Members $25/ Non-Members & Visitors $35 

Bookings:  office@armidalechamber.com.au or call 6771 1177 Discounts for group bookings



The Carbon debate, which is never far from the headline news, has reached a new stage in its development with the passing of the Clean Energy Act in the Lower House in Canberra last week.

For many of us however, the ‘nitty gritty’ of pricing carbon is still unclear especially in terms of its economic benefits and challenges and its potential impacts on regional communities.

The Armidale Business Chamber will host a special presentation on Tuesday evening on the topic of Pricing Carbon and its implications for the rural sector in Australia.

Oscar Cacho, Professor of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of New England and Annette Cowie, Director of the National Centre for Rural Greenhouse Gas Research, will present an overview of the reasons behind the international drive for pricing carbon and how carbon markets have evolved in recent years.

The lecture will include a discussion of the policies available to price carbon as well as a review of the Australian situation and the challenges in making carbon legislation operational.

Professors Cacho and Cowie will also highlight the research being undertaken at UNE addressing some of the emerging opportunities.

According to Executive Officer Elizabeth Egan, The Armidale Business Chamber is proud to be hosting this important event.

“The Chamber is of course an apolitical organisation but we feel it’s important to address the topics that concern our business community.

We are privileged in Armidale to have access to extraordinary expertise through the University of New England. The Chamber is delighted to collaborate with UNE on this important event which serves to present current research to the community,” says Ms Egan

Event details

Date: Tuesday 18^th October, 2011
Time:  6pm Start.
Venue: TAS Hoskins Centre, The Armidale School
Members $15/ Non-Members & Visitors $25
 www.armidalechamber.com.au



The gala event usually set down for November will instead be held towards the end of the financial year and away from the already hectic ‘Christmas party season’.

Elizabeth Egan from the Business Chamber says they are very happy to be making the move to May in 2012. 

“The build up to Christmas is the busiest for many local business owners, managers and staff. We think the Awards ceremony would be more meaningful if we invite people to relax and celebrate at the end of the financial year,” says Ms Egan

The Armidale Business Awards highlight excellence in the local business community and reward enterprises from a wide range of industries.

In previous years major awards have gone to The Phoenix Foundry (Uralla), ICT International (Armidale) , Kerry Turner and Liz Moffitt (both recipients of the New England Enterprising Women’s Award) and Legal Minds (Armidale).

New categories to be added in 2012 will include a Creative Industries Award  and separate awards for Tourism, Accommodation, Pubs and Clubs, and Cafes and Restaurants. 

All categories are judged by a panel of judges who will be looking for the unique qualities of the nominated businesses and what truly sets them apart. This might be an innovative product, attention to quality relationship building with clients or perhaps the development and adoption of technology to improve efficiencies.

The Business Awards celebration has become an important event on the Armidale Business calendar and gives exposure to the wealth of business expertise, and quality products and services thriving in the region.

Nominations for the 2012 Armidale Business Awards will open February.