Business Podcasting Blog

Once in a while you see something interesting for Christmas. This is one such thing.

Senator Stephen Conroy
Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy
Level 4, 4 Treasury Place
Melbourne Vic 3002

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Dear Minister Conroy,

I have never written to a government minister before, but I have serious concerns about the Rudd Government’s mandatory Internet filtering plan. Given the importance your Government has attached to modernising Australia’s broadband network, pursuing a policy that can only slow down and increase the costs of home and business internet access seems misguided at best, and pandering to right-wing Christian minorities at worst.

Australian governments have never been very good at communications policy. Examples include: pay TV infrastructure, the privitisation of Telecom, digital television implementation, and the development of a national broadband network that doesn’t include the nation’s biggest carrier.

Now we have another ill-conceived and expensive communications policy debacle with the clean-feed mandate.

Australian households are diverse, and most do not have young children, so mandating a one-size-fits-all clean feed approach will not serve the public or business well. I don’t think it is the Government’s role to decide what’s appropriate for me or my children, and neither do most Australians.

Like China, Australia, will become a laughing stock and seen as a technically clumsy and naive cyber-nanny-state. Don’t be naïve Minister, seek counsel from people outside of Canberra who know what they are talking about. Ask yourself why no other western democratic country has a similar scheme.

Given the amount of Internet content available, the Government will never be able to classify it all and filters will always result in an unacceptable level of over-blocking. Did you know that for $3 per month it’s possible to use an overseas proxy server that completely bypasses all local ISP filtering? The introduction of a clean-fee will just educate people as to what’s available and encourage the use of such technology by many people, including terrorists and pedophiles. Ask the national security agencies what they think of such technology.

I feel that the time and money could be spent in better ways both to protect children and improve Australia’s digital infrastructure. Australian parents need better education about the risks their children face online. Trying to rid the Internet of adult content is futile, and can only distract from that mission. Stupid promises can be broken … break this one.

I can’t wait until the next election,

Name and address supplied

Today the demand for higher sophistication in professional sterilisation equipment is increasingly becoming important.

In day surgeries, which have witnessed a phenomenal growth in the recent years, are now often performing invasive procedures in their own premises. Not a surprise that a lot of research is being undertaken and more and more sophisticated brands of autoclave sterilizers are coming onto the market.

The Australian company, Sabac Australia, designs and manufactures a range of autoclaves including autoclave equipment and accessories. Most of the operation theatres use the tabletop sterilizers that perfectly fit into the modular space design of the clinics. The pre and post autoclave sterilizers use the most sophisticated tabletop technology available. This medical sterilization equipment is known for its reduced cycle time and is also reasonably priced.

The automatic autoclave sterilizer series include autoclave equipment that offers a high return on your investment. This medical sterilization equipment is known for rapid cycles, safety, durability, and low maintenance. The semi automatic autoclave sterilizer is sought by private clinics which stress safety, reliability, and quality. The products in this category offer lower running costs, and are maintenance free. The features include double locking safety device, door failure protection, heat insulation and automatic shut off in case of emergency.

Big hospitals and health centers that have a large number of beds and have adequate space, opt for large hospital autoclaves. The chamber volumes of these autoclave sterilizers range from 120 liters to more than 1000 liters. These mid-range and large range autoclave sterilizers put safety before anything else. The safety features include double door safety, safety valves, built-in steam generator safety and emergency shut-down.

Medical waste management is another issue which need frequent innovation in medical sterilization equipment. Most of the hospitals and health care facilities need to adhere to strict guidelines for managing the medical waste generated. The bio-hazard sterilizer is an autoclave sterilizer that uses the high vacuum steam environment technology, where steam acts as the sterilization agent.

It is designed to dispose medical waste in a safe, cost effective and environment friendly manner. Here the sterilization cycle is short, being less than 50 minutes. Most of these autoclaves conform to the ASME standards and other government mandates that are required by law. Recently the autoclave Australia products that are coming into the market are becoming an instant hit. The chlorine dioxide gas chamber is the most common method applied for pre-cleaning of autoclave equipment.
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If you are looking for autoclave equipment or an autoclave sterilizer, contact Autoclave Australia. BSON221208

Many small businesses spend far too much time on debt collection rather than their core business. Over the last 2-3 months I’ve noticed an increasing lag in payment cycles.

If you are in any sort of operation that uses small businesses as service providers or product suppliers it’s well worth your while to pay your bills on time and completely ignore to some “clever” accountants mantra of not paying until the second reminder. Guess what? People are human and they will pay back and pay forward. One way or the other you will pay in the end for screwing around your suppliers.

Here’s why:

1. If you pay on time you will get much better service. I know with my clients, the one’s who pay on time or early get the best service, day or night 365 days per year. These are A-Class clients. They pay on time or early, don’t bitch about the price, and as a result get excellent service and great value for money. They respect me, and I respect them. We both win.

2. If you don’t pay on time you reputation is on the line. Small business owners love to gossip. They slag off any customers who pay late. And with the Internet so freely available, your reputation can become crap overnight with one blog post. This leads into …

3. If you don’t pay on time, you can end up paying a premium. The current cost of money is about 1.5% per month. If your payment reputation is shite, than expect to pay at least 10-15 % more than if it were good or unknown. In some cases bad payers can be locked out of they supply chain completely and have to spend enormous amounts of time to find a new supplier.

With existing suppliers, if you screw them around, they will either add 10% to their next quote, or refer you to a lower-class competitor - hoping to send them broke because you don’t pay when due.

4. If you pay on time your staff don’t get harassed by debt collectors from your supplier’s accounts departments. This is a big source of staff burn-out. If you pay on time your staff won’t have to make up excuses for late payment and may actually start to enjoy their jobs.

In summary, if you want good service, good products, happier staff and ongoing loyalty, pay on time or before time and ignore your accountant’s advice.

What do you think? Why do you like early payment or not?

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Article supplied by Brisbane web designer and SEO Training.

The turmoil in the international stock markets is having a unfavourable impact on the retirement plans of many Australians.

For example, during September 2008, it was estimated by SuperRatings, a company that tracks the performance of super funds, that Australian super funds lost as much as 6% of their value. During the past year they lost 12% of their value.

The reason for the massive drops is the current superannuation rules which effectively place the Australian superannuation system in a virtual stock market straitjacket.

Over the years, The Investors Club has argued strongly that Australians should have greater flexibility in using their superannuation to invest directly in property and also to help pay off their mortgages.

This stock market straitjacket has been highlighted by a recent report from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) that tracked the performance of superannuation funds in Australia during the period 1997 to 2006.

Super woes highlighted
The report showed that the ten-year average annual return for super funds with assets more than $100 million was around 6.7% before they imposed fees and charges.

During the same period, figures produced by the Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) show that the annual average returns (taking into account capital growth and weekly rents), for a three-bedroom residential home in the major capital cities varied from 11.2% to 16.8%.

The heavy investment in the stock market by super funds is underlined by the APRA report which showed that during 2006 nearly 60% of investments were in Australian or international shares.

The current superannuation rules virtually prohibit the use of superannuation for residential real estate and goes against the basic investment guideline of not putting all of your eggs in one basket.

By allowing Australians to use their super contributions to pay off their mortgage, this would encourage additional super contributions. For example, someone has to earn $150 and pay $50 tax before paying $100 off their mortgage.

It would also allow more first home buyers to enter the housing market at a time when Australia is recognised as having among the most expensive real estate in the developed world and the worst housing shortage.

Interestingly, financial advisers and stockbrokers are the prime beneficiaries of this share market splurge and it is no coincidence that they are major contributors to both political party’s election funds.

It is now time that ordinary Australians were given a greater say in where their superannuation is invested and this should include the option of investing in residential real estate which is a proven long-term investment to create wealth.

================ Further information available from :

Kevin Young - The Investors Club Kevin Young - The Investors Club Kevin Young - The Investors Club Kevin Young - The Investors Club Kevin Young - The Investors Club

Ever noticed how many actors and celebrities have such white and shining teeth? Chances are they have used a laser and gel teeth whitening system to give them that “Hollywood Smile”. This article answers some of the most frequent questions about this modern, safe and effective cosmetic procedure.

Q: Is it for everyone?

A: Cold Laser and gel teeth whitening gives magical results to anyone who wants to whiten their teeth. This includes people with teeth that have been stained by smoking or by substances like coffee or tea. It also whitens teeth stained by tetracycline, specked by fluoride or hereditary discolouration. Pregnant woman or clients under 16 years of age should not receive the whitening treatment.

Q: How white could my teeth get?

A: Tests show that, after whitening with the laser and gel system, teeth can move 5 to 14 shades on the cold laser and gel teeth whitening shade guide. The results depend on how white the teeth were originally, but the end result will be white, shiny teeth.

Q: How long will the whitening last?

A: This varies from person to person and depends on your diet, but the effects should usually last for about 2 years. Periodic touch-up treatments can be taken for clients that frequently have coffee or other staining food or drinks or those that use tobacco products.

Q: Is it safe?

A: Yes. Scientific articles have shown that the active ingredients in cold laser and gel teeth whitening gel are effective and safe for cosmetic tooth whitening. The dental community has used these ingredients for tooth whitening for years. It does not change or damage the structure of the teeth: it merely makes them appear whiter and brighter.

Q: How long does the treatment take?

A: In a little over an hour, discolouration that has built up over years will magically disappear. It takes no longer than the time it would for you to have a haircut or facial - it’s that simple.

Q: What’s the difference between cold laser/gel and other methods of whitening?

A: Although cold laser and gel teeth whitening uses the same cold-light power whitening technology seen in professional dental offices, it has been specially adapted for the cosmetic beauty industry. Designed with the comfort and safety of the client in mind, our 60 minute treatment is safer, gentler, and produces superior results to other teeth whitening options.

Q: Will is whiten my existing crowns or veneers?

A: No, the whitening treatment in general cannot change the colour of porcelain crowns veneers or fillings.

Q: Will it hurt?

A: Most patients experience no pain or sensitivity after the treatment. A very small percentage of patients may feel some minor tooth sensitivity, especially if having very cold or hot foods within a few hours following the treatment. Avoid hot or cold drinks for the first 24 hours if there is any sensitivity.

Q: What is the difference between cold laser and gel teeth whitening and whitening treatments from a dentist?

A: The system used is the same technology used in dental offices for power whitening and the results are comparable. The cold laser and gel teeth whitening gel system is designed for safe treatment by aesthetic professionals.
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Image by Laser is a specialist cosmetic clinic that offers teeth whitening in Brisbane, safe laser acne treatment in Brisbane and safe laser Rosacea treatment in Brisbane.

Now that search engine optimisation is a mainstream marketing activity for a lot of online and offline businesses, demand for formal classroom training courses from sales and marketing professionals, web designers and small business owners is increasing. But how do you know if you are getting value? How do you choose the best local SEO training provider? Here’s seven things to consider when choosing an SEO or SEM training provider.

The book titled The Mental Game Plan, describes the three main types of worries experienced by anxious athletes in precompetition: worries about the task (”This is a very difficult course” or “These guys look huge”), about their own ability or readiness (”I do not have my best stuff today” or “I feel slow” or “My knee hurts”), and about consequences (”If I miss this shot, we won’t have a chance at conference” or “If I fall, my coach will be furious”).

The thoughts are often combined with images; for example, the thought “These guys look huge” may be accompanied by a mental picture of oneself as weak and small. The thoughts are multilayered, and addressing the underlying thought is important. For example, the thought “If I screw up the shot, we won’t have a chance at touring” may have the following unspoken fear attached: “.. and my teammates will blame me, and it will all be my fault.”

Later on we address how to intervene with these thoughts, but for now let’s examine the relationship between anxiety and performance. Since different theories have come up with different explanations for their relationship, we will review the main ones.

The Upside Down U
One of the first theories addressing the relationship between arousal and performance was the inverted-U hypothesis. The theory states that peak performance occurs at an intermediate level of arousal and that both very low and very high levels of arousal will result in impaired performance.

Sport psychology embraced the theory, and the terms “arousal,” “anxiety,” and “stress” became interchangeable in many of the theory’s descriptions. The explanations offered by the theory had a common sense appeal: A competitor (or a team) who is not aroused sufficiently is unlikely to exert great effort or persevere.

The typical example is that of the athlete or team who faces a less-skilled opposition. If the competition is labeled as easy and the resulting arousal is too low, this athlete or team risks losing the contest because the performance is expected to be subpar under these conditions.

At the other end of the continuum we have the competitor who faces a must-win situation that results in a very high level of arousal. Decision making is impaired, and the rhythm and mechanics of his movement are disturbed, partially because of excess muscle tension.

Arousal activates both flexor and extensor muscles so that it literally results in the athlete “putting the brakes on himself” while he is trying to go as fast as possible. Most people agree that the inverted-U theory is familiar to everyone in sport.

However, a theory should allow us to predict outcomes, and this one allows for explanations only after the fact: If someone does not perform well, we will assume that their level of arousal was not adequate. How do we know the level of arousal was not adequate?

Because the athlete did not perform well. This becomes a circular argument that explains itself. Another problem is that the theory does not explain how arousal affects performance. Arousal, understood as physiological activation, can be interpreted by one athlete as anxiety and by another as aggression.

The theory does not take into account the fact that different cognitive interpretations of arousal affect the performance. Finally, the symmetrical curve of the U used to describe the relationship would seem to predict a gradual deterioration of performance with increased arousal, but in most performers’ experience, that extra level of arousal tends to result in dramatic and rapid decreases in performance.

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Vanuatu consists of more than 80 islands, located about 2000 kilometres north-east of Queensland. The largest island, Espiritu Santo, is 4010 square kilometres. Australia is a mainly a flat land, but most of Vanuatu’s islands are dominated by mountainous regions. The highest peak, Mt Tabwemasana (1880 metres), is on Espiritu Santo. The Earth beneath Vanuatu is unstable, and there is volcanic and earthquake activity.

Vanuatu has been inhabited for more than 3000 years. Separate communities developed, but trade between islands was common, and canoes were used to move people and produce.

The Portuguese were the first Europeans to come to Vanuatu, in 1606. Next I came the French in 1768, then the British led by Captain James Cook in 1774. Cook named the islands the ‘New Hebrides’. During the 1840s, traders and missionaries made contact.

From 1887 to 1980 control over the New Hebrides was shared by France and Britain. During World War II, the New Hebrides were a key base for the Allies in the battles to prevent Japan taking control of the South Pacific and Australia. Vanuatu gained independence on 30 July 1980.

About 200 000 people live in Vanuatu, the same number as in Hobart. Most people live on the islands of Efate, Espiritu Santo, Malakula and Tanna. Unlike Australia, 95 per cent of people in Vanuatu are native to the country. They are known as Ni-Vanuatu, and like Aboriginal Australians they have a special relationship with their land.

The remaining five per cent consist of French, Australian, New Zealand, Vietnamese and Chinese people, as well as other Pacific Islanders. Three main languages are spoken — English, French and Bislama (a form of pidgin English).

The literacy rate in Vanuatu is {poor|low}, and most students do not attend secondary school. But, in Port Vila, there is a technical college and a campus of the University of the South Pacific.

The economy is centred around the land, and major agricultural exports are beef and cocoa. Most people are involved in subsistence agriculture. There is also a large timber industry, and tourism is important to the economy, providing work in tourist areas, such as Port Vila.

Tonga
Tonga lies about 650 kilometres east of Fiji. It consists of 150 islands, and 40 of them are inhabited. The capital city is Nuku’alofa, which is on Tongatapu, the largest island.

Polynesians first settled in Tonga about 3500 years ago. Captain James Cook made several visits during the 1770s and named the islands the Friendly Islands. Tonga gained full independence from Britain on 4 June 1970, but remains a member of the Commonwealth. Kings and queens have ruled Tonga for more than 1000 years. The reigning king is Taufa’ahau Tupou IV.

The population of Tonga is approximately 110 000, which is similar to the population of Cairns. Most people are of Polynesian descent, and they speak English and Polynesian. They are committed Christians with the main denomination being the Free Wesleyan Church.

The economy of Tonga revolves around agriculture and fishing, with pumpkins, coconuts and bananas being major crops. Education is important in Tonga, and school is compulsory for children between the ages of six and 14.

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