AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS FINALISTS HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS TWO THOUSAND & NINETEEN

BUSINESS LEADER OF EXCELLENCE IN EXCELLENCE IN CONTRIBUTION TO THE YEAR (31+ YEARS) BUSINESS SMALL BUSINESS THE REGION Proudly sponsored by (21+ EMPLOYEES) (5 - 20 EMPLOYEES) Proudly sponsored by Port CPA Proudly sponsored by NSW Proudly sponsored by Authority of Minerals Council Newcastle Herald Amanda Reilly – Novaskill Allambi Care Atune Health Centres All Seasons Hunter Pools and Colin Osborne – Anglican Woodfires Anglican Care Care Chandler Macleod Asquith Workforce Aussie Ark Elizabeth Gabriel – Aussie Ark Club Singleton Aussie Ark Chandler Macleod Ian Jones – Merchant Compass Housing Business Brokers Barr Property & Planning Compass Housing Essential Skills Training & Lesleigh Adie – Ourcare Recruitment Cardiff Veterinary Hospital Greater Bank Services Kenshaw Electrical Design Anthology Newcastle Airport Margo Shand (Chiplin) – Chandler Macleod Monica Clare Recruitment Ethos Health Newcastle Bean Counters Ball Morven Cameron – Lake Novaskill Funda Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Macquarie City Council Group Oakvale Wildlife Park Newcastle Basketball Peter Cock – Newcastle NewieVentures Airport Pepper Tree Wines Newcastle Financial Planning Group Out of the Square Media Sarah-Jane Dunford – TSA Management Riskology Seed People Consulting PKF Shane Fox – Merchant Skildare Riskology Business Brokers Signature Gardens Retirement Simon Ashley – Atune Health Resort

START UP SUPERSTAR EXCELLENCE IN KRISTEN KEEGAN EXCELLENCE IN Proudly sponsored by the MICRO BUSINESS YOUNG BUSINESS INNOVATION Australian Institute of Company (< 5 EMPLOYEES) EXECUTIVE Proudly sponsored by Directors Proudly sponsored by Glencore (18 – 30 YEARS) Pitcher Partners Proudly sponsored by Core Pilates Studio AJM Photography Ampcontrol Quarry Mining Hunter Allied Care CK Health Hunter Primary Care Jess Kiely – A Growing Shaw & Bunner Legal Evergreen Energy Consultants Understanding National Narrowband Network Co (NNNCo) Tender Training College Hunter Electrics Kiraley Muller – MRS Services Group Programmed The Cabin Collective Merchant Business Brokers Martin Corrigan – Port The Business Centre The IV Lounge Riskology Waratah Coal Services Tuckers Lane Custom Furniture The Eye Place Monique Aganovic – Hunter Allied Care Tighes Hill Cellars Rebecca Steltenpool – PKF Scott Charlton – Scent Central

2 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 OUTSTANDING EXCELLENCE IN EXCELLENCE IN RETAIL EXCELLENCE IN EMPLOYER OF CHOICE SOCIAL ENTERPRISE & HOSPITALITY SUSTAINABILITY Proudly sponsored by Proudly sponsored by Compass Proudly presented by Proudly sponsored by Umwelt Newcastle Coal Housing Hunter Business Chamber Infrastructure Group Anglican Care Allambi Care Caves Coastal Bar & Anglican Care Bungalows Compass Housing Hunter Brain Injury Respite Chandler Macleod Options (I Am Here) Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley Compass Housing Procare Pepper Tree Wines Downer EDI Works Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley Samaritans Foundation Tighes Hill Cellars Genea Newcastle Hunter Pet Motel OUTSTANDING YOUNG EXCELLENCE IN LOVE WATER LOVE ENTREPRENEUR EXPORT BUSINESS Coordinator (18 – 30 YEARS) Proudly sponsored by Proudly sponsored by Hunter Water Toronto Private Hospital Proudly presented by Hunter Business Chamber R&R Murphy Calvary Retirement Community TSA Management Grace Page – The IV Lounge Cessnock Whiteley Corporation Westpac Rescue Helicopter Jack Antcliff – Oasis Media Daracon – Martins Creek Service Quarry Jade Chislett – Just Like You Dolls LOCAL CHAMBER OF Morisset Hospital COMMERCE PRESIDENT’S AWARD Jeffrey Bell – Bellcorp Proudly sponsored by Proudly sponsored by Accountants Service NSW Sparke Helmore Lawyers Simone Burrows – Blu’s Bulahdelah Chamber of School of Dance Commerce and Tourism Tomaree Business Chamber

HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS 3 HUNTER BUSINESSES SHINE

Friday 23 August saw a sell-out categories, with the night Council, Pitcher Partners, Umwelt, crowd of 590 guests from the culminating in the Business Leader Port of Newcastle, Newcastle Coal region’s leading businesses gather of the Year Award. Infrastructure Group, Port Authority at NEX, Wests City for the highly of New South Wales, Service NSW, The Chamber congratulated anticipated 2019 Hunter Business Compass Housing, Sparke Helmore all finalists and acknowledged Awards. Lawyers, Australian Institute of the partnerships with its valued Company Directors and beverage The awards were presented at sponsors who make it possible sponsors Drayton’s Family Wines, a gala dinner sponsored by the to provide such recognition. Tullochs, Leogate Estate Wines and University of Newcastle. This included the major sponsor Murrays Craft Brewing Co. University of Newcastle, award From a large pool of very sponsors Hunter Water, Glencore, Guests were entertained by the impressive finalists, winners were Quarry Mining, CPA Australia, Mark Wells Band throughout the awarded across 17 different Newcastle Herald, NSW Minerals evening.

4 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS 5 JOINT WINNERS

BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR (31+) MORVEN CAMERON, LAKE MACQUARIE CITY COUNCIL

Morven Cameron would improve working is the first female relationships. As a result, executive leader of 90 per cent of the changes Lake Macquarie City introduced came from staff Council. She oversees suggestions. a team of more than 1100 staff, $3 billion The addition of a small worth of infrastructure business improvement assets and a $356 team to council has already million budget that resulted in $3 million in delivers more than 100 productivity savings and services to 205,000 injected a more business- residents. oriented culture and mindset among staff. Since being appointed CEO in Morven is focusing on 2017, Morven has realising new opportunities driven an innovative for advanced manufacturing approach to economic in Lake Macquarie and development, the DashMake space including leading is targeting emerging the establishment enterprises in that sector. of Dantia, the city’s The goal is to develop economic development company, in with Hunter Water to improve the an ecosystem for advanced 2014. delivery of services for people in manufacturing firms that will use Lake Macquarie. Lake Macquarie as a base for She has encouraged strategic international markets. business partnerships – such as One of Morven’s first tasks as CEO the establishment of the DashMake was to instigate an organisational The judges said Morven’s personal manufacturing co-working space reconfiguration that involved close attributes as a leader were at Warners Bay in collaboration consultation with staff on the shape evident in the strong performance, with Ampcontrol and Slingshot, as of the new structure, allowing objectives and corporate culture of well as a Partnership Agreement them to nominate solutions that Lake Macquarie City Council.

6 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR (31+) PETER COCK, NEWCASTLE AIRPORT

Dr Peter Cock is the CEO Peter led the of Newcastle Airport, one of introduction of new Australia’s fastest growing corporate values to the airports, servicing about organisation – aligning 1.3 million passengers its corporate objectives annually. and staff values as one. This was achieved by Peter has taken a regional implementing a culture leadership approach to his workshop process to role as CEO, seeing the seek genuine input from airport as critical piece staff and embed the new of infrastructure for the values into the business Hunter and the organisation from the outset. as catalyst for enhancing regional prosperity. Peter is passionate He has set the vision, about supporting the strategy and priorities for local businesses in his the Airport, including the area and increasing securing of an international to the diversification of the Hunter awareness of the route to Auckland, the launch of economy. as a premier tourist the Astra Aerolab, and plans for a destination. The Australian Airports Association runway expansion that will expand awarded Newcastle Airport Major The judges said Peter’s the airport’s potential reach to new Airport of the Year in 2018, leadership had been integral international markets. recognising its outstanding to the achievements and These initiatives will not only ensure commitment to excellence in business success of the Airport, the continued growth of the airport customer service, safety, security demonstrating the effectiveness of but will drive significant investment, and facilities as well as positive a positive workplace culture and new jobs and economic benefits to feedback from passengers, aviation a collaborative approach to doing the region, as well as contributing partners, airlines and vendors. business.

THE BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD IS SPONSORED BY CPA AUSTRALIA. THIS AWARD RECOGNISES PEOPLE WHO DEMONSTRATE OUTSTANDING ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT, STRATEGIC BUSINESS DIRECTION AND INNOVATIVE IDEAS, WHILE PROVIDING INSPIRATION TO A NEW GENERATION OF UPCOMING BUSINESS LEADERS.

HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS 7 PRESIDENT’S AWARD NEWCASTLE AIRPORT

Newcastle Airport has the potential opportunities for the region. The to influence the prosperity of the inaugural three-month Auckland Hunter region at a scale that few service carried 6,300 passengers, other organisations do. injecting $5.4 million into the local economy. The Airport contributes more than $1 billion in economic activity to The Airport is a good corporate the regional economy and supports citizen, as demonstrated this year more than 5,600 jobs, with projects by its signing on as a foundation and proposals in the pipeline patron member of the Committee which have the potential to create for the Hunter and its support of exponential economic uplift. many community and business events. The Airport’s concentrated strategies to build new domestic The Airport this year led, in and international markets, increase partnership with the Chamber, visitation, expand the facility and a business and government further the region’s position as an delegation to Auckland, with the aerospace hub have significant become a leading centre of aviation, aim of promoting the region and implications for the growth of defence, manufacturing, research growing business opportunities. It tourism and trade, research and and education, is expected to is also a supporting partner of this education, investment attraction and create more than 5,500 jobs, year’s Smaller and Smarter Cities the development of new industries injecting more than $246 million Symposium. and jobs of the future. annually into our local economy The Airport vision is to “be the once complete. The Airport’s passenger numbers Airport the region’s deserves” are anticipated to triple by 2036, During 2018, the Airport invested and its record of growth, business generating an additional 3,000 jobs. heavily in developing new routes to success and regional contribution The visionary Astra Aerolab, an Adelaide and Auckland, seeking to demonstrate that it is achieving that adjacent development destined to improve connectivity and tourism aim.

THE PRESIDENT’S AWARD IS SPONSORED BY SPARKE HELMORE LAWYERS. THIS AWARD IS SELECTED BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE HUNTER BUSINESS CHAMBER AND RECOGNISES AN ORGANISATION OR INDIVIDUAL WHO HAS ADDED SUBSTANTIAL VALUE TO BUSINESS EFFORTS IN THE REGION.

8 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 KRISTEN KEEGAN YOUNG BUSINESS EXECUTIVE (18-30) MARTIN CORRIGAN, PORT WARATAH COAL SERVICES

Port Waratah Coal Services Carrington Terminal executive Martin Corrigan is Manager, leading a a young mining engineer and team of 80. business leader forging a As a superintendent, successful career in the Hunter Martin handles Valley coal chain. safety management, After completing a Bachelor operational of Mining Engineering, Martin performance of began his career underground. the terminals and He then moved into a role as environmental pollution a Drill and Blast Engineer and management. Martin is Relief Supervisor in an open cut still actively engaged in mine, overseeing a $70 million his studies, studying a production blasting program. At MBA at the University 25 he was promoted to his first of Newcastle. frontline leadership role as a Mining Martin was awarded Supervisor OCE. the Kristen Keegan Since joining Port Waratah Coal Scholarship in 2017 industry skills but his career Services in 2017, he has excelled to complete the success is equally attributable as Superintendent of Operations HunterNet Future Leaders Program. to his leadership qualities. As a Delivery, a challenging role that He is now a volunteer with the young business executive, Martin calls for diverse skills in operational program and is passionate about has quickly learned the value of performance and community giving back to his community, with listening to and drawing on the engagement. a goal to work on a non-for-profit experience of those in his team to board in future. In 2018, he spent a period of empower them and make them feel nine months acting in the role of Martin has developed outstanding valued.

THE KRISTEN KEEGAN YOUNG BUSINESS EXECUTIVE AWARD IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY QUARRY MINING. IT RECOGNISES AN INSPIRATIONAL YOUNG EXECUTIVE EMPLOYEE AGED BETWEEN 18 AND 30.

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HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS 9 OUTSTANDING YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR (18-30) JADE CHISLETT, JUST LIKE YOU DOLLS

Jade Chislett has turned a personal has expanded to cater for cause into a successful business children with a variety of concept while simultaneously filling medical conditions and a market gap for toys that look like, devices, including hearing and have special relevance for, devices, glasses, diabetes or children with disabilities. gastroenterology conditions, venous access, mobility Jade’s daughter, Bella, was born assistance, orthotics, oxygen in July 2012 with hearing loss and devices and superficial skin fitted with a cochlear implant at alterations. the age of nine months. Bella has a fascination with dolls and Jade Their range of relatable dolls and her husband, Josh, searched helps children to understand unsuccessfully for a doll that was their devices better and “just like her”. enhances their self-confidence and sense of inclusion. They With nothing available in the also help children to develop market, they decided to create their imagination, creativity, social own. Jade drew on her medical skills and empathy. partnerships with therapists and knowledge as a nurse to design the hospitals, and sees potential to dolls and has employed 3D printer Just Like You Dolls has seen build on early international sales. technology to create the products. significant growth since its The result was a range of dolls that establishment and orders continue The judges commended Jade on children with disabilities can identify to grow as word of their unique identifying a gap in the market for with. product spreads, particularly among a much-needed product that caters the medical fraternity. to an important niche market, as The range started with a doll well as employing automation and designed for children who Jade is looking to continue the systems to help the business scale wear cochlear implants and business growth by developing up.

THIS AWARD RECOGNISES AN INSPIRATIONAL YOUNG PERSON AGED BETWEEN 18 AND 30 WHO OWNS OR PART-OWNS A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS AND DEMONSTRATES OUTSTANDING ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT, STRATEGIC DIRECTION AND INNOVATIVE IDEAS.

10 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 OUTSTANDING YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR (18-30) CONTRIBUTION TO THE REGION JADE CHISLETT, JUST LIKE YOU DOLLS OUT OF THE SQUARE MEDIA

Out of the Square describes OOTS has made videos itself as a “passionately parochial to record major moments creative agency”. The agency for the city and region, produces campaigns and among them the opening of communications for a range of the Anzac Memorial Walk, high-profile Hunter organisations HMAS Newcastle’s farewell, but is equally renowned for their the Nobby’s Lighthouse self-funded passion projects that restoration and significant promote the region. cruise ship visits. These projects include the Out of the Square supports beautifully shot ‘Feel Inspired’ arts and culture as a video series, the ‘Business 20/20’ CONDA sponsor and profile series and recent ‘Region raised $22,000 for prostate Ready’ video, which showcases the cancer support through Hunter’s industry assets. their cheeky ‘Hand on One’ campaign, which also paid The passion projects are produced homage to the departing without external direction or Tower. funding and are undertaken The judges loved the passion without any direct financial return, The team of 25 at OOTS aims to be projects and complimented the for the benefit of Newcastle and big enough to deliver but still small agency on the quality and reach of the Hunter Region. This ongoing enough to care, with a passion for their work. Out of the Square has effort has equated to hundreds of making a difference in people’s made a tremendous impact for a thousands of dollars over many lives. The business name comes business of its size with feelgood years, a substantial social, cultural from a past employer saying that campaigns that both promote the and philanthropic contribution for a the unique ideas presented were region’s assets and engender a small business. too “out of the square”. strong sense of community pride.

THE CONTRIBUTION TO THE REGION AWARD IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY THE PORT AUTHORITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES. IT RECOGNISES AN ORGANISATION THAT HAS MADE A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE ONGOING PROSPERITY AND GROWTH OF THE HUNTER REGION OUTSIDE ITS CORE BUSINESS.

KEEPING OUR PORTS SAFE, SECURE AND OPEN TO THE WORLD Proud sponsor of the Hunter Business Awards 2019 www.portauthoritynsw.com.au

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HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS 11 LOCAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TOMAREE BUSINESS CHAMBER

The Tomaree for members Business Chamber is and the local operated by a small events the group of dedicated Chamber volunteers. The supports help to Chamber has grown keep foot traffic its membership coming through from 40 to 210 the peninsula’s in the past three business years and enjoys centres during a collaborative the off-season. and productive A popular event relationship with Port is the quarterly Stephens Council. breakfast, gardens through the Its mission is to provide a strong which features an update from the Civic Pride group. voice for business in Port Stephens, Mayor of Port Stephens on council strive for continuous improvement It also advocates keenly for activities. and support business ethics, values its community and created Tomaree has won the Local and a business culture that meets the Tomaree Peninsula Higher Chamber of Commerce Award for community standards. Education Group to successfully the past two years. The judges campaign for a new local TAFE The Chamber has a busy noted the Chamber’s strength in campus and pathway programs networking program of monthly providing opportunities for members to be offered by the University of events, supports major events such to connect, share experiences and Newcastle. as the Bluewater Country Music promote their businesses, as well Festival and Love Seafood Festival, Their busy events program provides as their success in advocating for and maintains 25 town centre valuable networking opportunities services for their community.

THE LOCAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AWARD IS PROUDLY PRESENTED BY SERVICE NSW. THIS AWARD RECOGNISES THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF A LOCAL CHAMBER IN SUPPORTING THEIR MEMBERS TO MAXIMISE THEIR BUSINESS POTENTIAL.

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12 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 OUTSTANDING EMPLOYER OF CHOICE WESTPAC RESCUE HELICOPTER SERVICE

The work of the Westpac Rescue The approach is clearly Helicopter Service is well-known to successful: staff turnover sits people in the region. The service at a low 10 per cent and exit that began in 1975 as weekend interviews conducted when beach patrol has grown into a employees depart show that critical 24-7 emergency service and 100 per cent satisfaction, with a pillar of our community. all saying they would work for the service again. Not surprisingly, the strong values that guide and define the Westpac The service invests heavily in Rescue Helicopter Service as an training and development, with organisation are reflected in the staff offered good opportunities way it functions as a workplace. to enhance their skills and The service has built a positive progress their careers. They and engaged workplace culture also have a strong focus on based on the four core values of inclusion and diversity in the Compassion, Unity, Accountability workplace, with a well-balanced gender representation in leadership and Integrity. spread of employees across positions. age groups, gender and cultural Through workplace culture surveys background. The judges pointed to evidence and team meetings, the service such as low staff turnover, absence has identified five key factors that The service provides work of employment-related claims, 100 contribute to being an outstanding experience for individuals per cent participation in training employer: an inspiring purpose, with intellectual and physical and development, and high results work flexibility, strong leadership, disabilities and industry placement in employee surveys as evidence of two-way communication, and opportunities for educational the service’s successful strategies programs that provide reward and institutions. They also participate to build a positive and inclusive recognition. in programs that promote better workplace.

THE OUTSTANDING EMPLOYER OF CHOICE AWARD IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY NEWCASTLE COAL INFRASTRUCTURE GROUP. THIS AWARD RECOGNISES AN ORGANISATION THAT PUT IN PLACE STRATEGIES AND INITIATIVES TO CREATE STIMULATING AND SUPPORTIVE WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENTS FOR THE EMPLOYEES. THESE STRATEGIES OR INITIATIVES MUST HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON BOTH EMPLOYEES AND THE ORGANISATION AS A WHOLE.

HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS 13 EXCELLENCE IN SUSTAINABILITY DOWNER EDI WORKS

Downer EDI Works is a plastics collected both at work manufacturing company that and home. designs and builds sustainable facilities across Australia and Downer holds sustainability New Zealand. Their focus on improvement as a key bitumen-based solutions and value within its Zero Harm use of recycled products such framework. Over the past as soft plastics, expired printer 10 years, Downer has made toner, glass, and end-of-life significant changes in the way tyres for reclaimed asphalt has it manages energy use and presented a truly sustainable greenhouse gas emissions. solution for all of their Downer is committed to customers. working closely with clients This year, Downer has been to address sustainability successful in constructing concerns and provide efficient its first recycled asphalt products. The support of local road, which to date has councils, clients, contractors saved 162,000 glass bottles, and road authorities for The new facility helps to reduce 870,000 plastic bags, 20,000 the environmental and greenhouse gas emissions, with toner cartridges and 220 tonnes of performance benefits of the asphalt its updated technology, and a reclaimed asphalt from ending up in products Downer offers is integral partnership with the locally founded landfill. to achieving the company purpose. Plastic Police has invited community This has in part been thanks to a involvement in the recycling Their public aspiration for new production facility in Teralba process, with collection points sustainability has generated that has the capacity and flexibility for soft plastics. Staff members, significant community and customer to incorporate even more recycled employees and even contracted engagement towards this common materials. workers are encouraged to recycle goal.

THE EXCELLENCE IN SUSTAINABILITY AWARD IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY UMWELT. THIS AWARD RECOGNISES A BUSINESS THAT IS WORKING TO REDUCE THE IMPACT OF THEIR OPERATIONS ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND/OR PROVIDE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES THAT HAVE POSITIVE ENVIRONMENTAL OUTCOMES.

14 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 EXCELLENCE IN INNOVATION AMPCONTROL

Ampcontrol is recognised as being sourced and the level of a leader in the provision of filtration each needs in order to electrical, electronic and control be safe. solutions across a range of Gilghi means ‘water’ or ‘place industries, including the mining, of water’ in the Barkindji energy, infrastructure and indigenous language. The renewables sectors. system has proved a success The company has applied its for the community of Gillen engineering expertise to a range Bore, approximately 75 of challenging problems, one kilometres from Alice Springs, of which is the development which was having water trucked of the Gilghi, a solar-powered in until the Gilghi was installed treatment unit that uses a in late February 2019. reverse osmosis system and The Gilghi has the potential to significantly lower the battery technology to deliver drinking water to remote cost of providing drinking water to remote Indigenous communities. communities and provide a cleaner, more reliable The Gilghi is a two-way inverter and locally sourced service. It optimises the power system to solve peak water treatment and reverse osmosis system that is power issues, enabling the water treatment process neatly packaged for delivery in a shipping container. to be driven by a smaller and lower-cost power The system offers either a 3G/4G or iridium satellite link infrastructure that will be the catalyst for significant for remote monitoring and alarming of the power system advances in addressing remote water-quality problems. and water treatment process. The judges found the application of R&D beyond the Ampcontrol staff worked hand-in-hand with hydrology company’s normal scope of business impressive and experts to ensure that units could be customised praised the way it applied in-house skills in combination depending on the unique location in which they are with external expertise to develop a cost-effective placed. This revolves around the different types of water solution with global potential.

THE EXCELLENCE IN INNOVATION AWARD IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY PITCHER PARTNERS. THIS AWARD RECOGNISES A BUSINESS THAT HAS MADE SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS TO THEIR INDUSTRY THROUGH THE INTRODUCTION OR IMPROVEMENT OF AN IDEA, METHOD, TECHNOLOGY, PROCESS OR APPLICATION.

HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS 15 START UP SUPERSTAR HUNTER ALLIED CARE

Hunter Allied Care is a Hunter Allied Care uses practice specialising in metrics to measure staff physiotherapy, dietetics and performance and processes, psychology, working alongside constantly monitoring the a leading neurosurgeon. They outcomes through a cloud- offer patients a holistic care based CRM to see where program that enhances their improvements can be made. chances of a good recovery. The business has positioned The business was established itself as a one-stop shop for in 2017 and has quickly patient care, offering high- grown from one to four quality niche market services. practitioners. About 85 per A developing marketing cent of its business comes strategy aims to create a from doctor referrals, with the distinctive brand in a crowded other 15 per cent generated marketplace. by word of mouth and organic growth within the company. The judges commended Hunter Allied Care for its The health professionals work also access the services of a strategic mix of services and good side by side with neurosurgeon psychologist, Jody Kerr, who organic growth. Dr Peter Spittaler, using their specialises in chronic pain or a complementary skills to help his dietitian, Emily Ross, who can assist They said the business operators patients to prepare for, or recover with pre- or post-surgery eating understood the importance of from, surgery. plans. providing a consistently good Physiotherapist Kristy Hord is The team members consult to customer experience and winning involved in patient care from ensure the client is receiving the new business through patients’ beginning to end. Patients can support they need in all areas. recommendations.

THE START UP SUPERSTAR AWARD IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF COMPANY DIRECTORS. THIS AWARD RECOGNISES A BUSINESS THAT HAS BEEN OPERATING FOR LESS THAN 2 YEARS THAT DELIVERS A PRODUCT, SERVICE, IDEA OR INVENTION WITH CREDIBLE POTENTIAL.

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16 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 EXCELLENCE IN EXPORT WHITELEY CORPORATION

Whiteley Corporation is a and control solutions for global name in medical and healthcare, collaborating industrial cleaning solutions with with universities around the manufacturing and R&D facilities world to conduct research based in the Hunter Region. on new technologies to improve the performance of The Tomago-based organisation its products. exports to more than 20 countries in three different geographic Its commitment to regions. Over the past two years research and development Whiteley’s direct export sales have has enabled Whiteley grown by 50 per cent, with the Corporation to develop world-first Seminar Series Roadshow in New export market contributing 55 per product technologies and enter into Zealand. This provided the company cent of its sales revenue. lucrative licensing agreements with with the opportunity to discuss their the US medical sector. Whiteley has successfully new research and development with developed a number of export Whiteley was the first in the world industry experts, providing them models tailored to their overseas to develop and commercially launch with a competitive advantage over markets, using a combination of a patented wet biofilm remover in others in the market. direct sales and distributors. In New 2003 for narrow lumen medical Whiteley’s success demonstrates Zealand, it moved away from its instruments (Matrix ®). With the the importance of building distributor model a few years ago exception of New Zealand, the bulk collaborative relationships. The and established a dedicated sales of its direct export sales are in judges were impressed with the way and customer service team based central sterilising and endoscopy, a the company works with universities out of Auckland and Wellington in field in which Whiteley Corporation across the world to research and NZ, achieving more than 40 per is an acknowledged pioneer. develop innovative products that cent sales growth. In order to remain at the forefront meet industry needs and has used The company is a leading innovator of innovation, Whiteley recently distributor networks to expand its in cleaning and infection prevention conducted its first international reach internationally.

THE EXCELLENCE IN EXPORT AWARD IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY THE PORT OF NEWCASTLE. THIS AWARD RECOGNISES A LEADING BUSINESS THAT IS EXPORTING THEIR PRODUCTS INTERNATIONALLY AND ARE FORGING A STRONG REPUTATION FOR AUSTRALIAN PRODUCTS AND SERVICES IN INTERNATIONAL MARKETS.

CONGRATULATIONS 2019 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS WINNERS AND FINALISTS

Level 4, 251 Wharf Road, Newcastle NSW 2300 [email protected] portofnewcastle.com.au

HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS 17 EXCELLENCE IN SOCIAL ENTERPRISE PROCARE MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

ProCare Mental Health Services is this model, Procare has a not-for-profit organisation offering successfully attracted 50 services to the Hunter community per cent of local fellowship through a multidisciplinary team of students to work with them for specialists. a minimum of two years.

Motivated by its purpose to Consequently, the empower the community to respond organisation is now the local to life’s challenges, it has been leader in the high-demand providing professional psycho- area of high intensity therapy social support to help people make psychiatry. Services are informed decisions for more than 12 delivered to individuals years. through its Waratah clinic, with As an organisation, Procare practitioners also providing has transformed its business outreach throughout the model through recruitment of a Hunter New England Health multidisciplinary team and key district and free support for services into new areas of need. collaborations to deliver vital GPs across NSW. Procare’s free The judges praised ProCare’s services are that sorely lacking in Psychiatry Support Line service innovative approach to recruiting Hunter Region. has been used by more than 1,500 GPs, all of whom rated the service trainee staff and simultaneously It has established a unique program as essential, and understanding of addressing a shortfall in the of professional development their needs. region’s health needs. They that encourages locally trained said the continued growth in the psychiatric graduates to remain Moving forward, Procare is looking number of clients, staff, services in the Hunter, where their skills to identify gaps in the health and professionals engaging with are needed to address a shortage system for mental health services ProCare highlighted the success of of psychiatric services. Through with a view to expanding its their strategies.

THE EXCELLENCE IN SOCIAL ENTERPRISE AWARD IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY COMPASS HOUSING. THIS AWARD RECOGNISES AN ORGANISATION THAT HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED OR EXISTS TO FURTHER A SOCIAL PURPOSE THAT BENEFITS THE COMMUNITY. THE ORGANISATION HAS COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES, PRODUCTS OR SERVICES THAT PROVIDE AN INCOME STREAM TO FUND SOCIAL PURPOSE ACTIVITIES.

Our Vision is that all people have appropriate and affordable shelter and are engaged in sustainable communities.

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Supporting the implemention of the New Urban Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals

18 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 EXCELLENCE IN RETAIL AND HOSPITALITY CROWNE PLAZA HUNTER VALLEY

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley on an adjoining property that offers an enticing resort can be adapted for weddings, experience set amid the corporate dinners and other picturesque Hunter vineyards. functions. It is also the region’s premier Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley conference and event hub, services a range of customers with 22 on-site business and including couples, families, event spaces. wine lovers, vineyard concert- The resort has diversified its goers and business travellers. tourist and business offerings The resort has successfully over the past year through increased midweek occupancy significant investment in by improving its corporate infrastructure and has seen travel offering, through the substantial increases in gross development of a business operating profit, room nights centre and 22 on-site event and room revenue. spaces, as well as a Business Rewards program that helps win return visits. Crowne Plaza is a destination resort of scale, with the ability to seamlessly transition from intimate to large To meet the challenge of reaching out to different target scale, from business to leisure, taking care of the markets, Crowne Plaza uses a mixture of campaign blended needs of today’s modern traveller. The 4.5 star initiatives, including digital and print activation and the resort offers a complete holiday experience, set across use of local PR influencers. a sprawling bushland site in Lovedale with excellent on- Crowne Plaza’s strategies and outcomes demonstrate site leisure facilities including pools, a golf course, spa sophisticated understanding of its target markets and facilities, restaurants and cafes. the unique selling propositions for each. It has used The resort added to its offering this year with the a diverse range of goal-driven strategies to improve purchase of Glenmore Estate, a historic homestead business performance.

THE EXCELLENCE IN RETAIL AND HOSPITALITY AWARD RECOGNISES A BUSINESS THAT HAS ACHIEVED SIGNIFICANT GROWTH AND IS ABLE TO DEMONSTRATE THE SPECIFIC STRATEGIES AND PLANS IMPLEMENTED TO ACHIEVE SUSTAINABLE GROWTH IN THE PREVIOUS FINANCIAL YEAR.

HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS 19 EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS (20+) ATUNE HEALTH CENTRES

ATUNE is a one-stop health built a strong and collaborative centre in Lake Macquarie team culture that avoids the providing integrated health care typically hierarchical structure of across more than 15 different the medical sector. modalities including general An innovative marketing strategy, practice, specialist services, with a strong focus on social natural and complementary media, helps get ATUNE’s brand therapies and allied health. and messaging out to new and ATUNE operates under three existing clients. It has converted core values: Integration, many of its Facebook connections Individualisation and Education. into new clients and has used the Patients benefit from a range of platform to roll out its own ‘Health health modalities all under the Highlights’ show, featuring weekly one treatment plan, with health video interviews with health professionals working together professionals. to provide holistic care that achieves the best health ATUNE is a fast-growing practice and added 15 new outcomes in body, mind and spirit. practitioners last financial year to bring its team to 65. This integrated approach extends to innovative The firm has big plans for expansion in the future as practices such as joint consultations with professionals well. It is about to undertake a major building project from different specialities – for instance, a GP and that will provide the practice with 35 new treatment naturopath – and ‘round robin’ treatments that involve rooms, a hydro-pool, organic café, 35 treatment rooms, five different professionals contributing to an evaluation organic café, health-food store, hydro-pool, rehab gym, and treatment plan. 100-seat auditorium and a Pilates studio. Team building has a been a key factor in ATUNE’s The judges commended ATUNE on its focus on building success, with the firm actively seeking to recruit like- a positive workplace culture. They said the company’s minded staff who share their commitment to integrated product and service offerings were well-constructed and healthcare. Using a tree of leadership model, they have it had a strong growth strategy.

THE EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS AWARD IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY NSW MINING. IT RECOGNISES A COMPANY WITH 20 OR MORE EMPLOYEES THAT HAS ATTAINED SIGNIFICANT GROWTH AND IS ABLE TO DEMONSTRATE THE STRATEGIES AND PLANS USED TO ACHIEVE THAT GROWTH OVER THE PREVIOUS 24 MONTHS.

Our miners supply the coal that powers almost every home and business in the region. And they are supplying jobs too, spending $4.5 billion with HUNTER 3,070 hunter businesses every year.

BUSINESSES If you support mining jobs and a strong local economy, then add your voice at POWERED BY voiceformining.com.au and let’s keep MINING mining strong. #nswmining #voiceformining

20 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 EXCELLENCE IN SMALL BUSINESS (5-20) FUNDA

Funda Finance Partners is a non- only pay back what has bank finance lender focused on been borrowed and all helping small businesses reach their fees and charges are potential. waived. The Merewether-based business Another point of lender offers business clients fast difference to the big access to finance and cash flow on lenders is Funda’s fair terms. Their flexible approach focus on individualised to lending has assisted many small customer service and businesses that have struggled to ongoing relaltionship meet the lending criteria of banks, management. allowing them to achieve their By getting to know Funda is committed to the business goals. their clients and their business community it works in and Funda’s finance offering is built on situations, the firm is able to take contributes to the local economy by four business packages including into account specific circumstances shopping locally where possible to line-of-credit loans, where clients when making a loan assessment, meet business needs. They support only pay for what they use, cashflow rather than relying on a computer community initiatives and events loans, and secured and unsecured algorithm. such as the Hunter Young Business business loans of up to $250,000. Mind Awards program and . The firm’s advisors have a Loans are extended at market- clear focus on building strong The judges complimented Funda leading terms and clients are not relationships with their clients, which on successfully identifying niche penalised for early repayment. helps them maintain their customer markets for business lending outside Funda even offers a 30-day base and win new business through of the traditional banking model satisfaction guarantee, meaning that referrals, both from satisfied and developing products attractive if a client’s circumstances change, customers and finance professionals to those clients, demonstrating an or they simply change their mind in their network who steer eligible excellent understanding of their within the first 30 days, they need clients their way. industry.

THE EXCELLENCE IN SMALL BUSINESS AWARD IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY . IT RECOGNISES A COMPANY WITH 5 TO 20 EMPLOYEES THAT HAS ATTAINED SIGNIFICANT GROWTH AND IS ABLE TO DEMONSTRATE THE STRATEGIES AND PLANS USED TO ACHIEVE THAT GROWTH.

4 NEWCASTLE HERALD Saturday September 28, 2019 newcastleherald.com.au newcastleherald.com.au Saturday September 28, 2019 NEWCASTLE HERALD 5 NEWS SAVE OUR STOCKTON NEWS

COUNCIL BOSS HITS BACK OVER MP'S FUNDING SPRAY chief executive officer Jeremy Rescue by cruise ship Bath has hit back at claims from Liberal MLCTaylor Martin that the council the wind, and they put a life- has failed to apply for Hunter raft boat down with about funding to fix Stockton's five or six crew on it, and erosion crisis. they came out to the life raft, Mr Martin, the govern- sailors' pulled us all on board pretty ment's de facto spokesman quickly and all our bags." for the Hunter, said in lucky The men climbed a 10-foot Parliament this week that rope ladder and stepped to the council was too busy safety through a hatch in building "vanity projects" escape the hull. to apply for funds from the "I've got to say P&O, the BY MICHAEL PARRIS captain and his crew, just government's $83 million first-class," Mr Doran said. coastal erosion fund. CHRIS Doran sat in a life raft "The whole rescue, they had "They haven't even been 60 miles off the coast of New us on board within 15 min- bothered to apply for their Caledonia and watched his utes of arriving on site." share of funding from the 57-foot motor cruiser slowly Mr Doran said it had been state government ... We've sink into the Pacific. "horrible" watching Liberty, SA had that money on offer for TURD The Coal Point man, his the boat he bought six years AYSE years now," he said. PTEM cousin Kevin and crewmate ago, go under, but "at least BER He said the government 28, 20 Ben Johnson had left Espiri- we were safe". HOME 19 had agreed to hold open tu Santo, the main island in The boat had been sailing STRETCH the latest round of offers Vanuatu, 36 hours earlier around the Pacific for five THE by two weeks to allow the and were winding through months and was on its way JOY council to apply. New Caledonia's reef system, home to Australia. BRINGINGOF The council's Independ- along the same route used by SAFE AND WELL: The rescued sailors climb aboard the Pacific Dawn after their boat struck a rope and sank in the Mr Doran and his cousin, JACK CRUISE ents criticised the apparent cruise ships, when the boat's early hours of Thursday morning. Pictures: P&O who is from Salamander Bay, SHIP failure to apply for money. propellers struck a rope, rip- will arrive in Brisbane with BACK LUCKY RESCUE But Mr Bath said in a ping a hole in the hull. the Pacific Dawn tomorrow letter to councillors on "It all happened just before and are expected back in FOR ESCAPE P1 Thursday that the council dawn yesterday morning," Newcastle in the afternoon. 2 HUNTER ne GRIM wcas had applied for three Mr Doran told the Newcastle Mr Johnson, from , SAILORS tleher FIND ald.co lots of funding under the Herald on Friday from on said he was "thanking his TRAGEDY m.au Letter warns of deadly program, for sandbagging, board the Pacific Dawn, the lucky stars". the demolition of Stock- 245-metre P&O cruise ship "Just seeing the sight of AT ton's childcare centre and that plucked the men from her coming along," he said. P5 DOYLES emergency work on the the ocean after responding "I was just so, so grateful. I'm CREEK Mitchell Street seawall, to a distress call. still pinching myself. I still risk to Stockton kids before the deadline. "We picked up an old can't believe I'm on P&O and He said the erosion ship's rope in both propel- I'm heading to Brisbane." program did not allow for lers. The boat shuddered HEARTBREAKING: The Liberty sinks beneath the surface RELIEVED: Ben Johnson and Chris and Kevin Doran on P&O issued photographs P3 BY MATTHEW KELLY forecast heavy swells this top of the sand cliff and any- the dangers of the collapsing night to vent their frustration retrospective funding of and came to a stop, probably about 60 miles off the northern coast of New Caledonia. board the Pacific Dawn after being plucked to safety. of the men smiling and weekend mean the situation where around the base. sand cliffs when they visited at the worsening situation. projects already completed about 5.30 in the morning. thanking crew members on $2.40 STOCKTON'S rapidly erod- may worsen. The council has marked a our school recently." Newcastle lord mayor Nu- nor applications for projects "We realised we were the deck of the ship. INC GST ing foreshore was a potential Stockton resident Lara white line around the no-go A Department of Educa- atali Nelmes announced on starting before January taking on water, found part Mr Doran, who is from a call from the Pacific Dawn The company said it was death trap for children dur- Hagan said the situation was zone to reinforce the point. tion spokesman also said Friday that a discounted en- 2020, but the government of the rope hanging out the prominent Newcastle fam- captain on the bridge to say "wonderful to know that ing the school holidays, City tragic. The letter follows the Stockton and Fern Bay public try fee would be introduced had encouraged him to back. It was too rough to get ily heavily involved in the we're 55 miles away and full the three seafarers are safe of Newcastle has warned. "It's disgusting; the kids council's decision to close schools had forwarded the at Stockton Pool. apply nonetheless.The it off. The pumps came on. building industry and the steam ahead to get to where We weren't confident when we and well". In a letter sent to the area's should be able to access the the beach last week. council's letter to parents. "I was recently emailed urgent nature of the works We had a manual pump go- brother of architect Steve you are. "We wanted to let you three primary schools on Fri- beach during their holidays," While other surf clubs will The latest warning high- by Stockton resident Leanne meant the council could not ing, but we just couldn't keep Doran, said the men did not "That was just pure luck jumped in the life raft ... that was know that Pacific Dawn has day, council's manager of as- Ms Hagan, who works at start volunteer patrols this lights the severe loss of rec- with a great idea to reduce wait until funding started up keeping the water out." feel in immediate danger but that they were in the area." just pure luck they were in the area. this morning led the rescue sets and projects Joanne Rig- Dowling Real Estate, said. weekend, the flags at Stock- reational amenity the com- the entry fees to Stockton flowing. His letter also said The men sent out a may- expected a long and anxious Mr Doran estimated they of three seafarers adrift in a by said the sheer sand cliffs "We had an elderly lady ton will remain down. munity has experienced as Pool, due to the ongoing ac- staff had "raised with me day, gathered up their be- wait for help. were in the raft for between Chris Doran life raft near New Caledo- along the beach front could come into the office yester- St Peter's Catholic Primary a result of the erosion crisis. cess issues at concerns regarding several longings and launched the "No, we weren't confident 90 minutes and two hours ‘‘ nia after abandoning their raft. when we jumped in the life before the Pacific Dawn when I was sitting in the life might run over us.' stricken yacht that was tak- ST collapse without warning. day whose dog ran down to School principal Michael Hundreds of holiday-makers because of coastal erosion," [social media] posts by raft," he said. loomed into view, but even raft with it was coming to- "They pulled up about 200 ing on water," it said. EE "This has the potential to the water. She fell down a Punch said the council's let- who visit the suburb during she said. councillors this afternoon" They had a satellite phone, LI cause loss of life if people two-metre cliff chasing af- ter had been sent to families. the school break will also A casual entry fee of $2.80 and urged councillors VHF radios and a "ditch bag" "The closest [help] at that then he was unsure how the wards us. metres from us. The captain "Marine rescue authorities NG stand too close to the top or ter it." "It's certainly an issue that be affected. will be on offer from Septem- to contact him or other full of food and water on time was about 12 hours 70,000-tonne cruise ship "They were absolutely fly- turned the ship with the in Noumea asked Pacific board and EPIRB beacons in away. We knew that. would get them on board. ing, the spray's coming off thrusters, so they put us in Dawn to divert ... after re- BHP A the bottom of the sand cliffs," Coastal engineers believe our students are well aware Hundreds of residents ber 30 until October 13. En- senior staff before "making work KI the letter says. the most dangerous zone is of," he said. crowded into Stockton Surf try for children under three comments to media or on their life vests. "And then we got a phone "I was wondering that the ship. I thought, 'S---, they the lee of the ship, away from ceiving their distress call." Jenki ers SS ns we Jason High tides combined with four metres back from the "The lifeguards discussed Life Saving Club on Thursday remains free. social media". bef re ma and steelw ore rried Ren orks, the 199 a fortn ae sh and 9 clos ight ort to cut thei ure wa mak r hon of the lkout e it back ey Thu 3Oct 8pm Newcastle, don’t you deserve . A ph for moon oto Pictu tak of the res: phot en by them final By WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE SIMONE 19 ogra Ne ki DE 99 pher wca ssing PEAK , became stle , Director JAMES EVANS Simone Her abetter home loan rate? a tim a sym De ald e when bol of Peak COUNCIL The a optimis in someth pic city was m Join our customer owned bank. in ture, un at c g of a left, eas WA ouple, talk has b y. RNS are who ing po ecom * still as now int e % % KIDS Simo ked hav and the Call 4929 1977 or visit . p.a. . p.a. ne De about e two Fun, funny&wholly civictheatrenewcastle.com.au 29 70 OF Jenki Pea it. Th sons Interest rate. Comparison rate.* ‘POTENTIAL anni ns k caug e Her , entertaining –atreat! versary ag ht ald ain, ahe up with ’s STAGEWHISPERS Civic TheatreNewcastle of th ad the 3 3^ IAN e clo of th Total Home Loan Package Variable Special. LOSS KIRKW sure e 20 OOD on Mondath To findout moregoto beyondbank.com.au, visityour nearest branch,orcalluson 13 25 85. OF rep y. LIFE’ orts, SA AT P6-8 ^Total HomeLoan Package Variable Specialisonlyavailable to new loans or increases to existing loans when the minimum new borrowing amount is $50,000 and the LVRdoes not exceed 80% on eligible owner-occupied homeloan products. No other discounts will apply to the advertised rate. Offer available UNST foralimited time only and may be withdrawn at any time. Parent Equity, Bridging, Land Rent Scheme, Interest Only, multiple security, and Building/Construction loans are not eligible. Terms, conditions, fees, charges and normal lending criteria apply. Interestrateand conditionsare currentasat4/09/19.*The comparison rate is calculated on a$150,000loan with monthlyrepayments over atermof25years.WARNING: This comparison rate is true only for the examples given and may not includeall feesand charges.Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in adifferent comparison rate. Interest rates are ABLE SPEAKLOW IF YOUSPEAK LOVE. subject to change without notice. This information has been provided without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information,you should consider its appropriateness, having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. All loans are provided by Beyond Bank Australia Ltd, 100 Waymouth Street,Adelaide, SA 5000 ABN 15 087651 143, AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 237856. BEACH ACT2,SCENE 1 ND manager SA VE OUR projects, of assets said Joanne and STOC the The KTON along sheer Rigby City the sand , TR Stockton’of Newcastle could beachfrontcliffs SPORTING collapse coastline s rapidly-erodingsays warning, DECLARA death is “to with without trap, a potential cause the HALL children warning Stockton loss potential TION of AP during to steer Hagan residentlife”. HITS OF the clear said FA In a letter school was the Lara P7 ME’S three holidays. tragic. situation 1 AND sent the kids “It’ on primary to the s disgusting; MISSES Friday schoolsarea’ access should , the s their the be able HOT council’ holidays,”beach to PROPERTY s MA during TTHEW she FIND reports, KELL said. DREAMYOUR HOME P4 Y IN SIDE HOME

HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS 21 EXCELLENCE IN MICRO BUSINESS (<5) TIGHES HILL CELLARS

Specialty liquor retailer Tighes Hill sampling wines to retain Cellars has defied industry trends their rich characteristics. to more than double sales over the past five years with a strong Tighes Hill Cellars’ focus on craft beer, quality wine emphasis on quality and artisan spirits. The boutique products and customer store owes its success to savvy service has helped marketing and a sales strategy the business take targeting a growing niche market of advantage of the changing customers who respond to quality demographic of the products, unique offerings and a Tighes Hill area and tap good retail experience. into a growing market of discerning drinkers aged from 25 to competing with the large liquor Tighes Hill Cellars has earned 45. They also proactively target the chains for market share. a reputation as a craft beer female market, using their wide and superstore and its small staff of self- diverse craft beer offering to appeal The strategies are clearly paying off. confessed ‘beer geeks’ personally to a range of tastes. At a time when the liquor industry select the 500 lines of craft beer struggles to maintain growth of two and 300 lines of artisan spirits The business has used a range of to three per cent per annum, Tighes stocked by the outlet. marketing initiatives to attract and Hill Cellars has shown exceptional retain customers, including radio sales increases since 2015. Staff are always on the lookout advertising, a strong social media for innovative ways to improve the presence, a loyalty ‘six-pack’ card, The judges commended Tighes customer experience, such as the the launch of a new website and Hill Cellars on showing great purchase of an Italian Enomatic store upgrades. understanding of emerging markets wine dispenser to enhance in-store and market categorisation, which wine tasting. The machine allows Its focus on providing quality niche has helped the business to small amounts to be drawn from a products, advice and one-on-one continue trading successfully in a bottle without exposing the contents customer service has helped Tighes price-driven market dominated by to harmful oxidation, allowing Hill Cellars meet the challenge of large industry players.

THE EXCELLENCE IN MICRO BUSINESS AWARD IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY GLENCORE. IT RECOGNISES A COMPANY WITH LESS THAN 5 EMPLOYEES THAT HAS ATTAINED SIGNIFICANT GROWTH AND IS ABLE TO DEMONSTRATE THE STRATEGIES AND PLANS USEDIn TO theACHIEVE pastTHAT GROWTH. 12 months our Australian coal business has:

Congratulations COAL ASSETSto all the winners AUSTRALIAat the 2019 Hunter Business Awards!

. . . proudly supporting local businesses

22 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 LOVE WATER LOVE BUSINESS MORISSET HOSPITAL

Morisset Hospital is a non-acute mental health facility with a capacity of 250 residents and 250 staff. As part of Hunter Waters 2018/19 Large Customer Water Efficiency Program, Morisset Hospital had monitoring installed on their meters to identify leakage. The monitoring picked up some large leaks on the site which was later found to be issues with the float valve on their main tanks and an underground pipe leak that had been flowing into a stormwater drain. Hunter Water worked closely with the hospital and the valve was replaced and the underground leak fixed saving 48 million litres of water every year resulting in annual cost savings of approximately $140,000. Through the partnership with Hunter Water and the focus on leakage Morisset Hospital has saved the equivalent to the annual usage of 251 homes in the region.

THROUGH THE PARTNERSHIP WITH HUNTER WATER AND THE FOCUS ON LEAKAGE MORISSET HOSPITAL HAS SAVED THE EQUIVALENT TO THE ANNUAL USAGE OF 251 HOMES IN THE REGION.

LOVE BUSINESS

We have assisted more than 200 business customers to identify water savings in excess of 1.2 billion litres, through initiatives including installing efficient fixtures, finding hidden leaks, and providing alternate water solutions. We can all do our bit to love water. Discover ways you can love water at hunterwater.com/lovewater hunterwater.com.au @HunterW

HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS 23 THE HUNTER BUSINESS CHAMBER ACKNOWLEDGES THE GENEROUS SUPPORT OF OUR PARTNERS IN BRINGING YOU THE 2019 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS

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24 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 HUNTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 AUSTRALIA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS 25

HUNTER BUSINESS CHAMBER Suite 1, Level 1, 165 Lambton Road Broadmeadow NSW 2292 (02) 4969 9600 [email protected] www.hunterbusinesschamber.com.au