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Exploring the Finest Brick Makers

“The humble brick is a foundational element in construction, symbolizing durability, tradition, and craftsmanship. Choosing the correct brick makers and suppliers is a pivotal decision in any construction project, influencing the final result’s structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. This article delves into brick craftsmanship, exploring the finest brick makers and suppliers and their impact on the construction landscape.

The Significance of Quality Bricks:

Bricks, often referred to as the “building blocks” of construction, play a crucial role in determining the strength and longevity of a structure. Quality bricks provide structural stability and contribute to the overall visual appeal of the building. Therefore, selecting reputable brick makers and suppliers is a decision that architects, builders, and homeowners should consider carefully.

Expertise in Brick Making:

Quality bricks require expertise and a deep understanding of materials, processes, and design. Reputable brick makers invest in the latest technology and adhere to industry standards to ensure the production of bricks that meet or exceed quality expectations. From clay selection to firing techniques, each step in the brick-making process influences the final product’s characteristics.

1. Material Selection: The choice of raw materials, particularly the clay composition, is a critical factor in determining the durability and appearance of bricks. Established brickmakers carefully select and test clay to ensure it meets the required strength and colour consistency specifications.

2. Molding and Shaping: Precision in moulding and shaping is essential for creating uniform bricks with consistent dimensions. Modern brick makers employ advanced machinery and techniques to produce bricks that meet tight tolerances, resulting in easier installation and a polished finish.

3. Firing Process: The firing process is a crucial determinant of a brick’s strength and durability. Expert brick makers meticulously control the kiln conditions, including temperature and duration, to achieve the desired hardness and resistance to weathering.

Choosing Trustworthy Brick Suppliers:

Equally important as selecting skilled brick makers is choosing trustworthy brick suppliers who can provide a reliable and consistent supply of quality bricks. Brick suppliers act as the bridge between manufacturers and construction projects, ensuring a seamless flow of materials.

1. Inventory Diversity: A reputable brick supplier should offer a diverse inventory of brick types, colours, and finishes to cater to various architectural styles and design preferences. This diversity ensures that architects and builders can access the right bricks for their projects.

2. Timely Delivery: In the fast-paced construction world, timely delivery of materials is crucial. Reliable brick suppliers understand the importance of meeting project deadlines and coordinating efficient delivery schedules to keep construction projects on track.

3. Product Knowledge and Support: Exceptional brick suppliers are not just order takers but knowledgeable partners who can provide insights into product selection, compatibility, and best practices. A collaborative relationship between brick suppliers and construction professionals enhances the success of a project.

Iconic Brick Makers and Suppliers:

1. Boral Limited: As a global leader in building and construction materials, Boral is known for its commitment to quality and sustainability. Their extensive range of bricks caters to diverse architectural styles, offering traditional and contemporary options.

2. Acme Brick Company: With a legacy spanning over a century, Acme Brick Company is synonymous with craftsmanship and reliability. Their dedication to producing high-quality bricks has made them a trusted choice for builders across the United States.

3. Wienerberger AG: Operating globally, Wienerberger is a pioneer in clay building materials. Their innovative approach to brick-making and a focus on sustainability has positioned them as a leading supplier in the European and international markets.

The Future of Brick Making: Sustainable Practices:

There has been a growing emphasis on sustainable practices in the construction industry in recent years, and brick making is no exception. Forward-thinking brick makers and suppliers are adopting eco-friendly initiatives to minimize environmental impact.

1. Recycled Materials: Some brick makers incorporate recycled materials into their production processes, reducing the demand for raw resources and minimizing waste. This commitment to recycling aligns with the broader goal of creating a more sustainable construction industry.

2. Energy-Efficient Kilns: Modern brick kilns are designed with energy efficiency in mind, utilizing advanced technologies to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. These innovations contribute to a more environmentally friendly approach to brick making.

3. Water Conservation: Water is vital in brick production, and sustainable brick makers prioritize water conservation efforts. Closed-loop water recycling systems and efficient water management practices help minimize water usage in manufacturing.

In the intricate world of brick craftsmanship, the collaboration between skilled brick makers and reliable brick suppliers forms the cornerstone of successful construction projects. As architects and builders navigate the myriad options available, the importance of choosing reputable and experienced partners cannot be overstated. Whether it’s the timeless expertise of companies like Acme Brick or the global innovation of Wienerberger, the legacy of iconic brick makers and suppliers continues to shape the built environment.

Moreover, as sustainability takes centre stage in construction practices, the future of brick-making embraces eco-friendly initiatives. Integrating recycled materials, energy-efficient kilns, and water conservation efforts reflects a commitment to creating enduring structures and a more sustainable and responsible construction industry. In the world of bricks, craftsmanship is not just about building; it’s about building responsibly and with an eye toward the future.

Leading with Vision and Impact

In leadership, a visionary leader can inspire and guide others toward a brighter future. Leading with vision and impact involves more than just setting goals; it requires a profound understanding of the organization’s purpose, a clear picture of the desired outcomes, and the capacity to influence and motivate teams to achieve extraordinary results. This article will explore the essence of leading with vision and impact, the key traits of visionary leaders, and the strategies they employ to create lasting change and drive success.

At its core, visionary leadership is about looking beyond the present and envisioning a better tomorrow. It involves inspiring change, driving success by imagining a better future, and aligning teams with a shared purpose. Visionary leaders possess the innate ability to see the bigger picture, understand the organization’s purpose, and articulate a compelling vision that resonates with stakeholders. They communicate this vision in a way that inspires and aligns their teams, fostering a collective commitment to achieving the shared goals. By understanding the significance of visionary leadership, aspiring leaders can cultivate this crucial trait to lead with impact.

Visionary leaders exhibit a unique set of traits that set them apart. Academic leaders possess a multitude of critical characteristics that set them apart. Their foresight enables them to anticipate trends, challenges, and opportunities, positioning their organization for success. Fuelled by a burning passion for their vision, they inspire unwavering dedication and enthusiasm in others, driving collective efforts towards shared goals. Embracing challenges as stepping stones to success, they maintain resilience, motivating their teams to persevere through tough times. Empathy is a vital trait that fosters a positive work culture, understanding the needs of groups and stakeholders. Incorporating HBDI, Herrmann Brain Dominance Instrument, enhances leadership by understanding team members’ preferences and fostering effective communication.

Leading with vision and impact requires a thoughtful approach and strategic implementation. Visionary leaders understand that a clear and compelling vision is the guiding force for their organization. They effectively articulate this vision, ensuring every member feels connected to the overarching purpose. Additionally, they build a strong leadership team comprising individuals who share the invention and are dedicated to its realization. This cohesive team enhances the collective impact and ensures the seamless execution of the vision.

Visionary leaders empower their teams by delegating responsibilities and authority, fostering a culture of ownership and accountability. They encourage innovation and creativity, creating an environment where experimentation and new ideas are welcomed. Leading by example, these leaders embody the values they advocate, inspiring their teams to follow suit. They embrace change as a means of progress, motivating their teams to adapt to evolving circumstances. Furthermore, visionary leaders prioritize continuous learning, fostering a culture of growth and adaptability within the organization. They understand the value of building alliances and collaborations with like-minded organizations and stakeholders, broadening the impact of their vision and driving collective success.

Visionary leadership can transform organizations and industries. Innovative leaders are skilled at inspiring and motivating their teams, leading to increased engagement and dedication to the organization’s goals. They foster a culture of innovation, encouraging creativity and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. This emphasis on innovation drives growth and helps the organization stay ahead of the competition. Visionary leaders exhibit resilience and adaptability, effectively communicating a clear vision that enables the organization to navigate challenges and thrive in changing environments.

Visionary leaders cultivate a positive organizational culture of trust, collaboration, and creativity. This positive work environment increases employee satisfaction and productivity, creating a solid camaraderie among team members. Furthermore, their strategic vision and thoughtful decision-making ensure long-term sustainability for the organization, steering it towards sustainable growth and prosperity. Overall, the impact of visionary leadership extends beyond achieving short-term objectives; it lays the foundation for a thriving, dynamic, and successful organization with a bright future ahead.

A leadership development program holds immense significance in nurturing influential and visionary leaders. Such programs provide essential training, mentorship, and skill-building opportunities to aspiring leaders, enabling them to articulate a compelling vision and lead with impact. Participants enhance their communication, strategic thinking, and decision-making abilities through targeted coaching and experiential learning. Leadership development program foster innovation and encourage a culture of adaptability, equipping leaders to navigate challenges and drive organizational success. Furthermore, these programs promote a positive work environment, boost employee morale, and improve team performance. Investing in a leadership development program ensures a pipeline of competent leaders who steer organizations toward sustainable growth and success in a rapidly changing world.

Leading with vision and impact is a transformational approach that brings meaningful change and drives success. Visionary leaders can envision a better future, inspire others to share their vision and lead with passion and purpose. By understanding the critical traits of academic leadership and employing strategic strategies, leaders can create a lasting impact on their organizations, teams, and stakeholders. Embracing visionary leadership is not only about setting goals; it is about guiding others toward a brighter and more prosperous future. As organizations face challenges and opportunities, academic leaders will be crucial in navigating the dynamic landscape and leaving a positive legacy for future generations.

Accelerating Your Path to Financial Freedom

As you enter your 40s, achieving financial freedom becomes an increasingly important goal. It’s a time when you may have established a stable career, family, and clearer financial priorities. Fast-tracking your journey to financial freedom during this pivotal decade can pave the way for a secure and fulfilling future. This article will explore essential tips and strategies to accelerate your path towards financial independence and make the most of your 40s and beyond.

Assess Your Current Financial Situation:
Take a comprehensive look at your current financial standing, including your assets, debts, savings, and investments. Consider seeking advice from investment property advisors in Melbourne to explore potential real estate opportunities and diversify your portfolio. Understanding where you stand financially will provide the foundation for building a robust plan to achieve your goals. Knowing your net worth, income, and expenses is crucial to make informed financial decisions.

Set Clear Financial Goals:
Define your short-term and long-term financial objectives with clarity. Whether it’s retiring early, paying off debts, buying a home, or funding your children’s education, having well-defined goals will give your financial journey purpose and direction. Break down your goals into actionable steps and set realistic timelines to track your progress effectively.

Create a Realistic Budget:
Craft a detailed budget that aligns with your goals. Track your expenses diligently, cut unnecessary spending, and prioritize saving and investing. A disciplined allocation can free up more money to accelerate your path to financial freedom. Allocate funds to emergency savings and debt repayment while ensuring adequate insurance coverage.

Maximize Retirement Contributions:
Take full advantage of retirement accounts such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and other tax-advantaged plans. During your 40s, increasing your contributions can significantly boost your retirement nest egg and take advantage of compounding growth. Ensure you’re utilising employer-matching gifts to maximize your retirement savings.

Diversify Your Investments:
Explore various investment options to spread risk and increase potential returns. Diversification can protect your investment portfolio from market fluctuations and enhance overall performance. To effectively diversify your investments, consult an experienced investment property advisor who can help you identify suitable real estate ventures and incorporate them into your diversified portfolio.

Reduce High-Interest Debt:
Give priority to clearing high-interest debts, such as credit card balances or personal loans. The interest on such obligations can be a significant drain on your finances. By tackling high-interest debts aggressively, you can free up resources for further investments and savings, ultimately accelerating your journey to financial freedom.

Upgrade Your Skills:
Invest in upgrading your professional skills and knowledge to enhance your earning potential. Enrol in relevant courses, attend workshops or pursue advanced degrees that can increase your value in the job market. Earning more income during your 40s can significantly boost your ability to save and invest.

Consider Real Estate Investment:
Explore real estate investment opportunities like rental properties or trusts (REITs). Real estate can provide a source of passive income and diversify your investment portfolio. Carefully research potential properties and evaluate the rental market in your area to make informed investment decisions.

Regularly review and adapt your financial plan:
As time passes, life situations and financial objectives may undergo alterations. Regularly review your financial plan and make necessary adjustments to stay on track towards your objectives. Be flexible and open to modifying your strategies to accommodate changes in your personal and financial life.

Seek Professional Financial Advice:
Consider consulting a financial advisor who specializes in helping individuals achieve financial independence. An expert can provide tailored guidance and strategies based on your unique situation. A financial advisor can assist in optimizing your investment portfolio, tax planning, retirement savings, and overall financial planning.

Financial freedom in your 40s requires dedication, discipline, and informed decision-making. By assessing your current financial situation, setting clear goals, managing your finances wisely, and investing strategically, you can fast-track your path to financial independence. As you embrace these tips, you can build a solid financial foundation to support you and your loved ones throughout your 40s and beyond, offering you the freedom and peace of mind to pursue your passions and aspirations.

What to Look for When Hiring a Nanny

When you’re a busy working parent, finding the right full-time nanny can make all the difference in the world. A full-time nanny can provide a sense of stability and security for your child, while also giving you the peace of mind you need to focus on your career. However, finding the right full-time nanny can be a challenge. Here are some things to look for when hiring a full-time nanny.

Experience

One of the most important things to look for when hiring a full-time nanny is experience. Ideally, you want to find a nanny who has a proven track record of caring for children in a professional setting. Ask potential nannies about their previous jobs and the ages of the children they cared for. A nanny with experience caring for children of a similar age to your child will likely be a good fit.

Household Management Skills

Many full-time nannies also take on house manager jobs. This means they not only care for your child but also take on some of the responsibilities of managing your household. If you’re looking for a nanny who can help with household tasks, make sure to look for someone with experience in this area. Ask potential nannies about their previous experience managing a household, and what specific tasks they feel comfortable taking on.

Certifications and Education

While not strictly necessary, certifications and education can be a good indication of a nanny’s level of dedication and professionalism. Look for nannies who have completed certification courses in early childhood development or who have degrees in fields like education or psychology. These certifications and degrees can demonstrate a commitment to the profession and a desire to provide the best possible care for your child.

Communication Skills

Communication is key when it comes to hiring a full-time nanny. You want someone who can communicate effectively with both you and your child. During the interview process, pay attention to how the nanny communicates with you. Do they ask thoughtful questions? Do they seem engaged and interested in learning about your child’s needs and routines? These are all good signs.

Background Checks

When hiring a full-time nanny, it’s important to conduct thorough background checks. This can include criminal background checks, reference checks, and even driving record checks if your nanny will be responsible for driving your child to and from activities. Make sure to ask potential nannies if they are willing to undergo these checks, and follow up on any red flags that may arise during the process.

Compatibility

Finally, finding a full-time nanny compatible with your family’s lifestyle and values is essential. Look for nannies who share your parenting philosophy and have a similar discipline approach. Try to observe the nanny interacting with your child before making a final decision. This can give you a sense of whether the nanny is a good fit for your family.

Hiring a full-time nanny can be a great way to provide your child with the care and attention they need while also allowing you to focus on your career. When hiring a nanny, look for experience, household management skills, certifications and education, communication skills, and compatibility. And remember to conduct thorough background checks to ensure the safety and well-being of your child. With these tips, you can find the perfect full-time nanny for your family.

Ground Quality And Construction

Almost all construction works require construction contractors to process the soil to help with the foundation. The type, size, and depth of the foundation would also determine the type of construction to be erected on the foundation. This processing of the earth, or earthwork is more important to the success of the overall construction project than any other developmental stage of the construction.

Building a major construction usually involves removing and moving large amounts of ground materials from the underground from the construction site to create solid foundations and other earthworks that can withstand all the several performance demands of the new construction project.

In a nutshell, any major construction project, from infrastructure to buildings begins with the construction of a strong foundation to support the building. Constructing a strong foundation or any other earthwork requires digging and removing a substantial part of the underground.

Nevertheless, some things are found underground that could disrupt the construction process. These include tree roots, large stones/rock, water pipes, sewage pipes, electricity pipes, gas pipe and even those unwanted pests like termites or spider nests. To help with the construction process it is necessary that you organise a pest control and treatment service so unwanted dangerous species do not get in your way.

Tree roots are natural things that are found underground that can disrupt any construction project. Tree roots and underground earthworks, including foundation, are often incompatible. Any attempt to build a construction where there are lots of trees can pose a series of challenges to the construction.

This is because tree roots can largely affect the moisture levels in the soil, with soil swelling/heave, structure shrinkage and cracking being some of the most common risks. The presence of tree roots can end up causing foundations and other earthworks to shift and crack if not harm the entire construction structures. One such example is the invasion of tree roots in drains, a prominent problem faced by plumbers worldwide. Trees that stand very close to the earthwork ae not the only one with potential for serious damages. Even trees that are as far as 30m away from the construction site can pull moisture from the soil and subsequently lead to a host of problems.

If possible the tree may be removed before construction but sometimes due to environmental concern, the tree must not be removed. Also, be on aware of termites in the trees and in the vicinity of your build, as they will cause problems. Just in case it is best to organise a termite pest control treatment to eradicate future problems with termites eating your wood foundations.

However, when it is evident that the earthwork would subsequently be affected by the tree root, a fairly deep trench could be employed. The trench should be filled with concrete but a compressible material must be used on both sides of the external trenches to counteract any swelling in the ground.

Large stones and rocks found underground can also disrupt a construction. However, these obstructions can be broken and removed to allow for work progress, though breaking or removing them may slow down the work process.

Water pipes can also disrupt construction. These are water pipes installed underground to serve the community. The water pipes can either be rechanneled to give way for the construction or made to pass through the soil or the concrete foundation. Though in this case, the already installed water pipe must be carefully handled to prevent damages to them. This fragility of the pipes is exactly the reason why plumbers opt for pipe relining, instead of manually tempering them, when doing plumbing maintenance.

Similar to the water pipes, sewage pipes can also disrupt construction. But unlike the water pipes, sewage pipes are more difficult to handle because they must not be trapped within the concrete but allowed to move freely. Hence the sewage pipes must either be rechanneled in such a way that they are unaffected or made to go much below the top of the foundation concrete.

Finally, before handling electricity, gas, water, or sewage pipes, it is important to consult buildings and warranty inspectors for their approval to excavated the underground before any construction. Understanding the types of soil that you are building on is also very important.

Choosing Soil Before Construction

Choosing construction sites with the best soil is very important in any building project. This is because all constructions are connected to the soil, be it a small apartment, tower, bridge, condo, etc. All constructions and buildings are erected on soil and most times with soil.

Constructions and buildings must be erected on strong and solid soils, otherwise, the danger is looming. However, soils differ in strength. While some soils are very strong and capable of supporting a skyscraper, some other soils are so poor that they can hardly support the weight of a man. The truth is, if the soil under a building construction is unstable, the foundation of the building would either sink or crack or worse still, the building may fall. Even if you are not planning to construct a multi-storey building, soil quality is still very important for constructions with ‘lighter’ structures, such as an adult zip line park as an example.

There are several soils in Australia and as mentioned above, some of these soils are very good for construction works while some are very bad for construction. Here is a list of soils found in Australia that are good for construction.

Loam

This is widely known as the ideal type of soil. It is typically a perfect combination of clay, silt, and sand. The soil is soft, dark, dry and crumbly to the touch. This type of soil is the best for construction, especially foundations, because of its evenly-balanced properties. Loam maintains water at a balanced rate. The Otway tree top adventure in Lorne, Victoria, is built on top of loam soil, which due to its properties, will be able to hold the extra weight on top of the giant trees that are already growing on them.

Rocky soil

This type of soil includes shale, sandstone, limestone, bedrock, etc. It is very stable, has high bearing capacities, and is very good and strong for constructing foundations. As long as the rock particles are level, the foundation will be well-supported. Rock is impermeable to water solutions and does not change size or shape when touched by water. More so, once fixed, rock does not move, shift, or slide. This makes it more useful for constructing foundations. Foundations constructed with rocks would not have cracks.

Sand

This type of soil is formed from small particles of weathered rock so it has a gritty texture. Though it is not good for constructing a foundation, it is good for constructing other structures because of its ability to drain out water easily. For additional stability, this type of soil may be compacted. Another reason why sandy soil is good for construction is because of its irregular shapes, the soil particles catch against one another to lock into place. This, therefore, provides additional stability. Sometimes, sand is added to building foundations and compacted to create a more stable ground.

Chalk

Chalk is formed from very fine particles of alkaline rocks like limestone. Though chalk is a type of clayey soil, it is good for construction because it does not retain moisture and would no shrink or swell at the absence or presence of moisture respectively.

The four mentioned soil above are the types of soil found in Australia that are good for construction. More so, one of the most important physical properties to consider when choosing good soil for construction is the strength and stability of the soil. For instance, clay seemed to be more stable than sand but this is true only during the dry weather as clay becomes unstable in wet seasons. This is one reason why clay expands in the wet season and contracts during the dry season, leading to a crack foundation and walls.

Notable Plumbing Codes In Australia

Countries with special building codes that are enforced can prevent devastating structural damages. Apart from building codes, maintaining plumbing systems is easy when builders adhere to plumbing standards. According to Australia’s plumbing standards regulations, certified plumbers must follow the technical requirements for the design of plumbing systems, and installation of materials. Let’s explain what some of the notable plumbing codes in Australia mean.

What Is A Plumbing Code?

A code of practice defines how professionals in certain industries should behave when they execute projects. Generally, the code of practice is a set of technical provisions or guidelines for a specific industry. When government regulators implement a code of practice concerning any sector, everyone expects compliance because codes are often backed by legislation. Inspectors ensure compliance during civil constructions and sanction erring contractors. Also, approval will not be given to plumbing systems that violate the Plumbing Code of Australia.

How Does the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) Work?

Usually, any set of building rules in Australia is part of the overall National Construction Code. Like the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA), industry regulators ensure that plumbers use the right designs, materials, and follow technical details during installation and maintenance tasks which include the clearing of a blocked drain. Every state in Australia and territory adopts the Plumbing Code of Australia 2019 (PCA). So, these set of codes apply to plumbers and building contractors.

In simple terms, the PCA is a pact between territory and state plumbing acts and regulations. Apart from the construction of facilities that use water, the technical provisions in Australia’s plumbing code cover maintenance jobs, replacement, and upgrades. Additionally, it’s the duty of the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) to ensure that contractors are compliant.

Description of Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA)

To make general inquiries regarding plumbing and drainage plumbing projects, visit the Water Efficiency Labeling and Standards Regulator (WELSR) in Australia. However, building and plumbing contractors will need to certify and authorize their designs before commissioning any project. Some aspects of plumbing and drainage projects require basic levels of compliance from the PCA.

Water services, and residential drainage systems
Sanitary plumbing, and stormwater drainage systems
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems
Onsite facilities for wastewater (treatment) management systems
Onsite facilities for liquid and waste management systems

Benefits of the Plumbing Code Of Australia

With the plumbing code, contractors can achieve acceptable standards during installation, and maintenance of plumbing systems. The right standards will improve hygiene, public health, safety, and quality of facilities. Also, ensuring proper plumbing codes helps to sustain infrastructure, manage resources, conserve the environment, and water. While ensuring the accountability of contractors, plumbing codes help to set up a transparent framework that checks the quality of materials. Materials of lower quality have been proven to be bad for the long run as these create more problems fast which would require more frequent drains repair. Additionally, the PCA is a national objective for assessing the performance of plumbing and construction projects.

Some Notable Plumbing Codes

Sanitary Drainage Systems

Sanitary plumbing codes for drainage systems cover sanitary appliances and fixtures. This regulation prevents loud noises from plumbing and disposal systems. So, contractors should install sound insulators on plumbing and drainage systems. It will dampen the noise from built-in mechanical components.

Accessible Plumbing and Drainage Fixtures for People with Disability

The requirements for designing and constructing sanitary facilities in any building must be friendly to people with disability. In the PCA, there’s a clear directive that plumbers should implement accessible facilities for people with disability.

Water Services

These requirements include verification processes for pressure and temperature control devices. Under the water service section of Australia’s plumbing code, warm water systems must maintain specific storage temperature. Also, the regulation requires heated water service pipes and drinking water pipes to be connected.

Sydney Introduces A New Winery With An Urban Twist

If it wasn’t for having to travel a long distance, most of us would probably visit cellar doors and wineries more regularly, for both the interior style and the wine. The wine maker behind the wine label A.Retief, Alex Retief, is saving you the trouble of having to travel by bringing the winery to you. Retief wants people from Sydney to appreciate the wines from NSW more. Sydney Introduces A New Winery With An Urban Twist

Urban Winery Sydney is a new business venture and it is now Australia’s first large winery in a city. In the Bordeaux region in France, a cultural immersion and winemaking stint was the inspiration for this idea. Retief states that “everyone had that knowledge and passion for wine, whether they were in the industry or not,” and he then came to realise that the people in NSW didn’t share the same mentality and that drove Retief to want to make a change.

One of the main missions that the Urban Winery Sydney faces is to boost NSW’s reputation for quality wines that stand up to their competitors in Victoria and South Australia. It is known that people who live in Victoria usually drink wines from the local wineries in the Yarra Valley, and the people who live in South Australia drink South Australian wines. But the frustrating thing for Retief is that the people of NSW’s drink wines from Victoria and South Australia and not their local wines from NSW.

They are working towards changing that mentality of the population in NSW and of the 14 growing wine regions in NSW, the ones that people really only think of are the Riverina and Hunter Valley regions. However, Retief is proving that the smaller regions producing wine throughout the state are very capable of making great wines, including his hometown of Gundagai.

At the Urban Winery Sydney, Retief will be basing his wine tasting around the fact that grape variety can differ from region to region and how and why that is so. “I’ll be showing other people’s wines as well, almost like a NSW wine centre. You can buy a flight of five wines, one of which will be mine, shown against four others from different regions to see how the growing conditions affect the wine,” he states.

The winery will call the newly revived Precinct 75 ‘home’. The Precinct 75 is well known as a creative hub for very unique businesses, such as Sample Coffee and Willie the Boatman. The interior design of the industrial space allows for heaps of natural light that shines on the resting barrels leaving a nice warm feeling throughout the building. Retief says how the building reminds him of the wineries in Bordeaux with the big concrete walls.

There are daily winery tours that are available and they usually take one-to-two hours. You also have the opportunity to sign up to a wine-blending masterclass. Each group will try five different barrel samples before they get the opportunity to blend their own wine. They will then go on to participate in a blind tasting of everyone’s blend. The winner of the blind tasting competitions will receive a dozen bottles of their own wine as the prize. Retief talks about how it will bring a very fun and a bit of a competitive twist to the process of wine learning.

With this new business venture starting up, hopefully it wont be long until the local wines of NSW can start competing with the South Australian and Yarra Valley wineries

Fears For Queensland Electricians as State Government Introduces New Electricity Business

Fears For Queensland Electricians as State Government Introduces New Electricity Business The Queensland State Government has made a claim that the massive new electricity business that it has created won’t compete with electricians but that has been debunked by mobile data capture evidence that shows electricians and solar installers are already being spread across Queensland.

Treasurer Curtis Pitt defended the plans to unleash the business, which offers solar, metering, and other household electrical services on to the private market and is all state-funded.

Just recently, the Courier Mail revealed that it would offer services that are supplied by private electricians including lighting solutions for custom showcases in museums.

Mr Pitt has stated that the business will not compete with the licensed electricians and solar installers in the state and it will only operate where tradies aren’t. He goes on to say, “It is about trying to fill a gap in the marketplace where it is not commercially viable to offer those services, particularly in rural and remote parts of Queensland.”

“There is absolutely no suggestion of market failure or other conditions that would justify the State Government deciding to compete with small, local businesses and employers,” stated Malcolm Richards, chief of Master Electricians

Tim Nicholls from the opposition said that unleashing a monopoly on to private operators was absolutely “outrageous”, and Redcliffe electrician Klaus Coia said that his business will most definitely be hurt by such a big competitor who may possibly offer other services like online IT managed services. “It will be cut-throat, prices will go down and small businesses will be pushed out because they won’t be able to compete with the Government who will have to seek business coaching programs,” he said.