Building a successful business is a challenging endeavour, and The Bugle, in conjunction with the Kiama & District Business Chamber, has created a six-part series focusing on key factors that drive success. After exploring Strategic Focus, Finances, and Operations, this segment delves into the ‘people’ aspects that underpin a thriving business.Building a Strong Team: A business's success hinges on the calibre and strength of its workforce, particularly in the early stages. It’s essential to find employees who are genuinely invested in the business’s growth, rather than those simply seeking a pay cheque. For example, working at a startup requires a unique mindset, where individuals not only contribute but also witness the company’s development firsthand. Even if your business is established, look for candidates who embrace this opportunity.Beyond qualifications and experience, passion is key. Consider how invested candidates are in their field - did they research your business before the interview? Do they speak with enthusiasm about their prior experiences?To streamline recruitment and filter high-quality candidates, create job application forms with customised questions instead of accepting generic cover letters. This approach helps identify serious applicants while reducing the influx of irrelevant resumes. Tailor questions to the role - if you're hiring a sales manager, ask them to describe a successful initiative they've led; for a marketer, request a 300-word description of their most successful campaign.Fostering a mentally healthy workplace: As an employer, it's your responsibility to create a mentally healthy workplace where employees feel safe and free from harassment. Ensure you're aware of the tools and resources available to support mental health, including free training and coaching through the NSW government’s website. Completing a Workplace Wellbeing Assessment can provide valuable insights into how your business can improve mental health outcomes. Prioritising the most important people: your customers: Customer satisfaction is the ultimate measure of business success. The ability to delight your customers - so much so that they choose you over competitors, return for repeat purchases, and recommend you to others - is crucial for growth and profitability.Small businesses are well-positioned to offer personalised service. Simple gestures like handwritten ‘thank you’ notes, including small gifts with purchases, or offering freebies in exchange for reviews can make a lasting impression.Delivering outstanding customer service: Excellent customer service is personalised, timely, and friendly. Equip your team with templates and scripts for handling common queries to ensure professional, efficient responses. It's also vital to ensure that the tone you use in communications aligns with your brand voice - whether casual and conversational or more formal.To enhance the customer experience, offer multiple channels for communication, such as social media, messaging apps, email, or phone. In many industries, especially retail, businesses compete not just on products but on the overall customer experience. Make it easy for customers to connect with a real person, and ensure your business remains approachable and transparent.If delays occur, such as with custom orders, keep customers informed at every step. Managing expectations is key - your small business may not offer 24/7 support or rapid turnarounds, but by delivering consistently high-quality products and providing personalized service, you can foster strong customer relationships.When complaints arise, practice active listening, understand the root of the issue, and offer meaningful resolutions. Great customer service can significantly increase the lifetime value of your customers, with research revealing that 86% of consumers stating that a positive experience can turn them from one-time buyers into loyal patrons. Here is a link to a website that provides key statistics and ideas about customer service.While scalability may be limited, small businesses have the advantage of offering a personal touch and prioritising customer care. By consistently meeting or exceeding customer expectations, you can set your business apart in a competitive landscape.

Building a successful business is a challenging endeavour, and The Bugle, in partnership with the Kiama & District Business Chamber, has developed a six-part series highlighting six critical success factors. After exploring Strategic Focus, and examining Finances, this instalment delves into the operational aspects that underpin a thriving business.Get organised: The foundation of success as a business owner lies in being well-organised and prioritising effectively. This enables you to complete tasks efficiently and manage the myriad responsibilities involved in running a business. A simple yet effective strategy is to create a daily ‘to-do list’, ticking off items as they are completed. It’s important to recognise that not all tasks carry the same weight - focus on high-priority tasks first to maximise impact.Numerous online tools can support your organisational efforts, such as Trello, Microsoft Planner, Slack, Notion and others. For small businesses, a planner or calendar, or a basic Excel spreadsheet may suffice, especially in the early stages.Consistency is key: Consistency plays a crucial role in long-term success. Repeatedly doing what’s necessary, day in and day out, builds positive habits and helps sustain profitability. Customers value consistency just as much, forming trust in businesses that deliver reliably over time.Limit distractions: Productivity experts suggest working in focused one-hour blocks, followed by a 15-minute break to maintain peak efficiency.Sometimes taking time-out from phone calls and meetings is necessary during the day so that you can focus on your priorities. Consider noise-cancelling headphones perhaps if noise is a distraction. Stick to your core business purpose - don’t try to be everything to everyone. To stay focused, consider using project management software to streamline collaboration and create prioritised task lists. While expanding your product line and exploring new markets may be future goals, it’s important not to get sidetracked from your initial go-to-market strategy.Automate repetitive tasks: Automation saves time and ensures that crucial details don’t slip through the cracks. For instance, using a CRM* tool allows you to automatically follow up with new contacts or send emails to leads visiting your website. Similarly, accounting software can automate routine bookkeeping, freeing you from the time-consuming task of manual data entry.* CRMs are a great idea, but they do come with a significant price tag. Research well before committing, as some suit specific industries more than others. Protect your Intellectual Property: Intellectual property (IP) encompasses intangible assets such as trademarks, copyrights, and patents that set your business apart. For a small business, safeguarding elements like designs, ideas, and trade secrets is vital. If competitors copy your product, it could erode your market share and damage your brand’s reputation.Study your competitors: Understanding your competitors is essential to defining your competitive edge. Larger companies often invest heavily in competitive intelligence, but small businesses can still benefit from studying the competition. Examine their taglines, value propositions, and offerings to identify their strengths and weaknesses.Depending on your industry, competitor analysis can vary. A restaurant or retail store owner, for example, might simply visit competitors and ask customers for feedback. In fields like manufacturing, where competitor insights are more restricted, trade publications, shared customers, or publicly available financials can provide useful information.Key areas to investigate include:Digital marketing strategy: How do they drive traffic and engage with leads? What kind of content do they publish, and how active are they on social media?Target audience: Who is their audience, and does it overlap with your customer base?Strengths and weaknesses: Where do they excel, and what areas do they fall short in? What can you improve upon?Stay focused on your goals: Building a business takes time, and success rarely happens overnight. It can take years to turn a profit, with many relying on savings or loans to sustain operations in the meantime. Persistence and a clear focus on your long-term goals are essential.However, if the business is not profitable after a reasonable period, it’s worth reassessing your strategy and considering whether a shift in direction is necessary.

Construction on the new Shellharbour Hospital has begun, marked by an official sod turning ceremony nearly a decade after the hospital redevelopment was announced. During the 2015 election campaign, the NSW Government promised $251 towards the redevelopment of the Shellharbour Hospital. Jillian Skinner, former NSW Health Minister quietly announced in 2016 that five major hospitals will be redeveloped under public-private partnerships, including Shellharbour Hospital. The idea was scrapped the following year after union rallies broke out and a petition with over 12,000 signatories was tabled in Parliament by Member for Shellharbour, Anna Watson.In May, Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward scolded Labor for failing to include the construction of a helipad and lack of a dedicated maternity ward, calling both an oversight on critical care for the Illawarra community.Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park stated that the $700 million hospital will be designed with a helipad in mind for future construction, not as a part of the original build.Kiama MP Gareth Ward has again criticised the decision, calling for the helipad to be built now rather than retrofitted later. “Rather than posing for photo opps, NSW Labor need to explain why the existing Shellharbour Hospital has a helipad and a brand-new hospital will not. This is just madness.”Ward condemned the Labor government for “politicising” the hospital project, stating Labor are taking credit off the former Coalition government. “Let me be very clear, in Cabinet I fought for and secured $720 million for Shellharbour Hospital,” Ward says, “Labor turned a second sod, took a photo and took all the credit.”Ward has also called out Illawarra Labor for his and re-elected Mayor of Shellharbour, Chris Homer's, lack of invitation to the event.“It’s one thing to ignore me, but to ignore Mayor Homer who was overwhelmingly re-elected just days ago smacks of political games by Illawarra Labor who are desperate to look like they have delivered something. They haven’t.”It is expected the construction of the hospital will generate around 800 jobs in the Illawarra region.Additional services and upgrades to expect include; emergency department expansion, increased surgical capacity, rehabilitation and aged care facilities, mental health services, renal dialysis, outpatient services, improved parking and public transport connections. “[The hospital] will cater for local population growth into the future and relieve pressure on other parts of the Illawarra Shoalhaven health network, including Wollongong Hospital,” Park says. Park says there will be no delays to the completion of the hospital, despite a lengthy tender process resulting in BESIX Watpac being chosen as head contractor in August of this year.The Shellharbour Hospital construction is expected to be completed in 2027.  The project is a part of the wider Shellharbour Hospital and Integrated Services Project which includes expanded sub-acute services, meaning more than basic at-home care but less than hospital intervention, new rehabilitation and palliative care beds at Wollongong Hospital and a new community health centre in Warrawong.

A young woman from Bomaderry is thriving in her dream career in horticulture after being named one of 25 national winners of the Global Footprints Scholarship. Olivia Williams, 23, discovered her passion for horticulture during a gap year as an exchange student in Austria, where she stayed with a family that ran a business specialising in endemic plant species. (Endemic plants are those found only in a specific region, often requiring particular altitudes, climates, and soil conditions.)Upon returning from her gap year in the rocky Alps, Williams enrolled in a Certificate III in Horticulture at TAFE NSW Nowra. She has since completed an apprenticeship with Schultz Landscaping and now co-manages the business.The Global Footprints Scholarship provides $9,000 to recipients in agriculture, horticulture, or trades to travel overseas for industry experience and professional development.“When I got the call telling me I’d been awarded the scholarship, I almost dropped the phone,” Ms Williams said.She plans to use the scholarship funds to travel abroad and explore her interests in species conservation and bush regeneration.“I’m really interested in the intersection between horticulture and conservation, and this will be an amazing opportunity to see how other countries are approaching this,” Ms Williams said.TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Horticulture Ben Garnero noted that Ms Williams is part of a growing group of female horticulturalists leaving a positive impact in the field.“Horticulture is an exciting field to be part of right now, and it’s great to see TAFE NSW graduates like Olivia achieving such success,” he said. “This is another example of the real-world skills TAFE NSW provides to train the workforce of the future.”Congratulations Olivia!

Periodontists are highly skilled dental specialists focused on diagnosing and treating gum and bone diseases, from mild gingivitis to advanced periodontitis. In essence, they care for the gums and the underlying structures. While most people associate Periodontists with treating Periodontitis (also known as gum disease), their expertise extends far beyond this. They specialise in implant placement, managing implant-related issues, performing bone grafting for bone loss due to tooth loss or disease, and gum grafting for receding gums. They also carry out aesthetic procedures like lip repositioning for a "gummy smile" and crown lengthening for short teeth.It's remarkable how well the treatment works.Did you know that Kiama is home to not one, but two Periodontists? If you’ve been traveling to Sydney or Wollongong for specialist dental care, you no longer need to.Professor Alex Quaranta (Prof Q) leads the qualified team at Kiama Dental Specialists. In addition to being a Specialist Periodontist, Prof Q holds a PhD in Dental Implantology and is renowned globally for his clinical expertise in placing implants as well as resolving difficult issues that can present with dental implants.His wife, Dr Lizzy Hui, also a Specialist Periodontist, holds a Masters in Pain Management ensuring all patients with dental anxiety will be in the very best of hands.Both are particularly committed to ensuring regional areas have access to the specialist care people deserve.Their dedication to excellence and innovation has earned them a reputation as leaders in their field. You can visit Kiama Dental Specialists at the Centrepoint building on Terralong Street.Photo credit: Kiama Dental Specialists

Building a successful business is a challenging endeavour, and The Bugle, in conjunction with the Kiama & District Business Chamber, has created a six-part series focusing on six critical success factors. Last edition, we examined Strategic Focus; this time, we delve into the crucial financial aspects that underpin a thriving business.1. Write a business plan:A well-constructed business plan is vital in defining your business’s scope, start-up costs, and target market. It serves as a blueprint for evaluating your business's viability and provides a roadmap for future growth. Many businesses falter because they lack a clear plan, wasting time and money on ventures that aren’t sustainable. Numerous resources are available to guide you in crafting a business plan. For instance, Xero, Open Universities Australia, and Business.gov.au offer comprehensive guides. Additionally, consulting an accountant at the outset can ensure you’re laying a solid foundation.2. Secure financing for your businessIt’s common for small businesses not to turn a profit for the first few years, relying on borrowed money or personal savings until profitability is achieved. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to finance a business, including loans, grants, and investments. Your bank is often a good starting point, as they can inform you of your borrowing capacity and the assistance they can offer. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, and if needed, consider switching to a more supportive financial institution. For further guidance, Business.gov.au provides excellent advice on applying for business loans. What are the K&DBC’s recommendations?3. Maintain detailed recordsKeeping meticulous records is essential for compliance with ASIC, licensing, HR, and accounting requirements. Many businesses use a combination of physical and cloud-based records to prevent data loss. Your accounting software provider can offer valuable advice on maintaining accurate records. Consulting a professional business advisor, coach, or mentor early on can also be beneficial as you establish your systems. For more information, the ATO offers useful tips on record-keeping.4. Cut costs as neededOne of the most effective strategies for managing your finances is establishing a baseline to compare actual expenses against your budget. Over time, analysing budget variances will help you identify areas where adjustments are necessary. Consider different suppliers, assess staff utilisation, explore upskilling or more cost-effective delegation, or outsource processes like payroll. Regularly reviewing insurance, optimising your workspace, streamlining services, leveraging virtual technology, and seeking a productivity expert’s opinion can also yield savings. The Business QLD and NSW Small Business Commissioner provide additional resources for managing and reducing business costs.5. Utilise a business coach or mentorSpecialist advice can be invaluable at any stage of your business journey. Research potential coaches or mentors online and through LinkedIn to gauge client satisfaction. If funds are tight, the Australian government offers free, tailored business advice through the Service NSW Business Bureau, where independent advisors provide insights on business planning, marketing, and cash flow management.6. Assess ScalabilityEvaluating whether your business model is scalable is crucial for long-term success. Common scalability metrics include revenue, profit margin, customer acquisition cost, customer lifetime value, retention rate, churn rate, and net promoter score. Setting realistic targets and tracking progress over time is essential. While consulting a business specialist can help, self-education through available resources, such as LinkedIn articles, is a good starting point.7. Increase SalesTo boost your business’s revenue, you can focus on four primary strategies: increasing your customer base, raising average transaction size, enhancing transaction frequency per customer, and adjusting prices. Identifying the most effective methods and platforms for reaching your target audience is key. Engage in brainstorming sessions with a diverse group of people to generate new ideas. Advertising, although it requires some experimentation, can also be a powerful tool for driving sales. Digital advertising is particularly effective in today’s market. Referral programs offer a win-win strategy, rewarding both existing and new customers. Building a direct-to-consumer email list through online signups, perhaps incentivised with discounts, is another proven approach. The NSW Government offers business and economy support online. Financial management is the backbone of any successful business. By taking deliberate steps in planning, financing, cost management, and growth strategies, you can establish a solid financial foundation that will support your business’s long-term success. In the next part of this series, we will explore marketing strategies that can propel your business forward. Stay tuned as we continue to unravel the essential elements of building a thriving enterprise.

Cin Cin Wine Bar in Tingira Crescent has quickly become a vibrant hub for local talent since opening late last year. With its art-adorned walls and acoustic Sunday sessions, the bar is now set to foster the next wave of local songwriting talent.Starting Wednesday, September 18 at 7pm, and continuing every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month, Cin Cin will be the hub for acoustic singer-songwriter nights, hosted by the talented duo David Crouch and Dan Challis. These sessions offer both emerging and seasoned artists a platform that goes beyond the typical open mic, giving them a chance to share a taste of their music in an intimate, supportive environment.David Crouch, aka "Crouchy", has a rich musical history. A member of 'The Grand Tuesday Band,' Crouchy first gained local fame in the '80s with his band 'Rats Tango,' drawing huge crowds at Tory's. His career later took him to the U.S., where he performed alongside the band members of Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock, and more. Now back in his hometown of Kiama, Crouchy is ready to share his experience with the next generation of local musicians.Dan Challis is another local favourite, boasting previous collaborations with artists like Frank Sultana and Dan Kelly. Dan's passion for songwriting is evident in his performances, where his skill with guitar and vocals shines. “Songwriting was my first love,” says Dan. “There’s something special about a songwriter telling their own stories through music.”Both Dan and Dave are excited to support local songwriting talent. Dan says, “The local area is home to many acoustic artists with a thoughtful and nuanced approach. We hope this will be an opportunity to foster and nurture those talents.”Their sessions will not only offer a stage for new performers but also provide mentorship, with the duo offering advice, insights, and opportunities for collaboration. For those needing extra support, Dan and Dave are available to offer backing guitar.Cin Cin owner Michael Bowden, though not a musician himself, is a passionate supporter of the arts. His vision for the bar is to create a space where emerging talent can thrive and where quality acoustic and folk artists can showcase their work in a quality setting. He will be enjoying the music while serving wines and cocktails, grazing boards and meze plates, the perfect accompaniment to an acoustic jam. Aspiring performers can contact Dave through his facebook page, Dave Crouch Music, to secure a spot, with the option to perform original songs or covers—as long as the covers come with a unique twist. The vision for these nights is to establish a singer-songwriter hub, where featured artists can showcase their talent, share the stories behind their songs, and build a deeper connection with the audience. See you there!

One of the most challenging decisions for any job seeker is committing to the job search. It's crucial to allocate adequate time for preparation and active searching and give it high priority.Define your criteria: Begin by making a list of criteria that define what you're looking for in a role. Clearly identifying your objectives will help refine your search terms, making it easier, and more likely to find suitable positions.Tailor your applications: When you find a role that interests you, read between the lines to gauge the level and fit of the job. Tailoring each application, including your cover letter and resumé, increases your chances of success. Don’t spend your time and effort applying if you have a low chance of selection.Research the company: Thoroughly research the companies you're considering. Ensure they are reputable and have a positive culture. This will help you avoid potentially problematic employers and colleagues.Utilise networking: Don't overlook potential resources outside of job boards and platforms. Networking can provide valuable leads and assistance. Reach out to friends, family, teachers, and even new contacts for advice and opportunities.Understand employer needs: Each employer has unique requirements, such as start dates and qualifications and other possible constraints that may or may not be compatible with yours. One thing that all employers are looking for is some degree of positivity, so demonstrate positivity in your cover letter and interviews.Manage your online presence: Be mindful of your social media presence and the impression that it gives out. Employers often check platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Ensure your profiles represent you well.Consider your commute and relocation: Be realistic about the commute. If a job is located more than an hour’s journey away, consider if you're truly prepared for the travel, especially with today’s fuel prices! or if relocation is an option? Employers often view long commutes as potential red flags.Follow up: It's common not to hear back after submitting an application. A common reason for this is that it takes time to respond to all the applicants, and most people are time poor, so you won’t necessarily get a response. A simple follow-up email can set you apart though. Employers appreciate tenacity and politeness, which can leave a lasting impression for possible future opportunities.Understand company policies: Once you land the job, familiarise yourself with the company's policies and procedures. This is especially important for supervisors and managers, as these documents define roles and responsibilities within the organisation. It also shows your commitment to your responsibilities and attitude towards being a good team member.By following these tips and those from this article, you'll enhance your job search process, make a strong impression on potential employers, and increase your chances of securing and retaining your desired position.

If Bruce Lee hadn’t been quoted as saying “To hell with circumstances; I create opportunities”, it could as easily have been Serge Niazi, CEO of IT&T.The business, which Niazi started as a one-person operation out of his home in 1994, has grown into one of Illawarra’s leading providers of IT and telecommunications solutions. It now employs 22 people in-house (plus national and international contractors for specific projects). It’s quite the achievement, especially considering Niazi arrived in Australia as a skinny 14-year-old after escaping a war-torn Middle East. But Niazi is not much for beating his own drum, instead he hopes that by sharing his story, it will inspire refugees and immigrants who find themselves in similar circumstances.Much like he himself has drawn inspiration, and continues to do so, from one particular martial arts pioneer.“Since I was a little kid, my uncle was always watching Bruce Lee and doing Kung Fu,” he says. When Niazi became a teenager, he also joined a Kung Fu class in Sydney.An impressive collection of Bruce Lee quotes decorates one of the walls of his office. “I basically follow everything he says,” says Niazi, which makes sense since Lee often spoke about being shapeless like water in order to easily adapt to one’s environment. The Bruce Lee quotes on Niazi's wall.Niazi has pretty much been forging his own path since he first landed in the Land Down Under.It’s a day he’ll never forget. Niazi had asked his mum, who had already escaped to Australia, how far it was to Wollongong? Not too far, she replied as she prepared to pick up her sons from the airport in Sydney all those years ago.What she didn’t know was that Niazi and his brother would be arriving a day earlier, just in time for her birthday. The two brothers, who didn’t speak any English, gave the address to the cab driver and off they went. But after 40 minutes passed and they still weren’t in Wollongong, they began freaking out.Finally, they arrived safely at their destination and knocked on the door. Niazi’s mum opened the door just to quickly shut it again. She just couldn’t believe her eyes. It was the best of birthday presents.Niazi’s introduction to his adopted new home involved its fair share of culture shock but he pressed on and came to study at the University of Wollongong, where he earned a Master’s Degree with Distinction and Honors.After taking a Bachelor of Mathematics and Computer Science, and a Master of Commerce in Business Information Technology, he began looking for a job.Niazi was short-listed for all the forty roles he applied to but still, no one hired him. So began a (career) journey which saw him take whatever job he could get and seize opportunities wherever they presented themselves. After deciding that he didn’t want to commute every day from Wollongong to the Sydney suburb of St Leonards for work, if that meant missing out spending time with his daughter, Niazi started his own business. He hustled and hustled, often bringing potential clients a coffee or a cake, and slowly began building relationships. Still, it didn’t generate any business. Until something called the internet appeared big time.“All these people are knocking on my door, they go ‘Serge, can you do this’? ‘Yeah, no problem,’ ” Niazi recalls. He said he had seen hundreds of customers and all of a sudden, 60 of them wanted to do business.As Niazi’s company grew, one obstacle after the other presented itself: financial hardship, fraud, the ramifications of Covid – you name it. But through it all, he kept going, maintaining his sense of humour and gentle spirit. It has served him well.“The longest customer has been with us for 25 years,” Niazi says as the tiny business he started all those years ago now celebrates its 30th anniversary.

The state government have announced their support for Kiama’s entertainment precinct and are on standby for the community and incoming council to adopt the new rules. Labor representatives and local business owners met to continue the momentum for the entertainment precinct, calling upon incoming council members to show support”The Hon. John Graham, Special Minister of State, Minister for Roads, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy says it’s up to council to get the precinct to the next step,“We need council to back it, state government is standing by with these rules ready to change, having the communities, having the venues on board is a great first step.”A special entertainment precinct is a defined area where noise levels from amplified music is managed by a council through a management plan. Any requirements on amplified music that would normally fall under the NSW Liquor Act 2007 will not apply in precincts. Kiama local and community advocate and Branch President of the Kiama ALP, Katelin McInerney, says it’s important to fast-track the precinct and get council onboard ahead of the upcoming election. “We want to make sure our incoming council knows how keen we are to get one blanket envelope of conditions across a precinct in town… and [to allow] our local performers to put events on with minimal fuss and minimal effort,” McInerney says.The special entertainment precinct was launched with a petition in July of this year. Following the petition, Kiama Council worked with the 24 Hour Night Time Economy Commissioner to develop a strategy suitable for Kiama. A council identifies a precinct by amending their local environment plan and displaying the noise management plan on their website. A precinct may be a single premise, streetscape or another defined area.Graham says the process will be to change the rules in the centre of town to “make it easier and cheaper to put events on, making it a bit more relaxed, a little bit less costly to do these things.”

Building a successful business is a challenging endeavour, with many failing to achieve their goals. In Australia, 60% of businesses fail within their first three years, and 20% don't even make it through the first year. However, those who succeed often do so by combining passion with strong business acumen. These successful entrepreneurs offer products and services that address pain points, solve problems, or fulfill passions.Maximising your chances of business success requires more than just a great idea. It demands organisation, flexibility, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail, all while maintaining a clear vision of the big picture. Personal sacrifices are often necessary, as business success looks different for each entrepreneur and evolves with the growth of the business. Setting and regularly updating goals is crucial. For example, an early-stage start-up might aim for positive cash flow within a year, while an established business might focus on increasing word-of-mouth referrals or expanding into new markets.To be among the 40% of businesses that survive and thrive, it's essential to pay attention to six critical success factors. In this 6-part series, The Bugle has partnered with The Kiama & Districts Business Chamber to provide valuable advice on strategic focus, finances, people, operations, marketing, and tips for local businesses to address some of the current cost of business pressures.Part 1: Strategic Focus – key points to consider1. Find your nicheIdentifying a specific market segment for your business is crucial. This allows you to craft a compelling value proposition and precisely define your target audience. Many businesses fail because they try to be all things to all people, spreading themselves too thin. Specialisation is a more effective strategy, especially for small businesses with limited resources. Focusing on a niche enables you to offer a unique product or service that stands out in the market.2. Business planA clearly defined and well-costed business plan is fundamental to success. It serves as a roadmap, guiding your strategic decisions and helping you stay on track. This topic will be explored in more detail in the next part of this series, which focuses on Business Finances.3. Foster innovation and agilityOutsourcing non-core functions can help small businesses concentrate their efforts on their core competencies. This nimble approach enables them to adapt quickly to market changes, seize opportunities, and stay ahead of the competition. Being agile and innovative is essential in a rapidly changing business landscape.4. Leadership and visionStrong leadership with a clear mission and defined objectives is essential for guiding a business through challenging times. A well-articulated vision serves as a compass, helping to align efforts and prioritise actions. Without clear goals, businesses often struggle to find direction, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities. Realistic Key performance indicators (KPIs) are crucial for tracking progress and ensuring that everyone in the organisation is working towards the same objectives.5. Passion and purposeUnderstanding and articulating your 'why' gives you a sense of purpose and helps you stay focused on your goals. This is especially important for business owners, as it can be easy to lose sight of your objectives amid daily challenges. The ‘why’ behind your business is not only vital for your mission statement but also for your entire business narrative. Being able to communicate how your products or services add value to people's lives fosters a deeper connection with both employees and customers. Passionate leadership inspires and motivates your team, helping to maintain focus and enthusiasm.6. Understanding risks and rewardsRecognising the importance of calculated risks versus potential rewards is crucial. Before taking action, consider the potential downside: "What's the worst-case scenario if this doesn't work out?" If you can accept the potential risks and have a plan to mitigate them, you may decide to proceed. If not, it might be wise to explore other opportunities. Being strategic about the timing of launching new products or services is also vital, as market trends and technological changes can significantly impact success.Flexibility is another key factor in business success. Agile businesses can quickly pivot in response to changing market conditions, while those that are slow to adapt risk becoming obsolete. Pay attention to market and financial data, listen to customer feedback, and be open to changing your business model or pricing strategy if necessary.By focusing on these critical success factors, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of building a resilient and successful business. Stay tuned for the next instalment, where we will dive deeper into the financial aspects of running a business.

The escalating cost of living has forced young Australians to take proactive steps to secure their financial future.According to recent research, conducted on behalf of HESTA, almost half (49%) of Australians aged 18 to 39 have begun actively planning for retirement, including salary sacrificing and using online tools to assess their superannuation trajectory.The national survey, which sampled 1000 Australians, highlights a distinct shift in financial priorities among younger generations. While 49% of under 40s are now more focused on retirement planning, only 44% of those aged 40 to 54 and 29% of individuals over 55 reported taking similar actions.HESTA CEO Debby Blakey says these findings indicate a growing recognition among younger workers of the critical role superannuation plays in their long-term financial security.“It’s heartening to witness younger Australians becoming more engaged in retirement planning,” says Ms Blakey. “Even small changes made early can lead to substantial benefits in the future. For many, superannuation will be their most significant financial asset, and they are observing their parents retire with super balances that provide essential financial stability.”The survey found that across all age groups, 41% of respondents had intensified their retirement planning over the past year. However, 51% made no changes, and 6% reported reducing their efforts, such as cutting back on salary sacrifice contributions or withdrawing superannuation funds due to financial hardship.Current economic challenges appear to be sharpening the focus on retirement planning for those under 40, emphasising the importance of early and consistent preparation for a secure financial future.A key concern highlighted by the research is the fear of outliving financial resources in retirement. Among those under 40, 68% expressed anxiety about running out of money, with 64% of 40 to 54-year-olds and 51% of those aged 55 and over sharing this concern.Lifestyle maintenance in retirement also emerged as a significant worry, with 52% of 18 to 39-year-olds fearing they won't be able to sustain their desired standard of living. This sentiment was echoed by 49% of 40 to 54-year-olds and 45% of those aged over 55.The research also highlighted gender disparities in retirement concerns. Women were notably more anxious about depleting their savings, with 65 percent expressing this fear compared to 57% of men. Women were also more likely to be concerned about health issues and potential medical expenses in retirement (6% versus 52% of men).Ms Blakey acknowledged the immediate financial challenges faced by many Australians, but emphasised the long-term benefits of retirement planning.“We recognise that many of our members are currently experiencing significant cost-of-living pressures,” she said. “While it can be daunting to think about long-term financial planning amidst these challenges, taking that first step can be incredibly powerful over time.”Become a Good Neighbour Support your local by giving great journalism a helping handOver the past financial year, 68,000 HESTA members utilised the Fund’s online Future Planner tool, which aids in retirement planning. Ms Blakey says two-thirds of these users explored the impact of making additional contributions, adjusting their retirement date, or altering their investment strategies.“Providing tailored support and guidance is crucial for enhancing our members’ financial literacy and confidence,” Ms Blakey added. “We’re seeing that in just 10 minutes, members can make meaningful progress towards securing their financial future.”The research, conducted by PureProfile, was carried out between March 8-12, 2024, with a representative sample of 1000 Australians, reflecting the population by gender, age, state, and location.

Updated: 26 August, 4:42pmDespite the delayed appointment in the Shellharbour Hospital construction tender, BESIX has been welcomed by the local community. Shellharbour Deputy Mayor, Kellie Marsh expressed her concerns surrounding plans for a maternity sector, although services will be available, birthing will remain at Wollongong.“Anna Watson promised that the new Shellharbour Hospital would have a maternity ward to support young families and a growing region. It’s disappointing that the Member for Shellharbour hasn’t delivered, and Ryan Park as Health Minister and Minister for the Illawarra has also come up short.” said Cr Marsh. “This new hospital is a once in a generation opportunity and we should ensure we get it right the first time.Based on the most recent Family composition (FMCF) census, 61.4 percent of Shellharbour’s population have children. The site is set to occupy maternity services including midwifery-led clinics, doctor-led clinics, midwifery group practice (MGP) clinics and pre and post natal services, birthing will remain at Wollongong Hospital due to specialised services, equipment and staff taking residence within their facilities. Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward has commended Chris Minns for his acknowledgement of Ward’s contribution to securing the $700 million dollar funding for the site. “At least Chris Minns had the decency to acknowledge who did the work to deliver the Metro project. Sadly, Ryan Park and Anna Watson don’t have the class and shamelessly took the credit last week for a project they didn’t fund,” Mr Ward said. However, Ward has detailed his disappointment with another design flaw the site is not due to see meaning our community could be drawing the short straw in life-threatening emergencies. “Labor have failed to ensure a helipad will be part of the new hospital when it opens in spite of the existing hospital having a helipad,” Ward said. “Their plan is to land emergency patients at Albion Park Airport and drive them along a busy highway, then on Dunmore Road through a busy school zone in order to deliver emergency patients to the hospital. “In life-threatening emergencies, minutes matter and I don’t believe our community is getting the best possible deal.” Although construction plans prove to have accessibility for a future instalment of a helipad, there is no confirmed landing spot on the Dunmore Road site in the initial construction phase. Become a Good Neighbour Support your local by giving great journalism a helping handConstruction on the new Shellharbour Hospital site is due to commence following the appointment of the main works contractor. BESIX Watpac has been awarded the tender following a competitive process for the construction of the $780 million dollar project located on Dunmore Road. Member for Shellharbour, Anna Watson said that the new Shellharbour Hospital and Integrated Services project will work alongside the growing surrounding population.“The new Shellharbour Hospital and Integrated Services Project will cater for local population growth into the future and relieve pressure on other parts of the Illawarra Shoalhaven health network, including Wollongong Hospital,” MP Watson said “The works will also help drive education and job opportunities for the Illawarra region, supporting around 800 direct jobs during construction, with the potential to support thousands of indirect jobs over the life of the project.”The new Shellharbour Hospital and Integrated Services Project will also include an expanded sub-acute services at Bulli Hospital alongside new rehabilitation and palliative care beds at Wollongong Hospital. Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park, believes that through enhancing facilities at the new Shellharbour site and surrounding areas not only will it provide hundreds of job opportunities but also improve local health care. “I’m delighted that we have reached another milestone in this important project, which will deliver a suite of enhanced health care facilities for the residents of the Illawarra as well as hundreds of local jobs,” Minister Park said.  “The new Shellharbour Hospital will ensure the local community has first class healthcare at their doorstep in state-of-the-art facilities.”Concerns about the old Port Kembla site were raised amongst the community, however, laid to rest as announcements for a new community health care centre have been approved. Following the announcement of BESIX Watpac winning the tender, the approval of the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) will allow main area construction to begin. Establishing the site and finalising the designs for the new hospital, work is set to be completed in 2027.

After 25 years in the high-pressure corporate world, self-made businessman Jamie Lobina traded the hustle of Sydney for the tranquillity of Jaspers Brush/Kiama. Leaving behind the corporate stress, he sought a ‘semi-retirement’ that would allow him to give back by mentoring medium-sized business owners. Now, Lobina focuses on guiding others, helping them navigate the complexities of business. “It’s like having another lens or set of eyes on your business – like a non-executive board member,” Lobina explains.Lobina’s rise in the corporate world was meteoric. After a challenging upbringing, he began his career as a truck driver at 18. By 21, he had become Area Manager, and by 22, State Manager, working with major companies like PepsiCo and Arnott’s. By 26, he was National Account Manager, a testament to his passion and drive.At 27, Lobina launched Superior Sales Force, specialising in FMCG field sales and marketing with over 250 employees. His company worked with industry giants like Schweppes, Kellogg’s, and Procter & Gamble, helping to elevate several brands. After 19 successful years, he sold the business to Clemenger, a large ad agency, which turned it into an in-house hub for field marketing and merchandising.Moving south and away from the ‘blue-chip world’ was Lobina’s way to regain balance and avoid working himself into an early grave. His plan was simple: to help other businesses thrive. Today, he manages a number of companies and works six days a week—still busy, but with far less stress compared to his former life in Sydney.Lobina’s current ventures include a business mentoring company, a property maintenance business, a national franchise where he holds a 50 percent stake, and a real estate investment portfolio. With over 25 years of experience, he understands the unique challenges faced by small-to-medium businesses, where owners often wear many hats - boss, HR, marketing, finance, logistics, and more.These days, Lobina prefers to coach and work with small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), imparting what he calls “an inspiring entrepreneurial mindset.” He believes in ‘disruption’ - challenging business owners to think differently and adopt innovative approaches.“It’s critical for any business owner to understand their ‘what’ and ‘why,’” says Lobina, emphasising the importance of motivation and clarity in driving success.Currently, Lobina is mentoring an engineering firm, a real estate agency, and a grass manufacturing company in Sydney and Wollongong. His sweet spot, however, is working with businesses capitalising between $2-10 million. For Lobina, practical experience is the key to providing valuable insights - there’s no textbook or handbook that can replace it.One of his core philosophies is building a positive culture of engagement and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of employees - knowing “who is on the bus.” He points out that different roles require different mindsets and skill sets. For example, a sales representative and an accountant need distinct skills and personality traits.To better understand key staff members, Lobina employs tools like D.I.S.C. profiling, which identifies Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness traits. Interestingly, only 3 percent of business owners exhibit high Dominance and high Conscientiousness, a combination Lobina finds crucial for leadership.At the heart of his work, Jamie Lobina simply wants to make a difference. His coaching regimen typically involves one-hour sessions every fortnight, held in-house at the client’s premises. Initially, these sessions are with the CEO, gradually expanding to include senior staff. Between sessions, Lobina maintains momentum with bi-weekly phone calls, ensuring accountability and progress.When asked about the common pain points for businesses, Lobina highlights that it’s not just about external factors like the economy. The real challenge lies in how businesses approach growth and expansion - timing, strategy, and sometimes, downsizing or preparing for sale to improve their financial standing.Lobina’s top five tips for business owners:Work vs. Home Balance: Keep work at work. Home should be a safe space, not an extension of your office. The ‘work-from-home’ trend has blurred these boundaries.Mental Fitness: Recognise when you need help. Small practices like daily meditation can help manage stress and improve well-being.Passion: If you lack passion for what you’re doing, it’s time to reassess. Understanding your ‘why’ is crucial to staying motivated.Physical Habits: Movement is essential. Physical activity stimulates the brain and boosts creativity. Find at least 30 minutes a day for exercise.Team Building: To drive momentum, ensure you have the right people on board. Identify who’s committed, and don’t hesitate to make changes if necessary.Jamie Lobina’s transition from a high-powered corporate executive to a business mentor in the quiet surroundings of Kiama reflects his commitment to helping others succeed. His hands-on approach and deep understanding of the challenges faced by SMEs make him a sought-after mentor. As he continues to guide and inspire, Lobina remains focused on making a lasting impact on the businesses he works with, one entrepreneur at a time.

Kiama-based building company Crump Constructions has been recognised for their quality of work at the recent Master Builders Association Southern Regions Excellence in Building Awards.The company won in their category for a recently completed new home in Kiama.  After being judged alongside homes in the region, which stretches from Wollongong’s northern suburbs down to the Far South Coast and inland to the Southern highlands and Snowy Mountains, the panel of experts deemed the house to be the best.“The judges commend the project for its innovative design, high quality finishes and exceptional craftsmanship,” the judging panel said at the presentation.The win was announced in front of over 300 builders and industry representatives at a gala dinner held in Ulladulla on Saturday 27 July. Company principal Nathan Crump was on hand to receive the award.“It was a big surprise when I heard my name announced and it was a very proud moment to be up on stage,” said Nathan Crump.“After many years in the industry it is nice to be recognised by the Association when compared to so many other quality builders. I feel it shows my small scale, hands-on approach results in high quality projects.” 

Kiama’s own Mark Foster is one of the most experienced and professional barbers on the South Coast. In his time he has mingled with the rich and famous in the fish and chip shop.Mark is a die-hard Manchester United supporter and when he lived in Manchester, he used to chat with Gary Neville, the captain of Manchester United and David Beckham, over a spread of haddock and chips.People come from Gerroa to Wollongong to sit in the chair and let Mark and Master Barbers Charlotte Powell and David Azevedo, practice their art.Mark opened Premier Barbers in Terralong Street in 2007 and he reckons since he started the business in Kiama, he has cut more than 100,000 heads of hair.“Being a part of the Kiama community for almost two decades, I have seen some of my customers go from their first haircut to starting school, first girlfriend, first car, getting jobs and starting families of their own,” Mark said.The team create all the latest styles from the latest Amsterdam and Korean cuts, textured crops, skin fades to spiky mullets. They do beard trims, razor shaves and more.There’s air conditioning, music, a relaxed ambiance, and white glove cleanliness.Mark has barbering and styling in his blood. His family in England has been cutting men’s hair since 1886. He’s a 6th generation master barber working at the top of his game.“I started my career in the family trade in 1987 and owned three salons overseas before I moved here from sunny Manchester, England.”Mark has employed scores of young local people who want to learn a trade.“It gives me a sense that I’m keeping the town’s economy going and growing.”If you want to know what’s going on around town, take a seat, because all the stories come out at Premier Barbers.“I had a chap in one time said he’d just been into a barbers that said $10.00 haircuts. He then asked me to put up a sign in my window to say we fix $10.00 haircuts.”Premier Barbers. You’ll leave better looking.

The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has invited community feedback on proposed maximum Opal fares for the next four years.Tribunal Chair Carmel Donnelly said IPART is reviewing maximum fares for train, bus, ferry, light rail, Metro and on-demand services within the Opal network, which includes Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast, the Illawarra, and the Hunter.“The maximum fare protects consumers from excessive charging, but the price passengers actually pay is set by the NSW Government and all current ticket prices are set below the current maximum fare,” Ms Donnelly said.“In NSW, taxpayers, not passengers, fund the majority of the cost of providing public transport because it provides broad benefits to the whole community, including reducing congestion on our roads, supporting economic activity, education, social connectivity and environmental advantages.“It is important to balance the need for affordable public transport fares, which many people rely on, with the rising cost of providing safe and efficient services,” she said.IPART is proposing an average 2 percent  increase above inflation to maximum fares compared to current maximum fares set by IPART in 2020.• For bus and light rail, most maximum fares would stay the same, with an increase of 1.6 percent to the 3 to 8 km distance..• For train and Metro, maximum fares would rise between 0.7-4.1 percent, depending on the distance.• For Sydney Ferry services, maximum fares would increase between 3- 4 percent..• The Newcastle-Stockton Ferry maximum fare would increase by 7 percent.IPART is also proposing that the maximum fares set by IPART increase with inflation in July each year using CPI.Ms Donnelly said IPART’s Draft Determination would ensure that passengers only pay for the shortest possible track distance between two train stations, ending an anomaly called the “CBD increment” which put some passengers into a higher distance band when travelling to City Circle stations.The Tribunal has also considered affordability issues and made a draft recommendation for Transport for NSW to expand eligibility for the Opal Concession card.IPART’s Draft Report will be available from Friday 16 August at www.ipart.nsw.gov.au. Submissions on the draft proposals are open until 16 September 2024. An online public hearing will be held on 3 September.IPART’s Final Report will be delivered to the NSW Government in October 2024.The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has invited community feedback on proposed maximum Opal fares for the next four years.Tribunal Chair Carmel Donnelly said IPART is reviewing maximum fares for train, bus, ferry, light rail, Metro and on-demand services within the Opal network, which includes Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast, the Illawarra, and the Hunter.“The maximum fare protects consumers from excessive charging, but the price passengers actually pay is set by the NSW Government and all current ticket prices are set below the current maximum fare,” Ms Donnelly said.“In NSW, taxpayers, not passengers, fund the majority of the cost of providing public transport because it provides broad benefits to the whole community, including reducing congestion on our roads, supporting economic activity, education, social connectivity and environmental advantages.“It is important to balance the need for affordable public transport fares, which many people rely on, with the rising cost of providing safe and efficient services,” she said.IPART is proposing an average 2 percent  increase above inflation to maximum fares compared to current maximum fares set by IPART in 2020.• For bus and light rail, most maximum fares would stay the same, with an increase of 1.6 percent to the 3 to 8 km distance..• For train and Metro, maximum fares would rise between 0.7-4.1 percent, depending on the distance.• For Sydney Ferry services, maximum fares would increase between 3- 4 percent..• The Newcastle-Stockton Ferry maximum fare would increase by 7 percent.IPART is also proposing that the maximum fares set by IPART increase with inflation in July each year using CPI.Ms Donnelly said IPART’s Draft Determination would ensure that passengers only pay for the shortest possible track distance between two train stations, ending an anomaly called the “CBD increment” which put some passengers into a higher distance band when travelling to City Circle stations.The Tribunal has also considered affordability issues and made a draft recommendation for Transport for NSW to expand eligibility for the Opal Concession card.IPART’s Draft Report will be available from Friday 16 August at www.ipart.nsw.gov.au. Submissions on the draft proposals are open until 16 September 2024. An online public hearing will be held on 3 September.IPART’s Final Report will be delivered to the NSW Government in October 2024.

Locally owned homewares and variety store, House2Home in Kiama, will close, but try to trade on in a different form. “After 24 years of business in our little town, the end of the road is near for House2Home Kiama. We have made the extremely tough decision to close down,” the owners said online. “After so long in the game and a very tumultuous last 4-5 years, we just haven’t got any fight left in us to keep facing the continual challenges that small business brings.” It is believed rising power prices and rents may have played a part in the pending closure.“We’re still sure how this is going to play out and we don’t have an end date as yet.” “We are in the process of trying to work out if we can have one more Christmas before we close the doors for good, or whether it will be sooner than that.” “We’re not totally down and out just yet as we still look into some options to continue in some way, even if it is different to the House2Home we’ve all come to know and love. If nothing else comes up, we’re still hoping to do balloons in some way, shape or form.”House2Home in Corrimal shut in October last year and House2Home in Thirroul closed in August 2019. NSW is approaching a record year of business closures fuelled by persistent high interest rates, inflation, and reduced consumer spending. Approximately 3695 NSW small businesses have closed this financial year to April 30, and may overtake the 4,487 business which closed in 2008, during the GFC.

After trading for a year, Artful Pantry on Terralong Street is closing and will move most of its favourite products to the Collective Beat Kiama.Sheree Bailey, the owner of the Artful Pantry and the Collective Beat, said the high rent was the business's biggest challenge.“We absolutely love the store but sadly high rents in Kiama just aren't sustainable for some small businesses,” said Ms Bailey.“The limited foot traffic however at that end of the Terralong street and the building's unattractive and worn-out appearance, added to our difficulties,” she said.“Over the past year, we sought assistance from the landlord multiple times and proposed various changes, including the addition of a coeliac-safe bakery and gluten free patisserie—a unique offering we believe the town needs,” she said.“However, the landlord was unwilling to collaborate or consider any of our requests, including a rent reduction. Regrettably, we are left with no choice but to close down that shop and move out the business.”The Artful Pantry stocked Australian and local foods not normally found at Woolworths.The store created a strong gluten free community and it will stock most of those products in the Collective Beat Kiama and the Collective Beat Berry.Sheree Bailey opened Artful Pantry in June last year and introduced locals to Australian-made artisan produce.Ms Bailey stocked fresh coeliac baked bread from Shellharbour’s Sans Gluten, Kangaroo Valley Olives, Pebbly Path rocky road from Mudgee and, within the gourmet deli fridge, Tilba Cheese, Sydney’s Salame Casareccio and more.Ms Bailey has grown the Collective Beat to four stores in Kiama, Berry, Gerringong and Huskisson.